NSW premier condemns bushfire research cut
NSW premier condemns bushfire research cut
03 February 2013
published by www.news.ninemsn.com.au
Australia — The federal government doesn’t intend to fund the centre for the 2013/14 financial year, Mr O’Farrell says.
“This reckless cut makes no sense given the extent of the bushfire damage this summer here in NSW and right around the country,” he said in a statement on Sunday.
“There can be absolutely no doubt advances in bushfire-fighting technology saved homes and lives during the recent bushfire crises.”
The premier said the CRC’s work has included increasing understanding of extreme fire behaviour, better protecting firefighters from risks and improving prescribed burning strategies.
The CRC is funded on a project-by-project basis by the commonwealth, with additional funding from state and territory governments, as well as universities and other partners.
Mr O’Farrell says NSW government agencies will continue to contribute the state’s share of funds to the centre in 2013/14, totalling more than $860,000.
“However, without the commonwealth’s contribution, the work able to be undertaken by the centre will be severely curtailed,” he said.
