The Public Service Association of NSW calls on the O’Farrell Government to abide by the first recommendation of its Parliamentary Inquiry to reverse the decision to close the Cronulla Fisheries Research Centre of Excellence and not proceed with the closure.

The NSW Government has refused to meet with staff and listen to their concerns – yet today the Parliamentary Inquiry has confirmed their worst fears about the flawed decision.

“The Select Committee’s Final Report into Cronulla Fisheries is a complete vindication of the efforts of staff to stop the closure, with the finding of an “”overwhelming” case to retain the scientific staff, facilities and support personnel at the Centre’s current location,” PSA General Secretary John Cahill said today.

“Committee Chair, Rev Fred Nile MP, has also supported long-held staff views by describing the Government’s failure to conduct any kind of economic appraisal before deciding to close the Centre as “unacceptable”.

“The Parliamentary Committee’s report could not be clearer – the closure of Cronulla Fisheries is a waste of taxpayer money and will not improve services.

“Premier Barry O’Farrell must take personal responsibility for fixing this mess and immediately put an end to the closure of the Centre,” he said.

Contact: Shane O’Brien 0418 227 977 / Jane Garcia 0434 489 533