MEDIA RELEASE

Nathan Rees
Shadow Minister for Emergency Services

The NSW Opposition has demanded the O’Farrell Government come clean and explain to the community whether several fire stations were shut today due to budget cuts – as a fire emergency engulfed many parts of western Sydney. There are reports that fire stations in Camden, Riverwood, Miranda, Mona Vale and Ryde were all closed today due to budget cuts – requiring Macquarie Fields, Ashfield, Botany and Newtown stations to be left vacant as crews were sent to cover their areas, while Ryde was not covered at all.

“Week one of spring and Sydney is already dealing with severe bushfires on our door step,” Shadow Minister for Emergency Service Nathan Rees said.

“Around the state there are more than 50 fires currently burning in very warm and windy conditions.

“So what’s the O’Farrell Government done? Their answer is to continue to close fire stations.

“The Minister needs to come clean about which stations have been shut due to budget cuts – forcing fire crews to be called in to cover gaps and closures today.

“This lunacy needs to stop. The O’Farrell Government should suspend all closure of fire stations until then end of summer, and provide maximum protection for NSW residents during the fire season.”

MEDIA CONTACT: JOSH MCINTOSH 0400014185

Media Release – Nathan Rees: Fire Stations closed across Sydney 10 Sept 2013 (PDF)