POLICE MINISTER REFUSES TO BACK RURAL CRIME INQUIRY

Amidst a surge in criminal activities gripping rural and regional areas of NSW, the Minister for Police has rejected the necessity of a parliamentary inquiry to address this rising crime menace.

In today’s budget estimate questioning, Police Minister Yasmin Catley faced inquiries about her stance on supporting the 84 councils and numerous local communities pleading for assistance.

In response, the Minister refrained from expressing her support for an inquiry.

Shadow Minister for Police, Paul Toole, expressed his astonishment at the Minister’s response.

“An inquiry would provide the insights we urgently require to comprehend the root causes of these issues and determine the necessary resources for our diligent police force to combat this wave of crime,” Mr. Toole asserted.

“This Minister seems to be neglecting the prevailing problems, particularly if they don’t pertain to metropolitan areas. She was even unaware of a police station’s two-week closure until she read it in the Daily Telegraph!

“We cannot allow this situation to persist, where residents are fearful of stepping outside their homes. No one should have to live in such apprehension.

“We must ensure that an ample police presence is established, with the necessary resources to proactively address and deter criminal activities, rendering rural areas inhospitable to potential wrongdoers,” he emphasized.

“We require a bipartisan-supported inquiry to address the growing problem of regional and rural crime; it’s a straightforward necessity.”

Supported by the NSW Country Mayors Association, the NSW Police Association, and NSW Farmers, recent fndings reveal that crime, law, and order have ascended to the top fve emerging concerns in New South Wales. Their research illustrates that up to 90% of crimes, including vehicle theft, break-ins, sexual assault, and domestic violence, are occurring within our regional communities.

Our Region’s Councils & Events

Richmond Valley Council has opened nominations for their 2024 Australia Day Awards. You can nominate your local community champions here. https:// richmondvalley.nsw.gov. au/community-services/ australia-day/

Byron Shire Council is inviting local businesses and the wider community to participate in the New Year’s Eve Soul Street Festival in Byron Bay. Interested parties are asked to complete the Soul Street Festival survey. More information is available from the Byron Shire Council website.

Survey: com.au/adultworkshops/2023/11/14/ holistic-grazing-workshop

Imagining the future of regenerative agriculture Namabunda Farm, an organic mixed farming and regenerative agro-forestry operation owned by Bundjalung Tribal Society is hosting a regenerative agriculture day from 10.00am to 3.30pm on Tuesday 21 November at 110-112 Whites Lane Alstonville. The day will include a tour of the farm and an opportunity to explore and discuss the potential future pathways of regenerative agriculture in Australia through a facilitated session. This workshop is open to farmers, agriculture students, agriculture sector workers, and those working in agriculture and environmental policy. https://www.eventbrite. com/e/workshopimagining-the-future-ofregenerative-agriculturetickets-737711674477