WRONG TOWN, WRONG STATE, WRONG MINISTER
05-July-2010
Albury is in NSW and Wangaratta is in Victoria, and the now stated lack of knowledge of this is symbolic of a government out of touch with everyday Australia.
A statement from Minister Greg Combet’s office to the Wangaratta Chronicle (5/7/10) said in part:
“However Mr Combet recognises the importance of the contribution that Bruck
Textiles makes along with many other Albury businesses to the ADF.”
“I am disgusted by the lack of professionalism of Greg Combet, the Minister responsible for defence procurement. How can he not know where Wangaratta is?” Federal Member for Indi, Sophie Mirabella said.
“At best he is either too busy trying to fix the Home Insulation Program (not well) and at worst his care factor for our soldiers and the integrity of their uniforms is nil,” Mrs Mirabella said.
“Last week, while the Shadow Defence Minister was visiting Bruck, Mr Combet was in Casino, supporting the local Labor member and opening a project totally unrelated to his portfolio.
“His reasoning? ‘…the event gave me the chance to see family in the area’ (Northern Star 1/7/10).
“It is politicians’ disregard for the individuals and people that matter that make so many cynical about the political process.
“Mr Combet is city-centric and arrogant and this is not acceptable.
“I have a message for Mr Combet: the taxpayer pays you for your portfolio, not for you to attend family reunions.”