'Crime wave' is Labor's fault, says Holstein

Liberal candidate for Gosford Cr Chris Holstein said the latest "crime wave" through Umina last Tuesday was "just another consequence of Labor's refusal to provide sufficient police to the Peninsula".

"I have spoken to local residents today, and they are devastated by the rampage of criminals through West St," Cr Holstein said last Wednesday.

"Windows have been smashed in six shops and two homes in Umina, and residents now fear more vandalism, and maybe even worse.

"Since Australia Day, crime on the Peninsula has sky-rocketed, and the current Labor MP has done nothing except say that her government is heading in the right direction.

"If these increased attacks on the Peninsula are the right direction for Peninsula residents, then Ms Andrews should tell us what exactly she would consider the wrong direction."

Cr Holstein stated that Umina resident Ms Marie Lade reportedly said that Coopers, a haberdashery store next to her doctor, had its main window smashed in by the vandals.

"I was running late for my doctor's appointment because the parking available was taken up by glass repairmen," Ms Lade said.

"After I managed to find a spot, I saw the store staff moving stock out of the window.

"Not only is this going to cause problems for people who support local businesses, but I can only imagine what these poor business owners are going through with insurance claims and repair costs."

Cr Holstein said this was another example of Labor's neglect of the Peninsula when it came to law and order.

"The Labor Party have closed down Umina police station, stripped 18 police officers from the local command and refused to get tough on the thugs who commit these crimes which affect people's livelihoods," Cr Holstein said.

"The Liberals have a straight-forward plan to crack down on hoons, vandals and anti-social behaviour on the Peninsula, which includes re-opening Umina police station, assigning an extra 25 police officers to Woy Woy station, thus making it a 24 hour operational station once again, and ensuring these violent criminals are held responsible for their actions.

"After 12 long years of Labor neglect of law and order on the Peninsula, it is time to fix the Peninsula's police problem by electing the Liberal-National Coalition to government."

Press release, 8 March 2007 Chris Holstein, Liberal candidate for Gosford