'Pay up,' says Andrews

Member for Gosford Ms Marie Andrews has called on Gosford Council to match the NSW Government funding offer and work together to start dredging Brisbane Water.

Ms Andrews said that she had been advised by the Minister for Lands Mr Tony Kelly that he had written to council in July, offering funding for initial dredging at Brisbane Water, on the basis that council provides matching funding.

"Over six months later and still no response," Ms Andrews said.

"The NSW Government works with local coastal councils on dredging on a cooperative funding basis - Gosford Council should be no different.

"The project would be undertaken through the NSW Government's Waterways Program that is administered by the Department of Lands.

"I am advised the Department of Lands is ready to go - all they need from council is some cooperation and then it's full steam ahead.

"The Department of Lands has invited councillors to inspect Brisbane Water in the general area of Lobster Beach next Monday and see for themselves the critical need for dredging.

"I understand that the issue will be considered by the council at its meeting on Tuesday, March 4.

"The time for talk is over - it's now time for council to get a move on and work with the Government in getting this urgent dredging underway."

Press release, 29 Feb 2008 Marie Andrews, Member for Gosford