Time for real answers from the Rudd Government about Borneo Barracks
24 September 2009
TIME FOR REAL ANSWERS FROM THE RUDD GOVERNMENT ABOUT BORNEO BARRACKS
The Rudd Government must end the guessing games and reveal its intentions about the long-term future of the Borneo Barracks, Federal Member for Groom Ian Macfarlane said.
“Defence Minister John Faulkner’s release of parts of a report into the future of the barracks has created yet more uncertainty about whether the Cabarlah base will remain open or be forced to close under a Rudd Government rationalisation process,” Mr Macfarlane said.
“This speculation cannot be allowed to continue, however those concerned about the future of the base can take little comfort from the Rudd Government’s mixed messages.
“While the Rudd Government’s Defence White Paper failed to provide clarification when it was finally released this year, months behind schedule, principles laid out for the placement of Defence properties indicated a strong case could be made in favour of retaining the Borneo Barracks at Cabarlah.
“The White Paper stated that key principles for deciding the future location of Defence facilities include ensuring those facilities are dispersed for security reasons, ensuring facilities are in family-friendly and well-resourced locations and ensuring both an urban and regional presence.
“It remains my firm view that the economic and social benefits of retaining the Borneo Barracks at Cabarlah outweigh those of merging it into a ‘super base’ and I have made this argument clear in discussions with Rudd Government Ministers.
“The base attracts skilled workers and their families to our region and is a crucial part of our economy and our community.
“It’s time for a definite answer from the Rudd Government about the future of the Borneo Barracks.”