A division of the Liberal Party of Australia
LABOR HYPOCRISY TO THE FORE AT DANCE FESTIVAL
22 June, 2009
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Federal Labor politicians adorned the stage at the official opening of the Laura Dance Festival on Saturday and pledged support for the festival.
Unfortunately, for the first time in many years the Federal Government has not contributed any money whatsoever to the Dance Festival.
North Queensland based Liberal Senator and Opposition Spokesman for Northern Australia, Senator Ian Macdonald, said that it was the height of hypocrisy for Labor politicians Jim Turnour and Jan McLucas to be on stage indicating support for the festival when their government has, for the first time in years, refused to provide funds for the festival.
“I had written to the Minister for the Arts, Peter Garrett, on 13th May seeking assistance but had received no reply. An enquiry of the Minister’s office the day before the Dance Festival said that nothing had been done about the request,” Senator Macdonald said.
“The Dance Festival was a magnificent success enjoyed by upwards of 2000 people. The quality and skill of the dancing and the support activities were a credit to the organisers, to the Laura community and to all participants.”
“For many years Coalition governments have funded the Dance Festival in recognition of the significant contribution it makes to preserving the culture of indigenous peoples from as far away as Mornington Island and Yarrabah and up to the Torres Strait islands.”
“But it seems that the Labor Party is good at talk but when it comes to any action, is missing in action. This is typical of the current Federal Government which is all spin and no substance.”
“I intend to continue to pursue Mr Garrett to try to obtain assistance for the Festival to ensure that it can continue to operate into the future,” Senator Macdonald said.