2007 Press Release

TSRA Welcomes Minister Lloyd

23/07/2007

Torres Strait Regional Authority (TSRA) Chairperson Mr Toshie Kris, today welcomed to the region the Honourable Jim Lloyd, Australian Government Minister for Local Government, Territories and Roads, as he commenced a tour of the Torres Strait. 

Mr Kris said the visit was an opportunity for the Minister to see first-hand the economic, social and cultural development activities underway in the region and provided an occasion for direct discussion with TSRA on key regional issues.

“Over the last month, the Government has placed a large focus on Indigenous issues and I see this visit as an opportunity to show the Minister that there are a number of positive initiatives currently in operation in the Torres Strait,” said Mr Kris.

“Since 1994, the TSRA has been able to contribute significantly to improving the quality of life experienced by the Torres Strait Islander and Aboriginal people of this region.

“TSRA delivered programs and services, such as the Community Economic Initiatives Scheme, Business Funding Scheme, Home Ownership Scheme, Community Development Employment Program, Community Training Program, Municipal Support Program and the Major Infrastructure Program, are playing important roles in enhancing social, cultural and economic outcomes in our communities.

“They have contributed toward increasing infrastructure, living standards, access to essential services and built community capacity as well as promoting both individual and community economic independence.

“Through this visit, the Minister will be able to witness the results of the Government’s investment and be in a good position to understand the need for additional support to build on existing projects and initiatives.

“Whilst he is here, I will bring to his attention a number of key regional issues, including the Queensland Government’s decision to introduce local government reforms and the potential cultural and practical ramifications that our communities face from this announcement.

“He will also be informed about the need to increase and extend the Australian Government’s support for the region’s successful capital works initiative, the Major Infrastructure Program, to allow for the installation and upgrade of the Torres Strait’s environmental health infrastructure to continue beyond 2009.

“High costs of living in the region, will be also be highlighted.

“The threat of erosion and flooding to our islands is another area of concern and considering the millions of dollars that the Government has invested in the region, it is critical for all levels of government to collaborate to assist communities to mitigate this natural process.

“During the Minister’s visit, he will tour a number of our communities, including Hammond, Masig and Boigu Islands and Bamaga Community on the Northern Peninsula Area.

“On behalf of the TSRA Board, I welcome Minister Lloyd to the Torres Strait and I hope he enjoys his visit to this very unique part of Australia,” said Mr Kris.

ENDS

TSRA Media Contact: Susan Reilly Ph: 07 4069 0700.