Deadline Looms For Racing Submissions

January 20, 2016

The State Opposition is urging people in the racing industry to not miss out on having a say about the Racing Integrity Bill.

There are only seven days left to lodge submissions to the State Parliamentary Committee responsible for reporting on the Bill.

Shadow Racing Minister Jann Stuckey said the LNP’s broad consultation with the racing industry across Queensland had revealed widespread anger and frustration at the State Government’s refusal to listen to their concerns.

“Industry advocates claim Labor seem to be returning to the failed ‘Bentley model’ of the past and the clock is ticking for concerned stakeholders to have their say,” Ms Stuckey said.

“The consequences of the Palaszczuk Labor Government’s wrecking ball approach to Queensland racing is already evident with industry confidence at an all-time low and talk of many moving interstate.

“Instead of including industry in the planning of its future, two successive Labor ministers have adopted a confrontational and aggressive approach, testing the patience of an industry interested in growing jobs and investing in Queensland.

“Without a doubt, jobs will be lost under Labor’s reckless routing of the industry – jobs that will affect not only small country towns but larger centres, too.

“Time is running out to voice your concerns as submissions must be lodged before January 27.

“According to a reply to a Question on Notice on January 4, this Labor Government will not allow submissions to be made public, so make sure to send your submissions to your local Member of Parliament and stress they be noted.”

The Committee must report back to Parliament by March 1 and it is expected the Racing Integrity Bill will be debated in March.

Ms Stuckey said submissions can be emailed to the Research Director at aec@parliament.qld.gov.au or people could contact their local State MP.

There is also an opportunity to make a presentation in person at a public hearing on Wednesday, February 17, and people who seek to do so should indicate this on their submissions.