July 26, 2023
A simple query from Member for Nanango Deb Frecklington as to why the South Burnett had not been included in a State Government program targeting youth crime has been waved away by Police Minister Mark Ryan.
On May 11, a joint media statement by Premier Annastacia Palaszczuk, Minister Ryan and Sport Minister Stirling Hinchliffe announced $4 million to fund youth crime early intervention programs.
The statement said the funding would support youth programs across Queensland including Cairns, Townsville, Caboolture, Logan and Toowoomba.
On June 14, Mrs Frecklington asked a Question on Notice to Minister Ryan:
With reference to the Youth Development Partnership Fund – Will the Minister clarify why funding was not allocated to youth crime early intervention programs in the South Burnett or Cherbourg areas?
On Tuesday, she received this response:
The Member’s question relates to matters which are to be administered and co-ordinated by another government department. Accordingly, I suggest the Member direct the question to the relevant lead portfolio Minister.
This is despite the fact the original joint media release stated the program was “a joint initiative between the Department of Tourism, Innovation and Sport and the Queensland Police Service”.
“This dismissive response from the Police Minister gives us an insight into this Labor Government and their disrespect of our regional communities,” Mrs Frecklington said.
“I asked this question on behalf of our South Burnett and Cherbourg communities and to highlight concerns that we weren’t considered for a youth crime early intervention program, given our ongoing concerns about youth crime in our region.
“I will certainly keep asking questions and fighting for our fair share.”
