I have continued to insist that the economic assistance for drought affected communities and farmers needs to be a priority for the State Government.

First the bushfires distracted Government, and now this virus.

The need for assistance has not gone away, I am acutely aware of that.

The relentless nature of the drought means that we need more assistance to keep businesses trading, keep employees on the books, pay bills, and stay on family farms.

I have written to the Premier, Deputy Premier, Treasurer, and Ministers for Agriculture and Local Government imploring them to provide further assistance.

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The Independent Planning Commission assessment of Narrabri Gas must be put on hold.

The Narrabri Gas Project has been referred by the Minister for Planning to the Independent Planning Commission for determination. As part of this determination there is a requirement for public hearings. Due to the current ban on public gatherings how these hearings will be held is up in the air.

It is my view that the Independent Planning Commission process must run its course in the mandated way – if that means the process needs to be put on hold until public hearings can be held then that’s what needs to happen.

With such a significant project as the Narrabri Gas Project, there cannot be a deviation from the
mandated process. The decision that the Independent Planning Commission might make, will have long running impact on the community, no matter which way it goes.

There are so many unanswered questions about the Narrabri Gas Project, the fact the project cannot be underwritten and the Chief Scientist’s recommendations haven’t been implemented are extremely concerning to me.

This all needs to be explored through a transparent, independent process that is left to run its legal course.

With Parliament suspended and the inability for public scrutiny and input – the assessment of this project must be put on hold until a democratic, transparent process can be used.

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These are very uncertain times we are in, this has created uncertainty and anxiety in the community.

It is important that I am clear, things will not be normal, things will be very different and this may go on for many months. We all have a responsibility and obligation to minimise the risk of transmission of coronavirus.

This means following the public health advice. Following the advice gives us the best chance of getting things back on an even keel as soon as possible.

I know some people are confused about the advice – put simply, if you do not need to leave your house do not go out. During this time please keep to the facts – there is a lot of misinformation being shared on social media and in the community – please refer to Government sources.

For those with smart phones you can download the Coronavirus Australia app in the Apple and Play stores, or you can visit https://preview.nsw.gov.au/covid-19.

There is also the Service NSW Coronavirus hotline 13 77 88.

Some good advice is to live like you have the virus, assume everyone else has it, and that will guide how to interact with others at this time.

If we all follow the advice, if we are all united in beating coronavirus, I have faith we will.

Please stay safe, look after yourself and others – Roy.

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