FootyGoss :: Club News - Peel [Opposition ways in on Stadium funding]

Opposition ways in on Stadium funding

Shadow Sport and Recreation Minister Barry House says the future plans for the major sporting stadium at Kitchener Park should not mean that other sporting initiatives are compromised.

“Given the growing concerns about diabetes, obesity and levels of activity in the community, the Carpenter Government can’t afford to compromise its ongoing commitments to other priority areas that are captured by this portfolio,” Mr House said.

“For example, the Community Sporting and Recreation Facilities Fund is a program that is currently undervalued by this government.

“Since 2000, the Budget for regional sporting facilities, which are matched by local councils, remained at $9 million.

“The government has used a bit of smoke and mirrors to make the figures look good for this year. $17.2 million looks impressive but it really includes $6.5 million which wasn’t allocated last year.

“This is despite record increases in building and construction costs during that period as well as the growing recognition of physical activity’s vital role in the overall health of our communities.

“However, complementary to this, there needs to be the upgrading of Members Equity Stadium to secure the progress of Western Force, Perth Glory and the development of rugby league.

“Although there is a commitment to host the Trans-Tasman Netball league at Challenge Stadium this should be developed further and an objective must be made to secure further development of WA Netball.

“The Budget also shows no clear plans for the Western Australian Cricket Association’s plans for the establishment of a Cricket Centre of Excellence in conjunction with the University of Western Australia, which is somewhat disappointing.

“There is also a clear omission of the development of a White Water Park at Champion Lakes in Armadale, following the removal of this International Slalom facility with the creation of the Harvey Dam.

“This facility is now urgently needed following the closure of Logue Brook Dam for recreation.

“The Carpenter Government has previously undertaken to honour this commitment.

“Treasurer Ripper’s Budget was filled with excessive jargon about plans, investigations and re-announcements when it came to Sport and Recreation. For example:
‘Facilitate development of new/revised planning frameworks with relevant industry and other portfolio partners and promote, implement, monitor and improve existing planning frameworks for which the Department has primary responsibility’ (Major initiatives 2008-2009 Department of Sport and Recreation Budget Papers)

“The Labor Government has once again relied on re-announcements and media spin to cover up for ignoring the bigger picture,” Mr House said.