News

McCurdy slams Labor’s firefighter bill

Thursday 25 May 2017

Nationals Member for Ovens Valley Tim McCurdy has slammed legislation introduced by the Andrews Labor Government that merges firefighters cancer compensation with its plans to split the CFA.

The Firefighters’ Presumptive Rights Compensation and Fire Services Legislation Amendment (Reform) Bill 2017 was introduced to Parliament this week and combines both issues in the one piece of legislation.

“This is a disgraceful attempt from Daniel Andrews and James Merlino to force through their plans to break up the CFA,” Mr McCurdy said.

“The Liberal Nationals strongly support assisting firefighters and their families who are dealing with the stresses of cancer caused through their service to Victoria.

“If Daniel Andrews has a shred of decency he will split these bills as a matter of urgency.”

Mr McCurdy said Daniel Andrews was playing politics with firefighters’ health.

“This is a move that no morally competent government would make,” he said.

“It is indeed a very sad day when Daniel Andrews is determined to stand beside Peter Marshall and the UFU at any cost.

“The Premier for Melbourne is a divider, not a leader, and his actions are putting country lives and communities at risk.”