Clarence Nationals MP Richie Williamson has slammed the NSW Minns Labor Government for continuing to leave commercial prawn fishers in the Clarence, Evans and Richmond rivers without answers, without support, and without a pathway back to work as the expiry of current biosecurity orders rapidly approaches.
Mr Williamson said affected prawn fishers – who have been unable to fish due to white spot – are still completely in the dark about the NSW Government's plan beyond the 9 December deadline.
"The communication from the Minister for Agriculture – who is also the Minister for Regional NSW – has been absolutely disgraceful," Mr Williamson said.
"Local prawn fleets need certainty and a clear plan to get back on the water, but the Minns Labor Government has failed to even pick up the phone."
Mr Williamson said he has repeatedly requested a detailed briefing from the responsible agencies but has received no response.
"I have been trying for months to get answers – not for me, but for the hardworking families whose livelihoods have been devastated. Not one reply. Not one update. It's not good enough."
He said the government has had more than two years to prepare a recovery framework following the first detection of white spot.
"The Minns Labor Government inherited a problem, and then did nothing. They have had ample time to develop a plan. So where is it? Why is it a secret? And why are they ignoring the very communities they are supposed to represent?"
Adding to the stress, Mr Williamson said Labor is now late delivering on its promised financial relief for affected prawn fishers.
"The first payment, due on November 1, is still nowhere to be seen," he said.
"Families have had their incomes cut off through no fault of their own. The government's failure to deliver support it promised is making an already desperate situation even tougher - and heading into Christmas, that's unacceptable."
Mr Williamson said it is time for the NSW Government to step up.
"Commercial fishers deserve clarity and respect. The Minns Labor Government must immediately outline its plan and honour its commitment to payments - because these families cannot continue to be left in limbo."
