The Government began this week by announcing its preferred location for the Northern Prison – the quiet, peaceful town of Westbury.
Local Member for Lyons said the announcement has caught many in the community by surprise and it was now incumbent on the Government to urgently engage in a detailed consultation with local people.
“Many locals are telling me that building a maximum security prison in their town is not the answer to the Liberals’ crime problems,” Ms Butler said.
“They have real concerns that the first they heard about this massive project was on Monday night’s news.
“Despite receiving glossy brochures yesterday claiming community consultation would occur in September, the people of Westbury have not yet had the opportunity to have their say on the northern prison.
“Where were local MPs Guy Barnett and Mark Shelton at the announcement? It appears they’re too busy with Ministerial responsibilities in Hobart to actually get out here and talk to people.
“We know after years of neglect and cuts, our prisons need more resources but it’s up to the Government to have tough conversations with impacted communities.
“After a series of escapes recently on Will Hodgman and Elise Archer’s watch, local people need to be reassured they’ll be safe.
“Labor will continue to spend time on the ground with the community and local businesses, and we will hold the government to account if they continue to ride roughshod over people’s views.”
Jen Butler MP
Member for Lyons
