NSW: Oppn to push for parliamentary fire inquiry

AAP General News (Australia)
12-30-2001
NSW: Oppn to push for parliamentary fire inquiry

SYDNEY, Dec 30 AAP - The NSW opposition will push for an inquiry into the Christmas
bushfires to upgrade prevention strategies and better equip police to deal with arsonists.

Opposition leader Kerry Chikarovski said the coalition, with support from minor parties,
would seek a wide-ranging inquiry when parliament resumed in February.

But she believed it should be bi-partisan, similar to the inquiry held following the
devastating bushfires of 1994.

"Such an inquiry would not seek to blame anyone or to find scapegoats but rather give
experts as well as those families directly affected by the fires an opportunity to have
a say and to make suggestions," Mrs Chikarovski said.

She said the terms of reference for the inquiry should include:

* The extent fire hazard reduction plans were put in place following the 1994 fires
and how the plans can be upgraded;

* Whether more resources are needed for emergency services and National Parks and Wildlife
Service to reduce fire hazards and fight bushfires; and

* A review of legal penalties for convicted arsonists and to ensure courts are adequately
equipped to deal with the crime.

AAP sal/gl/br

KEYWORD: BUSHFIRES NSW INQUIRY

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