Oct. 31 – Federal Member for Chifley Ed Husic said today that the Western Sydney Airport Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) confirmed one thing: that the Abbott-Turnbull Government is treating western Sydney residents as second-class.
“Western Sydney is one of the fastest growing regions in the country – yet won’t have the same protections for its residents as those enjoyed in the Eastern Suburbs.
“The Abbott-Turnbull Government committed to an ongoing curfew at Kingsford Smith – but Malcolm Turnbull refuses to provide the same protection around Badgerys Creek Airport.
“Well, we won’t cop it. The protections for residents should be the same whether you live in North Sydney, Edgecliff, Minchinbury or Blacktown.”
Mr Husic also slammed the Government for leaving Blacktown off the EIS consultation list.
“How can the Abbott-Turnbull Government claim to have a consultation process but largely ignore the largest council area in the state?
“Up to fifty flights per hour, twenty-four hours a day – and those most affected by the proposed flight paths are given only one measly opportunity to have their say? Appalling.”
Mr Husic remained unconvinced about the merit of spending so much on an airport when other Western Sydney needs remain ignored.
“This airport will cost billions, will require massive subsidies and won’t even receive the support of Qantas and Virgin – with both airlines refusing to commit to relocating there.
“In the meantime, we are worst affected by cuts to schools, hospitals and other budget cuts. Insultingly, other Western Sydney infrastructure needs go begging while the Eastern Suburbs give us money for projects they think are important, like 24 hours a day airports.
Mr Husic said that he would continue to fight for a curfew at Western Sydney Airport.
“I am personally committed to ensuring that the people I represent in Western Sydney get the same treatment as those in other parts of Sydney.
“Just as those in the North and East; Western Sydney residents shouldn’t have to put up with low-flying aircraft noise twenty-four hours a day.
“We are not second-class citizens and should not be treated as such by the Abbott-Turnbull Government.”