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Cairns Mayor lobbies federal politicians
Cairns went under the spotlight this week as three of the Federal Government's most senior and influential Ministers met with the Mayor and local business people in a series of economic, cultural and environmental talks.
Visiting ministers included Deputy PM Julia Gillard, Minister for the Environment Protection, Heritage and the Arts, Peter Garrett and Minister for Resources, Energy and Tourism, Martin Ferguson.
“In these tough times Federal and local government must maintain an ongoing and strong working relationship to fight for the many industries and businesses that make up the complex Cairns economy and to maximise our resources to achieve a greater outcome for our community,” Mayor Schier said.
Cr Shier discussed with Julia Gillard the employment situation and the importance of continuing impetus to stimulate the economy in the region.
”The Cairns region is still struggling economically, especially in the tourism sector and more is needed to assist in this area, ” Cr. Schier said.
”And, of course, I gave her a quick overview of the plans for the proposed Cairns Cultural Precinct, ” Cr Schier said.
”Peter Garrett was impressed with the concepts presented in the plans for the precinct. He offered many lively ideas for the enhancement of the project. He was fascinated with the innovative and dynamic designs and excited at the prospects that the proposed precinct offers, ” Cr. Schier said.
”Even though funds have not been forthcoming for the proposal from the current Federal budget Cairns Regional Council will continue to lobby and battle for funding for the designs for the proposed Cairns Cultural Precinct” Cr. Schier said.
At the breakfast held for captains of industry and business at which the role of tourism in Far North Queensland was discussed Minister Ferguson welcomed the many and varied suggestions and ideas presented.
”Tourism plays a significant role in our economy and we need to utilize all available opportunities to promote our region and present Cairns as a viable alternative for conferences, sporting fixtures, business meetings, cultural tourism as well as a vacation destination, ” Cr. Schier said.
”In his capacity as Minister for Resources, Martin Ferguson expressed great interest in Cairns' unique position as a possible fly in, fly out hub for mines and industries in isolated communities and off shore in locations, ” Cr. Schier said.
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