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Bunbury leaders support delayed border opening

Jacinta CantatoreBunbury Herald
Bunbury MLA Don Punch said Premier Mark McGowan’s decision to delay the safe transition plan was in keeping with the stance the State Government had been following throughout the pandemic.
Camera IconBunbury MLA Don Punch said Premier Mark McGowan’s decision to delay the safe transition plan was in keeping with the stance the State Government had been following throughout the pandemic. Credit: Simon Santi/The West Australian

Bunbury’s leaders have thrown their support behind Premier Mark McGowan’s decision to delay the State’s border reopening, saying it would have been a tough decision to make.

But shadow tourism minister Vince Catania has slammed the move, describing the Premier’s decision as a “backflip” which “dashed the hopes of desperate businesses” who had worked hard towards meeting the requirements for February 5.

Bunbury MLA Don Punch said Mr McGowan’s decision to delay the safe transition plan was in keeping with the stance the State Government had been following throughout the pandemic.

“All the way through the pandemic the State Government has acted to keep our community as safe as possible, and this decision reflects that,” he said.

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“It’s not an easy decision to make.

“We know some people will be disappointed but considering the new information that’s coming out about Omicron and the events that we’re seeing in the Eastern States, it is the proper decision to make for keeping our community safe.”

City of Bunbury Mayor Jaysen Miguel said the City also supported a delay in reopening the border.

City of Bunbury Mayor Jaysen De San Miguel.
Camera IconCity of Bunbury Mayor Jaysen Miguel said the City also supported a delay in reopening the border. Credit: Ailish Delaney / South Western/RegionalHUB

“We recognise that Premier Mark McGowan and State Government are taking all points on board, and obviously making the decision which is best for the WA people,” Mr Miguel said.

“The City of Bunbury will be supporting whatever decision they make, and continue urging people to support that and do the right thing.”

Mr Catania said tourism and business operators had been left without any clear plan.

“Industry deserves certainty after shouldering the brunt of snap lockdowns to keep our State safe, generally announced with little time for them to pivot their businesses or face significant financial losses,” Mr Catania said.

“The Premier’s sudden change of heart has left many businesses in the same position as being ‘locked down’ — unable to recoup costs to prepare for reopening, including those for much-needed workers due to arrive in WA from the east after February 5.

“The new transition plan must allow for tourism and hospitality workers wanting to come to WA to fill longstanding vacancies, along with a firm opening date to sure up the future of the industry.”

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