Commonwealth reminded of responsibility for Cocos/Christmas Islands' communities

8/6/95

The Western Australian Government has reminded the Federal Government that Canberra has total responsibility for the well-being of the Cocos and Christmas Island communities.

Transport Minister Eric Charlton said that in the meantime, the State Government would ensure communities in WA's North-West would not be disadvantaged by the loss of Stateships' services.

The immediate shipping needs of the region were being met under a charter arrangement with Sealink Transport Pty Ltd.

"A Government task force had begun assessing the longer-term transport needs of the ports and towns affected by the termination of Stateships' operations," Mr Charlton said.

"All interested communities in the region will be consulted on the alternative quality services they would like to see established."

As well, the Government was anxious to maintain the important export markets it had helped nurture and develop in South-East Asia.

Mr Charlton said arrangements were in place to tranship cargoes on two vessels at Singapore and at no cost, or with no undue delay, to clients.

Mr Charlton had written to Federal Territories Minister John Faulkner outlining the WA Government's commitment to its own constituency.

"In turn the Commonwealth should announce the appropriate measures it will be taking to satisfy the transport needs of the two Indian Ocean Island communities," the Minister said.

Media contact:  Ian Hasleby 321 7333