Opposition criticism of Pilbara school buses politicking

15/12/93

Education Minister Norman Moore said today that Pilbara MLA Larry Graham had again gone off half-cocked and was grandstanding in his criticism of school bus arrangements in the Pilbara.

Mr Moore said Mr Graham would be advised, in future, to check the facts before making incorrect claims and misinforming the public.

"Had he properly checked on this occasion, he would have discovered that even before he launched his tirade of criticism, an amicable agreement had already been reached between the Education Ministry and Marandoo families requiring transport to school," Mr Moore said.

"The Ministry provided a special mini-bus service for the Marandoo students to get to school for the last weeks of the year and will closely monitor the situation in 1994."

The Minister said Mr Graham was told in Parliament that negotiations on the issue were continuing, but failed to follow up before issuing a media statement based on false information.

"Mr Graham seems to enjoy seeing his name in print, and is willing to ignore the facts to achieve this aim," Mr Moore said.

Media contact:  Ross Storey 321 1444 or 222 9595