By Victoria Stone-Meadows
SHADOW minister for Emergency Services and Gembrook MP Brad Battin has lashed out at Deputy Premier and Monbulk MP James Merlino and the CFA for supposedly barring opposition MPs from speaking at CFA events.
However, both James Merlino and the CFA have denied there is any ban in place on Opposition MPs speaking at official CFA events.
Mr Battin referenced an interview conducted on 3AW where new head of the CFA Francis Driver allegedly stated LNP MPs were not welcome at CFA events.
“An email leaked from angry CFA volunteers, has tried to ban Liberal and National MPs from speaking at their local CFA brigades,” Mr Battin said.
“Daniel Andrews has completely politicised the CFA and left a trail of destruction in his wake including sacking two senior female colleagues as well as the board.”
A spokesperson from the CFA has addressed these claims made by Mr Battin and assures all Opposition MPs they are welcome at CFA events.
“Individual brigades are free to invite local MPs, including those from the Opposition, to functions and other events,” the spokesperson said.
Mr Merlino, the current Minister for Emergency Services, echoed the sentiments of the CFA.
“The CFA confirmed that there is no ban on Opposition MPs visiting CFA brigades and never has been.”
“All Members of Parliament are always welcome to visit and speak to their local CFA brigade members, or any other local agencies,” he said.
Mr Merlino’s office confirmed that the standard protocols in place for the opening of new facilities and hand over of government equipment had not changed.
The CFA administration have reiterated that they aim to remain neutral in matters of political representation and banning one side of the house to speak at events would go against this.
“CFA is apolitical. The email in question is simply reinforcing a long-held protocol ensuring CFA assets and brigades are not used for political purposes,” the spokesperson said.
“CFA fire stations and equipment are government owned community assets which should be used for the purpose they were intended – protecting the community. It is important they remain free from politicking and electioneering.”
