Mid-West candidates stand behind Carnarvon no-confidence vote for State, Federal Government handling of youth

Candidates for the new Mid-West seat say they stand behind the Shire of Carnarvon’s vote of no-confidence towards the State and Federal governments for their handling of vulnerable children. Last week, the shire moved at urgent motion at the February council meeting declaring its position, and refusing to change it until an action plan had been put forward by higher levels of government. It suggested a regional youth crisis task force, investment in community-led diversion programs, funding for social housing and crisis accommodation, and accountability framework in order to help curb the level of youth crime in the area. The move came following North West Central MLA and Liberal candidate Merome Beard allegedly having her car stolen and used in a ram raid last month. Ms Beard said she supported the shire’s move, calling for other local governments to “demand urgent action”. She said it was not to blame the governments, but to create solutions. “Our communities are tired of empty promises and delayed action,” she said. “We need immediate investment in early intervention, wrap around services crisis accommodation, and long-term social infrastructure to ensure a safer future for our children and our towns. “This issue is not confined to Carnarvon — it affects regional WA and in fact is right across our State and country. “Only through a united front can we force the government to listen and act on the urgent need for real solutions.” Nationals leader Shane Love said he would also stand with the shire, saying investment was urgently needed. “Carnarvon needs real investment in early intervention, stronger family support, adequate housing solutions and improved health services,” he said. “Carnarvon also needs a justice system that holds offenders accountable. Those wreaking havoc in our communities must face the full force of the law. “I fully support WA Police, but they are stretched thin due to Labor’s failure to provide resources.”