Campbell hits out at airport security

NSW Minister for Regional Development David Campbell has taken another swipe at the Federal Government over regional airport security as he continues what he claims is his campaign for better airport security for NSWs 37 regional airports.

Warren Truss himself admits these upgrades provide basic security and increase the confidence of travellers, Mr Campbell said.

Why then does his government continue to dither and ignore many regions? In NSW they are spending just $188,000 on this important issue, despite having a massive $12 billion surplus.

I renew my calls for regional airport security to be given greater priority. The Federal Governments program is moving at a snails pace.

I also call on the Member for Vaucluse and the National Party to finally stand up for Regional NSW travellers and demand a fair share. Mr Campbell said most people believed that a terrorist attack in NSW was inevitable. I would hope it never happens, but the Iemma Government will not stand by and hope, he said.

We will continue to put pressure on the Federal Government to accept its responsibility and improve airport security.

It is now more than five years since the horrific September 11 attacks on New York and four years after the first Bali bombings killed 88 Australians.

Most accept that fear of terrorism is part of their daily lives.

But they also expect that security at their airports be as strict as possible.

What more does the Federal Government need to move more quickly on this issue?

As military bases, regional airports are Common-wealth property and as such the Commonwealth has primary responsibility for security.