Primary producers and other interested parties are encouraged to have their say at a public hearing in Balaklava next week around proposed new powers for the Country Fire Service.

Member for Frome Geoff Brock said the Select Committee on the Fire and Emergency Services Bill would hold a hearing on Thursday, February 7 from 10.30am to 3pm in the Phil Barry Chamber, Wakefield Regional Council, Scotland Place, Balaklava.

“They are investigating proposed changes to the existing powers of the CFS, introduced by the Fire and Emergency Services (Miscellaneous) Amendment Bill, to direct people to cease activities that may cause a fire.”

“The amended bill would allow CFS officers to have the power to stop harvesting, for example, due to weather conditions,” Mr Brock said.

Mr Brock said it was important to have input from primary producers, as they could be seriously affected by the proposed changes.

“The committee will discuss the proposed CFS powers with a range of groups, including primary producers, at the public hearing and there is also an opportunity for individuals to appear before the committee.”

Mr Brock said written submissions addressing the terms of reference would also be considered.

There is more information on the committee’s website: https://bit.ly/2BctbcK

“I urge anyone interested in sharing their views to contact the Parliamentary Officer by calling (08) 8237 9223 or emailing: [email protected],” Mr Brock said.