CRIME concerns in Wallsend will head to the state parliament on Tuesday, MP Sonia Hornery says.
Ms Hornery, who has been appointed temporary speaker, plans to move a notice of motion calling for the NSW Police Minister Troy Grant “to properly resource local police districts”.
The Newcastle Herald reported earlier this month that businesses in the area are concerned over a perceived increase in petty crime.
Ms Hornery’s motion argues police in the city’s west are trying to address the problem but require more resources, pointing to a Productivity Commission report that shows NSW now has the nation’s lowest expenditure on police services.
“The Wallsend electorate sits on the fringe of three different local police districts and has been neglected when it comes to having resources allocated,” Ms Hornery said.
“Our hardworking police force is continually being asked to do more, with less, as local police districts experience chronic staff shortages.”
“The Wallsend electorate deserves its fair share and I will continue to fight for more police resources.”
Newcastle’s top cop, Superintendent Brett Greentree, told the Herald on February 5 that patrols had increased in the western suburb.
He acknowledged that crime had increased in the western Newcastle suburb, particularly property crime and steal from vehicle offences, over the New Year and Christmas period.
Superintendent Greentree said police in recent weeks had made a number of “significant” arrests and were increasing patrols in the suburb.
“These types of crime do have an impact on people,” Mr Greentree said.
“It creates a perception that the community is not safe, but I do want to stress that Wallsend is a safe community.
“We are doing everything we can … and I look forward to meeting with the business community to discuss their concerns.”
Matt Carr
Matt began his Newcastle Herald career as a cadet in 2009. He is a Walkley nominated reporter who has covered councils, police and general news rounds across the Upper Hunter, Port Stephens, Maitland, Lake Macquarie, Cessnock and Newcastle. Now his focus is on digital storytelling and breaking news.
Matt began his Newcastle Herald career as a cadet in 2009. He is a Walkley nominated reporter who has covered councils, police and general news rounds across the Upper Hunter, Port Stephens, Maitland, Lake Macquarie, Cessnock and Newcastle. Now his focus is on digital storytelling and breaking news.
