Water insecurity biting into produce and jobs at Glen Aplin

July 4, 2019

The closure of Costa Group’s Glen Aplin mushroom farm and the loss of 42 jobs is a kick in the guts for the Granite Belt because the Queensland Government continues to move at a snail’s pace on Emu Swamp Dam, Maranoa MP David Littleproud said.

“Emu Swamp Dam is desperately needed now. Building this dam will create 700 jobs and entice companies and farmers to keep producing, keep their operations turning a profit and creating job opportunities,” Mr Littleproud said.

“The Coalition Federal Government has invested $47 million for Emu Swamp Dam to be built.

“The State, who continue to stall on this, need to get on board, approve the project and cough up $13 million to save jobs and grow the Granite Belt’s economy for the future.

“What’s needed right now is infrastructure investment to provide a reliable water supply and support drought-affected communities.

“It’s a no brainier that building dams will stimulate rural economies, improve job opportunities and help drought-proof Queensland.

“Change is needed badly on the Granite Belt where construction of Emu Swamp Dam must happen.”

ENDS