MP fires shot over Nerang officer shortfall

NERANG is at least seven police officers short despite the Gold Coast Hinterland facing a drug-fuelled crime wave, according to the Opposition.

Mudgeeraba MP Ros Bates has fired a political shot in the police budget debate at Labor rival Meagan Scanlon in the neighbouring seat of Gaven.

The registered nurse keeps close contact with emergency service staff and is aware of the impact of budget cuts on frontline government staff.

“In Nerang, I know they are seven officers short of what they are supposed to have and are under the pump,” Ms Bates said.

“Increased hooning, record numbers of domestic violence reports, youth gangs stealing cars and breaking into houses and the drug crisis is all contributing to increased local crime rates. Meaghan Scanlon needs to stand up to her Labor mates in Brisbane and start fighting for more police resources on the Gold Coast.

“We will hold Annastacia Palaszczuk to account for her election promise of 44 extra police each day until the next State election.”

Ms Scanlon said she would always lobby for more police but the Queensland Police Service had advised the Nerang police division had its full complement of staff.

She said Nerang only this week had been awarded the Gold Coast Outstanding Police Unit-Station of the year for its dedication, commitment and outstanding service.

“My dad was a Gold Coast police officer and I’m a born and bred local so I’ll always fight for the needs of my community,” Ms Scanlon said.

“There are more than 1000 police on Gold Coast and they do an incredible job keeping our community safe.”

LNP leader Deb Frecklington said Labor’s savage cuts to frontline police services was putting community safety at risk. “Annastacia Palaszczuk is effectively asking our frontline police to do more with less.”