Release: Kean not keen on firefighting

Release: Kean not keen on firefighting

Matt Kean, the NSW Environment Minister who recently declared bushfires were linked to climate change, has never fought a fire despite enrolling with the Rural Fire Service 3 years ago and posting numerous photos of himself in uniform across social media. The Australian Taxpayers’ Alliance, the nation’s largest advocacy group representing taxpayers, called on Minister Kean to either get serious or get out of the Rural Fire Service.

“Volunteer firefighting is a proud tradition among Australians, with former Prime Minister Tony Abbot a perfect example of how politicians can serve their community in two ways at once,” said ATA spokesman, Eliot Metherell.

“The difference is that Mr Abbott fought numerous fires, from the Northern Beaches of Sydney to Tenterfield in regional NSW, whereas Minister Kean has turned up to take photos of himself standing around in RFS gear.

“Taxpayers pay for RFS equipment with the expectation that it will be used to protect their families and their property. Instead, Minister Kean is taking up precious resources for pretty campaign pictures.

“Every year we see bushfires sweep across NSW, Minister Kean has had 3 years to go out and fight one but for whatever reason he only seems to be available when there’s no work to be done.

“Minister Kean needs to either get serious and do some firefighting or else he needs to quit using our volunteers, who risk their lives, as props to boost his political appeal.”