What will happen to Tony Abbott’s northern beaches promises?
Warringah enjoyed a bumper budget this year with the Liberals hoping to secure the seat for Tony Abbott. But with the former prime minister voted out, there are concerns over what will happen to the promised cash.
Despite Tony Abbott losing his seat on Saturday all his pre-election funding commitments will be honoured.
Warringah enjoyed a bumper budget earlier thus year given Mr Abbott’s precarious position.
Mr Abbott secured $50 million to go towards planning of the Beaches Link tunnel and $20 million for the Sydney Harbour Federation Trust.
In Manly he pledged $5 million for the redevelopment of Manly Life Saving Club and a further $5 million for the planned adult hospice on the former Manly Hospital site.
The Liberal Government offered up the money hoping it would secure the seat for Mr Abbott at the weekend.
But with the former prime minister losing Warringah there were fears the cash would be withdrawn.
However, Manly State Liberal MP James Griffin confirmed that was not the case.
“Because it has all been budgeted for all that money is in place,” Mr Griffin said.
“Things are progressing with the hospice and we have the inaugural gala dinner coming up in July.”
Mr Griffin was at Mr Abbott’s election event on Saturday night and on he paid further tribute to the veteran politician today.
“Few of us will ever have the privilege of representing a community for the length of time and with the passion that Tony Abbott represented Warringah,” he said.
“His recent funding contribution to the adolescent and young adult hospice is one of many examples of the long lasting positive legacy he leaves in Warringah.
“Tony Abbott leaves a proud legacy.”
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Mr Griffin also said he looked forward to getting to know and working with his replacement.
“I wish to give my sincerest congratulations to the new Member for Warringah, Zali Steggall,” he said.
“I believe that communities benefit the most when all levels of Government work
collaboratively, and so I look forward to a strong working relationship with the new Federal
Member.”
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