Following Cyclones Carlos and Grant , the NT government was firmly made aware of shortcomings in tri-service arrangements to cope with natural disasters and other emergencies. This vital information was provided in writing - and seems to have been swept under the carpet, there being no written response, no action . Clear verbal information about dangerous deficiencies was also given to a person close to government , again without response . Now another cyclone threat is looming .
Matters raised included dangers to emergency services personnel, poor pre- cyclone season preparation , unrealistic expectations of how things will function post-cyclone , shortage of fuel for rescue vehicles, no spare tyres to replace ones deflated and damaged by road debris , and other matters . There are allegations that middle level management has been sitting on vital safety issues for more than a year , and penny pinching . While the public is bombarded with messages to prepare for each cyclone season, it is abundantly clear that the government does not follow this advice , thus endangering its own employees and the public at large. Despite claims by government that the system is ready and able to cope with " a big one " there are obvious weaknesses - some easily rectified- that have been pointed out in a constructive fashion - and ignored . MORE TO COME .
