This morning Steve Irons MP invited the Hon Tony Abbott MHR to meet with local community groups, school children and residents in the electorate of Swan at a community forum. The City of Belmont Civic Centre in Cloverdale was packed with all available spots for the forum taken up.

Mr Irons and Mr Abbott were keen to hear from local residents on issues important to the local community.

“I feel that it is important to engage with the community and let them know that their voice is being heard locally and federally” Mr Irons said.

“Australians sent a message to the Gillard Labor Government at the last election, but Labor is still not listening. This morning we heard from local residents who are concerned about aircraft noise, the carbon tax, and new asylum seeker detention centres in Western Australia. The community need a government that they can be assured will listen to them, that is why I invited Mr Abbott to Swan” he said.

Other issues raised at the forum included improving the education system, health and mental health issues, funding for community organisations and organ donation.

“I am pleased that such a variety of residents from school children to seniors including families were able to attend.

“Comments from the floor suggest residents in Swan feel ignored by this Labor government. My office is always available to discuss local issues with the community”, he added.