GROWTH BENEFITS QUESTIONED (Weekly, March 5)
■ The problems with gridlocked traffic are a direct result of rapid population growth, which has been promoted as a wonderful thing by state and federal governments.
The massive cost of ameliorating conditions with new roads indicates that the economic benefits of this growth are non-existent.
Our quality of life is deteriorating as this and many other services cannot keep up with demand.
JENNIE EPSTEIN LITTLE RIVER
YOUNG JOBSEEKERS NEED TRAINING (Weekly, March 5)
■ Melbourne’s growth corridors are growing faster than our economy can accommodate.
With record high rates of immigration, the “growth” push coming from our state and federal governments is made without consideration of our economic slowdown and sluggish jobs growth.
Decisions are being made in a vacuum … Melbourne’s growth can’t be justified economically.
Population growth doesn’t pay for itself. The housing industry only produces short-term jobs and short-term cash flows, not ongoing economic benefits.
More training programs will give employment for trainers, but it won’t necessarily produce more jobs.
Industries are being lost in Victoria. What we need is some real economic growth, with innovative ideas and protection for our industries.
VIV KAY VIA WEB
WEERAMA FESTIVAL WOWS (Weekly, March 5)
■ Great weekend. More things to do and see next year, please.
GREG VIA WEB
