Fed: Rudd plans to visit fire ravaged areas

AAP General News (Australia)
12-13-2006
Fed: Rudd plans to visit fire ravaged areas

CANBERRA, Dec 13 AAP - Labor leader Kevin Rudd plans to visit fire-ravaged areas as
part of his national tour, but says he does not want to become a distraction for firefighters.

"I'll try to find the earliest opportunity to do that (visit the regions), but I'm
conscious of not burdening firefighters with too many politicians," Mr Rudd told ABC radio
today.

Bushfires continue to burn across four states - Tasmania, Victoria, NSW and WA - and
already have destroyed at least 15 homes and thousands of hectares of bushland.

Mr Rudd said he can empathise with the farmers during this frightening time.

"I grew up on the land myself. I know what it's like to be threatened by fires when
they come raging over the hills towards your property.

"It's a terrible and frightening time and our thoughts and our prayers go out to all
of those who are affected at this time," he said.

AAP kc/jm/bwl

KEYWORD: BUSHFIRES RUDD

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