“This is a matter of absolute urgency for the region with a predicted severe fire season ahead of the State. Mobile phone coverage must improve not only for day to day business, but as a communication lifeline in emergencies,” said Mr Holt.

“The Shire of Donnybrook-Balingup and the Balingup community have been pushing hard on this issue for a number of years and I want to support them in their efforts. With the fire season now upon us, it is a matter of priority” he said.

“The fires in the Bridgetown and Balingup districts earlier this year burnt over 10,000 hectares, and demonstrated just how critical effective mobile phone coverage is for the community and emergency services.”

“I have raised the issue with the Minister for Regional Development, Brendon Grylls, requesting that Royalties for Regions money be allocated to this project,” said Mr Holt.

“I would also like to see an investment to improve the mobile phone coverage within the whole of the South West to ensure communication black spots are eliminated and people lives not put at risk because of poor mobile phone coverage in the face of severe bushfires.”