A decision by REX Airlines to cease air services in and out of Clarence Valley Regional Airport is devastating news for the community according to Clarence Nationals MP Chris Gulaptis.

“REX has provided an invaluable air service to the communities of the Clarence Valley for many years,” Mr Gulaptis said.

“The service connecting Grafton and Lismore to Sydney is vital for all sorts of people including those involved in business, the judiciary and the public service more generally.

“That is only going to get busier with the opening of Australia’s largest gaol right here, right now.

“I understand the airline industry is under intense economic pressure because of the coronavirus, but those times will pass and I cannot think of a regional destination with a better economic future than Grafton.

“I would encourage the airline and Clarence Valley Council to set aside any differences they may have in the best interests of the wider community and reassess their decision for the greater good.

“The community and a clear majority on Council want to continue doing business with REX and so do I, so now is not the time for REXIT,” Mr Gulaptis concluded.