The appointment of the Hon Dean Nalder as Minister for Agriculture and Food, in addition to his duties as Minister for Transport, will be followed with interest by WAFarmers.
WAFarmers President Tony York said the loss of dedicated Ministers for Agriculture and Transport was disappointing.
“Agriculture has become a key focus of the state’s political agenda in recent years, and the appointment of one singular Minister for two portfolios, while potentially complex, offers an opportunity to approach agricultural and transport issues from a different perspective,” Mr York said.
“Throughout his tenure as Minister for Agriculture, Food and Fisheries, WAFarmers have worked very closely with Ken Baston and his team.
“While we are disappointed for industry to lose a dedicated Minister for Agriculture as well as a dedicated Minister for Transport, we expect the interests of Western Australian farmers and primary producers to continue to be well represented by Minister Nalder and his team.”
Mr York said WAFarmers looked forward to working closely with Mr Nalder, and hoped to foster a stronger relationship with the Minister moving forward.
“In the past WAFarmers and Mr Nalder have had a testing relationship, primarily surrounding the issues of Tier Three lines on the railway system,” Mr York explained.
“We anticipate that Mr Nalder’s appointment as Minister for two portfolios will result in a more streamlined and holistic approach to agriculture, transport and agricultural transport issues, particularly regarding ports and railways.
“WAFarmers welcome the opportunity to engage with Minister Nalder and to approach issues from a wider agricultural perspective, and will continue to advocate on behalf of our members to represent their interests and concerns.”
ENDS.
All media requests must be directed to WAFarmers Media and Communications Officer Melanie Dunn on (08) 9486 2100 or [email protected].
