THE LNP opposition says Queensland’s farm, fisheries and forestry sectors have been dealt another blow with the reappointment of “lethargic” Bill Byrne as agriculture minister.
Opposition agriculture spokesman Dale Last said Mr Byrne’s appointment showed the disconnect between the Palaszczuk government and rural and regional Queensland.
“Bill Byrne proved he had little empathy with agriculture and absolutely none with fisheries during his first shot in this important portfolio,” Mr Last said.
CLICK HERE to read how Bill Byrne was recycled as a minister.
“Now he’s back following the resignation last week of disgraced former minister Leanne Donaldson.
“It’s hardly a day for rejoicing in Goondiwindi, Emerald, Longreach, Atherton or Mareeba, let alone Rockhampton and Gladstone where Bill Byrne has trashed the local commercial fishing fleets, seafood businesses and their workers.”
However, premier Annastacia Palaszczuk said Mr Byrne would be the government’s champion for the bush.
“Bill Byrne has done a fantastic job as agriculture and fisheries minister before and I know he’ll do so again,” Ms Palaszczuk said.
“Representing the people of Rockhampton – Australia’s Beef Capital – Bill has long been a champion for the bush and I know he’s excited about taking on the portfolio again.
“I have tasked Bill to also focus on Rural Economic Development, particularly with my Government’s plans for the Queensland Rural and Industry Development Authority, strengthening debt mediation provisions for our farmers and our commitment to agricultural research and development and biosecurity.”
“Bill has been an outstanding Police Minister, but I want a regional voice in Cabinet representing our primary industries.”
Mr Last said Mr Byrne was a person who thought it was okay to shoot rats in his roof but deny law-abiding farmers the short-arm weapons they needed for feral animal destruction.
“Minister Bill Byrne thinks by wearing RM Williams boots he has a connection with regional Queenslanders,” Mr Last said.
“During his previous stint as Ag minister he routinely refused to meet with industry stakeholders or lift a finger on any key issues in the portfolio.
“Bill Byrne stood by the rest of his union mates in State Parliament to try to deny farmers common sense vegetation management laws.”
