A peak body representing farmers in New South Wales say they were shocked to hear the bombshell announcement that Primary Industries Minister Niall Blair was resigning from the ministry, a day after being re-elected.
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On Sunday, Mr Blair announced that he was resigning from the front bench. In a statement, Mr Blair said certain issues had taken a toll on him both personally and professionally.
"My role has had a significant impact on my family, particularly, my wife, Mel and son Lachlan. I would not be here today without their love, along with that of my extended family and friends. I look forward to repaying them for their unwavering support," he said.
"In the face of the ongoing drought, our farmers and regional communities need someone who can continue to spend every waking minute fighting with them, among them and for them.
"After having done this proudly and steadfastly for the past eight years, it is now time to make way for someone new who can be that voice."
NSW Farmers president James Jackson said Mr Blair has "been a strong and effective advocate for agriculture in NSW."
"As Minister, Niall was always open to meet with NSW Farmers - both staff and members - and was always frank and fearless," Mr Jackson said.
"He championed additional resources and capacity for our sector and we are particularly appreciative of his leadership in response to the drought. We always knew where we stood when in discussion with Niall."
In Mr Blair's statement, he said the ministerial role was never about himself or his profile, but about the party, its members, communities and industries he has represented.
Mr Jackson said Mr Blair's resignation was a surprise, but being a Minister is a challenging and consuming job with much time away from family.
"Niall has been particularly busy as a Minister due to the drought, which has placed some stress on everyone involved," Mr Jackson said.
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"Again, we do thank Niall for his commitment to the role and working with NSW Farmers on developing drought assistance packages."
The hunt is now on for a new Primary Industries minister, and it might be Oxley MP and Roads Minister Melinda Pavey who said she would be honoured if she was asked to fill the role.
"I'm talking to colleagues at the moment," Ms Pavey said.
"I'm the longest serving National Party MP with the time I've done in the Upper House and now the Lower House, I've had a good result in my electorate, but we'll be having those internal conversations. I genuinely just want to serve."
Mr Jackson said he is sure NSW Farmers Association can again build strong relationships with the new Minister and staff that will complement the ongoing strong relationship that the Association has with the department of Primary Industries and Local land Services.
"For local food and fibre production to continue to grow its output and trade footprint, it is critical that government listens to the voice of farmers and regional communities," he said.
Mr Jackson said the Coalition made a number of significant commitments during the election campaign, such as establishing an agriculture advocate, extending the wild dog exclusion fence, duplicating the Great Western Highway, and protecting the right to farm, and NSW Farmers are hoping to see those commitments fulfilled.
"We will be looking to see action on these commitments and an increased focus on trespass and animal activist protections, improved biosecurity and animal welfare protections, regional food hubs and legislation that supports the right to farm," he said.
Taylor Jurd
Hi, my name is Taylor Jurd. I am a journalist with Australian Community Media, I write for the Western Magazine and Wellington Times.
Hi, my name is Taylor Jurd. I am a journalist with Australian Community Media, I write for the Western Magazine and Wellington Times.
