Ian Blayney appointed Shadow Minister for Agriculture and Food, Fisheries and Forestry

Geraldton MLA Ian Blayney is enthusiastic about his appointment as Shadow Minister for Agriculture and Food, Fisheries and Forestry.

“I am looking forward to meeting industry representatives to discuss the aims and the issues of these important primary industries,” said Mr Blayney.

“Since the mining slow down these industries are reclaiming their status as major economic drivers for the State and significant contributors to the wealth of the nation as a whole.

“I am looking forward to representing the interests of these industries in the Parliament of Western Australia. I intend to be a strong advocate for their advancement.

“Prior to my election to the Parliament of Western Australia in 2008, I was a farmer for twenty five years, with broad experience as a part time consultant on the Grains Research and Development Corporation and Board Member of the Centre for Rhizobium Studies at Murdoch University. I was also the Northern Zone Grains Councillor for the WA Farmers Federation for eight years

“Geraldton is home to Western Australia’s most valuable fishery – the Western Rock Lobster fishery. I look forward to working with the fishermen, industry groups and the Department of Fisheries to ensure that this fishery remain sustainable and viable. I’m excited by the potential growth of aquaculture in Western Australia.

“Aquaculture is also emerging as an important component of sustainable fishing, and Geraldton is well placed with the State’s second aquaculture zone nearly ready for development at the Abrolhos Islands.

“Forestry is an important sector, both in terms of land use and regional employment. I’m very interested in talking to the industry about its growth prospects.

It is my intention to be an effective advocate for these industries, while still maintaining a strong representation for my constituents and electorate in Parliament,” said MrBlayney.