The work and commitment of Tasmanian Liberal Senator Richard Colbeck has been recognised by new Federal Liberal Leader Tony Abbott with his re-appointment to the position of Shadow Parliamentary Secretary for Agriculture, Fisheries & Forestry.
Senator Colbeck said the re-appointment provides further opportunity for him to get his hands dirty in a portfolio which is crucial to Tasmania’s future.
“In recent times, I have committed myself to advocating for individuals, organisations and industries within the agriculture, fisheries and forestry portfolio,” Senator Colbeck said.
“Just some of the issues I have been focussing on in recent times have included:
· fighting for fair milk prices for local dairy farmers;
· the effects of quota cuts in the rock lobster industry;
· the impact of the Government’s emissions trading scheme on the local food processing sector;
· advocating for longer-term Regional Forest Agreements to secure future investment;
· maximising water development opportunities for agriculture; and
· ensuring our Southern Ocean fisheries are protected from illegal poachers; among many others.
“Alongside this work, a great deal of energy has gone into policy development within the portfolio to ensure the Coalition’s policies reflect the needs and aspirations of the primary industries. This work will, of course, expand in the lead up to the election.”
“In particular, I will be making a strong contribution to the Coalition’s climate change policies ensuring the agriculture, fisheries and forestry sectors are well represented and provided with opportunities to be major contributors to carbon abatement.”
Senator Colbeck also congratulated his fellow Tasmanian Liberal Senators, Eric Abetz, on his appointment to the new Shadow Cabinet as Shadow Minister for Employment & Workplace Relations and Guy Barnett who continues as the Chairman of the Coalition Scrutiny of Government committee.
“The Tasmanian Liberal Senate Team is punching well above its weight which is more than can be said for Tasmanian Labor Senators all of whom have been passed over for frontbench roles in the Government.”
SENATOR THE HON RICHARD COLBECK Shadow Parliamentary Secretary for Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry Senator for Tasmania
