The Nationals WA have hit out at the Labor Government for leaving regional businesses confused and frustrated by their mixed messaging over worker shortages in key industries. Leader Mia Davies said while the agricultural sector was struggling to find the manpower required for its peak production seasons, the Premier and Minister for Agriculture were at odds…
Member for Geraldton Ian Blayney says a reduction in truancy officers under the Labor Government is contributing to a rise in school absenteeism across the district. In response to questions from Mr Blayney the Government confirmed the number of badged attendance officers in Geraldton schools fell after the last State election, as did average student…
Member for Geraldton Ian Blayney MLA is calling on the State Government to address regional workforce shortages after the Midwest Chamber of Commerce highlights concerns of local businesses. Mr Blayney said regional workforce shortages were likely to worsen, creating serious challenges for the businesses reliant on seasonal workers. “During the current peak holiday period there…
The Nationals WA have backed the Premier’s attempt to halt Clive Palmer suing the State of Western Australia, voting to pass legislation introduced to Parliament less than 24 hours ago. Leader Mia Davies said it was the duty of the Government and Parliament to protect all West Australians from the $30 billion claim. “The legislation…
Member for Geraldton Ian Blayney welcomes Labor’s announcement to construct two high speed jetties in Geraldton given The Nationals WA called for the initiative after meeting with local tourism operators back in June. “Six weeks ago The Nationals WA led calls for expenditure of $3m towards the construction of several jetties to accommodate high speed…
The Nationals WA Leader Mia Davies says the Labor Government have missed a golden opportunity to support industry and grow jobs for all West Australians by backing a new port in Kwinana.. “The State Labor Government could have been truly visionary and boosted freight movements at a number of regional centres, and committed to an…
The Nationals WA fear news services in regional communities will be further eroded unless the ABC reverses its decision to cut housing allowances for 37 staff working outside the metropolitan area. Leader Mia Davies has written to ABC management calling on the broadcaster to recognise higher costs of living for journalists working in regional locations…
The Nationals WA spokesperson for Fisheries Ian Blayney has welcomed the new aquaculture development zone at Oyster Harbour in Albany, stating that it will boost the industry in terms of production and jobs. The zone is intended for shellfish farming and will pave the way for an estimated 200 jobs. “Western Australia’s wild fish catch…
The Nationals WA have called for the State Minister for Agriculture to secure a deal to bring 200 New Zealand shearers into Western Australia to ensure wool production isn’t curtailed by a critical skills shortage. Agriculture spokesperson Colin de Grussa said border closures would prevent international and interstate workers from coming to WA to help…
Member for Geraldton Ian Blayney welcomes the recent funding allocation to four primary schools in Geraldton but is disappointed that it’s taken this long for the Labor Government to recognise the importance of education in Geraldton. “It’s great to see funding finally being injected into Geraldton primary schools given that they have been overlooked for…