The Nationals WA remain the only Party to put forward a credible agriculture policy to facilitate the growth and success of the sector during the 2017 State election campaign.
With only a few short days until the State election Candidate for Roe Peter Rundle questioned why both the major parties had failed to outline any strategy for agriculture beyond March 11.
“Unlike the major parties, who are focused on big ticket promises in Perth, The Nationals have remained focused on regional WA including our agriculture industry,” Mr Rundle said.
“While Labor and the Liberals have been busy taking credit for Royalties for Regions funded initiatives, The Nationals’ have outlined a clear path forward for WA farmers to ensure they remain competitive and profitable into the future.
“It’s time for the major parties to put their money where their mouth is, and outline their own plan for agriculture in WA.”
Mr Rundle said The Nationals recently unveiled their $277 million commitment to build on the hugely successful $350 million Seizing the Opportunity in Agriculture initiative, made possible by the Party’s flagship Royalties for Regions program.
“The Nationals’ new policy shows our ongoing commitment to this important industry by investing into research and development, marketing, infrastructure and education to grow this vital industry,” Mr Rundle said.
“We understand the sector’s role as an important contributor to the State’s economy and this is why The Nationals WA have allocated a record investment of over $600 million to agriculture projects since 2008.”
Mr Rundle said WA primary producers knew better than to believe Labor’s baseless statements and the Liberal’s handful of unfunded promises.
“Labor has no credibility when it comes to agriculture – they vehemently opposed GM technology and changed their position shortly after the election campaign started and don’t support the Live Export Trade,” Mr Rundle said.
“On the other hand the Liberals are hell bent on selling off the Fremantle Port – a monopoly asset that is vitally important for the industry and they have shown no regard for the negative flow on implications for agriculture.
“I urge everyone to Vote 1 for The Nationals WA on March 11 so we can continue to deliver vital investment into our agriculture sector.”
For more information about The Nationals’ plan for agriculture visit: www.nationalswa.com/agriculture
For media enquiries contact Peter Rundle on 0418 959 810 or email Peter.Rundle@nationalswa.com
