MEMBER for Murray Plains Peter Walsh fears handling the state’s water portfolio could become a part-time job after it was paired with the police portfolio in Premier Daniel Andrews’ new-look front bench this week.
The Nationals leader and opposition water spokesman questioned Lisa Neville’s ability to successfully balance her responsibilities as Police Minister alongside her existing commitments as Water Minister.
“To my mind the police portfolio, particularly with law and order issues in this state, is a very big job for any minister,” he said.
“I have concerns that the water portfolio will come second and we’ll have a part-time water minister.”
Ms Neville is the first female MP to hold the police portfolio and Mr Walsh said she would have to prove herself.
“It is a good step but I believe that for the overwhelming majority of people it’s not a gender issue it’s the issue of who’s the most capable,” he said.
“My recollection of (Ms Neville’s) time as community services minister was that she did not cover herself in glory.”
Other notable cabinet changes include the Jacinta Allan removed from the employment portfolio and the creation of the new Energy, Environment and Climate Change portfolio.
“These changes strengthen the government’s focus on the issues that matter to the Victorian people – jobs, major projects and law and order,” Mr Andrews said.
“Lisa Neville will drive the government’s ongoing law and order agenda, in partnership with Victoria Police, to keep our state safe.”
For more on this story, pick up a copy of Wednesday’s Guardian (May 25, 2016).
