INCOMING NSW Premier Mike Baird has increased Andrew Stoner’s ministerial responsibilities, as part of his Cabinet reshuffle.
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The Member for Oxley said his three new ministerial portfolios dovetailed with those he held under former NSW Premier Barry O’Farrell.
Mr Stoner has assumed responsibility for the North Coast; Small Business; and Tourism and Major Events - in addition to his existing ministries Trade and Investment; and Regional Infrastructure and Services.
The Deputy Premier said taking on the North Coast portfolio had been a logical decision.
“As a resident of the Mid North Coast, and the Minister for Regional Infrastructure and Services, I am already involved in the delivery of important local and coastal infrastructure projects, including the Pacific Hwy upgrade,” Mr Stoner said.
Party colleague Andrew Fraser, who is the Member for Coffs Harbour, expressed concern earlier this week about the removal of Nationals colleague Don Page from the North Coast ministry.
In a radio interview, he said this could lead to the North Coast being neglected.
"The North Coast is probably one of the fastest growing, if not the fastest growing area outside of metropolitan Sydney," Mr Fraser told the ABC.
"I think to only have one minister representing all of the North Coast is rather perilous, especially when that minister is Deputy Premier and also has the role of Trade Minister, which sees him out of the country more often that not."
But The Nationals’ leader does not share his Mr Fraser’s view.
“In addition to the North Coast portfolio, my portfolios will allow me greater oversight of more economic levers to grow the economy, with a focus on regional development and tourism,” Mr Stoner said.
