PREMIER Barry O’Farrell's reshuffled cabinet was announced yesterday, including a new Minister to oversee coal seam gas (CSG) and mining, following the recent resignation of Resources Minister Chris Hartcher .
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Minister for Fair Trading Anthony Roberts will be in the hot seat taking on the Resources and Energy portfolio. He was also appointed Special Minister of State.
“Anthony has displayed an appetite for reform and he’s the right person to carry on the NSW Government’s work in the electricity sector to keep downward pressure on electricity prices,” Mr O’Farrell said.
Mr Roberts said he looked forward to getting on with the job, "one that is crucial to the NSW community and economy".
Parliamentary Secretary Stuart Ayres becomes Minister for Fair Trading and Minister Assisting the Premier on Western Sydney.
Early next week, Minister for Police and Emergency Services Mike Gallacher will be appointed Minister for Central Coast and Minister for Tourism George Souris will become Minister for the Hunter.
“As Member for the Upper Hunter George Souris has a strong connection to the Hunter and he will be a powerful advocate for the region in Cabinet,” Mr O’Farrell said.
“Mr Souris understands the Hunter’s strengths and he will ensure the NSW government capitalises on the region’s competitive advantages."
Mr Hartcher stood down from Cabinet last week pending the outcome of an Independent Commission Against Corruption (ICAC) inquiry. He said he is confident he will be cleared of any wrongdoing.
