O’Connor takes agriculture portfolio
O’Connor takes agriculture portfolio
Labour Leader Phil Goff today announced that Damien O’Connor will become Opposition spokesman for Agriculture.
“Until today that portfolio has been held by Jim Anderton, Leader of the Progressive Party, as part of an arrangement that recognised Labour and the Progressive’s close ties,” Phil Goff said.
“Jim has been a great advocate for the agriculture sector, but as he has decided not to seek re-election as an MP he has decided to relinquish the role to someone who will be standing in 2011.
“Damien is already Labour’s Rural Affairs and Bio-Security spokesperson and brings with him a huge amount experience to the agriculture portfolio as former share-milker, farmer and now berry-fruit grower who has sound practical and parliamentary experience.
“I know Damien is looking forward to his new role.
“Labour will continue to support and work closely with Jim Anderton and we wish him well for his Christchurch mayoral campaign,” Phil Goff said.
ENDS