Cook wants more emphasis on science

The Barnett Government should put more emphasis on science in WA schools to encourage young people into careers in the field, according to new shadow minister for science Roger Cook.

The Kwinana MLA said promoting science was vital in strengthening the science industry in the State and maintaining links with the south-east Asian scientific community.

“Encouraging young people into science is vital in securing WA’s future in the field,” he said.

“We have some brilliant scientific minds here in WA universities and industry.

“It is important that we continue to nurture those brains.”

Mr Cook, who holds onto the health portfolio after last week’s shadow cabinet reshuffle, said he was “really excited” about taking on the challenge.

“Health and science is a good combination as it means we can focus on medical research,” he said.

Meanwhile, Warnbro MLA Paul Papalia has labelled the State Government’s juvenile justice system “shambolic,” as he takes on the role of shadow corrective services minister.

“The issue lies with the Barnett Government’s strategies to tackle crime, particularly as indicated by the recent horrible murder in Mandurah,” he said.

“Nothing is done to eradicate the problems which cause offending in young people until they are locked up.”

Mr Papalia said his first course of action after taking on WA Labor’s corrective services portfolio on Tuesday was to visit Banksia Hill Detention Centre, as well as other prisons, to evaluate first-hand what work needed to be done.