Politicians return to agendas

Local politicians have set out their stalls ahead of the first sitting of the Legislative Assembly tomorrow.

Reappointed Opposition leader Mark McGowan said Labor had a stable team and was ready to present an alternative government.

“The major issues I will be following up that people have raised with me are local jobs, fixing the congestion crisis and making sure we keep the cost of living pressures down,” he said.

“I’m determined to keep WA Labor in touch with the needs and concerns of ordinary families.

“For me the future is very much about holding the Government to account but ensuring WA Labor continues to be in touch with middle and working class people, and representing the aspirations of the public of Western Australia.”

Mr McGowan said an unchanged Labor leadership team, in both the Upper and Lower Houses, was a “good portent for the future”.

Kwinana MLA Roger Cook, who remains as deputy leader, said he would be holding the Barnett Government to account in regards local jobs and training opportunities.

“The issue of local content is particularly important to make sure local jobs are being created by the resources boom,” he said. “I will also be making sure the Government is putting in place training opportunities for young people, particularly people coming towards the end of schooling can see a career ahead of them in whatever area they choose.”

Warnbro MLA Paul Papalia said he would continue his push for a police station, and increased police presence, in Secret Harbour.

“There is a need for a police station between Rockingham and Mandurah and better provision of police support to that large growing population.

“That was a serious concern to the electorate during the election, as indicated in the results in our area, and the constant contact we receive about that subject.”

Mr Papalia said he would write to Premier Colin Barnett about election day advertising, criticising Labor commitment to a train station at Paganoni Road within six years.