July 26, 2012
Kingaroy’s Bjelke-Petersen Research Centre won’t be immune from the State Government’s need to rein back spending, but maintaining front line staff would be a priority.
This was the message from Agriculture Minister John McVeigh to staff when he toured the facility this morning.
Accompanied by Member for Nanango Deb Frecklington, Mr McVeigh inspected the complex and discussed current programs, including the co-operative peanut breeding program being undertaken in conjunction with the Peanut Company of Australia.
“We, like all departments, are being asked to pursue internal savings. We are in the middle of this process which will culminate in the State Budget in September,” Mr McVeigh said.
The Department was trying to find savings right across the State.
“There will need to be some adjustments to staff numbers in the whole State Government,” he said.
“There will be some cuts (in Agriculture) but we are focussed on head office and maintaining front line staff.”
Mr McVeigh also visited the DPI Farm “Redvale” – which had been earmarked for sale by the previous Bligh Government – during his visit to Kingaroy today.
He said he understood the farm and the Research Station worked together as essentially one facility.
“The two properties essentially run together as a unit,” he said.
“We are looking at the best way we can structure and maintain these facilities.”
Mr McVeigh said he was familiar with the Bjelke-Petersen station through his life before politics, but he was impressed by how well it was being maintained.
“I am also impressed with what’s being done with the peanut industry on a co-operative basis. That is quite impressive,” he said.
