Nationals Leader Dugald Saunders said questions need to be answered over the sudden departure of Scott Hansen as Director General of the NSW Department of Primary Industries.
Mr Saunders has thanked Mr Hansen for his incredible service after ten years in the job.
“The work DPI does for regional NSW is immeasurable. It is disappointing to see Scott go, and I am thankful I was able to work closely with him during my time as Agriculture Minister,” Mr Saunders said.
“There are some serious questions that must be asked of the Minns Labor Government around Scott’s sudden departure from the role, and also about the future of DPI and the Department of Regional NSW (DRNSW)
“It is no secret that Chris Minns’ Government has a complete disregard for regional communities and that the needs of those communities are simply not a priority.”
Mr Saunders has called on the government to provide clarity around what its review of DPI and DRNSW will look like and to also guarantee that DPI will remain its own entity and not be absorbed by the Department of Regional NSW.
“Today’s news raises concerns for both Departments and for every resident living in the bush, and we need the Premier to step up and provide certainty.”
