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Barnaby Joyce has maintained his New England electorate will remain his top priority, even after he was sworn in for two additional portfolios.
The Deputy Prime Minister has taken on the portfolios of Resources and Northern Australia, after the shock resignation from those positions of Senator Matt Canavan, over allegations of dual citizenship.
Mr Joyce was sworn in by Australian Governor General Sir Peter Cosgrove on Thursday afternoon. He has also retained his Agriculture and Water portfolios, taking his total to four, virtually doubling his ministerial workload.
This is in addition to his Deputy Prime Ministerial role and his duties as Federal member for New England.
Mr Joyce will return to the electorate this week, where it is understood he would also be in the Acting Prime Minister’s role.
In a statement to The Leader, Mr Joyce reaffirmed his dedication to the electorate.
“As the Deputy Prime Minister and as a cabinet minister, I have a direct capacity to represent the issues affecting the New England at the highest levels of government,” he said.
“This means the New England has a voice at the cabinet table when discussing finances, infrastructure and services for our nation.
“It’s why I have been championing decentralisation, including relocating the APVMA to the New England; as well as delivering Inland Rail practically to our doorstep; and securing water funding for our region, including Chaffey Dam which we have already built.
“When I travel through the electorate, the number one issue raised with me is power prices.
“During this temporary period taking in the resources portfolio, the New England has a representative directly involved in discussions around energy and resources. One thing I’ve never been accused of is being lazy, and I am going to make sure that this temporary arrangement works.”
It’s expected Mr Joyce will retain Mr Canavan’s portfolios at least until a High Court determines the Senator’s eligibility to remain a politician.