A new view on water welcome, says Cirillo

ONE Mildura councillor believes a new water minister could be of huge benefit to Sunraysia.

Mildura councillor for environment and farming sustainability Anthony Cirillo said newly minted Keith Pitt could be the fresh face the region needs.

It was announced on Thursday that Mr Pitt would take on the water portfolio, after David Littleproud moved on to regain his agriculture ministry.

“We couldn’t get much worse from the previous so I am looking on the decision with an open mind and open eyes and just hoping that he is there to listen and make some change,” Cr Cirillo said.

“The previous ministers have seemed to take the same approach, the same track, whether it was Labour, Liberal or Nationals, it seemed to be the same script.

“Maybe a fresh person with an open mind will look for some answers to the Murray-Darling Basin.”

Mr Pitt, who holds the Hinkler electorate in Queensland, has also gained the resources and northern Australia portfolios.

Member for Mallee Anne Webster was pleased with the decision, but said a transition period would be involved.

“I think certainly there will be a learning curve, as there would be for anyone stepping into that role, but the staff that assisted David Littleproud will also be on hand,” she said.

“I have found Keith highly professional and really keen about getting together and talking about water and the Mallee.”

Dr Webster has been working with Senator Perin Davey on a water supply Bill, however it was announced on Monday the Bill would be put on hold.

Dr Webster said she still planned to meet Mr Pitt to discuss water needs in the Mallee.

“We have only just talked today about getting together and going through the water issues,” she said.

“However I am confident that we will get together as Nationals members and will be informing Minister Pitt going forward and I am sure he will be very responsive.”

Cr Cirillo said Mr Pitt’s best chance at the job was coming to the table with a long-term plan.

“He needs to get to the districts ASAP, hear from the grassroots people that are affected and hear what’s actually going on — not listen to a bunch of bureaucrats who sit in an office and run models,” he said.

“Come with a long-term view, not a view to get re-elected for the next election.

“It might be a view that might not be popular this time around but something that is going to create long-term stability for all of the stakeholders in the Murray-Darling Basin.”

Cr Cirillo believes that Mr Pitt’s situation outside the basin could also help him in reassessing the Murray-Darling Basin Plan.

“It could work as a positive because he may not have any favouritism within the basin and have a more holistic approach,” he said.

“He will have to seriously look at halting and reviewing the Murray-Darling Basin Plan so that he understands what he will continue to push and to cross-check that he agrees what is in there.”