Northern Territory Chief Minister Lia Finocchiaro has today revealed the CLP Government’s new assistant ministry and Speaker of the Northern Territory Legislative Assembly ahead of the first Sittings of Parliament tomorrow.
The following assistant ministers have been announced:
- Clinton Howe – Assistant Minister For Police
- Khoda Patel – Assistant Minister For Mining and Energy
- Oly Carlson – Assistant Minister For Treasury and Finance
- Andrew Mackay – Assistant Minister For Parks and Wildlife
- Brian O’Gallagher – Assistant Minister For Health
- Matthew Kerle – Assistant Minister For Corporate and Digital Development
- Tanzil Rahman – Assistant Minister For International Education, Migration and Population
- Laurie Zio – Assistant Minister For People, Sport and Culture
“Tuesday is a turning point for the Northern Territory, and my government’s new assistant ministers, along with our Cabinet, will help drive real outcomes for Territorians,” said Mrs Finocchiaro.
“Tomorrow marks the start of the first parliamentary sittings under our new CLP Government where we will introduce our ‘Reducing Crime’ package.
“We make no apologies for our swift and decisive action.
“Seven weeks ago, the CLP was given a clear mandate to deliver these changes to keep our community safe.
“Over the next fortnight, our CLP Government will continue on its path of reducing crime, rebuilding our economy, and restoring our lifestyle for all Territorians.”
The Chief Minister also today endorsed Independent Robyn Lambley MLA (pictured) for Speaker of the Northern Territory Legislative Assembly.
Ms Lambley, the Member for Araluen, was first elected the Member for Araluen in a by-election in 2010 and is ‘Mother of the House’ – a Westminster tradition used to describe the longest serving member of parliament sitting in the Chamber.
“Robyn brings a wealth of parliamentary experience to the role of Speaker of the Northern Territory Legislative Assembly,” Chief Minister Finocchiaro said.
“As the longest serving member of the House, she is a great choice for the role of Speaker given her experience, and the clear mandate the CLP Government has been given by Territorians at the recent election.
“Improving parliamentary practices is something as Chief Minister I am passionate about – less of the talk and babble and more focus and respect for the views and wishes of Territorians who just want us to get on with the job of making their lives safer and better.
“I’ve spoken with Robyn Lambley about this opportunity and indicated that should the House drag her to the Speaker’s Chair, the work will be cut out for her as my CLP Government has a strong legislative agenda planned for this 15th Assembly of Parliament.
“I’ve also spoken to Opposition Leader Selena Uibo who said she is pleased an independent Speaker will be nominated.”
