STATE member for Mount Isa Rob Katter said although the sudden election announcement would inconvenience most state candidates of any party, he was pleased to now get into campaign mode to ensure there was a strong stand against city-centric major parties.
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“While it’s a bit cynical rushing an election in while people are still on holiday mode, we welcome the opportunity for people to put pen to paper and hold this government to account,” Mr Katter said.
“Personally I am ready to stand with the KAP in the electorate of Mount Isa, and I am pleased the campaign will be short and sharp so we can get back to the business of fighting for people in the North West.
“We have a golden opportunity for the KAP and other independents who have worked well together this Parliament, to hold the balance of power and primarily stop asset sales, which will be disastrous for people in Western Queensland.
“The LNP has spent $20 million of taxpayers’ money on ramming asset sales down our throat, trying to convince us it’s a good thing.’’
Queenslanders will go to the polls on January 31.
Mr Katter said the coming election was a referendum on asset sales.
“The KAP and independents signed an accord together guaranteeing the people of Queensland that they will vote as a bloc to stop asset sales.
“Then we can see some resources and funding flowing back into the regions.”
Mr Katter said the Mount Isa electorate didn’t need big flash office buildings or traffic tunnels in Brisbane, costing millions.
“We need money that is earned here in this mineral resource region, put into our infrastructure here, and that’s what I’ve been fighting for and will continue to fight for,” he said.
He said the Royalties to Regions program was a farce.
“For real leverage in getting proper regional infrastructure we need the
crossbenchers holding the balance of power.”
