Today saw the QLD Liberal party leader rolled in a party room meeting. Bob Quinn has never been inspiring, and has more often than not under-whelmed the electorate. His replacement Dr Bruce Flegg has scored some strong points on the Beattie government throughout the unfolding health scandals. Caloundra's own Mark McArdle takes the deputy leadership - continuing my hometown's contribution to State politics (Premier Mike Ahern, Deputy Premier Joan Sheldon). I must admit I was a little surprised - I had suspected that if anyone would take the reigns from Quinn it would be up and coming Michael Caltabiano. Having only been in parliament a matter of months after his by-election win, I suspect that this leadership topple occured far too early for Caltabiano's liking. Impressive to see the QLD Liberal Party site has replaced Quinn's photos and biography with Flegg in a matter of hours... makes you wonder if the coup was expected in Liberal circles.
From the government's point of view, it has been a hard week for Beattie. Water has arrived as a second large issue that could be a vote changer at the next election. Suprisingly, Beattie has decided to take this responsibility into his ever growing portfolio. His attempts to deflect criticism from the State Government to Local Government resulted in a unified retort from at a joint media conference from most of South East Queensland's mayors, and past mayor of Brisbane Jim Soorley. This is not an issue that will go away - and 'dealing' (throwing money) at the problem will ensure fiscal issues for a budget that did not allocate a cent to the two new dams or any other major water infrastructure projects. If only the Coaliton could make an intelligent contribution to the debate, and leave scare tactics like sex-changing fish out of it.
1 comment:
michael caltabiano is an outstanding politician and i do believe it won't be long before he is handed the reins by the liberals. i don't think flegg has the skills or talent to lead the liberal parliamentary team.
caltabiano's leadership aspirations are no secret. he is a motivated and driven man with amazing ability - however, he would know that a first term politician who won on a by-election does not have the credibility or experience to lead a political party.
i think flegg will fail and after caltabiano has consolidated his seat at the upcoming general election, he will walk into the liberal leader's role.
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