The Victoria Governor Linda Dessau AC swearing-in ministers of the Victorian Government to their new portfolios via video-link. Photo- @VicGovernor
By SAT News Desk
MELBOURNE, 29 September: Martin Foley replaced Jenny Mikakos as the new Health Minister, she quit after Premier Daniel Andrews blamed her for the hotel fiasco at the quarantine inquiry. She also quit her Parliament seat.
The Premier in a statement said, “I would like to thank Jenny for her many years of service to the Parliament and to the Government. I acknowledge her commitment and hard work in all of the portfolios she has held as a Minister. I wish her well.”
Martin Foley’s shift as the Health Minister vacated the Mental Health portfolio which was today filled by Deputy Premier James Merlino who also holds the Education portfolio.
Ingrid Stitt joins the Ministry as the State’s new Minister for Workplace Safety and Minister for Early childhood. She represents the Western Metropolitan area in the upper house.
“As Minister for Creative Industries, Danny Pearson’s great drive and energy will ensure that our reputation as the nation’s cultural capital is not only maintained – but stronger than ever.
Gayle Tierney will bring her extensive parliamentary experience and knowledge, serving in the role of Deputy Leader of the Government in the Legislative Council,” a media release from the Premier’s office says.
Meanwhile, the current resignation of Jenny Mikakos and the earlier exit of Adam Somyurek and Marlene Kairouz, after the branch stacking story in the media have erased multicultural representation in the Premier’s team.
Could this be a new challenge, as Victoria eases the virus restrictions, remains to be seen?
