NSW Deputy Premier John Barilaro has dismissed concerns about his party’s health after Adrian Picolli last week announced his resignation, forcing a third state by-election.
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“Often people say when there are retirements the party’s in disarray but it’s not,” Mr Barilaro said.
“For regional MPs covering large areas like 40,000 square kilometres and having to travel into the city for parliament takes a toll on families, it takes a toll on yourself.
“For anyone who’s been in politics for that long you have to draw the line in the sand and say the time has come.”
He said it was an opportunity for “renewal” for the National party who are currently assessing candidates for Mr Piccoli’s seat of Murray.
Stephanie Cooke, a business woman from Temora will contest the seat of Cootamundra for the Nationals with Barilaro reporting there’s been “strong interest” in the seat of Murray.
A candidate is yet to be announced.
