lnp , page-19

IN HIS first press conference as Premier, Campbell Newman said he may dismantle government departments that handles mining to speed up approvals.

Mr Newman said it was unacceptable for resource applications to take so long to move through the environmental impact phase.

"DERM (Department of Environment, Resource Management) could be split up, but we would create a department with a stronger focus on environment." Mr Newman said.

"Changes would also be made to DEEDI (which oversees mining) to create a mining and energy department.

"It would promote mining and exploration in Queensland.

"It should not take seven years to decide environmental outcomes."

Earlier today Mr Campbell was sworn in as Premier, with Tim Nicholls named Treasurer and Jeff Seeney as Deputy Premier.

Mr Newman said more cabinet appointments would be made later in the week, expected to be kept on hold his departmental changes are "structurally correct".


-----------------------------------------------------------------

Makes me very Happy. this was in sunny coast news.

All the best - DASH