Retirement of Senator Nick Minchin
24th March, 2010
Nationals Leader Warren Truss has paid tribute to Senator Nick Minchin following his decision to not contest the next election.“Nick has been a standout political figure for more than 30 years, including nearly 17 years in the Senate,” Mr Truss said. “I have been honoured to call him a friend as well as a colleague.
“The Senate can be a particularly demanding place to work, but Nick has been a strong and reliable Leader of the Opposition in the Senate, bringing to the job discipline, intelligence and good humour.
“Nick and I came into the Cabinet about the same time and I admired his contribution to the Coalition Government including his 10 years as a minister which included his stint as Australia’s longest serving Finance Minister.
“He can claim considerable credit for the strong economic position this country was in when we left office in 2007, and the paying back of all federal debt.
“Nick has always held a strong interest in and supported many policies that helped those who live outside the capital cities.
“Someone of Nick Minchin’s calibre is virtually irreplaceable, but I am sure that the Liberal Party will find a senator, shadow minister and leader of the Opposition in the Senate to fill his shoes.
“I wish Nick, Kerry and their family good health and every happiness for the future,” Mr Truss said.
