Andrew Stoner retirement

NSW Premier Mike Baird today paid tribute to Deputy Premier Andrew Stoner, who has announced he is retiring from politics at the next election.

“Andrew Stoner has been a great leader of the NSW Nationals, a fine Deputy Premier and above all a passionate advocate for regional NSW,” Mr Baird said.

“Leading any political party is an enormous privilege but to hold that position for almost 12 years is a truly remarkable achievement.

“Under Mr Stoner’s leadership The Nationals are now at one the strongest positions at any time in their history – capped off by an almost clean sweep of seats contested at the 2011 election.

“Mr Stoner has played an integral role in ensuring the NSW Liberals & Nationals have the strongest coalition in the nation.

“It is because of this partnership that the NSW Liberals & Nationals Government is now making such a positive impact in regional communities right across our great state.

“I look forward to Andrew’s ongoing contribution to the NSW Government in the lead up to the election and can count on his ongoing friendship.

“I wish him, Cathy and their children all the very best in the next chapter of their lives.”