NORTHERN Tablelands MP Richard Torbay said he was disappointed after new premier Barry O’Farrell decided not to reappoint him as Speaker of the Legislative Assembly.

“I have met with Premier O'Farrell today, and I am disappointed in his decision not to re-appoint me as Speaker of the Legislative Assembly, given that I was happy to continue in the role,” Mr Torbay said on Tuesday afternoon.

“However, I congratulate the next Speaker, and am happy to offer my assistance during the transition period.”

Mr Torbay said it had been an honour to serve as the first independent Speaker of the House since the early 1900s, and said he believed it had been a successful term of parliament.

“I was pleased with the numerous changes and reforms that were put in place during my term, and with the opportunity to demonstrate true impartiality in the role.”

Mr Torbay’s dumping comes after he was praised by Mr O’Farrell last week for his performance as speaker.

“I've made clear that Richard Torbay has been the best speaker I’ve served under. He’s been by far and away the fairest.

“He’s someone I respect but I've not considered nor have I made a decision about that,” Mr O’Farrell said last Thursday.

Mr O’Farrell had made the comments after being quizzed about reports he would not reappoint Mr Torbay.

Mr Torbay said he had reiterated to the Premier that he would be pleased to support the Parliament in a future role, which Mr O’Farrell has agreed to consider.

“I look forward to working with the new government, and to continuing to serve the people of my electorate and of the broader community,” Mr Torbay said.

© 2011 Inverell Times

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