The Torres Strait Regional Authority (TSRA) has acknowledged the enormous support the Hon. Nigel Scullion, Minister for Indigenous Affairs, has provided to the region during his time in the portfolio.

TSRA Chairperson Mr Pedro Napau Stephen said Minister Scullion’s support for Fisheries, Native Title and Infrastructure matters among many others over the past five years was greatly appreciated, especially his hearing the organisation’s aspirations for Regional Governance.

“Minister Scullion has been a well-regarded member of parliament for the last 17 years, and a true advocate for the Torres Strait while Minister for Indigenous Affairs,” Mr Stephen said.

“He has supported our many ambitions and worked with us carefully and thoughtfully through sometimes complex issues, with an understanding of what we are aiming to achieve for the people of the region.

“Senator Scullion has visited us on many occasions and was greatly respected for making the effort to visit our communities to get a real sense of life and our needs on the ground.

“While we understand his reasons fornot contesting his seat at the next Federal election, on behalf of the TSRA and its Board we wish him and his family well for the next chapter in their lives.”