FEBRUARY 22, 2016: THE importance of Urannah Dam to provide future jobs and economic stability was highlighted by new Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Agriculture and Water Resources Barnaby Joyce on the floor of parliament today.Minister Joyce spoke about the importance of building dams in response to my question on the importance of restoring agriculture as a fundamental pillar of the Australian economy.The importance of securing funding for a feasibility study on the Urannah Dam is vitally important for this region, and I’m doing all in my power to ensure we see that funding flow through.It’s heartening to see that it is getting the attention of leading decision makers in our government.Minister Joyce referred to his recent visit to the region.“It was great to go to Central Queensland to be in the local member’s area, and it was great to be with a local member who’s been working so hard to make sure we maintain the jobs and prosperity of Central Queensland and …. North Queensland,” Minister Joyce said.Minister Joyce outlined that there was $500 million on the table to build water infrastructure and $50 million was set aside for the assessment of new dams.“But what’s really exciting Mr Speaker is to be part of a Government … the Liberal and National Coalition that are actually going to construct more water infrastructure and they’re in the process of doing it right now,” Minister Joyce said.“To understand the importance of Urannah Dam in the Member’s electorate, and to be part of this process where we have been half a billion dollars, $500 million on the table, $50 million of that for the assessment of dams.“Mr Speaker this is the vision; the vision of government that is not scared of building water infrastructure.”