QLD:Former Qld MP Jim Pearce plans comeback

AAP General News (Australia)
08-15-2011
QLD:Former Qld MP Jim Pearce plans comeback

BRISBANE, Aug 15 AAP - Former Queensland Labor MP Jim Pearce says he intends on contesting
the next state election.

The popular former member for Fitzroy is seeking endorsement as the ALP's candidate
for Mirani, in central Queensland.

Mr Pearce, who has been advocating for mining communities, told ABC Radio on Monday
the impacts of coal and coal seam gas mining on landowners and other mining issues have
motivated him to return to politics.

"I'm really frustrated with the way government and mining companies are treating the
grass roots of central Queensland; those landowners out there who have coal mines on their
properties and particularly the people in the communities who are really feeling the brunt
of fly-in fly-out (miners)," Mr Pearce said.

Mr Pearce was diagnosed with severe depression and anxiety in 2008.

He retired at the 2009 state election after more than 20 years in state politics.

The sitting MP in Mirani is the Liberal National Party's Ted Malone.

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KEYWORD: PEARCE

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