WITH the drums of the global financial crisis still pounding their deep-toned warnings, the shrill sounds of peripheral issues appear to have been drowned out.
One of the hottest topics at the skills shortage forum was the negative attitude of students and parents towards traditional trades such as metalwork and mechanics.
Western Australia's miners have warned that the State may not be able to meet future demand for its resources unless approval processes, particularly environmental approvals, are streamlined.
WITH Labor in power, Unions WA is automatically elevated to a powerful position in policy making.
The relationship between the two groups has not all been plain sailing.
