Ripper appoints junior spokespersons

The state opposition leader Eric Ripper has appointed 11 junior spokespersons a decision which puts some pressure on the shadow cabinet.

The labor leader said the new spokespersons would work to shadow ministers in the lead up to the next election.

The new areas covered by the minor portfolios include local jobs, emerging industries, budget management, sustainable living, community mental health, country health, retail small business, early childhood, housing affordability, and IT strategy.

"There are many issues in our community where I believe the Barnett Government is silent and not doing enough," Mr Ripper said.

"I want our team to meet with stakeholders, review Labor's current policy and where appropriate release discussion papers that Labor can use as we progress toward the next election.

"The spokespersons will also arrange forums and talk to the community about what direction our State should be heading.

"I want to give our MPs the opportunity to make a difference and use their skills and expertise.

"I am also keen to give spokespersons the experience they need to prepare to return to Government in 2013."

"We've performed very well in the parliament, very well in the community, I'm very happy with the shadow ministry," he told the ABC.

"I just know that I've got talented people outside the shadow ministry and I want to use their talents to advance our society and to advance our chances to win the 2013 election."

Detail of the new spokespersons below:

The member for Willagee Peter Tinley - local jobs
The member for Cannington, Bill Johnston - emerging industries;
The member for West Swan Rita Saffioti - budget management
The member for Gosnells, Chris Tallentire - sustainable living
The member for Maylands, Lisa Baker - community mental health services
Member for the South-West region, Adele Farina - country health
The member for Joondalup, Tony O'Gorman - retail small business
Member for the East Metropolitan region, Linda Savage - early childhood
The member for Mandurah, David Templeman - closing the gap
The member for Bassendean, Martin Whitely - housing affordability
The member for Forrestfield, Andrew Waddell - IT strategy