“Today’s faux announcement was an audacious attempt to trick the agricultural sector into believing 200 staff were going to be hired to help combat fire ants, varroa mite and other biohazards.

“Coming only a month after sacking 165 staff this seemed curious.

“On closer inspection we see the Agriculture Minister is simply planning to train some of the department’s few remaining staff to take on the duties of those she’s just sacked.

“Our members have been concerned about the impact of these cuts on the state’s agricultural sector and this confirms their concerns.”