Lismore MP and Minister for the North Coast Janelle Saffin has shut down speculation about her political future, declaring she will recontest the next state election — even as she temporarily closes her electorate office amid escalating tensions with protesters.

The announcement about the office closure was made in a Facebook post, where Ms Saffin cited safety concerns for constituents and staff.

“I have decided to temporarily close my Carrington Street Electorate Office for the safety and protection of constituents attending for assistance, and for the wellbeing of myself and my staff,” she said.

Ballina News Daily understands Ms Saffin has become increasingly frustrated that locals seeking help have been forced to run a gauntlet of hostile protestors outside her office — many aligned with Greens campaigns and from outside the area.

Taking Aim at Greens “Railroading”

In a hard-hitting radio interview, Ms Saffin also attacked attempts by Greens-aligned groups to influence the CSIRO’s $3 billion Northern Rivers flood mitigation study.

She revealed the Nature Conservation Council of NSW had mobilised 40,000 supporters to push for “nature-based solutions” and reject engineering options.

She defended CSIRO’s independence and attacked claims that the process was undermining public science.

“The last time I looked, the CSIRO are pretty high up there in scientific credibility. If you don’t like their recommendations, say so — but don’t impugn their credentials,” Ms Saffin said on the Nora Vidler-Blanksby program on Richmond Valley Radio.

While she stressed she supports tree-planting and riverbank restoration projects, Ms Saffin pointed to Lismore’s levy as evidence that engineering solutions can and do save lives.

Ending Speculation

Ms Saffin’s declaration that she will contest another term has put paid to speculation she was preparing to retire.

Lismore Mayor Steve Krieg has reportedly joined the Nationals, preparing to run on the expectation Ms Saffin would be stepping down.

But with her candidacy confirmed, the result is now seen as a foregone conclusion — Lismore will remain in Labor’s hands.

“I want to see our recovery through,” Ms Saffin said. “I’ll be running, and I’ll be running hard.”

UPDATE: (5pm August 19) – The Lismore Electorate office reopened this afternoon, 24 hours after Ballina News Daily first reported on the issue.

Office staff say the protesters finally packed up and left, leaving a mess including rubbish and paint on the footpath.