NSW Nationals leader John Barilaro has thanked outgoing deputy Niall Blair for his "tireless efforts" during a difficult period for the state's regions.
Mr Blair on Sunday announced he was stepping down from cabinet despite the coalition's victory, saying the hostility directed at him after millions of fish died in NSW's inland rivers had significantly impacted his family life.
"Public life does not come without costs and while the opportunities have been immense, the costs personally and more recently professionally, have taken their toll," he said in a statement.
Mr Barilaro said the upper house MP had told him "some time ago" that he would not seek a leadership or frontbench role if the government was returned.
"On behalf of the NSW Nationals and my wife Deanna and our family, I sincerely thank Niall, his wife Mel and son Lachlan for allowing us to share him with the people of regional NSW," he said in a statement on Monday.
News that makes sense
Your trusted source for staying up-to-date with the world around you. Get free daily news updates and analysis, straight to your inbox.
"He's played a critical role in the government's re-election through his work as deputy leader of the party, and as Minister for Primary Industries, Trade and Industry and Regional Water, during a difficult period of prolonged drought."
Mr Blair said he stood by every decision he made as a minister and dismissed suggestions he was resigning because of the government's water management policies.
