PETER GUTWEIN, MHA
Shadow Minister for Police & Public Safety
Friday June 3, 2005
Lennon Government knocks back
2nd police officer for Port Sorell again
Police Minister, David Llewellyn, has today re-affirmed that the State Labor Government will not be providing a second permanent police officer to Port Sorell to address the great community concern over crime levels, Shadow Police Minister, Peter Gutwein said today.
Mr Gutwein said that both Minister Llewellyn and the Police Commissioner denied in Budget Estimates hearings today that crime in Port Sorell was at a concerning level and that a second permanent police officer was not warranted.
“The views the State Labor Government have in regards to crime levels in Port Sorell are disappointing and are certainly out of step with the views of the community,” Mr Gutwein said.
“The residents of Port Sorell and surrounding areas should not have to put up with rising levels of crime, vandalism and other anti-social behaviour whilst the State Labor Government stands idle on the provision of extra police resources.
“Minister Llewellyn failed explain why he broke his promise to the Port Sorell community over an extra police officer nor could he even guarantee that just one of the extra 48 police to be recruited this year would be assigned to Port Sorell,” Mr Gutwein said.
Mr Gutwein said that State Liberals are committed to allocating a second, permanent, police officer to Port Sorell should a stable, majority Hidding Liberal Government be elected.
“The State Liberal team recognises that the Port Sorell community is one of the fastest growing in Tasmania and is facing all of the extra pressures of an expanded population, including increased crime levels,” Mr Gutwein said.
“And we also recognise that this increased crime requires a commensurate level of police resources to ensure that the community feels safe and protected.
“The State Liberals, including our Braddon MHAs, Jeremy Rockliff and Brett Whiteley, have listened to the community, including gaining a petition of over 600 local residents, on this important issue and recognised the real need for increased, permanent police resources in the Port Sorell community,” Mr Gutwein said.
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PETER GUTWEIN, MHA
Shadow Minister for Police
Friday June 3, 2005
Rethink needed on road safety strategy
Shadow Police Minister Peter Gutwein today called on the State Labor Government to rethink its road safety strategy, after revelations today that Tasmania has been the only State to record an increase in the average number of road fatalities over the last eight years.
Figures released by Mr Gutwein in Budget Estimates hearings this morning show that the average number of road deaths in Tasmania increased from 44 between 1997-2000 to 49 between 2001-2004.
Against this backdrop, every other State and Territory has recorded a reduced road fatality average WA, for example, dropping from 212 to 175, the Northern Territory from 57 to 48 and South Australia from 158 to 150.
Mr Gutwein said he feared the State Labor Government was relying too much on booking motorists to achieve quotas, than on an effective and holistic road safety strategy encompassing initiatives like improved education and better roads.
The State Liberals have recently announced that a Hidding Liberal Government would introduce compulsory driver training for provisional drivers, in a bid to ensure our young drivers learn to become safer drivers.
The State Liberals have also championed the upgrading our appalling roads forcing the State Government to match Federal funding for Sisters Hills, and announcing that a Hidding Liberal Government would undertake vital upgrades to both the West Tamar and Lyell Highways.
These are just elements of a comprehensive road safety strategy will be announced before the next election.
By contrast, the State Labor Government, which has woefully neglected our roads and other basic infrastructure, has simply come up with a proposal to cut speed limits to cover up its shameful negligence.
On this matter, Mr Gutwein said he was shocked to learn that the Police Minister and Police Commissioner effectively played no part in the development of the new speed zones discussion paper released this week. Neither had even read through the whole document.
“It is clear that the Lennon Labor Government really does not have a strategy or a plan to reduce our road carnage.
“This is evidenced by the increased number of deaths on our roads at a time when every other State and Territory has been able to reduce deaths.”
Mr Gutwein said the road safety strategy clearly needed to be reviewed, and he said the State Labor Government should focus less on revenue-raising through traffic offences and more on a whole of government approach to road safety.
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PETER GUTWEIN, MHA
Shadow Minister for Police
Friday June 3, 2005
Outrageous level of assaults against police
Shadow Police Minister Peter Gutwein today condemned the shocking level of assaults against Tasmania Police.
Revelations that 1000 officers were assaulted last year only made more confounding the Police Minister’s misguided decision to support legislation in State Cabinet that would have removed officers’ rights to claim for compensation under the Victims of Crime Compensation Fund if they had already received workers compensation.
The State Liberals forced the Lennon Labor Government to address this serious shortcoming in the legislation when it came before the House two weeks ago.
But Mr Gutwein said it was staggering that David Llewellyn had supported the legislation in the State Cabinet.
Mr Gutwein said the unacceptable level of assaults against police was extremely disturbing and warranted some form of education campaign.
“People should understand that assaults generally are just not on; and that it is outrageous to assault a police officer in the course of their duty, serving and protecting the public.
“This is one of the reasons why I took such umbrage at the recently reported comments in a court case where a judge said that spitting at a police officer was not serious.
“This is serious and should not under any circumstances be tolerated or condoned.”
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Kim Booth MHA
Friday, 3 JUNE 2005
UNDERSIZED SCALLOP CATCH NEEDS ACTION
Minister Ignore Fishermen’s Call For Halt
The Tasmanian Greens today called on Minister Kons to heed local scallop fishermen’s calls and immediately suspend fishing of potentially undersized scallops in the northeast fishery off Eddystone Point, due to reports of the fishery being vulnerable and unready for harvest.
Greens Opposition Primary Industry spokesperson Kim Booth MHA said that it was extraordinary that despite a plea for a temporary halt from local scallop industry fishermen, with many calling a halt to their own operations, the Minister seemed ignorant of the issue and was allowing fishing to continue whilst he dragged his heels.
“The Minister must apply the precautionary principle here and immediately suspend fishing in the area until it can be verified that the fishery is in a fit state to be harvested,” Mr Booth said.
“If local fishermen are saying that the scallops aren’t ready then their local knowledge and expertise must be respected and the Minister must act.”
“Scallops have been hit too hard in the past and this led to a collapse of the fishery for some years. It is now finding its feet again and Tasmanian scallops are again making a welcome return to the market but this precious resource must be safeguarded.”
“The fishermen who have voluntarily ceased harvesting are to be applauded but the Minister must now get into gear and ensure that all operations cease until the state of the fishery can be accurately assessed to ensure its long term viability,” Mr Booth said.
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Kim Booth MHA
Friday, 3 JUNE 2005
GREENS PRESSURE PAYS OFF WITH NWI SIGNATURE
Government Signs Water Initiative-Finally!
The Tasmanian Greens today claimed a victory for sustainable water management in Tasmania with the government finally signing the National Water Initiative (NWI) yesterday, which followed two years of pressure from the Tasmanian Greens.
Greens Opposition Primary Industry and Water spokesperson Kim Booth MHA said that it was good news for Tasmanian water resources and users but that it was unfortunate that it had taken the government so long to realise the extent and gravity of the water issue in Tasmania.
Mr Booth also welcomed the study into ground water supplies flagged by the Premier, Paul Lennon, yesterday.
“Signing on to the National Water Initiative has been Greens policy from the launch of the project and was again reiterated and funded in our recently released Alternative Budget 2005-2006,” Mr Booth said.
“As late as Tuesday this week Minister Kons was still trying to paint the NWI as a solution to a ‘Murray-Darling’ style problem and therefore irrelevant to this State, however that smokescreen has finally cleared and the Premier’s signature yesterday finally acknowledges that Tasmania has serious water management concerns and will now have nationally benchmarked responsibilities”
“We look forward to the Minister now funding Tasmanian water quality initiatives so that we can access matching federal funds to get the kind of investment in our island that will see us finally confront the difficult issues facing water catchment capability, water management and the myriad other challenges that we are facing,” Mr Booth said.
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PETER GUTWEIN, MHA
Shadow Police Minister
Friday June 3, 2005
Hope that new security measures prevent a repeat of Port Arthur video incident from ever happening again
Shadow Police Minister Peter Gutwein today welcomed the Police Commissioner’s announcement that internal policy security measures have been beefed up, in the wake of the scandal surrounding the leaking or theft of horrific videos relating to the Port Arthur massacre.
Mr Gutwein said it was unfortunate that an internal police investigation had failed to get to the bottom of the matter.
However he said it was to be hoped that the new procedures alluded to by Commissioner Richard McCreadie ensured that such a shocking incident never happened again.
“Clearly, the discovery of these tapes in the hands of several unauthorised sources was not only a matter of grave security concern from a whole of Police Department point of view, but also caused huge distress to survivors of the massacre, and their loved ones.
“I noted at the time that it was disappointing that it took police a month to order an investigation into how a member of the public managed to get a copy of this video after they first became aware of this matter.
“It is unfortunate that it would appear from the Commissioner’s comments today that the person or persons responsible for this incident are unlikely to be brought to justice, due to the investigation to date not having turned up any solid evidence.
“However I simply express the very strong view of the State Liberals that I hope new security measures that have been put in place ensure a repeat of this incident never occurs.”
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Peg Putt MHA
GREENS OPPOSITION LEADER
Friday, 3 JUNE 2005
GREENS SEEK ASSURANCES ON GUN CONTROL MEASURES
Concerns Over Inspection of Gun Storages
The Tasmanian Greens today sought assurances that Tasmania Police is following up on the deficiencies, which were reported by the Auditor-General last week, in implementation of Tasmania’s new gun control laws brought in following the Port Arthur massacre in 1996.
Greens Opposition Leader and Police spokesperson Peg Putt MHA made it clear that the Greens acknowledge the generally good job done by the Police in implementing the new laws, but that further action is needed in:
• Broadening the scope of inspections of gun storages
• Maintaining control over firearms in the community – particularly in relation to the guns of deceased persons
• Follow up on gun dealers receipts and on tracking licence holders whose whereabouts are lost or unknown
Ms Putt was concerned that not all gun storages would be routinely inspected, but satisfied that other measures taken seem alright and will be benchmarked so that future performance can be measured.
“The Greens have sought assurances that the recommendations of the Auditor-General on tightening up police performance on gun control are being taken up, but of course acknowledge the good work done and the increased safety in our community as a result of the tightening of gun laws,” Ms Putt said.
“Our major disappointment is that there will not be routine inspections of all gun storages, although increased random inspections will go some way.”
“We would prefer that every gun storage is checked as currently occurs in Western Australia.”
“It is important to follow up on the whereabouts of guns in the community, especially where the licensed owner has died or the whereabouts of the licensed owner is unknown.”
“We will be checking the police performance on gun control in future Budget Estimates scrutiny now that benchmarking is to be introduced,” Ms Putt said.
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Kim Booth MHA
Thursday, 2 JUNE 2005
MILLIONS MISSING IN FORESTRY LAND SWAP
Auditor-General Investigating Free Hold Giveaway
The Tasmanian Greens today in Budget Estimates extracted an admission from the Government that Crown land that had been handed over to Forestry Tasmania in a land swap deal had assessed the value of the land only as vacant land and had not taken into account the standing timber value of plantations and native forest on the land that may have been worth tens of millions of dollars.
Under questioning by Greens Member for Bass, Kim Booth MHA, the Attorney General through her departmental head of Information Services confirmed that the titles were in fact the subject of an investigation by the Auditor-General, the results of which would be made public shortly and further confirmed that the timber resource on the Crown land had not been valued and that it could be worth tens of millions of dollars.
“It is deeply disturbing that tens of thousands of hectares of public forests on public land has apparently been gifted to Forestry Tasmania, without any return to the community and with Forestry Tasmania now being granted free hold title to the land in question,” Mr Booth said.
“This has been an ongoing issue that has been clouded in secrecy and I am horrified that the truth has now come out that the timber was not valued as part of the swap and in fact has been given to Forestry Tasmania virtually as a gift.”
“77,458 hectares of public plantation and native forest apparently has been given away to Forestry Tasmania without any value being placed on it. Not only does this represent an enormous free kick to forestry but it is at the cost of other public services.”
“That is unfair to private timber growers as they are unable to compete with the Crown giving away free timber and if there is tens of millions of dollars of public forest lost, with no recompense to the people of Tasmania, then those are opportunities lost in Health, Education and Infrastructure that rural and regional communities deserve and badly need.”
“It is way past time that the government explained how this came to pass, why it has been given away and who was responsible for the decision.”
“The Greens look forward with great interest to the report of the Auditor-General regarding this matter, which we believe is far from over,” Mr Booth said
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RENE HIDDING, MHA
Leader of the State Opposition
Thursday June 2, 2005
Outrage over State-sponsored destruction of tourism facility
State Liberal Leader Rene Hidding today expressed outrage on behalf of the people of the East Coast, and the Tourism industry generally, over the clandestine State Government sponsored trashing of a substantial and attractive tourism facility.
The Thumb’s lookout on the Wielangta Road, in the Orford area, is a magnificent layover for tourists taking this scenic drive from Orford through to the Arthur Highway, and until this week, boasted substantial sandstone constructions, including toilet blocks, a barbecue shelter and barbecues.
These were constructed by Forestry Tasmania in the 1990s and it is understood that they attracted a tourism award shortly after construction.
But in the dead of night in the last couple of days, without any consultation and explanation as to why, Parks and Wildlife refused to look after these facilities, the bulldozers were brought in.
Shocked locals contacted the State Liberals this morning when they discovered the Thumbs Lookout facilities had completely disappeared; with only bulldozer tracks remaining.
Mr Hidding said it was an appalling act of sabotage of a Tasmanian tourism asset that had at first been deliberately neglected for normal maintenance and then flattened to the ground as some kind of management response.
“For a percentage of self-drive tourists, the drive between Port Arthur and St Helens being linked by the Wielangta Road has been a delightful diversion off the main highway system and it appears to some in the tourism industry that this official vandalism is an attempt to force tourists to stick to the main preselected routes.
“Furthermore, this destruction of a Parks and Wildlife-owned facility comes at a time when the State Government is justifying massive fee hikes for national parks by claiming it will invest more in maintenance and facilities.
“What we have seen here is a deliberate running down of a popular roadside tourism facility by the Parks and Wildlife Service and instead of making the repairs and upgrades required to keep it in good order, has simply brought the bulldozers in in the dead of night and bowled the whole lot over.”
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RENE HIDDING, MHA
Leader of the State Opposition
Thursday June 2, 2005
Bulldozer shocker to cost taxpayers
Opposition Leader Rene Hidding said it was a bit late for the State Labor Government to apologise to the East Coast community for bulldozing a local tourism asset now that it had disappeared into thin air.
The State Labor Government has this evening admitted it erred in bringing bulldozers in during the dead of night to raze the Thumbs Lookout facilities to the ground, and apologised for not consulting appropriately with the local community.
“It certainly did not consult very well. The first that locals knew about this disgraceful act of State-sponsored sabotage was when they went there this morning and found it had vanished into thin air.
“In damage-control after the State Liberals alerted media to the incident this afternoon, it appears Labor has offered a rushed apology and made a haphazard decision to replace it.
“The point is, this expense would not have been necessary had the State Labor Government maintained the facility appropriately in the first place and consulted with locals who would have made it quite clear their opposition to this wanton destruction.
“As a result, taxpayers are going to have to fork out to replace a facility that should never have been destroyed in the first place.”
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Nick McKim MHA
Thursday, 2 JUNE 2005
LIBERALS LET GOVERNMENT OFF HOOK IN PRISONS ESTIMATES
The Tasmanian Greens accused the Liberal Party of missing a chance to examine Tasmania’s prison system in Budget Estimates today.
Greens Opposition Justice spokesperson Nick McKim MHA said that Michael Hodgman had unfortunately allowed his fixation about gay marriage to deflect attention away from the Government’s appalling management of the prison service.
“Liberal and Labor shut down the Greens questions on forestry yesterday, and the Liberal’s today got sidetracked into the issue of gay marriage, letting the government of the hook on prisons,” Mr McKim said.
“There are many crucial questions about prisons which remain unanswered due to a Liberal tactical bungle.”
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JEREMY ROCKLIFF, MHA
Shadow Minister for Primary Industries Water and Environment
Thursday June 2, 2005
Welcome mat for foxes remains out
Shadow Minister for Environment Jeremy Rockliff today expressed disbelief that the State Labor Government still had not acted to shut the gate at the Burnie port, where foxes could well be entering the State.
Mr Rockliff said it was ridiculous to spend millions of dollars on a fox free taskforce, but leave one of the first lines of defence completely exposed.
“The State Liberals have previously brought to the attention of this arrogant and incompetent Lennon Labor Government the very real risk that foxes can enter this State via the Burnie port, where no real barriers to prevent their escape into the broader environment have been erected.”
Both foxes believed to have entered Tasmania in 1998 and 2003 are believed to have done so from ships that left Webb Dock, a known fox breeding area, via the Burnie port.
“Yet the State Labor Government is opening the door to these foxes by refusing to provide appropriate barrier protection at the Burnie port.
“It is relying on a fox eradication effort at Web Dock itself, but doing nothing to secure our port in Tasmania.
“This is at the same time as it spends millions of dollars trying to eradicate foxes that in all likelihood enter Tasmania through the Burnie port.”
Mr Rockliff said it was extremely disappointing that the Environment Minister Judy Jackson had admitted in Budget Estimates this afternoon that no action had been taken to address these concerns, despite Mr Rockliff having raised them on several occasions in the past.
“Making matters even worse, Ms Jackson admitted she had not even corresponded with the Burnie Port on this issue,” Mr Rockliff said.
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SUE NAPIER, MHA
Shadow Minister for Health
Thursday June 2, 2005
MIST closure “throwing the baby out with the bath water”
Shadow Minister for Health, Sue Napier, today welcomed the commitment to release individual packages of care for people with mental illness, but slammed the Government for failing to consult with clients, families and staff over its intention to axe the Mobile Intensive Support Service (MIST)
Mrs Napier said the closure of the MIST service, revealed in Budget Estimates debate this week, was a classic example of “throwing the baby out with the bath water”.
“The Government is effectively adopting a ‘one-size-fits-all’ approach to mental health services but feedback from stakeholders suggests this won’t work and more flexibility is needed for the range of mental health problems in our community.
“In fact, it would appear the plans to close MIST and the services it provides to around 97 clients through the Peacock Centre in North Hobart, has been dreamt up by senior Mental Health management, without consultation with the workers on the ground.
“I understand just yesterday mental health management visited the Peacock Centre to present its accreditation certificate, but left without telling staff and consumers of plans to axe the MIST service.”
Mrs Napier questioned disbanding current services that have proven to be effective for clients in the past.
“Research has proven that intensive support models work well with people with severe mental illness, who simply will not ‘fit’ into a recovery model.
“However, in the Budget Estimates debate, the Minister’s advisers had informed the Committee that all mental health services in Tasmania would be based on a rehabilitation and recovery framework:
“… Contemporary practice tells us that rehabilitation and recovery is the framework to which mental health programs must provide … “
“While the Liberals agree that recovery and rehabilitation is ideal for those with mental illness who can move through levels of support to independence, what happens to the 15-20 per cent of people who do not recover from mental illness?”
“Will these people once again fall through the gaps, without the intensive support offered through MIST?”
Mrs Napier said for those requiring intensive support in the community, the closure of MIST would be a huge upheaval.
“Currently some clients visit the Peacock Centre up to five times a day, for the comfort and reassurance of the staff, and indeed the continuity of staff with whom they have formed relationships over the years a critically important matter for people with serious mental illness.”
Mrs Napier urged the Government to review its decision to close MIST and the Peacock Centre, and to immediately enter into consultations with staff, clients and carers to inform themselves fully as to what would be a very detrimental move in the delivery of community mental health services.
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JEREMY ROCKLIFF, MHA
Shadow Minister for Primary Industries, Water and Environment
Thursday June 2, 2005
Labor backdown on National Water Initiative overdue but welcome
Shadow Minister for Primary Industries, Water and Environment Jeremy Rockliff today welcomed Labor’s backdown in signing up the $2 billion National Water Initiative.
“I am pleased that the Lennon Labor Government has backed down and finally seen sense and signed up to the National Water Initiative following ongoing pressure from the State Libearals,” Mr Rockliff said.
“This Labor Government has an appalling track record when it comes to bungling water management and water development and at least signing up to the National Water Initiative will ensure that Tasmanians do not miss out even further.
“It is unfortunate that the Lennon Government’s arrogance and belligerance has seen it take so long to recognise the importance and value of Howard Coalition Government’s National Water Initiative.
“Nevertheless, signing up to the National Water Initiative while welcome will not in itself absolve the Lennon Labor Government of its ongoing incompetence in water development and its dire need to lift its game in progressing vital water development projects.”
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Peg Putt MHA
GREENS OPPOSITION LEADER
Thursday, 2 JUNE 2005
PULP MILL TASK FORCE LOGO ON RPDC LITERATURE RAISES CONCERNS
The Tasmanian Greens today raised concerns that the printing by government of a Pulp Mill task Force logo with the words “APPROVED Tasmanian Government” on the cover of the Resource Planning and Development Commission Emission Limit Guidelines for a pulp mill gives the impression that the independence of the RPDC is in question.
Greens Opposition Leader Peg Putt MHA had it confirmed that the Department of Economic Development paid for the development of pulp mill emission guidelines by the RPDC, which was developed outside of the statutory duties of the RPDC.
“It is disturbing to see a Tasmanian Government Approved Pulp Mill Task Force stamp on RPDC literature when this body is now to assess Gunns Pulp Mill proposal,” Ms Putt said.
“The RPDC was the servant of the Department of Economic Development and the Pulp Mill Task Force when they prepared emission guidelines for any bleached emission guidelines for any bleached kraft eucalypt pulp mill, but now they are to adopt an independent role to assess Gunns pulp mill proposal and this gives a muddled impression and may put the RPDC in a conflict of interest situation.”
“It is disturbing to see a stamp of government approval with the Pulp Mill Task Force logo an any RPDC literature,” Ms Putt said.
Attached: Front page of “Recommended environment emission limit guidelines for any new bleached eucalypt kraft pulp mill in Tasmania” Volume 2 August 2004 (1 page)
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JEREMY ROCKLIFF, MHA
Shadow Minister for Primary Industries Water and Environment
Thursday June 2, 2005
Jackson sabotages efforts to address salinity
Shadow Primary Industries, Water and Environment Minister Jeremy Rockliff today accused the Environment Minister Judy Jackson of sabotaging efforts to address salinity in Tasmania, by refusing to honour its commitment under the National Action Plan for Salinity and Water Quality.
As a result, the State Labor Government is risking the loss of $6.6 million available from the Federal Government to combat this environmental scourge.
Mr Rockliff said it was unbelievable that the Environment Minister had told Budget Estimates committee hearings today that she was not convinced of the benefits of honouring its role in the bilateral agreement.
“It would appear that the Minister is either completely unaware of the major environmental threat that salinity poses to this State, or that the Lennon Labor Government is so awash with cash that it can turn its back on $6.6 million from the Federal Government for environmental initiatives.
“Either way the outcome can only be bad for the Tasmanian environment.”
The State Government’s own State of the Environment Report, released in 2003, showed that 20 of our 29 municipalities contained visible signs of salinity.
A significant number of Tasmania’s catchments now contain water with salinity levels higher than the World Health Organisation limit for drinking water.
Under the NAP, the State Labor Government agreed to provide funding of up to $12 million on a dollar for dollar basis with the Australian Government.
“However, the State Labor Government has been formally notified that as it has only expended $1.9 million so far, and agreed to provide a further $3.5 million over this and the following three financial years, it has fallen $6.6 million short of the potential $12 million identified in the agreement.
The letter, from Federal Agriculture Minister Warren Truss, earlier this year states:
“In order for the Australian Government to consider priorities for NAP funding across Australia in the remaining three years of the program, we would appreciate your early advice of the quantum of matching funds that Tasmania will have available for the remaining years of the program. We will need to recommend to the Prime Minister the reallocation of funds if you are unable to match fully this $6.6 million available from the Australian Government.”
Mr Rockliff said it was the height of arrogance and incompetence for the State Labor Government to turn its back on this offer of assistance, at a time when the scourge of salinity is clearly on the march.
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Nick McKim MHA
Thursday, 2 JUNE 2005
FORESTRY EXEMPTED FROM REVIEW OF TASMANIAN PLANNING SYSTEM
The Tasmanian Greens today said that the Government had protected the profits of the woodchip industry by failing to include forestry exemptions from Tasmania’s planning system in a review of the resource Management Planning system.
Greens Opposition Planning spokesperson Nick McKim MHA said that there is a significant level of concern within the community about the forestry industry’s exemption from Tasmania’s planning system, and that the government should be reviewing the situation.
“The Government is claiming that the review covers Tasmania’s entire planning system, but once again forestry is exempted from scrutiny,” Mr McKin said.
“The day to day lives of many Tasmanians would be improved if this Government would review the exemption of the woodchip industry from Tasmania’s planning system.”
“The Government is prepared to review the exemptions enjoyed by marine farming, but has again failed in relation to regulating the forest industry.”
“Forestry is an industry that is basically allowed to function as it likes in Tasmania, to the detriment of Tasmanian communities and families.”
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WILL HODGMAN, MHA
Shadow Minister for Economic Development & Employment
Thursday June 2, 2005
Error ridden natural gas roll-out
continues at a snail’s pace
Tasmania’s natural gas roll-out continues to blunder along at a snail’s pace with the Economic Development Minister, Lara Giddings, today confirming that just 20 homes and 23 commercial customers are connected to the gas pipelines.
Mr Hodgman said that Minister Giddings finally confirmed in Budget Estimates hearings today that, over the past year, there had been less than one connection every ten days on average.
“At this sluggish rate, it will be many years before most Tasmanians know what cooking with gas is all about,” Mr Hodgman said.
“The Lennon Labor Government has blundered and bungled this crucial economic development project to the point where most Tasmanians see the connection of gas to their house or business as nothing more than a pipe-dream.
“The roll-out has been riddled by errors and delays with the latest being pipes not being laid low enough in both Hobart and Devonport.
“And of the twenty three foundation customers who signed gas provision agreements prior to the laying of the pipelines, seventeen of them are still not connected to natural gas.
“Whilst for many battling Tasmanians occupying Housing Tasmania properties, gas heating and cooking is but a mirage as the Department of Health and Human Services, led by Minister Llewellyn, continues its drawn out and, so far, unsuccessful attempt to negotiate connections to its properties.
“The State Labor Government promised a lot to Tasmanian businesses and residents, but have delivered very little so far when it comes to natural gas provision.
“It is yet another sign of this State Labor Government being unable to manage major projects and deliver the social and economic benefits to Tasmania in a reasonable length of time, ” Mr Hodgman said.
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Peg Putt MHA
GREENS OPPOSITION LEADER
Thursday, 2 JUNE 2005
PULP MILL LITERATURE MAY BREACH FAIR TRADING ACT
‘Not One Extra Tree’ Claim is Wrong
The Tasmanian Greens today raised concerns that the Government’s Pulp Mill Task Force may have contravened the Fair Trading Act by giving an inaccurate representation with respect to a future matter in their F.A.Q brochure which claims that ‘not one extra tree will be cut down to feed a pulp mill.’
Greens Opposition Leader Peg Putt MHA outlined that Gunns have in fact admitted that an extra 1 million tonnes of woodchips each year will be needed to meet all of its contractual obligations including the pulp mill, making the leaflet’s assertion of ‘not one extra tree’ and its claim that ‘it is simply a case of encouraging the downstream processing of woodchips, that would otherwise have been exported’ pretty shaky.
“The Pulp Mill Task Force is creating a misleading impression with its leaflet which makes people think that there will be a direct diversion of woodchips into the pulp mill and fails to mention that Gunns admitted that if their pulp mill comes on line they need an extra one million tonnes of woodchips each year to meet their obligations,” Ms Putt said.
“The statement that not one extra tree will be cut down to feed a pulp mill is wrong, particularly when it appears together with a claim that woodchip exports will be diverted into a pulp mill.”
“The Government may be in breach of the Fair Trading Act, and the leaflet must be changed to reflect the true situation,” Ms Putt said.
* Attachment: F.A.Q Pulp Mill Tasmania.
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Nick McKim MHA
Thursday, 2 JUNE 2005
GUNNS PAYMENT FOR ILLEGALLY CARRIED LOG LOADS TO BE REVIEWED BY ATTORNEY GENERAL
Department Of Infrastructure May Also Have Broken The Law
The Tasmanian Greens continued with their road safety campaign with regard to illegally overloaded log trucks during Budget Estimates hearings today by asking the Attorney General to investigate whether Gunns, and also the Department of Infrastructure, may be in breach of the law for aiding or abetting or acquiescing to the unlawful practice of carrying logs in excess of the traffic regulations.
Greens Opposition Justice Nick McKim MHA, said today that he had asked the Attorney General to refer the matter for possible prosecution because clearly the government was aware of a serious and long term offence possibly being committed, which had been confirmed in writing by Gunns as well as the clarification issued by Infrastructure Minister, Bryan Green, yesterday that the company will continue to do so until July 2005.
Mr McKim said that the request for a referral to the Director of Public Prosecutions follows the admission by Minister Bryan Green to Greens member for Bass Kim Booth MHA, in yesterday’s Infrastructure estimates committee, that he had mislead Parliament when inferring that Gunns did not pay for overloaded trucks and had to correct the public record that the company does, and continues to do so until July this year.
“Today I asked the Attorney to refer the matter to the DPP for a possible prosecution under the Justices Act 1959, section 73(1) which states that a person may be charged and found guilty for aiding or abetting or instigating another person to commit an offence,” Mr McKim said.
“I am heartened by the Attorney-General’s undertaking today to look into whether Gunns’ non-compliance with the relevant load regulations should be investigated by the DPP.”
“The department has already advised Gunns in 2003 that they may be in breach of regulation 20 (1) of the Vehicle and Traffic (Vehicle Operations) Regulations.”
“This apparent failure of the Government to enforce the law may reveal a possible breach of the Justices Act 1959.”
“Documents obtained by the Greens under Freedom of Information legislation reveals the disturbing fact that the Department knew that Gunns have been paying for overloaded vehicles since at least March 2003, but despite that, the illegal practice has continued.”
“I am also concerned that the Government may now be exposed to the risk of damages from a party who has been killed or injured as a result of a crash caused or contributed to by an overloaded truck.”
“This is a serious road safety issue and the outcome of the Attorney’s consideration of whether to send the mater to the DPP or not will be very telling as to whether the government is placing the profits of the woodchip industry above the lives of the travelling public,” Mr McKim said.
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JEREMY ROCKLIFF, MHA
Shadow Minister for the Environment
Thursday June 2, 2005
Wild rice weed declaration recommended 10 months ago but Jackson only signs off on process a day after Liberals reveal threat
Shadow Environment Minister Jeremy Rockliff today accused the State Labor Government of not taking seriously enough the threat posed to the environment by its bungled decision to allow trial plantings of wild rice.
Mr Rockliff revealed in Budget Estimates hearings earlier this week that the State Labor Government allowed the import of wild rice for trials in 2001 and 2003 despite the fact that it was a prohibited import in New Zealand but never alerted the public to advice it received subsequently that showed it had the potential to become a major environmental catastrophe.
Today, in Estimates hearings for the Environment, Minister Judy Jackson revealed that she only signed off yesterday on the process to declare wild rice a declared weed under the Weed Management Act 1999, yesterday a day after Mr Rockliff revealed the scandal.
This is despite Ms Jackson confirming Liberal allegations that her department received a briefing note in August 2004 that stated:
“Wild rice presents an unacceptable risk to the environment in terms of it being a weed.”
The briefing note, of August 2004, also recommended:
“DPIWE commence the process to declare wild rice a declared weed under the Weed Management Act 1999”.
Mr Rockliff said he was appalled that this process, recommended 10 months ago, was only started yesterday.
Furthermore he said it was extraordinary that in light of the massive threat to the environment that the State Government had been clearly warned wild rice posed, a farmer in Longford had confirmed on ABC radio yesterday that he is currently in his fourth year of wild rice production.
Mr Rockliff said that Tasmania’s environment was in serious trouble if this was the urgency with which the Lennon Labor Government responded to threats such as wild rice.
“FOI documents, which I put to Ms Jackson show that wild rice scores 14 on a scale that is positively correlated to weediness. The nominal score for rejection of a plant on this scale is 6 or greater.
“Furthermore, despite Minister Kons this week saying the risks of wild rice have been overstated, a Research Fellow at the University of Tasmania has stated: “I have some serious concerns about the potential for this species to infest areas of wetland/lake streams in the majority of Tasmania’s highlands.”
Mr Rockliff said it defied belief that Ms Jackson had only signed the relevant documents to instigate the process of declaring wild rice a week yesterday after Mr Rockliff had made the wild rice revelations public when this was a move recommended last year.
“This appears to be a very serious case of incompetence by both Ministers Kons and Jackson, and ultimately, it could be our prized World Heritage areas, and our lakes and streams, that suffer as a result of their stalling on this issue, and the original decision to allow wild rice to be imported into this State.”
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MICHAEL HODGMAN, QC MHA
Her Majesty’s Shadow Attorney General
Thursday June 2, 2005
McKim’s naiveity protects Jackson
Shadow Attorney General Michael Hodgman QC today slammed the Tasmanian Greens for wasting a half an hour of Budget Estimates hearings dissenting from a correct ruling from the chair, for no other reason than to apparently protect the Attorney General on the issue of same-sex marriage.
Mr Hodgman said it was a naïve move, all the more demonstrated by the fact that the Speaker upheld the chair’s original ruling in favour of the State Liberals’ question.
Mr Hodgman said it was perfectly legitimate to ask the Attorney General Judy Jackson whether she supports the principle of same-sex marriage in the Output Group dealing with law reform especially as she was absent from the Tasmanian Parliament on the day this issue was dealt with recently. This was a question I indicated required only a yes or no answer. It could have been dealt with in five seconds.
But Mr McKim, in a pathetic attempt to protect the Attorney General from the wrath that she would have incurred from the Premier for expressing support for this principle, created a ridiculous situation by objecting to the question being asked and then dissenting from the chairman’s ruling that it could be allowed.
This is despite the fact that the Greens continually ask questions both in Question Time and during Estimates on Motions already before the House.
Mr McKim’s time-wasting, petty and ultimately failed attempt to block the question saw Budget Estimates hearings lose important time to probe issues in the crisis torn prisons system.
Mr Hodgman said it was a tactic that would have had the Attorney General grinning from ear to ear.
Ms Jackson, afterall, made it clear she wanted to do everything possible to avoid answering any questions on prisons by refusing to allow any questions in Overview. Hypocritically, Ms Jackson was perfectly happy to allow questions in Overview on Environment when the committee resumed just after lunch.
Prisons questions are frequently asked in Overview, in light of the fact that Corrective Services comes under Output Group 6. It was in Overview, for example, where the State Liberals broke the Risdon Prison plans scandal this time last year.
Mr Hodgman said it was bitterly disappointing that the Greens and Labor appeared to be working in tandem to apparently protect the Attorney General from tricky questions, and thereby preventing scrutiny of prisons.
Mr Hodgman said that with so many other crises in Justice from the Family Violence legislation, to chronic delays in the Magistrates Court, especially on the North West Coast, and many other issues needing the Estimate’s Committee’s attention, Mr McKim’s decision that forced the loss of half an hour for nothing was a very poor reflection on his judgement as a Member of Parliament.
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Peg Putt MHA
GREENS OPPOSITION LEADER
Thursday, 2 JUNE 2005
TASMANIAN BRAND IN DANGER
But Minister Prefers Spin Over Substance
The Tasmanian Greens today raised concerns that the Tasmanian brand is being undermined by actions such as the recent laying of a 115 kilometre line of 1080 baits on King Island and were appalled that the Economic Development Minister chose to attack the Greens but refused to give an undertaking to ensure the authenticity of our brand is upheld.
Greens Opposition Leader and Economic Development spokesperson Peg Putt MHA warned that Ms Giddings’ penchant for spin over substance where Tasmania’s image is concerned is very dangerous for Tasmania, and condemned her comments that Greens’ representatives should not visit Japan to expose the ugly side of Tasmania’s practices.
Ms Putt believes that the integrity of Tasmania’s brand can only be assured if activities contrary to that image are reigned in.
“The Tasmanian brand is vital to Tasmania but its authenticity must be upheld and the Minister for Economic Development should do her job and get serious about tackling activities like the recent massive 1080 baiting of native wildlife on King Island which no doubt has caused damage to our clean, green, natural image,” Ms Putt said.
“Unfortunately Ms Giddings prefers spin over substance, to the extent that she thinks its acceptable to attack the Greens for visiting Japan and telling people there what actually occurs in our forests.”
“False impressions cannot be sustained indefinitely and we will not be collaborators in misleading the world, rather we will do our utmost to get Tasmania to lift its game until the reality matches the rhetoric about our brand.”
“This is the job that the Minister should be doing to uphold the authenticity of the Tasmanian brand.”
“Tasmania is not well served when the Minister who is taking on brand management for Tasmania tells Parliament that she has no view on whether the 1080 baiting on King Island could have an adverse impact on the perception of Tasmania and is only prepared to say that this activity was legal.”
“The Minister is acting as an apologist for actions which undermine our brand in the marketplace.” Ms Putt said.
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WILL HODGMAN, MHA
Shadow Minister for Economic Development & Employment
Thursday June 2, 2005
Giddings and Kons put at risk $54m
Tassie export market to New Zealand
Economic Development Minister, Lara Giddings, has today stood by inflammatory comments made by her colleague, Steven Kons, about dumping New Zealand from the Australia-New Zealand Primary Industries Council which threaten to damage the State’s $54.3 million export trade to New Zealand.
In Budget Estimates hearings today, Shadow Economic Development and Employment Minister, Will Hodgman, asked Minister Giddings whether or not she agreed with Minister Kons’ damaging, populist comments.
“Unbelievably, Minister Giddings confirmed she agreed with Minister Kons’ inflammatory comments that threaten the State’s $54.3 million export market to New Zealand,” Mr Hodgman said.
“Clearly, at least two Ministers of the arrogant Lennon Government believe that putting at risk the $54 million in Tasmanian exports to New Zealand is a good idea through the spouting of ridiculous, populist comments.
“Both Minister Kons and Minister Giddings appear to have no regard for the many Tasmanian businesses, including farmers, who rely partly or fully on the export market to New Zealand for their income and company growth.
Mr Hodgman said that some of the exports in 2003-04 from Tasmania and its businesses to New Zealand included:
· $2.75 million in food products;
· $13.53 million in animal and vegetable based products;
· $2.08 million in machinery and transport equipment;
· $1.29 million in textile, yarn and fabric products;
· $15.97 million in processed metals and metal products; and
· $10.45 million in wood and paper products.
“The job of Tasmania’s Economic Development Minister is not to endorse populist, threatening comments directed towards our export partners and break down further international trading partner bridges as she did today,” Mr Hodgman said.
“It is disappointing that Minister Giddings has not been building better trade bridges and developing initiatives that will encourage the growth of our export market to New Zealand.
“It is time this Minister and her Labor colleague, Mr Kons, put their heads down, stopped making inflammatory, populist comments and ended their complacency over this State’s economic growth,” Mr Hodgman said.
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BRETT WHITELEY, MHA
Shadow Minister for Infrastructure
Thursday June 2, 2005
Jackson hangs Minister Green over serious political interference in
Labor mate-gate scandal
Shadow Minister for Infrastructure Brett Whiteley said today that Attorney General Judy Jackson has rightly agreed in Budget Estimates hearings that political interference by a Minister in any court cases or industrial cases is not appropriate.
“Judy Jackson has rightly hung her Ministerial colleague Bryan Green out to dry over his career threatening admissions of political interference in an industrial case in Budget Estimates hearings yesterday evening,” Mr Whiteley said.
“When put to her whether she considered it appropriate for her as Minister or any other Minister to use political influence to effectively stop a court or industrial case going ahead Mrs Jackson said ‘no’.
“In an extraordinary revelation yesterday evening in Budget Estimates hearings the Minister responsible for Workplace Standards Bryan Green admitted that his Office had contacted Workplace Standards seeking them to effectively shut down a case in the Industrial Commission under the guise of a technicality. Mr Green said ‘… it was sought to be adjourned.’
“Hansard shows that I asked Mr Green the following question ‘did you at any stage correspond, either verbally or in writing, with your department to inform them that it was your view, based on whatever reason, that this matter should not be proceeded with and should be adjourned?’
“Mr Green answered ‘I offered advice with respect to the matter of whether or not the person themselves was prepared to go ahead with the claim, and that is the position.’
“The General Manager of Workplace Standards Mr Hyam also confirmed contact from the Minister’s Office when he said ‘When the minister said he did not want us to take cases without the authority of the people, we contacted the people that we were able to contact … when they said no … we asked for an adjournment.’”
“Mr Hyam also confirmed contact with Mr John Dowling in Minister Green’s Office when he said ‘In terms of the general administration of the issue … I was in liaison with John.’’”(Mr John Dowling, Advisor to Bryan Green and Labor Party Assistant Secretary for Fundraising).
“This type of confirmed Ministerial interference in the administration of a case before the Industrial Commission is absolutely extraordinary and career threatening in itself, but it becomes explosive when it was further revealed that Minister Green’s office had been requested to intervene by a former Labor Member of Parliament believed to be former Labor Premier Michael Field.
“Mr Green confirmed that prior to his political interference with the case before the Industrial Commission his Office had been in contact with a former Labor member of Parliament who Mr Green did not deny was former Labor Premier Michael Field who wanted the issue resolved.
“Mr Green said ‘Yes, I do remember that there were discussions with a former member of Parliament. … I think that former member of parliament had some association with the business owners. … I am aware my office had spoken with a former member of Parliament. It was with a view to trying to resolve the matter, as I understand it. … I did not personally respond to Michael Field. … I was aware that a former member of parliament had been in contact with the office with respect to this matter. It is my understanding that he knew one of the parties.’
“Blind Freddy can see what has gone on here. A Labor mate has rung up the Minister’s office to get the Minister to use his influence to politically intervene in a case before the Industrial Commission to help another mate.
“This political inference by the Minister to help out a Labor mate is a grotesque abuse of Ministerial responsibility. Even Judy Jackson agrees.
“The seriousness of this abuse of power and Ministerial influence is so grave that Minister Green will have no option other than to tender his immediate resignation.”
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Peg Putt MHA
GREENS OPPOSITION LEADER
Thursday, 2 JUNE 2005
EMPLOYMENT MINISTRY DROPPED IN LENNON RESHUFFLE
Strong Concerns From Representatives of Unemployed
The Tasmanian Greens today are critical of the decision of the Tasmanian Government to renege on their 2002 election commitment to have a commissioned Minister for Employment and pressed the Minister for Economic Development over concerns expressed by TasCOSS over the abandonment of Employment Ministry in the recent Cabinet reshuffle.
Greens Opposition Leader and Employment spokesperson Peg Putt MHA emphasised that the failure to commission an Employment Minister sent a negative message to unemployed people about the importance of their issues, and reinforced an emphasis on the economic side of the issue over the social impacts, while the failure to establish an Office of Employment impeded the ability to take a whole-of-government approach to employment issues.
“The Lennon government has dumped its commission for a Minister for Employment in the recent Cabinet reshuffle and this has sent a negative message to the unemployed about the importance which government attaches to taking a comprehensive, focussed approach to this important issue,” Ms Putt said.
“Tasmania is now the only jurisdiction in Australia which does not have an Employment Minister, and Labor’s 2002 election platform commitment to establish this Ministry has been abandoned.”
“Ms Giddings delivered a swag of platitudes to the Estimates Committee to try to excuse the abandonment of the Employment Ministry, but in this case the title is important, and there is a real need to establish an Office of Employment working directly to the Minister,” Ms Putt said.
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WILL HODGMAN, MHA
Shadow Minister for Economic Development & Employment
Thursday June 2, 2005
Giddings fails to support Tasmanian business community over unfair dismissals reforms
Tasmania’s Economic Development Minister, Lara Giddings, today refused to say whether or not she supported the Tasmanian business community’s endorsement of the Federal Government’s recently announced unfair dismissal reforms.
Shadow Economic Development and Employment Minister, Will Hodgman, today said that the Tasmanian business community, including the TCCI, had welcomed the changes to the unfair dismissal laws and their connected economic benefits, including increased jobs.
“Minister Giddings, however, can’t bring herself to publicly support the business community, those Tasmanians she should be directly advocating for.
“Minister Giddings should ignore the fact that she has been put in a difficult position by her Labor colleagues and union mates who have roundly criticised the reforms without having any regard for the views of the Tasmanian business community.
“As the chief State Government advocate for the business community, which supports these unfair dismissals reforms, Minister Giddings should also be voicing her support for these reforms.
“Instead, her public views have been shackled by the Premier, factional bosses in the Labor Party and their Tasmanian union buddies who have an ideological opposition to any industrial reforms that the Howard Government puts forward.
“She has effectively been gagged on this issue and today’s Budget Estimates hearings was the first embarrassing display of Minister Giddings’ invidious position.
“The State Liberals are in strong support of changes to the Federal unfair dismissal laws which the TCCI believes will bring sustained economic and jobs growth to Tasmania.
“We also believe that the Federal industrial relations changes should be extended to the State based industrial relations system provided it is in the interests of Tasmanian businesses and Tasmania generally,” Mr Hodgman said.
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WILL HODGMAN, MHA
Shadow Minister for Employment
Thursday June 2, 2005
State Labor Government
scraps Employment Ministry
The Lennon Labor Government has today been forced in Budget Estimates by the State Liberals into admitting that it has scrapped the Employment Ministry.
Shadow Employment Minister, Will Hodgman, today opened Economic Development Budget Estimates hearings by asking the Minister, Lara Giddings, whether or not she was also the Employment Minister.
“It seems that the Lennon Labor Government’s so-called number one priority employment has fallen by the wayside as the Minister was forced to embarrassingly admit that the Employment Ministry had been scrapped in the recent Cabinet reshuffle,” Mr Hodgman said.
“The scrapping of this important Government Ministry makes a complete mockery of the State Government’s claims that they are focussed on jobs growth and reducing unemployment. It is unknown whether it was an administrative blunder or a deliberate scrapping.
“I understand that the Tasmanian Council of Social Service (TasCOSS) had written to the Minister asking for clarification on this issue and questioning whether the Labor Party had broken its 2002 election promise to have a Minister for Employment.
“Now in Tasmania, there is no Office of Employment, there is no Minister for Employment and there is great Lennon Government complacency over sustained jobs growth.
Mr Hodgman said that the latest Labor Market data showed a rise in the unemployment rate from 6.0% to 6.1% with the number of unemployed increasing by 500 people to 14,300. This was the fourth consecutive month that the unemployment rate has increased or stayed steady.
Tasmania’s unemployment rate is now the highest of any State or Territory and is well above the national unemployment rate of 5.1%. It is believed that Tasmania is now the only State or Territory without a Minister for Employment.
“In light of this, the State Liberals are shocked that the Lennon Labor Government has now chosen to scrap the Employment Ministry,” Mr Hodgman said.
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MICHAEL HODGMAN, MHA
Her Majesty’s Shadow Attorney General
Thursday June 2, 2005
Jackson should reconsider opposition to establishment of a Drug Court
Shadow Attorney General Michael Hodgman QC today called on the Attorney General to rethink her opposition to the establishment of a drug court in Tasmania.
Mr Hodgman said Ms Judy Jackson knew full well the illicit drug diversion program, while positive, did not have the teeth of a drug court and it was something that deserved her full consideration.
“It is my understanding that every State and Territory, with the exception of Tasmania, has a drug court.
“This tough on drugs policy provides for compulsory treatment of drug addicts through the court system. While models vary between States, in general, an offender must plead guilty to their crime and satisfy the court that drug addiction contributed to it being committed in order to be eligible.
“Orders of up to 12 months are imposed a custodial sentence is suspended for the duration, providing the strict conditions are not breached.
“The offender must participate in a stringent program of treatment and rehabilitation, submit to urine testing on a regular basis and comply with curfews and exclusion orders as required.
“Failure to comply will result in activation of the suspended sentence.”
Mr Hodgman said people convicted or serious crimes, repeat offences, or crimes of violence were not eligible for the program.
The Australian Institute of Criminology recently said that evaluations of drug courts around Australia and overseas had identified a range of positive outcomes, including reductions in drug use and criminal recidivism, improvements in health and wellbeing, savings in prosecution and law enforcement, prison and court costs, social benefits such as the long term reduction in drug use, increases in employment, education and reunification of families.
“This is not a 1980s solution for goodness sake, drug courts first began in Australia in 1999.
“It is a matter that deserves this Attorney General’s full consideration.
“However, the fact that any viable sentencing options tend to be disregarded by this Attorney General from home detention to the replacement of sentences of three months or less does not inspire much hope that she will consider the establishment of a drug court, despite the very many benefits it offers.”
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MICHAEL HODGMAN, QC MHA
Shadow Attorney General
Thursday June 2, 2005
Jackson cannot explain what is wrong with having a victims of crime representative on the Parole Board
Shadow Attorney General Michael Hodgman QC today repeated his calls for the Satte Labor Government to adopt Liberal policy of appointing a victims of crime representative to the Parole Board.
In Budget Estimates this morning, Attorney General Judy Jackson refused to explain what was so wrong with having a dedicated person on the Parole Board representing the interests of victims of crime.
Mr Hodgman said it appeared to be yet another case of the Attorney rejected a good idea, simply because she did not think of it first.
“Tasmania is increasingly out of step with other States and Territories, who have dedicated representatives of victims of crime on their Parole Boards, to ensure that their interests are appropriately reflected in Parole Board deliberations.
“The State Liberals believe this would be of great benefit to the community, and community confidence in the Parole Board.
“Ms Jackson has refused to explain what is actually wrong with the State Liberal policy. She stands condemned for her arrogant and contemptuous attitude towards victims of crime.”
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JEREMY ROCKLIFF, MHA
Shadow Minister for the Arts
State Liberal Member for Braddon
BRETT WHITELEY
State Liberal Member for Braddon
Thursday June 2, 2005
State Labor Government fails
Burnie Regional Art Gallery
The State Liberal Members for Braddon have today roundly criticised the Arts Minister, Lara Giddings, for her failure to provide one extra
