NICK McKIM Greens Leader Friday, 22 May 2009 www.tas.greens.org.au
The Tasmanian Greens today accused Premier David Bartlett of breaking a clear Labor Government promise to introduce fixed four-year terms, after the Premier revealed today that he is now focussing on what he calls “flexible fixed terms”.
Greens Leader Nick McKim MP said the Premier regularly trumpets the supposed benefits of stable government, which fixed terms underpin, but his complete failure to present the bill for fixed terms or to give a reasonable explanation as to why he will not, has exposed the Premier’s self-interest on this issue.
“This broken promise is about just one thing: Labor self-interest. Its designed purely to allow Mr Bartlett to spring an election at the time he believes gives him the best opportunity to win,” said Mr McKim.
“All of the benefits of fixed terms will be lost if this untrustworthy Premier gets his way.”
“The Premier needs to do a lot better than blathering on about getting the legislation ‘right,’ and explain the real reasons for this ridiculously long delay.”
“Just what is a ‘flexible fixed term’ anyway? This sounds suspiciously like Bartlett-speak for whatever suits Labor.”
“Once again the self-interest and instability of this majority Labor Government have resulted in broken promises to the Tasmanian people,” said Mr McKim.
