‘First Step To Secure Pulp and Paper Industry’

Senator RICHARD COLBECK, MR Aug 21
Tasmanian Liberal Senator Richard Colbeck has welcomed today’s release of the Pulp and Paper Industry Strategy Group’s issues paper.

“Innovation, Industry, Science and Research Minister Kim Carr was very slack getting this strategy group underway, but I do welcome the issues paper and recognise the contribution made by industry and community representatives,” Senator Colbeck said.

“This is an important first step in the development of an effective and comprehensive whole-of-industry strategy.

“It is hugely disappointing that the Government’s action has come too late for our two North West paper mills.

“Minister Carr and Braddon’s Labor MP Sid Sidebottom initially said the strategy group’s review would run alongside Tasmanian Paper’s own internal review but that failed to occur for reasons known only to Mr Sidebottom and the Minister.

“However, the issues paper highlights some important points the Rudd Government can simply not ignore – including that any emissions trading scheme in Australia will have an impact on the pulp and paper industry. Therefore, there has to be assistance for emissions-intensive trade exposed activities like those undertaken by this industry.

“The pulp and paper industry is facing multiple complicated changes including digital alternatives, restricted levels of commercial and R&D investment, and environmental perceptions.

“This issues paper is an important step in fortifying not only the pulp and paper industries, but also those sectors upstream and downstream of the industry, including forestry and paper wholesaling.

“I look forward to the strategy group’s final report in November and I will continue to represent the pulp and paper industry’s interests meanwhile,” Senator Colbeck said.