So, can we now have that forestry debate?

After the Greens released their forestry policy today, Our Common Ground again called for a dedicated leaders’ debate on forestry issues.

The coalition, which seeks to end old fights over forestry, said there is no excuse for Will Hodgman, David Bartlett and Nick McKim not to dedicate a couple of hours to something so fundamental to Tasmania’s culture, environment and economy.

“There is no reason we can’t have a dedicated debate on forestry policy,” said Peter Skillern, spokesperson for Our Common Ground.

Mr Skillern noted the forestry-related events that have happened since the election was called:

• A drop in Gunns profit of 98 per cent

• FEA in Launceston suspending share trading on the ASX

• Forest contractors still struggling

• A toxic water scandal in St Helens

“For decades, Tasmanian politics has pretended that markets for our products are not changing,” said Mr Skillern. “Well, look where we are now: an industry in crisis, and Tasmania importing timber products from New Zealand.”

He said there is no excuse for Tasmanians to be denied a meaningful debate about an issue so central to the state’s economic development and brand.

Our Common Ground is a coalition of community and business leaders, environment groups and timber workers who are committed to finding a solution to Tasmania’s forestry conflict.
Peter Skillern, Our Common Ground