Cruel Hoax on Investors and Valley Residents
The Tasmanian Greens today called on the Minister for Economic Development David O’Byrne MP to remove the Tamar Valley Pulp Mill from the new ‘Invest Tasmania Map’ or risk harming Tasmania’s reputation as an investment destination.
Greens Forestry spokesman Kim Booth MP said the inclusion of the pulp mill was dishonest and divisive, and sent the wrong message to overseas investors.
“Including the pulp mill on this map was is dishonest and divisive, particularly when the Minister knows full well that this project is a complete dud and has no chance of proceeding,” Mr Booth said.
“To give impression that pulp mill is a live project is a cruel hoax on the people of the Tamar Valley who are only now starting to look to a future without the spectre of a stinking pulp mill hanging over them.”
“Tasmania’s economy is undergoing a transition away from the old nineteenth century industrial model of economic development, toward a diversified economy that plays to our unique strengths as an island state.”
“Such ham fisted promotion of an extinct project is more likely to drive away investors who are looking for opportunities in the new economy, which is where Tasmania’s strengths lie as an investment destination.”
“The Minister should admit that the pulp mill is a dud and remove it from his map, or else risk becoming a laughing stock for the international investment community.”
“To give impression that pulp mill is a live project is a cruel hoax on investors.”
Kim Booth MP Greens Forestry Spokesperson Friday, 15 February 2013
