The outcomes and objectives of the Tasmanian Forest Agreement will be promoted to Japanese customers during the upcoming Asian Trade Mission in September.
The Premier, Lara Giddings, will be joined by Forestry Tasmania, Ta Ann Tasmania, Neville Smith Timbers, along with TFA signatories; the Wilderness Society and the Environment Tasmania.
Ms Giddings said the cooperative approach is consistent with one of the central objectives of the TFA, which is to secure international markets for Tasmanian forest products.
“This is a scenario that would not have been dreamed of before the Tasmanian Forest Agreement,” Ms Giddings said.
“The TFA is all about creating a sustainable future for the Tasmanian Forest Industry and responding to market demands.
“Having members of the environmental movement standing alongside industry will send a powerful message to Japanese customers that we have responded to their calls for change.
“The passing of the interim reserve order last night is also clear evidence that the TFA is progressing and has the solid endorsement of the Tasmanian Parliament.” More than 80 Japanese pulp, paper and forestry customers have registered to attend a TFA information seminar in Tokyo on September 13.
“The strong response to the seminar shows that international customers that may previously have had concern about products are now sitting up and taking notice of what we are achieving through this process.
“It highlights the stark choice between the Liberals’ plan to go back to the bitter division of the past and the pathway we are now on of taking full advantage of the new opportunities on the horizon.”
Ms Giddings said the passage of the interim reserve order would also ensure that much needed assistance could flow to saw millers and contractors.
“Formal funding deeds have already been sent to successful applicants under the $15 million High Quality Sawlog Buyback Scheme – and we are hoping that these will be agreed and finalised within a week.
“The good news is that with the passing of the Initial Reserve Order last night, these successful applicants will now be able to receive the full funding amounts, rather than only a 25 per cent down payment.
“Offers can now be made to the eligible applicants under the Regional Sawmillers Structural Adjustment program, with the funding pool increased from $10 million to $11.7 million.
“The $20 million program to support workers and contractors will commence in the coming days and hardship cases will be prioritised.”
www.premier.tas.gov.au
Lara Giddings Premier Friday 30th Aug 2013
