Confirmation today that the Greens are training activists to disrupt law-abiding forestry businesses is just another reason to support the state Liberal’s tough new line on illegal protestors, said Mr Guy Barnett, State Liberal candidate for Lyons today.
“This self-righteous and arrogant activity makes a mockery of the so-called forest ‘peace’ deal, said Mr Barnett. “Under the original agreement, green signatory groups committed to stop this sort of wilful economic vandalism.
“Clearly, this is not the case.
“The Liberals tough new laws to protect jobs from such illegal and dangerous protests are the one way that we can thwart this destructive campaign against Tasmanian jobs and families.”
The Liberals announced a plan to crack down on illegal forest protestors late last year with on-the-spot fines of up to $10,000 for invading or obstructing access to a workplace and three months jail for second or subsequent offences.
“These proposed new laws will give much-needed certainty to law-abiding businesses and the hardworking men and women in them, said Mr Barnett.
“They deserve a fair go and protection from illegal protestors getting their own way.
“The Greens’ sabotage of our jobs has got to stop. Tasmania has already seen its forestry industry devastated. Enough is enough.
“Those wishing to protest can do so peacefully elsewhere without disruption,” concluded Mr Barnett.
Mr Guy Barnett, State Liberal candidate for Lyons
