Mansell welcomes Will Hodgman as Minister for Aboriginal Affairs

Long-time Aboriginal advocate Michael Mansell, has welcomed the decision of new Premier Will Hodgman, to head up the portfolio of Aboriginal Affairs.

Mr Mansell said, “There is much unfinished business in dealing with Tasmania’s relationship with Aboriginal people. The history of dispossession still affects Aborigines although land returns to Bass Strait islands and Oyster Cove helped heal the wounds of the past. By taking responsibility for the Aboriginal Affairs portfolio, Mr Hodgman gives the issues the prominence they deserve. Past ALP and Liberal Premiers have held the Aboriginal Affairs portfolio. Sadly, the Labour/Greens government showed little interest in working with Aboriginal people and former Premier Lara Giddings, dropped the Aboriginal Affairs portfolio for her other interests.

Mr Hodgman has had honest and helpful meetings with the Aboriginal community in the past as Opposition Leader, and has a good grasp of what needs to be done. We look forward to discussing the West Coast Aboriginal Landscape with Mr Hodgman and I personally offer him a tour of the world-class sites at his convenience.

We would like the Premier to review the disastrous and controversial Aboriginal heritage Bill proposed by the Labour/Greens and opposed by the Aboriginal community. We will urge upon the Hodgman government not to proceed with that Bill.”

Michael Mansell Spokesman, Aboriginal Community Council