The fact is, contrary to Kim Booth’s claims, no decision has been made to close the Newnham Police Station.
Mr Booth must have a hide like a rhinoceros to claim concern for policing services in Launceston’s Northern Suburbs.
He had nothing to say when the previous Labor-Green government he supported took an axe to our police service, slashing 108 frontline officers.
The Hodgman Liberal Government is committed to rebuilding Tasmania Police and we are getting on with the job of recruiting new officers to return policing numbers to the level they were at before the Labor-Green cuts.
As is appropriate, Tasmania Police regularly reviews its service delivery models in an attempt to improve its efficiency and its capacity to deliver community services.
While it is common for senior members to make suggestions up the line on possible improvements, not all initiatives are approved.
Rather than fear monger, Mr Booth should clearly state whether or not he supports the Government’s plan to rebuild Tasmania Police and put more officers on our streets to keep our communities safe.
Rene Hidding, Minister for Police and Emergency Management
