Harriss must end forestry farce today

Resources Minister Paul Harriss cannot ignore the serious cracks emerging in his forestry reform process.

Mr Harriss has been hiding from the media for two days to avoid answering questions about the comments of the deputy chair of his forestry ministerial council.

Sue Smith has broken ranks to declare that Forestry Tasmania should be wound up and its assets sold.

Mrs Smith has also clearly stated that she believes the Government’s reform process will fail.

Labor Leader Bryan Green said the issue had to be brought to a head at today’s Ministerial Council meeting.

“This situation has become farcical,” Labor Leader Bryan Green said.

“Paul Harriss has lost the confidence of his number one adviser on forestry issues.

“Either he must resign, or he needs to remove Mrs Smith from the council.

“One thing is for sure and that is that the credibility of Mr Harriss and his reform process is in tatters.

“Mr Harriss is sending mixed messages about his support of Forestry Tasmania, leading Prime Minister Tony Abbott to suggest the business is not in financial trouble because the State Government was right behind it.

“Paul Harriss simply cannot be believed, he is even attempting to mislead the Prime Minister to cover up the fact his forest policy is in tatters.

“The Liberal Government’s broken promise to grow the forest industry has been exposed for all to see.”
Bryan Green MP Labor Leader