Matthew Groom needs to come clean on the Liberal Government’s plan to privatise Hydro’s consulting arm, Entura.
Hydro CEO Steve Davey finally confirmed on ABC Radio last week that Hydro Tasmania probably be left with a “minority stake” in the deal with Power China and Hydro China.
“It is now indisputable, this is not a joint venture, it is a take-over,” Labor Leader Bryan Green said.
“Labor has grave concerns for the security of the Entura workforce if Hydro Tasmania is reduced to a minority shareholder.
“In the past Labor has supported project-based joint ventures with China but this goes well beyond simple resource sharing.
“This is asset privatisation by stealth and yet another broken election promise by the Liberal Government.
“Matthew Groom needs to immediately provide details of the deal. How much will the controlling share of Entura be sold for, or will it simply be gifted to Power China? Have any guarantees been given about retaining the Tasmanian workforce beyond 12 months?
“Labor sees Entura as a crucial part of Tasmania’s future, delivering specialist power and water consulting services to a range of clients in the Asia-Pacific region and Africa.
“Entura is also central to Labor’s plan to harness Tasmania’s renewable energy advantage by investing in electric transport technology.
“We need to keep this important, innovative business in local hands.”
Bryan Green MP Labor Leader
