I met today with Prime Minister Malcolm Turnbull and discussed a range of issues, in particular the Hobart northern suburbs light rail project, cost of Bass Strait, CSIRO job cuts, federal assistance for the University of Tasmania and the proposal to redevelop the Hobart Aquatic Centre.
The Prime Minister gave me a good hearing. He understands these issues and in particular the need to put in place the enablers for economic and social growth in Tasmania.
Most time was spent exploring the proposal to restore passenger rail in the greater Hobart area. The Prime Minister clearly sees the merit of light rail generally and the opportunity offered by the availability of the land corridor from the Hobart docks through to Glenorchy and beyond. He is also aware that the Hobart and Glenorchy City Councils are committed to the project. However the Prime Minister realises that the project cannot proceed without a firm proposal by the State Government.
Andrew Wilkie, Independent MP for Denison
