Federal Liberal Government continues to undermine Tasmania

 Antarctic Division cuts the latest example of the Turnbull Government neglecting Tasmania
 Our reputation as a science leader must be protected
 Premier needs to stand up to his Federal colleagues

Alarming reports from staff at the Australian Antarctic Division is the latest example of the Turnbull Government’s neglect of Tasmania.

“Reports that the Australian Antarctic Division’s science arm is “barely functioning*” undermines our reputation as the gateway to Antarctica,” Labor Leader Rebecca White said.

“Labor is extremely concerned about the impact of cutbacks under the Turnbull Government.

“We are not just talking about the staff directly affected, it’s the indirect jobs supported by the AAD and our reputation as a scientific leader.

“The Liberals seem to be prepared to put all of that at risk.

“It took a monumental backflip to save Tasmania’s research presence on Macquarie Island.

“Undermining the Antarctic Division is the latest example of the Federal Liberal Government’s neglect of Tasmania.

“The removal of Australian Federal Police from our airport, cuts to health and education and chronic underinvestment in infrastructure are hurting the state.

“And the threat to Tasmania’s share of the GST remains very real under a Federal Liberal Government.

“Will Hodgman’s failure to stand up to Malcolm Turnbull has been telling.

“And the current Federal Liberal Senators in Tasmania are more interested in divisive politics and picking fights with local councils than demanding our fair share.

“I note the Federal Liberals didn’t even bother to comment on the issues affecting the AAD.

“Tasmania deserves a much better deal from the Federal Government than what’s being served up by the Liberals.”

* http://www.themercury.com.au/news/tasmania/antarctic-division-workers-say-science-branch-barely-functioning-after-cutbacks/news-story/db390e605400435e64c7be289c3ad8db
Rebecca White MP Labor Leader