• Latest in string of decisions kept quiet until after the election
• Transparency crucial as Liberal secrecy becomes the norm
• Barnett picking fights increases uncertainty for energy users
Labor has little confidence in Energy Minister Guy Barnett’s ability to navigate Tasmania through the complex legal dispute with Basslink.
Shadow Energy Minister David O’Byrne called for full transparency in the government’s actions against Basslink after the latest in a series of Liberal decisions held off until after the election under a veil of secrecy.
“What steps has Guy Barnett put in place to ensure taxpayers are not slugged with more costs after the $180 million cost of the energy crisis?” Mr O’Byrne said.
“Labor wants a good outcome for Tasmania. If it’s proven that Basslink should pay the state then we absolutely support that.
“We want to see transparency and we want an end to the Liberal secrecy that’s become the norm.
“There have been no signs from Guy Barnett since he became minister that he could correct the Liberals’ appalling energy track record, which includes the energy crisis and the botched sale of the Tamar Valley Power station.
“Guy Barnett has been unable to negotiate a new gas contract and now he has picked another high profile fight that will increase uncertainty for Tasmanian energy users.
“The state and especially major power users are still picking up the pieces from the Liberals’ energy crisis.
“Labor hopes for a good outcome for the state from proceedings against Basslink but we are concerned about the possible outcome under a secretive government.”
David O’Byrne MP Shadow Energy Minister 23 March 2018
