Media release – Tasmanian Government Media, 28 February 2025

Regular Spirit Replacement Update

Spirit IV

We have been clear that TT-Line is seeking to secure a lease agreement that provides the best value for Tasmanian taxpayers.

TT-Line is in active, ongoing commercial negotiations.

Any discussion around the details of a possible agreement is premature and could impact on negotiations.

If a lease is secured, details will be provided.

If the ship is not leased it will be relocated to Tasmania.

For information or updates regarding Berth 3, the new vessels or the comprehensive tourism and hospitality package, visit https://www.infrastructure.tas.gov.au/policy_and_advice/spirit_of_tasmania.

Media release – independent MHAs Miriam Beswick and Rebekah Pentland, 28 February 2025

CALL FOR COMPASSION AS SPIRIT SAGA CONTINUES

Northern independents Miriam Beswick and Rebekah Pentland are urging Tasmanians to approach the latest twist in the Spirit of Tasmania saga with an open mind and an open heart.

“The prospect of Spirit IV becoming a temporary home for Ukrainian refugees is unexpected but shouldn’t be dismissed,” Mrs Beswick said.

“I’ve been disappointed by the extremely negative reaction before we have any of the details.

“This may be an opportunity to show the world how compassionate Tasmanians are.

Helping others in their time of need could create a meaningful legacy for Spirit IV.

“Our state has a proud history of helping people displaced by war. In the late 90s we embraced refugees from Kosovo.

“I would urge Tasmanians to consider helping Ukrainian refugees with the same compassion.

“Let’s wait until the details of the proposal are known before, we rush to judgement.”

Bass independent Rebekah Pentland says an agreement with the Scottish government could also make financial sense.

“On top of playing a constructive role in a global crisis, a lease agreement could help us recoup some of the money wasted on the project.

“If the agreement makes humanitarian and financial sense it should be properly considered.

“I understand some Tasmanians will be uncomfortable with the idea, but I would urge us all to consider the families fleeing conflict.

“It’s easy to play politics but doing what’s right is more important.

“We have requested a briefing from the Minister about what exactly is being considered. We encourage the State Government and TT Line to be as transparent as possible about the potential agreement.

“This could be a chance to show how big our hearts are.”

Media release – Dean Winter MP, Labor Leader, 27 February 2025

Floating refugee camp plan takes Spirit fiasco to new depths

Jeremy Rockliff has spent over a billion dollars of taxpayer money on his bungled Spirits replacement project.

He’s forgotten to build a wharf to berth the new ships, and the new one he is building won’t be ready until 2027. The project will be six years delayed and $500 million over budget.

He’s provided two secret bailout payments to the Finnish ship builder worth nearly $100 million.

He’s completely reneged on his local content promise, claiming Finnish engines as local content and spent a further $1.8 million of taxpayers money hiding Spirit IV in Scotland.

Today, he’s taken the fiasco to new depths by confirming he’s in active negotiations to turn Spirit IV into a floating refugee camp.

If Jeremy Rockliff can’t deliver the Spirits or manage the budget, he can’t lead Tasmania.