Across Australia, solidarity protests will happen in seven cities, in opposition to the Tasmanian Government anti-protest laws. In a peaceful demonstration of what these laws attempt, participants will stand gagged, in solidarity with the People’s Picket at the Tasmanian Parliament House this morning.
The legislation, the Workplaces (Protection from Protesters) Bill 2014 is pending passage through Tasmania’s Upper House
Co-ordinator of the solidarity actions, Miranda Gibson stated, “The Tasmanian anti-protest legislation is aimed at silencing the community. Despite this attempt by the Liberal Government, people are coming together to say these laws should never be allowed in Australia.”
“Today people from all around Australia are calling on the Tasmanian Legislative Council to drop the Bill. These actions show that it is not just Tasmanians who are standing up against these undemocratic laws” said spokesperson Miranda Gibson.
“This is one of the most draconian pieces of legislation seen in Australia, and if passed in Tasmanian could set a terrible precedent for other States and Territories. ” said Ms Gibson.
“These laws are a direct attack on democracy. They are aimed at silencing the community, while allowing companies to be shielded from criticism or scrutiny from the public” said Ms Gibson.
“Today’s action is another step in the building momentum against these draconian laws. These community actions will continue until this undemocratic Bill is thrown out” said Ms Gibson.
Protest vigils will take place in Melbourne, Sydney, Brisbane, Canberra, Newcastle, Lismore and Hobart.
Still Wild Still Threatened is a grassroots community organisation campaigning for the immediate protection of Tasmania’s native forests and the creation of an equitable and environmentally sustainable forestry industry in Tasmania.
www.stillwildstillthreatened.org
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Miranda Gibson www.stillwildstillthreatened.org
