Brighton Council rejects Government’s plan
Treasurer’s dishonest approach compared to Donald Trump
Labor adopting a more constructive way forward
The Liberal Government’s takeover of TasWater continues to face stiff opposition, with Brighton Council officially rejecting the plan.
Shadow Minister for Local Government Madeleine Ogilvie said the council has launched a stinging rebuke on the Treasurer and his tactics.
“Brighton Council has sent the Liberal Government a crystal clear message,” Ms Ogilvie said.
The release from Brighton Mayor Tony Foster would be uncomfortable reading for Liberal MPs.
“While he has provided no substance to back up his plan, nor said how the infrastructure upgrading work can be completed in a reduced timeframe or explained how costs will be reduced, the truth is TasWater will be saddled with debt to the point where it will be unsustainable and Tasmanian ratepayers will pay substantially more.
“The Treasurer is rapidly becoming the Donald Trump of Tasmanian politics. He makes outlandish claims, has no facts to back them up, bullies and berates opponents and has absolutely no respect for the truth.” (Brighton Council Press Release, 22/3/2017)
“Peter Gutwein is alienating respected voices in the community with his abrasive and dishonest style,” Ms Ogilvie said.
“In contrast, Labor is sitting down with local government to get good outcomes on water and sewerage. Only Labor is listening.
“Our strategy addresses the three big infrastructure challenges; Launceston’s storm water, Macquarie Point and Cameron Bay to unlock Mona stage two.
“We’d keep TasWater in the hands of local government and complete projects by bringing all three tiers of government together.
“While the Liberals pick fights, we’ll get on with the job.”
Madeleine Ogilvie MP Shadow Minister for Local Government
