The Attorney -General’s failure to address a petition against the Burnie Courthouse relocation by today’s deadline is not only disappointing but sends a message to the community that their concerns are not her priority.
Elise Archer failed to respond today to the almost 1,200 Burnie residents who signed a petition opposing her plan to relocate the courthouse to the suburban Mooreville Road site.
In addition, Ms Archer has been silent now for more than two weeks on what future plans she has for the relocation since her call for expressions of interest for a new CBD site closed on May 18.
The fact that Ms Archer has neither responded to widespread concern or provided an update on whatever new plan she has contributes to anxiety within the community and tells Burnie residents, the legal fraternity and Burnie business community they are not her government’s priority.
Ms Archer should provide an update immediately and if she won’t, the Premier needs to step in.
Many in the community remain concerned that the government will perform another backflip and push ahead with the Mooreville Road site, despite strong opposition.
It needs to be ruled out once and for all.
The evidence is clear it would be an irresponsible move and would be in spite of considerable opposition from local residents, the greater Burnie business community and the legal fraternity.
Anita Dow MP
Labor Member for Braddon
