More than six weeks after
opening Tasmania’s borders to COVID, Peter Gutwein should recall Parliament so
the community gets some transparency about what the government’s plan is.
Labor Leader Rebecca White
said since the Premier had only provided – at best – half answers to the
questions Tasmanians wanted answered, the only way they were going to see the
situation scrutinised was in a formal Parliament setting.
“Labor is ready to go back to
work in Parliament on behalf of Tasmanians – the question is whether the
government is willing to do the same,” Ms White said.
“At his increasingly
infrequent public briefings, Mr Gutwein still pretends things are going to
plan.
“Before opening the border to
COVID Peter Gutwein repeatedly said our health system was prepared. Since then
Tasmanians have seen services cancelled and staff pushed further to the brink
working overtime.
“The Minister for Education
has gone on holidays at the same time Tasmanian schools face the most difficult
return to school in living memory.
“That impact on businesses and
workers has seen some close their doors permanently while the government
stumbles along, completely out of touch with the struggles people are
facing.
“The government has made many
decisions without consultation with industry, business or workers that could
have long term impacts on the community and economy.
“Mr Gutwein should recall the
Parliament now so his government’s preparedness – or lack of – can be properly
scrutinised and Tasmanians can hear first-hand what the Premier will be doing
to protect them going forward.
“If he has a plan – like he says he does – then he shouldn’t be afraid to share it.”
Rebecca White MP
Labor Leader
