The Premier Will Hodman has shown just how out of touch he is over the potential loss of 300 jobs in Tasmania’s north east.
In Question Time today, the Premier confirmed it had been more than two months since he met with Temco management to discuss whether parent company South32 would close the smelter with the loss of 300 jobs.
Shadow Minister for Economic Development, Jobs and ICT, Michelle O’Byrne, said the Premier’s ignorance on the matter was alarming.
“South32 will soon decide whether it will shut the smelter’s doors for good with the loss of 300 well paid and stable jobs,” Ms O’Byrne said.
“This closure would have devastating effects in George Town and across the north of the State, yet the Premier seems happy to sit by and watch this happen.
“The Premier revealed in Parliament today, that it has been more than two months since he met with Temco management and he was also unaware of what other communications had been taking place between Government officials and the company.
“This news is disturbing and I am calling on the Premier to reveal what he is doing to save the 300 jobs at Temco, how many times he has personally met with the company and what support his Government has offered to keep the smelter open.”
Michelle O’Byrne MP
Shadow Minister for Economic Development, Jobs and ICT