With just six days left until Tasmania opens its borders and COVID enters the community it is crucial both public sector and GBE workers have information, certainty and respect from the government.
Shadow Minister for Workplace Relations Sarah Lovell said when asked in GBEs about risk assessments across the sector and mandatory vaccination the Premier said there would be further clarity provided the following week.
“To date there has been no update on the risk assessment conducted by the government on mandatory vaccination across the public sector or GBEs, nor has there been any public health advice about this provided,” Ms Lovell said.
“Our GBE and public sector workers provide critical services such as shipping, electricity, prisons, water and sewerage and need certainty and respect from government on public health requirements and restrictions for their business or department.
“Tasmanians need to be assured there won’t be any disruptions to these essential services.”
Ms Lovell said the government has had 18 months to prepare for our borders opening and it is concerning that at the last minute these things are not confirmed, nor clear.
“Right across the community questions remain unanswered.
“How will our public sector and GBE workers be supported by government to continue to provide essential services when we have COVID in our community?
“The failure to provide this key information does nothing to instil confidence in the government’s preparedness as we prepare to reopen in six day’s time.
“The government must work with workers and unions to ensure Tasmania’s essential services can continue to operate safely once borders reopen.”
Sarah Lovell MLC
Shadow Minister for Workplace Relations
