The State Government has serious questions to answer over the decision to yet again delay the construction and delivery of the new Spirit of Tasmania vessels.
Shadow Treasurer David O’Byrne said the decision, taken against the advice of the TT-Line Board, is effectively a vote of no confidence in the TT-Line Board and the Infrastructure Minister.
“The government’s decision to delay the Spirits is not only concerning, it also raises questions about what the Bass Strait ferry service will look like over the next few years,” Mr O’Byrne said.
“The former Infrastructure Minister Rene Hidding said the two Spirit of Tasmania vessels would need to be replaced by 2022/23.
“With no new vessels until 2028, we need to know if the existing spirits are up to the task of carrying a heavy load of tourists and freight until the new ones are built.
“The government originally said it would be transferring $80 million from TT-Line’s books to government books to set up a fund to build the new vessels.
“Now, with the replacement of the Spirits back to square one, Peter Gutwein must explain what will happen to the Ship Replacement Fund money, in addition to the money they have forecast to rip out of the TT-Line GBE’s in the state budget.
“Will the government have to transfer the funds back to TT-Line so they can refurbish the existing vessels and keep them fit for purpose until the new ones are built?
“Given that the TT-Line Board had recommended going ahead with the European contract, the Premier’s decision is a clear vote of no confidence in the Board and the Infrastructure Minister.
“The Liberals have ignored the advice of the TT-Line Board and are instead covering up their infrastructure incompetence with spin and the establishment of yet another taskforce.
“The Premier needs to explain his decision-making process over the last few years as a key member of the Ship Replacement Sub-committee of Cabinet.
“The Premier must also provide some certainty around the delivery of these vessels. Tasmania cannot afford to have yet another major infrastructure project go under because of their own mistakes and mishandling.”
David O’Byrne MP
Shadow Treasurer
