Today’s unconvincing performance by Sport Minister Nic
Street over a serious conflict of interest allegation involving his predecessor
has highlighted the urgent need for an independent inquiry.
During Estimates Hearings, Mr Street provided either no
answers or feeble, unacceptable responses to a series of questions about the
involvement of former Sport Minister Jane Howlett in the awarding of taxpayer
funding to the Jack Jumpers.
Mr Street said he had accepted the explanations of both Ms
Howlett and former Premier Peter Gutwein at face value that there was no
conflict of interest but could in no way explain on what basis serious
decisions about funding had been made or what processes had been followed.
Despite being at the helm of an important portfolio, Mr
Street informed the hearing he did not know the answers to serious questions.
He at one point advised members of the committee to direct questions to former
Premier Gutwein.
These are extremely serious allegations which require the
scrutiny of an independent inquiry.
The Premier and his Treasurer need to step up and end their stubborn resistance to an inquiry so Tasmanians can get an honest and fulsome explanation about the use of taxpayer funds. If there is nothing to hide, they could clear this matter up once and for all.
Josh Willie MLC
Shadow Sport Minister
