Peter Gutwein,Premier
Today, Tasmania’s Parliament stands united in supporting a motion* condemning the Russian invasion of Ukraine and recognising its right to peace, freedom, and democratic rule.
The developing situation in Ukraine has shocked the world in recent weeks, and we feel for everyone affected, especially those in Tasmania with family or friends in Ukraine and the surrounding regions.
The Tasmanian Government has reached out to our Ukrainian community to ascertain their needs for support, and we stand ready to assist during this difficult time.
We also stand ready to play our part should resettlement of Ukrainians be required, and I have written to the Prime Minister asking that any arrivals from Ukraine be treated above the current Commonwealth humanitarian and refugee intake, to ensure these people can seek refuge without compromising other vulnerable people.
*Mr Guy Barnett MP [Minister for Trade] to move –That the House:-
- Recognises Ukrainian territorial sovereignty and its right to peace, freedom, and democratic rule;
- Notes that Tasmania is home to both Ukrainian and Russian communities who have received this news with deep concern for their loved ones, and we stand with all Tasmanians in wishing to provide care and support for those communities;
- Notes Tasmania stands with the Australian Government in affirming our respect for Ukrainian territorial sovereignty and its right to peace, freedom, and democratic rule;
- Acknowledges that there is no justification for this aggression, which will ultimately be borne by innocent Ukrainians;
- Condemns any aggressive action in Ukraine, which endangers human life and liberty and;
- Notes that Tasmania has a strong history of welcoming and providing support for national efforts in providing humanitarian responses to previous conflicts and will continue to work with the Australian Government in jointly responding to the unfolding events.
