Tasmanian Labor backs calls for an independent investigation into the TasNetworks bushfire bungle that occurred on Monday.
Shadow Energy Minister David O’Byrne said the sole responsibility to investigate a fire sparked by a contractor using explosives at Broadmarsh on Monday cannot be handed to TasNetworks and the Gutwein Government needed to treat the incident with the seriousness it requires.
“TasNetworks simply should not be allowed to investigate their own wrongdoing,” Mr O’Byrne said.
“This incident occurred due to the outsourcing of work and an independent investigation is a must.
“TasNetworks claims safety is its first priority but if that is the case, how can a contractor using explosives in bushland on a total fire ban day be allowed to happen?
“It placed a community in danger, it unnecessarily diverted firefighting resources at a time of maximum risk and it placed fire fighters in the path of danger.
“As a state-owned business it is the Government’s responsibility to ensure best practice is being undertaken.”
Mr O’Byrne backed the Communications, Electrical and Plumbing Union along with the United Firefighters Union of Australia in calls for the incident to not be swept under the carpet.
“This is just another example of a state-owned business being allowed to do whatever they want, regardless of the consequences and best interests of the community by the Liberal Government.
“Subcontractors do not have the same experience as TasNetworks employees, yet they are expected to complete the same job.
“An independent investigation into Monday’s incident must occur.
“The Government cannot leave the door wide open for a similar incident to occur.”
David O’Byrne MP
Shadow Minister for Energy
