Shadow Infrastructure Minister Shane Broad has again called on the government to explain how many jobs will be created by its latest plan for the construction of new ferries for the Bass Strait run.
“Already Michael Ferguson has been left red faced over delays and for ignoring TT-Line’s expert advice.
“Now we have the state’s main tourism body expressing alarm over the government’s plans at a time when the tourism industry and freight companies need certainty.
“To quote Tourism Industry Council chief Luke Martin, after six years and millions of dollars the government has taken a ‘radical departure’ from the TT-Line’s earlier decision.
“The tourism industry clearly has a dim view of the process and inept handling of this vital project.
“Delaying the replacement of the Spirits until 2028 will cost jobs and investment in the tourism industry, not to mention crush confidence.
“This reinforces our concern that jobs in tourism and sectors such as aquaculture, berries and cherries are being put at risk as a result of the government’s broken promise to deliver new ships in 2021.
“At a time when the tourism sector is screaming out for certainty we’ve seen investment opportunities and expertise put at risk by Peter Gutwein and Michael Ferguson.”
Shane Broad
Shadow Minister for Infrastructure
