The state government must work with TT-Line to ensure no employee loses their job as a result of the impact of COVID-19.
Labor Member for Braddon Shane Broad said employees of government owned businesses should have the same job security guaranteed to workers in the broader public sector.
“The Premier guaranteed that every public sector worker, including permanent, casual and fixed-term contract positions, would keep their jobs.
“Workers in government businesses are part of the public sector and should be treated the same way.
“Allowing TT-Line to cut jobs sets a worrying precedent for other GBEs.”
Dr Broad said TT-Line has slashed hours and stood down workers last week when it cut sailings due to a lack of bookings.
“We understand most ‘on water’ staff have accrued leave that they can access at this time.
“But casual staff have been stood down and shore-based workers have no guarantees their positions will be safe or that they will get their contracted hours.
“Being state owned also means that TT-Line can’t access the JobKeeper program, so workers have few options.
“TT-Line is an important part of Tasmania’s visitor economy and performs a massive freight task and these workers will be vital when normal operations resume.
“We call on the Premier to intervene and ensure all of Tasmania’s public servants are quarantined from job losses.”
Shane Broad
Labor Member for Braddon
