Release Date: 2/07/2013
PEAK business organisation the Tasmanian Chamber of Commerce and Industry (TCCI) says it is time for the Greens to support and deliver economic development.
TCCI Chief Executive Michael Bailey said it was encouraging to see the Greens expound their vision for a green, dynamic and prosperous economy but it was now time to start delivering.
He said Tasmania had endured years of the Greens blocking or delaying development to the point where investors where increasingly nervous about investing in the State.
“The Greens 2030 Vision for Tasmania released by Senators Milne and Whish-Wilson and Tasmanian Leader Nick McKim, will be little more than a glossy catalogue of ideas if the party and its representatives don’t deliver real and sustainable economic outcomes.”
Mr Bailey said Tasmania had been in transition to a so-called greener economy for many years and it was difficult to identify any lift in employment or extra money flowing into Tasmanian coffers as a result of this transition.
“I doubt if Tasmanians will look too kindly on this latest Greens vision for continuing the long-term transition unless they see results very soon.
“Senator Whish-Wilson highlights tourism as one of the most important sectors in the economy and I’m sure all Tasmanians would be delighted to see positive developments in this area particularly within our recently listed World Heritage areas.
“The proof of the Greens’ sincerity will be evident when they and their followers begin to support sensible and sensitive development in these areas, rather than oppose it at every turn.
“The same goes for Tasmania’s other important sectors like mining, agriculture, aquaculture and yes, even forestry. We need a diverse economy if we are to provide the employment and economic activity to grow our State and it is time the Greens provided support rather than opposition and protest.
“Tasmanians will hope their 2030 vision marks the commencement of such a change,” Mr Bailey said.