Labor has again challenged Premier and Treasurer Peter Gutwein to release full details of the recipients of the $26 million Small Business Hardship scheme.
Shadow Treasurer David O’Byrne said it’s astonishing that as the country reels from the first recession in thirty years, Peter Gutwein is intent on keeping this information from Tasmanians.
“Everyone understands the hardship that businesses have experienced as a consequence of the pandemic and the recession it’s caused, and there is no shame in seeking support,” Mr O’Byrne said.
“There is no excuse for Peter Gutwein to be anything other than candid with Tasmanian taxpayers and the public, who have a right to know how public funds are spent.
“Lashing out at those who dare to challenge his attempts to conceal these details is a classic case of shooting the messenger. By attacking the media, Peter Gutwein is in turn attacking the people of Tasmania.
“The repeated calls for transparency over the State Government’s grants scheme are perfectly legitimate and Peter Gutwein should respect the need for transparency.
“Labor will continue to push for the release of this information through the Public Accounts Committee.”
David O’Byrne
Shadow Treasurer
