The State Government is still yet to answer serious questions regarding the proposed Marinus Link, despite the Federal Government’s promise to prioritise the project.
Shadow Minister for Energy David O’Byrne said the obvious disconnect between the state and federal governments confirms their division on the matter.
Both the State and Federal Liberal Government’s have never been shy about hosting media stunts to announce and to re announce their support for the Marinus project and the fact that the State Government was blindsided by this announcement is telling,” Mr O’Byrne said.
“While we cautiously welcome the Prime Minister’s announcement that the proposed Marinus Link is set to be fast tracked, there are still some significant questions that need to be answered by the State Government before it can proceed.
“From the outset both governments must guarantee the asset will remain in public hands.
“Who is going to pay for this project? Will Tasmanians have to foot the bill for a project that will largely benefit mainland states?
“Will a fast track process mean that the project will end up in endless court cases?
“What are they actually fast-tracking? There is no development application, so there is nothing to fast track.
“Is this announcement a message from the Feds for the State Liberal Party to get on with it?
“The State Government received $56 million for the project in February 2019 but did nothing with the money. It has only just passed it on to Tas Networks and the government must explain to Tasmanians why this money was held back.
“Labor supports more renewable energy jobs but the objective must be for Tasmanians to pay less for power, not more.
“This is a unique opportunity for Tasmania and we need to see leadership and hard work from Government to make the best out of it.”
David O’Byrne MP
Shadow Energy Minister
