Cassy O'Connor MP | Greens Leader
The Tasmanian Parliament has agreed to adjourn until the first scheduled sitting week after the winter recess.
This is an extraordinary step, and it’s one that we resisted, but we have a duty of care to the people we work with, and to each other, in a time of pandemic.
Over the past three days, parliamentarians from all side of the House have worked hard to put in place the measures required to keep Tasmania running in the coming months.
A range of significant new powers are being entrusted to the Premier to deal with the COVID-19 public health emergency. We expect these powers will be used responsibly to keep Tasmanians safe, and to support everyone who is going through financial hardship.
We have the Premier’s word that they will be and we take him on trust.
Some people will question the temporary suspension of Parliament. We would simply say to everyone that this decision has been made with a heavy heart, but in the knowledge that it is the right thing to do.
The legislation enacted this week will, over coming months, take care of the most essential elements of governance.
The past fortnight has been extremely stressful for Tasmanians. Tens of thousands of people have lost their jobs, businesses have closed and people have been pushed to the edge.
One small ray of light is the way the Tasmanian Parliament has worked with resolve and together to address the huge challenges we face.
While we will not be in Parliament, the Greens and all other elected representatives will keep working hard for the people of Tasmania.
In these difficult times we will be staying connected with our electorates and constituents, finding creative and effective ways to keep in touch and to support the many Tasmanians facing great hardship.
Tasmanians know how to look out for each other. If any place can emerge from a global pandemic with a more connected and hopeful future, it’s this island.
We are all in this together.