Dr Rosalie Woodruff MP | Greens Environment and Biodiversity spokesperson
The Liberals, who have breached two statutory deadlines to produce a State of Environment (SOE) report, today voted against the Greens’ motion calling on them to ensure the next report, due in 2024, is delivered on time.
The Deputy Premier attempted to lay the blame solely at the feet of the Tasmanian Planning Commission for not producing a SOE assessment. The Planning Commission, however, was effectively hog-tied by the Liberals’ failure to provide the necessary information, and especially resourcing, for this demanding, important body of work.
On that basis, we accepted a Labor amendment to remove the TPC from having to do that work. We all just want the work done.
No Tasmanian with love for the environment will be surprised to hear the Liberals try to kick the SOE report down the road. The Liberals don’t want to publish the evidence they’re trashing the place.
In a climate and biodiversity crisis, we need action not more delays and roadblocks. Today’s vote looked to be just that.
There is no excuse to hide the evidence of species and habitat decline, just as their former Federal Government colleagues did. At least the new Labor Government in Canberra released the information, and we’re pleased Tasmanian Labor supported our call in Parliament today.
We need a SOE report urgently, so we know where we stand.
The science is critical to moving forward in the most conscious way – and we urge the Deputy Premier to get on with it. This island’s biodiversity deserves a chance.