COVID-19

COVID-19 - Public Health Response Limitations

Mr Speaker, we have entered the age of normalising the mass infection of people with COVID-19 and normalising mass death.

Cassy O'Connor MP | Parliamentary Activity | 26 May 2022

COVID-19 - Public Health Response Limitations

I put on the record my concern that the Government is continuing to rest its entire public health protection response to COVID 19 on vaccines.

Dr Rosalie Woodruff MP | Parliamentary Activity | 26 May 2022

COVID-19 - Infection Rates in Educational Settings

Health department data reveals almost 40 per cent of primary school-aged children have not had a single COVID-19 vaccination and half have not had a booster.

Cassy O'Connor MP | Parliamentary Activity | 26 May 2022

COVID-19 - Protective Measures

Yesterday, Tasmania recorded 900 new COVID-19 cases, 51 people are in hospital and case numbers there have been high for over a month.

Dr Rosalie Woodruff MP | Parliamentary Activity | 26 May 2022

COVID-19 Research

We have entered the age of COVID-19 denialism. If you want any evidence of that, just have a look around, have a look around this building.

Cassy O'Connor MP | Parliamentary Activity | 5 May 2022

COVID-19 Research

Mr Speaker, we are at a critical juncture in Australia and around the world. The COVID 19 pandemic is not over.

Dr Rosalie Woodruff MP | Parliamentary Activity | 5 May 2022

Removing Covid Protections is Irresponsible

Today’s announcement that Covid close contact restrictions will be dropped is irresponsible and potentially harmful.

Dr Rosalie Woodruff MP | Media Release | 27 Apr 2022

Archer Must Act on Risdon Prison Covid Outbreak

Risdon Prison is overcrowded and understaffed, and now they are battling mass outbreaks of Coronavirus and staff absences.

Dr Rosalie Woodruff MP | Media Release | 12 Apr 2022

100,000+ Reasons to Mask Up

Today Tasmania’s Covid case count is over 100,000. In real terms, that means about 1 in 5 Tasmanians has been infected.

Dr Rosalie Woodruff MP | Media Release | 6 Apr 2022

What Will it Take for Gutwein to Reinstate Masks?

Today’s 2,472 Covid case count is another record high, and Tasmania now has almost 12,000 active cases.

Dr Rosalie Woodruff MP | Media Release | 30 Mar 2022

Masks in Parliament

Those of us who are wearing masks all the time, we just do not want to catch COVID 19.

Cassy O'Connor MP | Parliamentary Activity | 24 Mar 2022

COVID-19 - Public Health Advice on Lifting of Mask Mandates

Did Public Health tell you the doubling of reported cases within 48 hours after masks were removed had nothing to do with lifting those protections?

Cassy O'Connor MP | Parliamentary Activity | 24 Mar 2022

COVID-19 - Lifting of Mask Mandate and Effect on Numbers

As of today, there are 2009 reported new cases. Just 48 hours after the mask mandate was lifted on 11 March reported COVID-19 case numbers doubled to over 1800.

Cassy O'Connor MP | Parliamentary Activity | 24 Mar 2022

COVID-19 - Government Actions and Numbers of Cases

In total, more than 70 000 Tasmanians have been infected, including thousands of children and young people, with a novel bat virus.

Cassy O'Connor MP | Parliamentary Activity | 23 Mar 2022

COVID-19 - Wearing of Masks

We are in here now in an environment where an increasing number of people have been told by the Government that it is okay not to wear masks.

Cassy O'Connor MP | Parliamentary Activity | 22 Mar 2022

Covid Rate a Terrible First for Tasmania

Tasmania is close to topping the nation in our state’s Covid infection rate, but this is no matter for celebration.

Cassy O'Connor MP | Media Release | 23 Mar 2022

Government Integrity

I want to talk about a really glaring example of this Government's lack of integrity, its willingness to gaslight Tasmanians during a public health crisis.

Cassy O'Connor MP | Parliamentary Activity | 22 Mar 2022

COVID-19 - Risk for People with Disability

As of today, we have total of 1825 reported COVID-19 cases in the wider Tasmanian community.

Cassy O'Connor MP | Parliamentary Activity | 22 Mar 2022

Covid Case Jump Confirms Need to Mask Up

In the last 48 hours, new Covid cases have doubled, which is what happens when politics trumps public health.

Dr Rosalie Woodruff MP | Media Release | 16 Mar 2022

Covid Cases Jump as Masks Come Off

Today’s 400+ case jump follows the Gutwein Government’s decision to remove mask wearing protections in most indoor settings.

Dr Rosalie Woodruff MP | Media Release | 15 Mar 2022

Mask Removal Reckless as Cases Climb

The Gutwein Government’s decision to remove mask wearing protections in most indoor settings is reckless.

Dr Rosalie Woodruff MP | Media Release | 11 Mar 2022

COVID-19 - Effects on the Human Body

This is the first time we are aware of that long COVID-19 has been discussed since the start of this pandemic in any meaningful way.

Dr Rosalie Woodruff MP | Parliamentary Activity | 9 Mar 2022

COVID-19 - Removal of Mandatory Mask-Wearing Public Health Order

On the 4 March, 2022, the Premier Hon. Peter Gutwein MP, announced a phase out of the mandatory mask-wearing public health order.

Dr Rosalie Woodruff MP | Parliamentary Activity | 9 Mar 2022

Not Getting the Basics Right

So far, since 15 December, 53 390 Tasmanians have been confirmed as COVID-19-positive.

Cassy O'Connor MP | Parliamentary Activity | 9 Mar 2022

Liberals Refuse to Release Mask Advice

In their refusal to provide Public Health advice on removal of mask protections, the Gutwein Government is treating Tasmanians with contempt.

Dr Rosalie Woodruff MP | Media Release | 9 Mar 2022

Reply to Premier's Address

The Greens are a party committed to truth telling, to treaty, to the return of stolen lands and to changing the date of our nation's day.

Dr Rosalie Woodruff MP | Parliamentary Activity | 8 Mar 2022

Reply to Premier's Address

First, I acknowledge the Aboriginal people of Tasmania, I acknowledge 219 years of dispossession from landscape and violence towards First Nations people.

Cassy O'Connor MP | Parliamentary Activity | 8 Mar 2022

Failure to Deliver

This is a Government that sent unvaccinated, unmasked, under-12s back into face-to-face learning, when it would not even acknowledge COVID-19 is airborne.

Cassy O'Connor MP | Parliamentary Activity | 8 Mar 2022

COVID-19 - Strategies

The COVID-19 case numbers for yesterday were over 1000 and at least 50 000 Tasmanians have been infected since 15 December.

Dr Rosalie Woodruff MP | Parliamentary Activity | 9 Mar 2022

Gutwein Refuses to Stand Up to Abetz and TCCI on Mask Protections

With Covid case numbers in the last two days over 1000, the TCCI and Liberal Senator Eric Abetz have recklessly called for the removal of mask protections.

Dr Rosalie Woodruff MP | Media Release | 9 Mar 2022

COVID-19 - Numbers of Cases in Schools

Yesterday you were out trumpeting the next stage of your Back to School Plan. Last week you reported 1703 school children were COVID-19 positive.

Dr Rosalie Woodruff MP | Parliamentary Activity | 8 Mar 2022

COVID-19 - Wearing of Masks - Relaxation of Rules

More than 51 000 Tasmanians have already been infected, including upwards of 2000 young people infected.

Dr Rosalie Woodruff MP | Parliamentary Activity | 8 Mar 2022

Liberals’ Updated High Risk Covid Schools Plan

The Gutwein Government’s “updated’ Covid school plan denies the reality of massive case numbers in unprotected children.

Dr Rosalie Woodruff MP | Media Release | 8 Mar 2022

Gutwein’s Reckless Removal of Masks

The Gutwein Government’s decision to remove universal mask wearing requirements is reckless.

Dr Rosalie Woodruff MP | Media Release | 4 Mar 2022

Royal Hobart Hospital, Emergency Department Entrance

Preventing Covid mass infection

On the day the Premier lifted the border protections, zero per cent of Tasmanian children under 12 were vaccinated.

Cassy O'Connor MP | Parliamentary Activity | 3 Mar 2022

Preventing Covid mass infection

The pandemic is far from over internationally, in Australia and in Tasmania.

Dr Rosalie Woodruff MP | Parliamentary Activity | 3 Mar 2022

COVID-19 Issues in Schools

Of the 1703 confirmed active cases, we know that 1292 of them are in primary schools.

Cassy O'Connor MP | Parliamentary Activity | 2 Mar 2022

COVID-19 - Mask Requirements in Aged Care Facilities

The World Health Organisation declared COVID-19 to be an airborne virus in May 2021.

Dr Rosalie Woodruff MP | Parliamentary Activity | 2 Mar 2022

COVID-19 - Outbreaks in Schools

Our active case load of 5037 people has been climbing every day since 15 February when there were about 3000 active cases.

Dr Rosalie Woodruff MP | Parliamentary Activity | 2 Mar 2022

Gutwein Government’s Failed Covid Guidelines Put Aged Care Residents at Risk

The independent OzSAGE group of epidemiologists warn against incorrectly referring to Covid as principally being transmitted via contact and droplets.

Dr Rosalie Woodruff MP | Media Release | 2 Mar 2022

COVID-19 - Return to School Arrangements

Your plan clearly did not provide COVID-safe learning environments for unvaccinated, unmasked primary school students.

Cassy O'Connor MP | Parliamentary Activity | 1 Mar 2022

Premier Refuses to Apologise for Covid-infected Students, Teachers and Families

We asked the Premier to apologise to Tasmanian parents, students and teachers for not keeping them safe from Covid. Peter Gutwein refused to say sorry.

Cassy O'Connor MP | Media Release | 1 Mar 2022

Gutwein Reckless Considering End to Mask Mandate

We are unsurprised at the Liberals’ plan to ditch mandatory check-ins, but the Premier’s indication he will consider dropping mask mandates is alarming.

Dr Rosalie Woodruff MP | Media Release | 18 Feb 2022

Transparency Needed on School Covid Numbers

We are calling on the Gutwein Government to be transparent about Covid case numbers in schools.

Dr Rosalie Woodruff MP | Media Release | 16 Feb 2022

Unsafe Rush to Face to Face Learning Has Predictable Outcome

School has been back for less than a week and seven Tasmanian schools have reported Covid outbreaks

Cassy O'Connor MP | Media Release | 15 Feb 2022

Students Back to School and At Covid Risk

Many parents will be stressed sending their children to school today, as will teachers returning to the classroom.

Dr Rosalie Woodruff MP | Media Release | 9 Feb 2022

Courtney Should Resign After She Recovers and Returns

Sarah Courtney has failed as Education Minister.

Cassy O'Connor MP | Media Release | 2 Feb 2022

Greens Covid19 Emergency Response Plan

An evidence-based public health plan for stopping the spread of Covid, and saving lives and livelihoods.

Cassy O'Connor MP | Policies | 1 Feb 2022

Greens Release Plan to Flatten the Curve and Save Lives

Lutruwita/Tasmania needs to flatten the curve to save lives and livelihoods.The Greens’ plan puts the health and safety of Tasmanians and local businesses first

Cassy O'Connor MP | Media Release | 1 Feb 2022

ROGS Data Confirms Liberals Failing Tasmanians with a Disability

Today’s Report on Government Services data shows Tasmania lagging behind the rest of the nation in delivering support to people with disability.

Cassy O'Connor MP | Media Release | 25 Jan 2022

School Start Plan Unsafe

The plan Premier Gutwein has announced for Tasmania's education system is a plan to keep schools open, not a plan to keep schools safe.

Dr Rosalie Woodruff MP | Media Release | 21 Jan 2022

Government Must Ensure Safe Staffing Levels for Nurses

The Premier assured us he has financial flex in his budget, and he should use it to ensure safe staffing levels in the health system, and to make a COVID allowa

Dr Rosalie Woodruff MP | Media Release | 20 Jan 2022

Education Minister MIA

Parents are anxious to hear the Government’s COVID safe schools plans. But instead of overseeing this critical task, Minister Sarah Courtney has gone on holiday

Dr Rosalie Woodruff MP | Media Release | 19 Jan 2022

City Hall Another Sign of Unprepared Government

The fact the Government has begun planning to use Hobart City Hall for COVID management is yet another example of how unprepared they were for borders to reopen

Dr Rosalie Woodruff MP | Media Release | 18 Jan 2022

One Month From Reopening, Cases Still Climbing and No Plan to Contain Covid

In four short weeks since the Premier prematurely opened the border to Covid, cases continue to soar

Cassy O'Connor MP | Media Release | 15 Jan 2022

Gutwein Government Has No Apparent Plan for Preventing Covid in Students with Disability

It’s imperative the government release its plan for how it proposes to keep students with disability safe when school returns - if it has one

Cassy O'Connor MP | Media Release | 14 Jan 2022

Health Workers Deserve COVID Allowance

The Gutwein government needs to follow Victoria’s lead and give healthcare workers in the public system a COVID allowance

Cassy O'Connor MP | Media Release | 13 Jan 2022

As Infections Climb, Hospitalisation Data Needs Clarifying

As the Premier fiddles while Rome burns and gets ready for an Ashes superspreader event, Covid is infecting more and more Tasmanians every day

Cassy O'Connor MP | Media Release | 12 Jan 2022

We Can't Be Complacent About COVID

Greg Barns’ attempted character assassination is intellectually lazy and out of touch with the deep fear and anger being felt by the vast majority of Tasmanians

Cassy O'Connor MP | Opinion | 11 Jan 2022

As Covid Surges, Serious Questions Remain Over School Return

Education Minister Courtney needs to explain in detail how children can be kept safe in our schools during this escalating Covid outbreak

Cassy O'Connor MP | Media Release | 10 Jan 2022

As Cases Soar, World Health Organisation Makes a Lie of Premier’s ‘Mild’ Claims

With a 50% test positivity rate and 2223 recorded cases today, Tasmanians are suffering as a result of the Gutwein Government’s hands-off approach to Omicron.

Cassy O'Connor MP | Media Release | 8 Jan 2022

Jury Trial Suspension is on Peter Gutwein

The Supreme Court’s decision to suspend jury trials, while right for the safety of those called to do jury duty, will mean justice is delayed for many.

Cassy O'Connor MP | Media Release | 6 Jan 2022

Gutwein Must Reset to Save Lives and Livelihoods

Every day Covid is allowed to rage is another day of sickness in our community, local businesses having to shut their doors and casual workers losing income.

Cassy O'Connor MP | Media Release | 6 Jan 2022

Peter Gutwein Needs to Stand Up to Morrison at National Cabinet

The Premier who has effectively abandoned Tasmanians to Covid needs to show some backbone at National Cabinet today.

Cassy O'Connor MP | Media Release | 5 Jan 2022

Gutwein Must Reverse Let It Rip Strategy

The predicted and rapidly unfolding COVID crisis is hurting Tasmania. Hundreds of people a day are being infected, testing is a mess and businesses are closing.

Dr Rosalie Woodruff MP | Media Release | 4 Jan 2022

Gutwein Signs on to Morrison’s Dangerous Covid Path

The Prime Minister’s reset of close contacts, and anti-testing rhetoric is dangerous and will put lives at risk – but it was accepted by Premier Gutwein.

Dr Rosalie Woodruff MP | Media Release | 31 Dec 2021

Gutwein Abandons Tasmanians to Omicron

With his let-it-rip strategy, Peter Gutwein has gone from hero to public health enemy number one within a fortnight.

Cassy O'Connor MP | Media Release | 30 Dec 2021

Mask Mandate Essential

The Greens welcome the introduction of an indoor mask mandate, but question why this important measure has not been in place since the state’s borders opened.

Dr Rosalie Woodruff MP | Media Release | 19 Dec 2021

The Reopening of Tasmania’s Borders

After nearly two years of relative safety from COVID, Tasmania opened its borders to all mainland states today.

Cassy O'Connor MP | Media Release | 15 Dec 2021

Economy, Finance, Calculator, Pen and Graph

TASCORP – Management of COVID Debt

In the annual report it's clear that advances to Treasury and Finance rose by $950 million to $1.7 billion.

Cassy O'Connor MP | Parliamentary Activity | 30 Nov 2021

COVID-19 - Reconnecting Tasmania Plan

We strongly support the work and commend the work of the director of Public Health, his staff and all the people in the health system.

Dr Rosalie Woodruff MP | Parliamentary Activity | 24 Nov 2021

COVID-19 - Vaccine Mandate for Teachers and Childcare Workers

In Tasmania, education and support staff who work with children with disabilities are all required to be vaccinated but teachers are not.

Dr Rosalie Woodruff MP | Parliamentary Activity | 24 Nov 2021

Vaccine Mandates for High Risk Professions

With borders opening in just three weeks, Premier Peter Gutwein needs to provide certainty around the mandatory vaccination of highly exposed professions.

Dr Rosalie Woodruff MP | Media Release | 24 Nov 2021

COVID-19 - Vaccination for Under 12s

Nearly a quarter of Tasmanians will not be fully vaccinated by 15 November. This group includes all children under 12.

Dr Rosalie Woodruff MP | Parliamentary Activity | 23 Nov 2021

Premier Backtracking on Public Health Commitments

Premier Peter Gutwein seems to be abandoning some of his previous public health commitments as we approach the date he set for reopening Tasmania's borders.

Dr Rosalie Woodruff MP | Media Release | 19 Nov 2021

COVID-19 - Re-opening and Preparedness

We agree with the concerns that are raised here about the ability of the health system to cope with a COVID-19 outbreak.

Dr Rosalie Woodruff MP | Parliamentary Activity | 10 Nov 2021

COVID-19 - Government Response

The Director of Public Health made the point that it will provide a guide to the restrictions that he will implement when the borders open on 15 December.

Dr Rosalie Woodruff MP | Parliamentary Activity | 10 Nov 2021

COVID-19 - Potential Cases in Health Workers

The influx of people from COVID 19 states starts on 15 December and we must have our health system able to cope with the inevitable caseload.

Dr Rosalie Woodruff MP | Parliamentary Activity | 9 Nov 2021

Minister Silent on Healthcare Staff COVID Absences

The Government must urgently consider the potential health system impacts of absences from healthcare workers who become infected with coronavirus.

Dr Rosalie Woodruff MP | Media Release | 9 Nov 2021

COVID-19 - Decision to Reopen Tasmania on 15 December 2021

Are you absolutely certain reopening on 15 December is the right decision by the Tasmanian people?

Cassy O'Connor MP | Parliamentary Activity | 26 Oct 2021

Hospitals Preparedness for COVID-19

The bigger picture is not the work that has been done in the last 18 months in response to COVID-19 but our underlying health system.

Dr Rosalie Woodruff MP | Parliamentary Activity | 12 Oct 2021

Estimates Reply - Minister Rockliff

A major topic of conversation for some period was our state's COVID-19 preparations.

Dr Rosalie Woodruff MP | Parliamentary Activity | 15 Sep 2021

Business Support

Of course, we recognise the importance of advocating for small business and for there to be sustained and sustainable support for small business.

Cassy O'Connor MP | Parliamentary Activity | 14 Sep 2021

Small Business - COVID-19 Impacts

In the Budget papers, the Small Business Mental Health Support package is listed under key deliverables.

Dr Rosalie Woodruff MP | Parliamentary Activity | 9 Sep 2021

Hospitality and Events - COVID-19

The threat of Delta coming into Tasmania is very present. So far, the state has done an extraordinary job in keeping it out of the island.

Dr Rosalie Woodruff MP | Parliamentary Activity | 7 Sep 2021

Community Services and Development - COVID-19

I understand that the procurement of quarantine hotels and quarantine facilities sits with Communities Tasmania.

Cassy O'Connor MP | Parliamentary Activity | 6 Sep 2021

Mental Health and Wellbeing - COVID-19

We have a load of 150 people or thereabouts, I understand, coming from the UK, who will be in hotel quarantine in Tasmania.

Dr Rosalie Woodruff MP | Parliamentary Activity | 6 Sep 2021

Health - COVID-19

We are now in a situation where the majority of the Australian population is in lockdown due to the significant outbreaks of the Delta variant.

Dr Rosalie Woodruff MP | Parliamentary Activity | 6 Sep 2021

Premier - COVID-19 and Border Restrictions

Last week Commonwealth Attorney-General Michaelia Cash was making veiled threats to states and territories in relation to border restrictions.

Cassy O'Connor MP | Parliamentary Activity | 6 Sep 2021

Budget Reply

I am proud to stand and deliver our alternative Budget on behalf of the Tasmanian Greens.

Cassy O'Connor MP | Parliamentary Activity | 1 Sep 2021

Small Business Support

The impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic on all small businesses in Australia have been profound.

Dr Rosalie Woodruff MP | Parliamentary Activity | 1 Sep 2021

Support for Tasmanian Businesses and Workers

We have all known people, if not ourselves, who have lost their incomes and whole livelihoods.

Dr Rosalie Woodruff MP | Parliamentary Activity | 31 Aug 2021

Small Business

It is a very difficult time for so many small businesses in Tasmania.

Dr Rosalie Woodruff MP | Parliamentary Activity | 25 Aug 2021

Alternative Budget 2021-22

The Greens’ Alternative Budget sets out a future for Tasmania that enables sustained recovery from the global health emergency.

Cassy O'Connor MP | Policies | 1 Sep 2021

Repatriation Flight Welcome, Gutwein Government Should Also Welcome Afghanis

We encourage the Gutwein Government to make it clear to the Federal Government those fleeing Afghanistan are welcome, and we stand ready to accept refugees.

Cassy O'Connor MP | Media Release | 31 Aug 2021

Supply Bill (No.3) 2021

The chances are there will be a case of Delta in Tasmania. It is a question of how we respond and how quickly we act.

Dr Rosalie Woodruff MP | Parliamentary Activity | 24 Aug 2021

Supply Bill (No.3) 2021

The bill is based on actual expenditures of agencies and it is there as an insurance policy effectively in the event that we cannot take the Budget through.

Cassy O'Connor MP | Parliamentary Activity | 24 Aug 2021

Government Should Reassure Tasmanians on COVID-19 Outbreak

The spread across Australia of the highly infectious Delta variant is a matter of legitimate concern to Tasmanians.

Dr Rosalie Woodruff MP | Media Release | 28 Jun 2021

Greens Support Calls for Permanent NW Vaccination Hub

The Tasmanian Greens support calls for a permanent COVID-19 vaccination clinic to be set up in North West Tasmania.

Dr Rosalie Woodruff MP | Media Release | 4 Jun 2021

Politics Must be Removed from Public Health

All announcements relating to the COVID emergency response during the state election campaign must be removed from politics.

Dr Rosalie Woodruff MP | Media Release | 30 Mar 2021

Rosalie Woodruff Reply to Premier's Address

The events of 2020 will not be forgotten in the minds of anybody who lived through them. A highly infectious killer virus romped across the globe.

Dr Rosalie Woodruff MP | Parliamentary Activity | 18 Mar 2021

Cassy O'Connor Reply to Premier's Address

The world is in the grip of a pandemic and here in Tasmania, of course, there has been suffering.

Cassy O'Connor MP | Parliamentary Activity | 18 Mar 2021

Essential Hotel Quarantine Workers Betrayed by Liberals

Hotel quarantine workers have been betrayed by Premier Peter Gutwein. He must rectify the situation immediately.

Dr Rosalie Woodruff MP | Media Release | 17 Mar 2021

Government Fails Workers, Increases COVID Risk

The Government’s failure to pay hotel quarantine staff their promised wage supplements is unfair on workers, andpotentially puts the community at risk

Dr Rosalie Woodruff MP | Media Release | 12 Mar 2021

Deloitte Report Confirms Need to Keep Tenancy Protections in Place

The Deloitte Economic Business Outlook confirms the end of JobKeeper, along with JobSeeker supplements, will hurt Tasmania more than other states & territories.

Cassy O'Connor MP | Media Release | 18 Jan 2021

Labor Needs to Stand with Tenants

Tasmanian Labor needs to take a position on the looming expiry of COVID-19 emergency tenancy protections on 31 January.

Cassy O'Connor MP | Media Release | 14 Jan 2021

Greens Question Lack of Border Restrictions

The Greens, like the majority of Tasmanians, appreciate the efforts of the Gutwein Government and public health officials to keep Tasmanians safe in 2020.

Cassy O'Connor MP | Media Release | 2 Jan 2021

Estimates Reply - Minister Barnett

There are still questions outstanding, which we hope will be dealt with through the independent inquiry into the Ruby Princess.

Cassy O'Connor MP | Parliamentary Activity | 2 Dec 2020

Health – COVID-19

Despite our having responded and weathered the situation well, there is still an outstanding level of risk.

Dr Rosalie Woodruff MP | Parliamentary Activity | 23 Nov 2020

Local Government – Coronavirus Restrictions

During the COVID 19 pandemic we recognised councils have had to make a number of adjustments to the way council meetings are held.

Dr Rosalie Woodruff MP | Parliamentary Activity | 26 Nov 2020

Primary Industries – Ruby Princess

My understanding is that the secretary was in charge of border controls at the time that the Ruby Princess passengers arrived in Tasmania.

Cassy O'Connor MP | Parliamentary Activity | 26 Nov 2020

Primary Industries – THA Lobbying

The head of the THA, Mr Steve Old, contacted the secretary seeking assistance to enable Mr Rodger Powell, to have an essential workers' exemption.

Cassy O'Connor MP | Parliamentary Activity | 26 Nov 2020

Advanced Manufacturing and Defence Industries – Medical Manufacturing

The COVID pandemic has shown us very starkly how reliant we are on the import of specialised medical equipment to keep our hospitals functioning.

Dr Rosalie Woodruff MP | Parliamentary Activity | 24 Nov 2020

Government Commitment on Hotel Quarantine Workers Needed

The government must ensure no worker at any hotel quarantine facility is also working in another setting, and compensate affected workers.

Dr Rosalie Woodruff MP | Media Release | 23 Nov 2020

Budget Reply

The year 2020 began with a firestorm that devastated communities, forests and wildlife from the south coast of Victoria to the south east of Queensland.

Cassy O'Connor MP | Parliamentary Activity | 18 Nov 2020

Greens Present Alternative Budget to Tackle COVID and Climate Crises

The Tasmanian Greens today delivered our fully costed, triple bottom line Alternative Budget that tackles the twin crises of COVID and the climate emergency.

Cassy O'Connor MP | Media Release | 18 Nov 2020

Budget 2020-21 - Climate Change

This Budget should have tackled the twin crises of COVID-19 and climate together but it failed to do so.

Dr Rosalie Woodruff MP | Parliamentary Activity | 17 Nov 2020

Premier’s Radio Performance Fuels Public Suspicion on Small Business Hardship Grants

The Liberals' refusal to release details of where $26 million of taxpayer funds went through a business grants program is raising big questions in the community

Cassy O'Connor MP | Media Release | 29 Oct 2020

Caution and Public Safety Campaign Needed as Borders Reopen

With borders reopening today, the Gutwein Government needs to reinforce public health messages to keep Tasmanians safe.

Cassy O'Connor MP | Media Release | 26 Oct 2020

Cuts to JobKeeper and JobSeeker will Hurt Tasmania

The Morrison Government’s heartless cut to JobKeeper today will hurt thousands of Tasmanian families still struggling in the middle of a global pandemic.

Cassy O'Connor MP | Media Release | 28 Sep 2020

Jobs Guarantee

Call for a a Jobs Guarantee program to strengthen our COVID recovery, and support economic transition to tackle the climate emergency.

Cassy O'Connor MP | Parliamentary Activity | 23 Sep 2020

Bureaucracy, Professional with Paperwork

PESRAC Future COVID 19 Management Strategy

No-one on the planet could have looked into a crystal ball and understood where those early cases were going to lead us.

Dr Rosalie Woodruff MP | Parliamentary Activity | 23 Sep 2020

Greens Move on Job Guarantee Passes Parliament

We were proud to see our job guarantee motion pass Parliament this evening.

Cassy O'Connor MP | Media Release | 23 Sep 2020

A Fair Social and Economic Recovery

We will be supporting the member for Clark's notice of motion that the House agrees that Tasmanians deserve a fair social and economic recovery.

Cassy O'Connor MP | Parliamentary Activity | 23 Sep 2020

Premier Needs Strategy for Tackling COVID-19 Misinformation

Flyers promoting COVID-19 conspiracy theories have been dropped into Tasmanian letterboxes.

Dr Rosalie Woodruff MP | Media Release | 23 Sep 2020

COVID-19 - Seasonal Workers and Quarantine Provisions

The government has made the decision to open our borders to seasonal workers without requiring them to have a strict two-week quarantine.

Dr Rosalie Woodruff MP | Parliamentary Activity | 22 Sep 2020

Tenant Protection Extension Welcome

Tasmanians living in rental homes will warmly welcome today’s announcement of extended residential rental protections and the Rent Relief Fund.

Cassy O'Connor MP | Media Release | 4 Sep 2020

ANMF Submission Confirms North West PPE Allegations

The ANMF submission to the investigation of the North West COVID-19 outbreak confirms many public reports about the lack of access to PPE.

Dr Rosalie Woodruff MP | Media Release | 2 Sep 2020

Rent Relief Fund Must Be Extended

With borders closed until December, and federal income support to soon be cut, thousands of Tasmanians will be in financial hardship for months to come.

Cassy O'Connor MP | Media Release | 28 Aug 2020

Covid-19 Disease Emergency (Miscellaneous Provisions) Amendment (Quarantine Debt Recovery) Bill 2020

It is entirely reasonable for government, on behalf of taxpayers, to recoup some of the costs of quarantine measures that are necessary to keep Tasmanians safe.

Cassy O'Connor MP | Parliamentary Activity | 20 Aug 2020

COVID-19 - Essential Worker Status

The economic and social fabric of Tasmania is being altered beyond a state that any of us could have predicted a year ago.

Dr Rosalie Woodruff MP | Parliamentary Activity | 19 Aug 2020

Budget Management

There is no question - we too had a briefing from Treasury - that Tasmania's finances are in a very difficult situation.

Cassy O'Connor MP | Parliamentary Activity | 19 Aug 2020

Government Must Listen to Struggling Tenants

The Gutwein Government needs to listen to Tasmanian tenants and act immediately to extend residential rental protections beyond the 30 September deadline.

Cassy O'Connor MP | Media Release | 26 Aug 2020

Community Leaders Should Support Public Health Advice

It is the responsibility of community leaders to support the advice of public health officials.

Dr Rosalie Woodruff MP | Media Release | 20 Aug 2020

Ministerial Statement on COVID-19

The announcement that the border restrictions will be maintained until 1 December is absolutely the right thing to do.

Cassy O'Connor MP | Parliamentary Activity | 18 Aug 2020

Border Controls

It has been seven weeks since we have been in this Chamber and much has changed in Australia in relation to where we are with the COVID-19 pandemic.

Dr Rosalie Woodruff MP | Parliamentary Activity | 18 Aug 2020

Resolutions Rescinded - COVID-19 Emergency Provisions

We will be supporting motion number 303 to return the business of parliament, in large part, to the way it was before.

Cassy O'Connor MP | Parliamentary Activity | 18 Aug 2020

COVID-19 - Definition of Essential Worker

What is the difference between an essential worker, an essential traveller, and someone who is subject to two weeks' mandatory quarantine?

Cassy O'Connor MP | Parliamentary Activity | 18 Aug 2020

COVID Rental Protections Must Be Extended

The government must recognise the ongoing difficulties faced by Tasmanian tenants and extend the state’s residential rental protections beyond October 1.

Cassy O'Connor MP | Media Release | 14 Aug 2020

Minister Must Explain COVID Child Safety Response

The Minister for Human Services must explain why vulnerable children were unable to access safe accommodation or key support services during COVID restrictions.

Cassy O'Connor MP | Media Release | 6 Aug 2020

Hear the Collective Sigh of Relief Across Tasmania

The vast majority of Tasmanians will be relieved the state’s tough border measures will be in place until at least the end of the month.

Cassy O'Connor MP | Media Release | 3 Aug 2020

Premier Needs to Stand Up to PM on Pandemic Income Supports

Premier Peter Gutwein needs to muscle up to the Prime Minister to prevent tens of thousands of Tasmanians from being driven to below the breadline.

Cassy O'Connor MP | Media Release | 31 Jul 2020

Workers Submitting to NW Inquiry Need Protection Guarantee

The opening of submissions for the Independent Inquiry into the NW outbreak is welcome, but the government must guarantee protection for all who provide input.

Dr Rosalie Woodruff MP | Media Release | 25 Jul 2020

PESRAC Report Ignores Climate Emergency

Tasmanians have been sadly let down by the Premier’s Economic and Social Recovery Advisory Council.

Cassy O'Connor MP | Media Release | 21 Jul 2020

State of Emergency Extension

The decision to extend the emergency declaration to match Victoria’s lockdown restrictions is understandable, and pragmatic.

Dr Rosalie Woodruff MP | Media Release | 9 Jul 2020

Government Must Prioritise Respiratory Health Housing Refits

The reports of respiratory illness from a Housing Tasmania complex in South Hobart are distressing.

Dr Rosalie Woodruff MP | Media Release | 3 Jul 2020

COVID-19 Emergency

Things have changed dramatically across the globe when it comes to this pandemic.

Dr Rosalie Woodruff MP | Parliamentary Activity | 24 Jun 2020

Land Tax Amendment Bill 2020

This amendment bill gives the Commissioner for State Revenue significant discretion in assessing applications for land tax relief.

Cassy O'Connor MP | Parliamentary Activity | 24 Jun 2020

Homebuilder Grants Bill 2020

We have some serious issues with the eligibility and the framework around the Commonwealth Homebuilder Grant.

Cassy O'Connor MP | Parliamentary Activity | 24 Jun 2020

Her Excellency Professor the Honourable Kate Warner AC - Extension of Term of Office

The Greens are very happy that the Governor of Tasmania, Professor the Honourable Kate Warner, has agreed to continue in that role until 9 June next year.

Cassy O'Connor MP | Parliamentary Activity | 24 Jun 2020

Government Must Provide Worker Immunity for COVID Inquiry

Health workers and public servants who want to contribute to the independent inquiry into the North West COVID-19 outbreak should be guaranteed protection.

Dr Rosalie Woodruff MP | Media Release | 25 Jun 2020

COVID-19 Milestone A Tribute to All Tasmanians

Tasmania has reached a milestone after a three month battle that claimed lives, closed businesses and caused thousands of job losses.

Cassy O'Connor MP | Media Release | 12 Jun 2020

Tasmania must resist influence and reduce reliance on China

Two news items in the past week should be a wake-up call to any remaining doubters that Tasmania is far too heavily dependent on China.

Cassy O'Connor MP | Opinion | 12 Jun 2020

Trans-Tasman Travel Bubble a Winner

Now is the time to speed up negotiations on a Trans-Tasman travel bubble between Hobart and New Zealand.

Cassy O'Connor MP | Media Release | 11 Jun 2020

COVID-19 Emergency

We are in a unique time in Tasmania's history. For the first time in a very long time we are effectively sealed off as an island.

Cassy O'Connor MP | Parliamentary Activity | 4 Jun 2020

Joint Select Committee on Tasmania's COVID-19 Response and Recovery

A joint select inquiry with a specific reference is supported not only by a majority of members in the other place.

Cassy O'Connor MP | Parliamentary Activity | 4 Jun 2020

Gutwein Must Step Up on World Environment Day

The best gift the Gutwein Government could give Tasmania on World Environment Day is a policy reset.

Dr Rosalie Woodruff MP | Media Release | 5 Jun 2020

Major Projects Legislation

The ongoing fight against exploitation has involved countless instances of communities pushing back.

Dr Rosalie Woodruff MP | Opinion | 2 Jun 2020

Housing Led Recovery a Reality

The Premier’s announcement of increased housing investment and expansion of the HomeShare program is welcomed by the Greens.

Cassy O'Connor MP | Media Release | 4 Jun 2020

COVID-19 Emergency

I am happy and proud to be able to speak today about the Greens' interim submission to the Economic Recovery Advisory Council.

Dr Rosalie Woodruff MP | Parliamentary Activity | 3 Jun 2020

Jaensch Confirms Community's Major Projects Fears

Planning Minister Roger Jaensch demonstrated exactly why so many Tasmanians are concerned about the proposed Major Projects legislation in Parliament today.

Dr Rosalie Woodruff MP | Media Release | 3 Jun 2020

Major Projects Legislation

The Minister has been deceiving Tasmanians about the need for the damaging and unnecessary major projects legislation.

Dr Rosalie Woodruff MP | Parliamentary Activity | 3 Jun 2020

COVID-19 - Inquiry into Response

Despite a solid response to the pandemic and no evidence that they have anything to hide, the Premier is dismissive of a COVID-19 response inquiry.

Cassy O'Connor MP | Parliamentary Activity | 3 Jun 2020

Imminent Housing Spend Announcement Welcome

The Greens look forward tomorrow’s $3.1 billion construction announcement.

Cassy O'Connor MP | Media Release | 3 Jun 2020

Now is the Time to Regulate Airbnb

CoreLogic’s latest data about the availability of rental properties in Tasmania shows the clear impact Airbnb has had on housing availability.

Cassy O'Connor MP | Media Release | 2 Jun 2020

Greens Release Interim Recovery Plan for Better, Fairer Tasmania

The Greens have written to the Premier’s Social and Economic Recovery Advisory Council with our interim submission on the path out of the COVID-19 crisis.

Cassy O'Connor MP | Media Release | 2 Jun 2020

Interim Submission to Recovery Council

The Tasmanian Greens interim submission to the Premier’s Social and Economic Recovery Advisory Council.

Cassy O'Connor MP | Submission | 2 Jun 2020

Winter Warning on Homelessness Crisis

The Greens urge Housing Minister Roger Jaensch to step up and ensure homeless Tasmanians don't bear the brunt of another freezing winter outdoors.

Cassy O'Connor MP | Media Release | 1 Jun 2020

Greens Thank Teachers on Public Education Day

On Public Education Day, the Greens thank all teachers and support staff in the public system for the dedicated, tireless work they do.

Cassy O'Connor MP | Media Release | 28 May 2020

Undercutting Public Health Irresponsible

Constant pressure by some elected representatives for the Premier to accelerate the easing of social restrictions is irresponsible.

Dr Rosalie Woodruff MP | Media Release | 25 May 2020

Recovery Council Has Critical Role in Avoiding Business As Usual

The Premier’s Social and Economic Recovery Advisory Council has a critical role to play in the future direction of Tasmania.

Cassy O'Connor MP | Media Release | 25 May 2020

A Housing Led Recovery for Tasmania

The Tasmanian Greens today released the first pillar in our plan for Tasmania’s recovery from COVID-19.

Cassy O'Connor MP | Media Release | 23 May 2020

A Housing Led Recovery

Tasmania’s long road to recovery from the coronavirus crisis is an opportunity to shape our island’s future for the better and fairer.

Cassy O'Connor MP | Policies | 23 May 2020

Logging During COVID-19

The continuation of destructive logging activity has been a disappointing blight on an otherwise thoughtful approach by the Premier through this pandemic.

Cassy O'Connor MP | Media Release | 22 May 2020

Rushed Major Projects Bill Wrong Way for Recovery

Tasmanians will be angry, but not surprised, at the Liberals’ plan to rush their divisive Major Projects legislation through Parliament.

Dr Rosalie Woodruff MP | Media Release | 21 May 2020

YWCA Housing Survey Highlights Need for Housing-Led Recovery

Homelessness data released in the YWCA National Housing Survey is a stark reminder of the depth of Tasmania’s housing crisis.

Cassy O'Connor MP | Media Release | 21 May 2020

Premier Must Listen to Health Advice Over Industry Lobbyists

The Premier is right to be concerned about a second wave of coronavirus disease.

Dr Rosalie Woodruff MP | Media Release | 19 May 2020

No Place for Major Projects in Recovery

Tasmania’s largest council has sent a strong message to the Government that the Major Projects legislation is unnecessary and destructive.

Dr Rosalie Woodruff MP | Media Release | 19 May 2020

Rent Relief Fund Welcome

The Gutwein Government has today responded to the consistent advocacy on the part of the housing sector and the Greens for strong rent relief.

Cassy O'Connor MP | Media Release | 19 May 2020

Housing Led Recovery Should Increase Home Ownership

Government stimulus money might be better directed into increasing the supply of affordable housing.

Cassy O'Connor MP | Media Release | 17 May 2020

Buy Tasmanian on World Whiskey Day

Times are hard for so many sectors of the economy, but Tasmanian whiskey distillers have cause to celebrate this World Whiskey Day.

Cassy O'Connor MP | Media Release | 16 May 2020

Aggressive Infrastructure Spend Needs to Focus on Housing Led Recovery

The Greens urge the Premier to ensure increasing the supply of quality social and affordable housing is front and centre.

Cassy O'Connor MP | Media Release | 15 May 2020

Job Figures Savage, but Room for Measured Optimism

The ABS Job figures released today reflect the pain Tasmanians are feeling as a result of the pandemic shutdown.

Cassy O'Connor MP | Media Release | 14 May 2020

Leaders Must Listen to Young People in COVID-19 Rebuild

The Greens welcome the Commissioner for Children and Young People’s 'Listening to Children and Young People in Tasmania Report 2019'.

Cassy O'Connor MP | Media Release | 14 May 2020

Clearance Tests for COVID-19 Needed

Public Health today confirmed two coronavirus patients, who were categorised as ‘recovered’, had subsequently redeveloped symptoms.

Dr Rosalie Woodruff MP | Media Release | 12 May 2020

Vacancy Data Highlights Need to Regulate Airbnb

SQM Research vacancy rate data released today clearly shows reform of short-stay accommodation is well overdue.

Cassy O'Connor MP | Media Release | 12 May 2020

Large Net Debt Inevitable in Pandemic

News of Tasmania’s net debt likely to reach $2 billion within a year is unsurprising.

Cassy O'Connor MP | Media Release | 12 May 2020

Franklin River, Tasmanian Wilderness World Heritage Area

Unlocking of Green Spaces Welcome

The Greens welcome the Premier’s announcement that Tasmania’s green spaces will be open to locals from this coming Monday.

Cassy O'Connor MP | Media Release | 8 May 2020

Steady as she goes Gutwein on the right track

The Premier has outlined a clear, staged and steady pathway to short term recovery from the coronavirus lockdown.

Cassy O'Connor MP | Media Release | 8 May 2020

COVID-19 Matter of Public importance

I return to the letter that was written by some doctors from the north-west who have been at the forefront of the coronavirus pandemic in Tasmania.

Dr Rosalie Woodruff MP | Parliamentary Activity | 7 May 2020

COVID-19 - Concerns of North-West Doctors

North-west doctors have been at the forefront of the COVID-19 pandemic. They have been risking their safety, working day after day, caring for patients.

Dr Rosalie Woodruff MP | Parliamentary Activity | 7 May 2020

COVID-19 - Major Projects Legislation

Regrettably, the Government is trying to make divisive and flawed major projects legislation the centrepiece of Tasmania's recovery.

Cassy O'Connor MP | Parliamentary Activity | 7 May 2020

Coronavirus Impacts on Economy

Over the next week or two we will be making some very large decisions about where we head in the near future.

Dr Rosalie Woodruff MP | Parliamentary Activity | 6 May 2020

COVID-19 Pandemic

On Friday we will hear from the National Cabinet the result of their views about where we are going to head in Australia.

Dr Rosalie Woodruff MP | Parliamentary Activity | 6 May 2020

COVID-19 Disease Emergency (Commercial Leases) Bill 2020

The Greens recognise that formulating this bill and balancing the interests that are contained within it has been challenging.

Cassy O'Connor MP | Parliamentary Activity | 6 May 2020

COVID-19 - Implementation of Recommendations

The north-west COVID-19 outbreak has been devastating for the families of people who died and hugely affected the 5000 people who went into quarantine.

Dr Rosalie Woodruff MP | Parliamentary Activity | 6 May 2020

COVID-19 Commercial and Residential Tenancy Protections

We recognise this state has moved to freeze evictions and rent increases for residential tenants.

Cassy O'Connor MP | Parliamentary Activity | 6 May 2020

COVID-19 Update

Some of us would have heard stories late last year of a mysterious virus coming out of Wuhan, China.

Dr Rosalie Woodruff MP | Parliamentary Activity | 1 May 2020

COVID-19 Update

That piece of legislation handed government enormous powers. It had to be scrutinised. It should have been amended.

Cassy O'Connor MP | Parliamentary Activity | 1 May 2020

Coronavirus - We're all in this Together

It’s a strange time for all of us. We’re coming to terms with fundamental changes to daily life and how the world operates.

Dr Rosalie Woodruff MP | Opinion | 15 Apr 2020

Community Testing a Critical Part of COVID-19 Suppression

The approach to COVID-19 testing in Tasmania needs to change for us to fully understand the pattern of transmission.

Dr Rosalie Woodruff MP | Media Release | 6 May 2020

Greens Welcome Tenant Support Fund

In a pandemic emergency it’s essential that everyone has a secure and affordable place to call home.

Cassy O'Connor MP | Media Release | 6 May 2020

North West Doctors' Forest Protection Calls Must be Central to COVID-19 Recovery Plan

The plea from 23 GP's, registrars, and emergency doctors to protect Tasmania's high conservation value forests should be heeded by all Members of Parliament.

Cassy O'Connor MP | Media Release | 4 May 2020

Social and Affordable Housing Key to Recovery

Significant investment in social and affordable housing would kickstart Tasmania’s social and economic recovery from the coronavirus pandemic.

Cassy O'Connor MP | Media Release | 3 May 2020

Minister Barnett Needs a Big Rethink

Resources Minister, Guy Barnett, needs to take a broader view of Tasmania’s forestry sector and its role in this island’s recovery from coronavirus.

Cassy O'Connor MP | Media Release | 3 May 2020

North West COVID-19 Restrictions

The Premier’s decision to ease restrictions for the North West will be welcome news for residents in the region.

Dr Rosalie Woodruff MP | Media Release | 1 May 2020

Police Officers in High Visibility Vests

COVID-19 Disease Emergency (Miscellaneous Provisions) Bill (No. 2) 2020 - In Committee

We should not be afraid to allow the Subordinate Legislation Committee to look at directions made by the Director of Public Health.