Tasmanian forestry at risk from Labor again

Reports today that the Federal Labor Government’s new national environment standards may seek to end sustainable native forestry once again proves you can’t trust Labor with forestry.

Minister for Resources, Felix Ellis slammed Tasmanian Labor for their silence on native forestry and reaffirmed the Rockliff Liberal Government’s support for this important sector. 

“Tasmanian Labor’s response to Dan Andrews’ ideological decision to slam the door shut on native forestry in Victoria was silence,” Minister Ellis said.

“Tasmanian Labor’s response to WA Labor’s shock decision to end native forestry - silence.

“Tasmanian Labor’s response to reports that rank-and-file Labor members are pressuring the Federal Labor Government to end native forestry - more silence.

“It’s simply not good enough, and I’m calling on State Labor to come out today and stand with us and the industry against ending native forestry.”

Minister Ellis said Labor was clearly deeply divided on support for Tasmania’s sustainable native forestry sector.

“Forestry is a sustainable and renewable industry. It provides the timber we need to build our homes, fibre to help bring about a plastic free future and sequesters carbon,” Minister Ellis said.

“Unfortunately, Tasmanians know that the biggest risk to forestry, which is worth $1.2 billion annually to the economy of this State, is Labor and the Greens.

“When will Tasmanian Labor stand up to their Federal Labor colleagues and defend Tasmanian forestry?”