The Liberal Government must provide Tasmanians with an update on the status of the two new Spirit of Tasmania vessels to give some certainty on their delivery.
Labor Member for Braddon Shane Broad said without a progress update, it is unclear whether the vessels will be delivered on time.
"The government signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with Finnish company Rauma Marine Constructions (RMC) in February, after the collapse of the original contract with German shipyard FSG," Dr Broad said.
"But, five months on, we have had no update on any contract or clear timeline of the ship build and delivery.
"The Spirit of Tasmania vessels are vital to Tasmania's economy, helping businesses reach interstate and international markets and bringing products into Tasmania, as well as serving as a popular passenger service for tourists.
"The construction of the new vessels is a critical project for Tasmania, particularly as the state recovers from the COVID-19 crisis.
"As Labor's COVID-19 Recovery Package points out, the North West region has been hardest hit by the pandemic outbreak and extended restrictions and needs this service to go forward and help the region recover.
"But, with no sign of any contract between TT-Line and RMC, it remains to be seen whether the ship build will begin as scheduled early next year. Surely, by now, there has been some progress.
"I call on the government to provide an update on the status of this vital project so that the people of the North West and all Tasmanians have some certainty coming out of this very uncertain time.
"We deserve to know whether these vessels will be delivered on time so we can plan for a better future for all Tasmanians."
Shane Broad MP
Labor Member for Braddon
