Labor has welcomed the government's belated backflip on the resumption of Tasmania's racing industry.
Shadow Minister for Racing, David O'Byrne, said today's news that trials would begin next week was well overdue.
"While it's pleasing the government has finally listened to Labor's advice, its inaction on this important issue has inflicted unnecessary pain on this industry," Mr O'Byrne said.
"It is disappointing that Peter Gutwein has accused us of playing politics when we have been advocating for the safe resumption of racing both publicly and privately with him for weeks. Labor asked questions in parliament on the 30th of April to both the Premier and the Racing Minister on this matter.
"Rather than resorting to personal attacks, the Premier and his racing Minister should have been working with the industry to resolve these issues weeks ago.
"While the government has worked with other sectors like building and retail to ensure they're able to continue operating during these uncertain times, it has treated the racing industry like a hobby pursuit.
"Public health only met with the industry yesterday to discuss their plan. The fact that racing trials are now proceeding is a concession, despite the Premier's rhetoric, that racing can proceed safely.
"Racing employs 5000 people across the state and generates more than 100 million dollars in economic activity.
"In other states, racing has been allowed to continue throughout the shutdown period, yet in Tasmania the racing industry has been treated with contempt.
"Peter Gutwein should be ashamed of the way he has managed the racing industry during this crisis and Labor hopes that any damage caused by his inaction can be overcome."
David O'Byrne MP
Shadow Minister for Racing
