Labor welcomes the Premier's announcement today that Parliament will return to a more regular schedule.
Labor Leader Rebecca White said Labor had been lobbying for increased transparency measures on behalf of the Tasmanian public and had always indicated it was prepared to return to Parliament.
"Parliament is an essential part of our democracy. Labor has been working collaboratively with the government throughout this crisis, but there is no substitute for the transparency and scrutiny of Parliament.
"The decisions that have been made and the measures put in place have been necessary to limit the spread of COVID-19, but it is important there is transparency in decision making.
"The return of Parliament will provide for accountability and scrutiny."
Ms White said the government should move quickly to outline its intended format for Parliament.
"The Premier has indicated that the structure of sitting weeks may be shortened or changed. We would ask the government to collaborate with all members of Parliament before making any decisions about things like Question Time, Matters of Public Importance and Private Members' Time.
"Of course, it remains essential that appropriate social distancing measures are put in place to protect Members and Parliamentary staff."
Rebecca White MP
Tasmanian Labor Leader
