The opportunity for a wide-ranging Parliamentary Inquiry aimed at establishing greater protections for both the building industry and homeowners has been lost after a shameful shutdown today by the Gutwein Liberal Government.
Shadow Building and Construction Minister Jen Butler said both builders and homeowners looking for improved laws and regulation in the industry would not forget the inexcusable behaviour of the government and responsible Minister Elise Archer who, by voting against the proposed inquiry, were burying their heads in the sand on important issues in the construction industry.
"Voting for this inquiry in the Parliament this afternoon was the government's opportunity to put an end to an on-going rash of needlessly unresolved housing construction issues," Ms Butler said.
"Voting for this inquiry was the Liberal's chance to acknowledge that the building and construction industry is booming but both the industry and consumers are being let down by a handful of shonky builders and we need to guarantee and protect the quality reputation that Tasmanian builders have.
"It was the chance to give assurance to the building and construction industry that it cannot continue to be undermined by a few shonky builders whose practices undermine the reputation of the whole industry.
"It was the chance to examine the adequacy of current legislation and regulation available to Consumer, Building and Occupational Services and send a message to consumers they would not have to resort to costly private legal action to get shoddy work rectified.
"But the Liberal Government has deliberately allowed that opportunity to pass and they have let down builders and homeowners who often face needless heartache and considerable expense.
"Regardless of Liberal's refusal to get on board this important issue today, Labor will continue to advocate for the change that is needed and put pressure on the government to agree to an inquiry so consumers and industry can have their say on how protections can be improved."
Jen Butler MP
Shadow Building and Construction Minister
