The Tasmanian Liberals must explain why they continue to hold the racing industry to a different standard than other sectors and refuse to let them resume race meets.
Shadow Minister for Racing David O'Byrne said the government's failure to include racing in the early move to Stage 2 restrictions is punitive and makes no sense.
"Labor welcomes the decision to bring forward the easing of restrictions to this Friday," Mr O'Byrne said.
"But the Liberals' decision to exclude the racing industry from the early start and make it wait until 13 June to reopen is farcical and, even worse, it is inflicting untold damage on an industry that is vital to Tasmania.
"Labor has been fielding complaints since Tasmania became the only state or territory to shut down the racing industry because of COVID-19, despite the industry taking its own steps to protect public health.
"And while the government worked with other sectors like building and retail to help them continue operating during the COVID-19 crisis, it has treated the racing industry with contempt.
"The result has been disastrous, with horses and trainers leaving the state, putting jobs and livelihoods at risk.
"The government had to be pushed by Labor to begin racing trials but even when they were successfully completed two weeks ago, it refused to budge the industry remained on hold. Now, it must wait a week longer, while other businesses are able to start reopening and getting back on track.
"The government must explain why the racing industry is being treated differently, when it has a COVID-ready plan including the banning of spectators and strict social distancing measures.
"Racing employs more than 5,000 Tasmanians and generates more than $100 million in economic activity, and every week that the industry remains shut down risks those jobs and threatens the industry's viability.
To leave an already reeling industry in limbo without explanation is completely unacceptable. The industry and the thousands of Tasmanians it employs deserve much better.
David O'Byrne MP
Shadow Minister for Racing
