The Chair of TASCORP has admitted what Will Hodgman and Peter Gutwein would not - there's no date in sight for the arrival of the new Spirit of Tasmania vessels.
Shadow Treasurer David O'Byrne said the decision to buy new ships was announced with much fanfare, but the project has been plagued with issues.
"TT-Line signed a $688 million contract with a European shipbuilder after the Government promised delivery of two new Spirit of Tasmania vessels in 2021 to replace the current fleet.
"This is the largest infrastructure project in the state's history, and we know the German shipyard contracted to build the new vessels is in trouble, but Will Hodgman wouldn't make it a priority to visit the shipbuilder on his trip to Europe last month.
"While the government is quick to restate that no deposit has been paid to the shipbuilder, TasCorp was not able to say today what financial risk to taxpayers is created by an account to fund the deposit."
Mr O'Byrne said TT-Line should come to GBE hearings this week prepared to explain the state of the project to Tasmanians.
"TT-Line has been silent since February and the release of their annual report provides no update on expected delivery of the Spirit of the new Tasmania vessels.
"Tasmanians deserve to know whether these vessels will be delivered on time and on budget, and have reassurance that taxpayers' money is safe.
"The Spirit of Tasmania vessels are critical to Tasmania's economy. This project is far too important to fall victim to Will Hodgman's mismanagement."
David O'Byrne
Shadow Treasurer
