· Liberal by-election skills promise has not been fulfilled
· Implementation Plan for $3.9 million job ready generation package due April 30
· Failure to invest in skills is holding the state back
Liberal Governments at both state and federal level must explain why the funds promised for skills and training at last year's Braddon by-election still haven't been delivered.
Last July the Federal Liberal Government promised $3.9 million in 'real money' to deliver training to 600 Tasmanians.
More than nine months later, the total funding has not been delivered despite the desperate need for skilled workers, significant decreases in apprenticeship numbers and the immediate need for workforce planning for key North-West projects.
Labor Shadow Minister for Regional Development, Anita Dow, said: "The project agreement for the North-West Tasmania Job Ready Generation Package was only signed last month.
"Under the agreement the State Government must develop an implementation plan by April 30, before any funds will flow. That is just four days away.
"The Tasmanian Liberal Government must reveal whether it will meet this deadline and commit to releasing the implementation plan and the details of the initiatives to be funded under the agreement.
"How will this package improve access to skills, training and pathways to employment for North-West Tasmanians and access to a skilled workforce for industry? Will additional funding be provided to TasTAFE?
"A notable absence from the package is the service sector and its significant contribution to this region's economy.
"A lack of skills is the number one issue that gets raised with us through our Industry Advisory Councils. Investing in our people makes our local economies and communities stronger.
"The failure to invest in skills and training is denying young Tasmanians job opportunities and is holding our economy back."
Anita Dow MP
Shadow Minister for Regional Development
