Michael Ferguson has failed to justify his decision to increase TT-Line freight rates at a time when many businesses and households are so vulnerable.
Shadow Minister for Infrastructure, Shane Broad, said Minister Ferguson had some serious explaining to do.
"In the post Covid-19 recession many Tasmanian businesses are teetering on the edge of a cliff and any price shocks could send them over the edge," Dr Broad said
"The decision to increase freight rates by 2 per cent at this time exposes just how out of touch Michael Ferguson is.
"Price rises across Bass Strait ultimately affect the cost of living of every single Tasmanian through increases in groceries and other essential items.
"Transport operators who are already doing it tough have had no choice but to pass on these increases to their freight customers. This is especially impacting the agricultural sector.
"Today in Parliament Michael Ferguson claimed to be talking to transport operators about the decision to increase freight rates - but his inability to justify a decision that impacts the cost of living of all Tasmanians is not good enough and Tasmanians deserve better."
Shane Broad MP
Shadow Infrastructure Minister
