The new Spirits project, when fully delivered, is going to be a great thing for the Tasmanian economy and for Tasmanian businesses.
But according to a report from the Department of State Growth, Tasmanian taxpayers will have to find another $12 million for Jeremy Rockliff's Spirits fiasco.
$5 million worth of maintenance to the existing Spirits will be required - a cost taxpayers will only incur because the current Spirits must remain in service while the new ships are stuck in Europe.
And because we still need the current ships, TT-Line can't sell them and use the proceeds to help pay for the new ones. It means Tasmanian taxpayers will be forced to pay an additional $7 million worth of interest .
The extra $12 million can be added to a growing list that includes:
- $13 million increase to "fixed-price contract"
- $81 million to bail out the Finnish shipbuilder RMC
- $285 million Berth 3 cost blowout
- $1.2 million per month storing the new Spirits in Scotland
And that's before you include the fact it is costing the Tasmanian economy $500 million every year the new ships are delayed.
The Premier claims he has been transparent, so he should explain who's paying for this. Will TT-Line need an increase in its loan facility? Will it require an equity injection?
How much is he willing to admit this entire fiasco will cost taxpayers?
I've been contacted by Tasmanians who want to know how they can opt out of paying for the Liberal minority government's stuff-up.
Haven't Tasmanians already paid enough for this debacle?
The Ships should be brought home to Tasmania. They should be fitted out by Tasmanian contractors and accommodated by TasPorts at no cost to taxpayers.
Dean Winter MP
Labor Leader
Shadow Minister for Tourism & Hospitality
