Crisis talks between the State Government and forestry industry will continue tomorrow but the industry can not say exactly what it wants out of the meeting.
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Tasmanian Forest Contractors Association executive officer Ed Vincent this morning met with Resources Minister Bryan Green to begin discussions but neither party was forthcoming
about what sort of package was needed.
The state's 120 contracting companies have halved their workforce from a combined total of about 800 during the past year as the downturn hits, with those remaining operating
at just 40 per cent and more woodchip mill shutdowns taking effect from this week.
Premier David Bartlett and Treasurer Michael Aird will join Mr Green and industry representatives at a meeting tomorrow.
Mr Vincent said he hoped money, additional to the $1.8 million already assisting those struggling, would be forthcoming in next month's budget.
But, Mr Vincent said it was yet to be determined what sort and how many exit packages were needed.
He also said it was not known what number of contractors was sustainable for the state into the future.
Mr Green said a ``well thought out plan'' was being developed to enable the industry to move forward and the government would be as supportive as possible.
