Almost five times as many jobs could be lost if the forestry peace deal is rejected than if it is implemented, a socio-economic study released today has found.
Regional Development Minister Simon Crean is in Hobart today to release the results of the study which he described as a ``wake up call''.
The report predicted 405 direct and indirect jobs would be lost as a result of slashing wood supply to 137,000 cubic metres as proposed in the Tasmanian Forests Agreement. However, the report also considered the impact of a ``do nothing approach'' and found 1933 jobs could go.
Mr Crean said the results should make the Legislative Council's decision on whether or not to approve legislation to enact the agreement a ``no brainer''.
Premier Lara Giddings also urged MLCs who are set to vote on the legislation next month to take heed of the stark comparison painted in the report.
``It has now been over two months since Parliament debated this legislation and I believe there has been more than enough time to make a decision,'' Ms Giddings said.
Dr Bob Smith, a director of Forestry Tasmania, conducted the study.
Mr Crean denied his declared potential conflict of interest did not undermine the validity of the figures.
