Voting
IT IS now only March next year when probably Tasmanians will go to the polls to elect members of the House of Assembly. It could be called earlier.
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Given the vagaries of the Hare-Clark electoral system, it is a brave person who would predict the result. As well as the Liberals, Labor and the Greens, it is thought there will be a strong push from new contenders the Nationals and One Nation.
Tim Colby and all will stand as candidates as well. The result should be fascinating given the massive disillusionment with the major parties, which are seen to be out of touch and not representing the ideas and aspirations of many.
The governor will earn every cent of her $750,000 a year plus plus remuneration package to decide on whom to call to form government. How about the scenario of a Green, One Nation and Nationals Coalition, some will do anything to get government.
Malcolm Scott, Newstead.
Senator statements
I AM guessing here, but using Malcolm Roberts’ logic on the Security Council resolution on Israeli settlements. I am assuming that he is completely in agreement that as Australia has been occupied by Aboriginal people now for 40,000 plus years, that Aboriginal people have a right to build anywhere they want in Australia. Nice move Mr Roberts.
Queensland Senator Malcolm Roberts said he was appalled by the Security Council resolution, which called for an immediate end to any and all settlement activities in disputed zones, including East Jerusalem, which he said "have contained Jewish settlements since Biblical times".
Pete Godfrey, Golden Valley.
Pensioners
PENSIONERS and welfare recipients are set upon while the high rollers in the corporate tax avoiding sectors are “overlooked”. Why? Their unpaid taxes would more than balance the budget.
Elsa de Ruyter, St Helens.
Thank you
I JUST spent 124 days in the Launceston General Hospital and would like to thank the surgical team and staff on Ward 5A for their wonderful care. Also the meal ladies and young cleaner who brighten up the room when they come in. Once again, thank you so much.
Mark Sims, Squeaking Point.
Priority
WHAT an unbelievable start to 2017 by Health Minister Michael Ferguson by making a New Year resolution that fixing the health system would be his priority. What has his priority been since he was appointed Health Minister? Unfortunately Mr Ferguson seems to be the same as several of his fellow Liberal state ministers who couldn't care less about looking after the men, women and children of Tasmania that the portfolios they hold are responsible for.
Mick Leppard, Invermay.
Australian Economy
DURING the Gillard years there was a ceaseless attack by the then Opposition about the "debt and deficit disaster and the budget emergency. Now in government, four years on, the budget is now infinitely worse but the government still touts its superior economic credentials.
Following on the 2014 horror budget the government's strategy is based on spending cuts and savings from the most disadvantaged and poorest members of our society. The zeal in attacking these people is not matched by a similar desire to raise revenue from the perks of the wealthy and the tax evaders.
If every person and company paid their proper tax there would not be a deficit, this country can never achieve financial stability without considering the utmost importance of raising sufficient revenue.