In the cabinet reshuffle, Michael Ferguson, who was Information and Technology Minister in the previous term of government was also given the responsibilities of Health and Police and Emergency management.

Launceston Chamber of Commerce chief executive Neil Grose said he had heard concerns from several members about the sheer responsibility Mr Ferguson has.

“Several businesses in the IT and communication space have spoken with the Chamber and are concerned it may not get the ministerial attention they see as being important to the ongoing strategic and economic development of technology in Tasmania,” Mr Grose said.

Mr Grose said business owners believed Information and Technology would be pushed to the bottom of the pack in Mr Ferguson’s responsibilities, simply because of the size of his portfolio responsibilities. 

“The concern is the signal that it sends to those in the tech sector that the fastest-growing sector in the world’s economy doesn’t receive higher prominence.” he said.

“While the portfolio rests with one of the most senior ministers in the government, there is a perceived risk that it may get lost in the day-today politics of health and to a lesser degree emergency services.”

Mr Grose said a key ICT priority for the government should be finding out how Launceston can leverage its connection to the NBN.

“Is there a way private enterprise can facilitate the further extension of fibre connectivity to more businesses and homes as distinct to waiting for NBNCo?”

Mr Grose said Mr Ferguson had always been approachable in the past but some members had wished to see more priority given to it. Mr Ferguson said the portfolio was an “important focus area” over the next term of government.

”I have always retained a personal interest in this area and will continue to give it the time that it deserves. The key priorities for the IT sector over our next term of government are contained in our policy.”