ALL sides of the Tasmanian political divide have paid tribute to former Tasmanian Senator Brian Harradine.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
$0/
(min cost $0)
or signup to continue reading
Mr Harradine, known as Tasmania's "father of the Senate" died at his Hobart home yesterday, and was the longest-serving independent senator in Australia's parliamentary history.
Deputy Premier Jeremy Rockliff said Mr Harradine was a man of "strong principles" who fought for Tasmania.
"He was justly known as a man of integrity who believed in the dignity of all people," Mr Rockliff said.
Opposition Leader Bryan Green said Mr Harradine was a "tireless advocate for Tasmania".
"He achieved an enormous amount for the state during his long political career," Mr Green said.
Greens leader Kim Booth said Mr Harradine's service representing the state "would not be forgotten".
"While we may not always have agreed with Mr Harradine over a range of issues, we do acknowledge his tireless commitment in standing up for his beliefs and his dogged determination to defend Tasmania's rights in Canberra," Mr Booth said.
Mr Booth said Mr Harradine would be remembered for his "wily negotiations", which secured $350 million for Tasmania from the part sale of Telstra.
Tasmanian Liberal Senator Eric Abetz said the loss of Mr Harradine would be felt by the whole community.
"Brian's life was one of dedication to values and principles, humble service to his fellow man and a love for all things Tasmanian," Senator Abetz said.
"His crafty negotiating skills, especially when holding the balance of power in the Senate, delivered huge dividends for his beloved state of Tasmania," he said.