In opposition the Liberals highlighted the case of Mr Barker, shot dead in cold blood in his East Street home, to embarrass the then Labor government which had axed the cold case unit.

While a serious crime squad has been established, no cold cases are yet being examined, almost a year after the Liberals were swept to power on a strong law and order platform.

‘‘It’s bringing heartache to our family, I mean it’s been five and  years. Jesus Christ give it three months with the cold case and come and talk to us, the family,‘‘’ said Shane’s brother Paul who’s never wavered from a determination to find the killer.

‘‘We always get a little bit peeved because the government always say there’s no money, but you know ... next week there’s $15 million for the Bellerive upgrade or something.

‘‘It’s not fair on the families that have got loved ones gone. I’ll fight for other people’s cold cases, if we’re not the first off the rank I don’t care as long as they are helping families because the cold case unit solves [murders].’’

Police Minister Rene Hidding has urged patience, expressing sympathy for the Barkers, but said a cold case capability cannot be rebuilt overnight.

‘‘We are making progress, with additional recruits currently undergoing training,’’ he said.

‘‘This sad case is one of a number of unsolved crimes in Tasmania, and we sympathise with all those impacted.’’

When asked if he could guarantee Shane Barker’s case would be looked at this year Mr Hidding said it was ‘‘completely inappropriate’’ to comment on individual cases.

After speaking to police Paul’s not convinced that a cold case unit would be difficult to get up and running quickly.

He said he wasn’t ungrateful for the efforts police have made, but was almost unbearable not knowing who killed his brother or why.

The serious crime squad has been boosted to seven officers in recent months with a full squad of 12 police due in the government’s first term.

It’s headed by Inspector Glenn Lathey, a determined investigator who did a stint with the National Crime Authority in the 90s.

Inspector Lathey also headed the cold case unit when it helped bring down double murderer Stephen Roy Standage.

Police working the Shane Barker case are currently going through ‘‘vehicles of interest’’, particularly a white Toyota Hilux captured on CCTV, which could hold the key to the murder.

They are contacting vehicle owners to determine their whereabouts around the time of Mr Barker’s murder.

An inquest is expected sometime this year.

Anyone with information is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800333000, where callers can remain anonymous, or Tasmania Police on 131444. 

A $50,000 reward is in place for information leading to the apprehension and conviction of the person or people responsible for Shane’s murder.