About 12 months ago the Liberals won the state election on a promise of stable and majority government.
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A few weeks ago, to recognise the anniversary of the election, Premier Will Hodgman told The Examiner his government had achieved what they set out to do for the first 12 months. This was an impressive feat, given it was lacking the stability and, at times, the majority.
Moving forward into 2019, the Liberals would have wanted to put aside the dramas of Adam Brooks, Sue Hickey, Sarah Courtney and Rene Hidding.
This would be easier to do if it wasn't for the ongoing industrial action that is escalating at a rapid rate.
Question time, in parliament on Wednesday, highlighted the industrial action.
A specific question to the Premier, from Oppostion Leader Rebecca White, asked Will Hodgman to rule out standing down nurses due to industrial action. The Premier was quick to highlight the fact Labor "permanently stood down" hundreds of nurses during their recent term in government. But, he did not deny the unprecedented action of standing down nurses would happen.
"Tasmanians suffer as a result of industrial action being undertaken, when we have an improved offer on the table, of course we will consider what options are available - not only to remind union leaders, members and staff what is expected and required of them but also to inform them of the potentially serious impacts of what is being suggested," Mr Hodgman said, in response to the question.
Last week, the Health Minister said "where duties aren't performed, industrial measures including pay reductions and stand-downs will be pursued". The Premier was also right in calling on the unions to come to the table with a counter offer. Nurses have the right to take industrial action. However, union representatives should also demonstrate a willingness to negotiate.
In the end - no one wins. Patients do not win, staff do not win, and the government will not win - unless both parties resume conversations respectfully and in good faith.