Embattled shipbuilder Flensburger Schiffbau-Gesellschaft may still construct the new Spirit of Tasmania vessels but TT-Line is keeping its options open.
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TT-Line has been meeting with FSG following revelations it was recently bailed-out from near-bankruptcy by German investors and reports of an exodus of engineers.
Minister for Infrastructure Jeremy Rockliff said TT-Line had advised the government this week it was continuing discussions with FSG amid fear the new Spirits could be delayed.
"A contract with FSG remains in place and detailed design work is progressing, however, TT-Line is also continuing to have discussions with other shipbuilders in case the situation changes," Mr Rockliff said.
"... It is important to note that no money has changed hands and the Tasmanian Government will not pay one cent until there are assurances around FSG's capacity to fulfil the contract and a refund guarantee is in place."
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Labor accused Mr Rockliff on misleading Tasmania on the delivery date for the new Spirits after their concerns were dismissed when raised during Estimates for the past two years.
Shadow Minister for Roads and Infrastructure David O'Byrne said Mr Rockliff needed to admit when he first knew the ferries would not be delivered.
"It is clear that Jeremy Rockliff lied to the Estimates Committee and the Parliament about the chaotic state of the replacement vessel project," he said.
"Today's admission from Mr Rockliff means whether it is at FSG or another shipyard, the ships will not be delivered anywhere near on time."
Mr O'Byrne said it was dishonest for the government to claim no money had been spent on "rescuing the Spirits" because of the cost of discussions.
"This is just the latest example of the Hodgman Government's failure to deliver major infrastructure projects," he said.
Mr Rockliff said the government awaited further advice from TT-Line "as to FSG's capacity to deliver the ships in-line with the contract".
"The Government will continue to update Tasmanians on any further progress," he said.