Media alert | Friday, 8 March 2024
Seven independent candidates will hold a media conference outside Tasmania’s parliament on Friday pledging to fight to end native forest logging.
Clarke MP Kristie Johnston, former House speaker turned independent Sue Hickey and Franklin candidate Martine Delaney are among independents who are signing the Forest Pledge to end native forest logging.
They will be joined by Franklin candidates Tamar Cordover, Clark candidates David Nunn and Frank Formby, and Animal Justice Party candidate for Clark Casey Davies. Other candidates are expected to attend.
Where: Parliament lawns, Hobart
When: 12pm Friday, 8 March 2024
Kristie Johnston said: “It is critical that we end the logging of our native forests that is driving runaway climate change.
“Traditional Labor and Liberal voters who want native forest logging to end finally have someone to back – independents who are serious about protecting our precious forests.”
Sue Hickey said: “I am astounded that the Liberal Party is trying to restart the forestry wars. Tasmanians have fought long and hard to protect our forests and not even the industry wants to see a return to those dark days.”
Australia institute spokesperson Vanessa Bleyer said: “Multiple candidates from across the political spectrum know that native forest logging does not make economic sense and is needlessly destroying the environment.
“Our research shows seven in 10 Australians want to see an end to native forest logging.
“Less than 1 per cent of Tasmanian jobs are in native forestry, yet the major parties have used taxpayer money to subsidise the industry to the tune of more than $1 billion.
Others who are signing the pledge include Franklin independent candidate Clare Glade Wright, and Clark candidates Ben Lohberger, Sam Campbell and Ranae Zollner.
Jacqui Lambie Network candidates declined to sign onto the initiative to protect Tasmania’s native forests.
Media contact:
Vanessa Bleyer
0412 586 848
