Jacqui Lambie (Tasmania, Independent) Share this | Hansard source

My question without notice is to the senator representing the Prime Minister, Senator Abetz. I refer the senator to a letter to the Joint Commonwealth and Tasmanian Economic Council on behalf of 330 employees at the Boyer Paper Mill and the other 900 Tasmanians who rely directly on the mill's survival.

The letter notes, 'A significant cost disadvantage associated with shipping across Bass Strait has been known to the government for many years. But, with respect, the required reforms have yet to be implemented and an immediate solution is required in relation to international export costs if businesses in Tasmania are to survive.' When did the senator become aware of the letter, and does he agree that the 330 employees jobs at the Boyer Paper Mill and the other 900 Tasmanian jobs that are at risk if an immediate solution to international export costs from Tasmania is not found?