An “angry” Tasmanian government is eying a major overhaul of the state’s rail, ferry and port operators after the humiliation of the Spirit of Tasmania fiasco.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Premier Jeremy Rockliff confirmed on Sunday he would explore a merger between state-owned businesses TasPorts, TT-Line and TasRail as part of “much-needed” reform.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
However, the need for a lengthy review of this option means any merger might not come to fruition until late next year. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
An “angry” Tasmanian government is eying a major overhaul of the state’s rail, ferry and port operators after the humiliation of the Spirit of Tasmania fiasco.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Premier Jeremy Rockliff confirmed on Sunday he would explore a merger between state-owned businesses TasPorts, TT-Line and TasRail as part of “much-needed” reform.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
However, the need for a lengthy review of this option means any merger might not come to fruition until late next year. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
TasRail is a state-operated company that manages train lines and has operated freight-only services since 2009.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The Tasmanian government will undertake a detailed restructuring analysis to assess the proposal and ensure a smooth transition.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The analysis will also identify any potential regulatory, legal and competition issues. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
The work could take as long as six months, according to Mr Rockliff, who said the government would ensure due diligence before moving forward. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
If the analysis found the merger would be beneficial, the government would then move to introduce legislation in parliament. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Standing alongside Mr Rockliff, Tasmanian Chamber of Commerce board member Ian Jones welcomed the government’s plan. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
“We have been advocating for the last 12 months for review, so we look forward to being able to submit our input and we’re hoping for a great outcome,” he said.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Labor leader Dean Winter said the reforms announced by Mr Rockliff on Sunday mirrored those he proposed a month ago.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
He called on the premier to commit to legislating the changes by the end of the year, while warning Labor would fight any plans to sell off government businesses.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Mr Rockliff said the government had no plans to privatise the proposed merged body or the state’s hydro business. <\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"
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