Ruth’s opinion pieces and editorials on political, economic, and social issues facing Tasmania.
The only promise missing from this election campaign is the one we most desperately need. A State Optometrist. Someone to check the vision of those responsible for the daily deluge…
Read moreGovernment hasn’t stuck to its agenda for major projects, says Ruth Forrest THE TasWater takeover Bill which will soon be discussed in the Legislative Council contains provisions requiring the new…
Read moreRuth Forrest says judges and courts must have power to balance crime with punishment TOUGH on crime or a political stunt to win votes? With barely three months having passed…
Read moreThe state needs to devise a better plan for infrastructure spending, says Ruth Forrest THE annual Budget circus is about to get under way. Will it be the same old…
Read moreRuth Forrest has a simpler, more collegial solution to state’s water, sewerage problems IT is a sure sign we are heading down the wrong track when disputing parties summon lawyers.…
Read moreHobart Mercury August 2, 2016 IT is often said that one’s health is everything. Those with good health and wellbeing often take it for granted until they experience its loss.…
Read moreThe Hobart Mercury – January 9, 2016 I’m not a monarchist but I do like the Queen. Especially when she asks pertinent questions as she did in 2009 when visiting the…
Read moreThe Hobart Mercury, March 16, 2016. A PARLIAMENTARY inquiry has recommended an overhaul of Tasmania’s preventative healthcare systems with the state lagging far behind the national average in several areas. A joint select…
Read moreMarch 19, 2016 12:00am – The Hobart Mercury – Opinion I used to work in the Safe Schools program that faces the axe. It was not called that then. It…
Read moreTHE regrettable trend in modern politics, whereby winning elections is far more important than governing, is evident wherever parliamentary government is practised. [...]Read More... from Tide is out on dams…
Read moreALL the heavy lifting has been done, all major decisions made. The Tasmanian Government is back on track. This is what the media releases and headlines tell us. But is…
Read moreAll Governments do it. Cherry picking figures to suit their narrative. The Treasurer released the Government’s Preliminary Outcomes Report for 2014/15 and proclaimed a much better result than the estimated outcome…
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