Ruth’s opinion pieces and editorials on political, economic, and social issues facing Tasmania.
The day of reckoning is looming. The report by respected economist Saul Eslake into the state of the state’s finances, a condition of Jacqui Lambie Network (JLN) agreement with the…
Read moreChanging the GST rules to get Tasmania a ‘better deal’ might just be killing the goose that lays the golden eggs Undermining the GST system is not in Tasmania’s interest,…
Read moreThere is a need to take a genuine look at the big picture for our future when it comes to state and federal budgets. Preparing the groundwork for what is…
Read moreTHE scourge of family violence and violence against women is at the forefront of news coverage. The horrific statistics and lived reality for many women and their families in our…
Read moreInstead of appeasing its new partners, the government would be better served by a budget office, Let’s hope Premier Jeremy Rockliff has more success in achieving a workable parliament than…
Read moreThe state is facing a huge fiscal problem and it seems that neither of the major parties is prepared to address it, writes Ruth Forrest One of the classic strategies…
Read moreIf you’re having trouble understanding the electricity policies of parties as they vie for your vote, you’re not alone. Being Chair of three inquiries looking at various aspect of the…
Read moreOn the day the House of Assembly was dissolved to precipitate the March 23rd election, over a year ahead of the next election date committed to by the Premier, the…
Read moreThe assessment of state government debt makes for some uncomfortable reading, writes Ruth Forrest School is out and the ‘kids’ our House of Assembly representatives – have been sent home…
Read moreWhere there’s smoke there’s fire. All it will take is another wind shift and an early State election will be upon us. Retired warriors have been recruited to rejoin the…
Read moreThe start of a new school year is eagerly anticipated by many, but not all. Children learn in different ways therefore our educational systems must be adaptable and flexible. Access…
Read moreALL state governments are facing sustainability problems. Tasmania is no exception. The instability of the government increases the unwillingness to face reality. Rather than have honest discussions about our plight…
Read more