Opinion
Ruth’s opinion pieces and editorials on political, economic, and social issues facing Tasmania.
Taking temperature on state’s open border plan
The 2021-22 health budget includes many initiatives seeking to address the long-standing pressures and failures in our acute health services. These pressures existed prior to the COVID-19 pandemic which has…
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We cannot waste time to address the family violence pandemic
Family violence is a shadow pandemic plaguing society and we must take urgent action the issue, WE HAVE much to do to address the very real challenge of gender-based violence…
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It’s critical that we understand how government grants work
Stoking the fires of parochialism is easy. Anthony Haneveer’s commentary on May 29 (“We love you Hobart, but get over yourselves”) could be seen to perpetuate parochialism. In response to…
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Bittersweet loss of leatherwood
We can make honey forever from leatherwood forest, but we’re losing it fast NORTH-WEST and Western Tasmania contain many unique tree species. Huon, King Billy and Celery top pines are…
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May 1 poll takes the axe to Upper House independence
WHILE an early election was not unexpected, few expected such an indecent and a disingenuous rush to the ballot box. The signs had been there for weeks, a government clearing…
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Opportunistic or just an indecent rush to election
My opinion piece, provided in full can been read here: The signs have been there for some weeks. A government clearing the decks with promised, significant legislation related to key…
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Understanding our small communities critical for good outcomes
Made up of many small communities, our beautiful North-West Coast provides economic benefit to our state well above many of the more populous areas. Every community is unique and special,…
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Tassie can bank on the finance lessons taught by COVID-19
COVID-19 caused enormous suffering and hardship, socially, economically and personally. Some were directly impacted more than others but no one remains untouched. We learned new ways of doing things and…
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Those with power and privilege must be prepared to be held to account
Parliament is a workplace. There are members, parliamentary staff, ministers and their staff and public servants of varying ages gender and seniority. Workplaces have a culture, the way they do…
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Recognising family violence goes beyond the physical
This year has been a challenging one in so many ways. Pressure on our relationships from family, to friends and colleagues, has been profound. For some, it has also heightened…
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Paying more than lip-service to gaming aims
The government’s Future Gaming Market policy, which should finally see the light of day this parliamentary session, includes, among others, two aims: to ensure returns from the gaming industry are…
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Talking Point: Tasmania’s Upper House heading for a pointless stalemate
Tasmanians don’t need a return to schoolyard brawling at such a time in our history. For the first time in Tasmania, the Legislative Council is likely to have a majority…
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Newest Posts
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