Opinion

Ruth’s opinion pieces and editorials on political, economic, and social issues facing Tasmania.

Safe access to abortions needed
Safe access to abortions needed

WOMEN on low incomes and in regional Tasmania are being disadvantaged because of a lack of abortion services in public hospitals, says Murchison MLC Ruth Forrest. She will move a…

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There’s not a state tax that is fair or efficient
There’s not a state tax that is fair or efficient

THIS year’s Federal budget and the Opposition response suggest there is $300 billion worth of revenue over the next 10 years that the Government is willing to hand back to…

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DO we still need the Legislative Council?
DO we still need the Legislative Council?

What is the role of the Tasmanian Legislative Council?  It is timely to consider this important question in light of recent public comment suggesting the Legislative Council lacks relevance and…

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The glaring need for a State Optometrist
The glaring need for a State Optometrist

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…

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Set name calling aside and agree on infrastructures plans
Set name calling aside and agree on infrastructures plans

Government 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…

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Mandatory sentencing a failed policy, a result of gutter politics
Mandatory sentencing a failed policy, a result of gutter politics

Ruth 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…

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Infrastructure investment is the key to our state’s success
Infrastructure investment is the key to our state’s success

The 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…

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DROP THE ALPHA MALE SCHOOLYARD BID FOR TASWATER AND CO-OPERATE
DROP THE ALPHA MALE SCHOOLYARD BID FOR TASWATER AND CO-OPERATE

Ruth 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.…

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Much more than just child’s play
Much more than just child’s play

Hobart 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.…

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Economic road trip – a mystery tour
Economic road trip – a mystery tour

The 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…

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Parliamentary inquiry  with focus on preventative care
Parliamentary inquiry with focus on preventative care

 The 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…

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It’s a matter of care and compassion
It’s a matter of care and compassion

March 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…

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