Smith quits forest group

Views at odds with minister’s position on state-owned business

FORMER Upper House president Sue Smith has quit a forestry advisory group set up by Resources Minister Paul Harriss less than a month after speaking out about the viability of Forestry Tasmania.

Mrs Smith’s public statements about Forestry Tasmania had put her at odds with Mr Harriss, who has ruled out dismantling the state-owned forestry business.

He had previously said her resignation had not been discussed as a result of her comments but yesterday announced he had accepted her resignation from his ministerial advisory council.

“Mrs Smith has advised me that she believes her public position on forestry issues has become detrimental to the council’s work, and has therefore submitted her resignation,” he said.

“I have spoken to Sue and accepted her resignation with genuine regret, and a sincere expression of thanks for her very significant contribution to the council’s formative stages.

“I have worked with Mrs Smith for the best part of 20 years and her decision is consistent with her commitment to the public interest ahead of any personal consideration.”

Comments attributed to Mrs Smith were included in a statement Mr Harriss issued.

“I want to emphasise that my reason for resigning is to give clear air to the members to progress the council’s work,” the statement said.

“Unfortunately, my private views and recent public comments about Forestry Tasmania have proved a distraction to the important work of the council. I wish the council and the Government all the best in their important work in rebuilding the forest industry in Tasmania.”

Mrs Smith could not be reached for further comment yesterday.

Opposition Leader Bryan Green said she had simply told the truth when she said the Forestry Tasmania should be wound up.

“[The Government] has effectively put them into administration, they’re selling off their assets and sacking workers, she let the cat out of the bag,” Mr Green said.

“Sue Smith would not have taken kindly to a minister effectively gagging her.”

He said Mr Harriss had lost control of his portfolio and should resign or be sacked.

Forest Industries Association of Tasmania chief executive Terry Edwards, an advisory council member, issued a statement rejecting any suggestion Mrs Smith had been pushed.