My ideal government
MY ideal government would abolish gambling machines except in very few casinos, take enormous care with irreplaceable areas of our environment (East Coast, Tarkine, old-growth forest), and commit to an integrated public transport system, recognising that a one-ticket system that includes ferry, train, tram and bus works very well in many cities. Medium-rise accommodation in Glenorchy and near areas along with enhanced transport seems a practical way forward. Cable cars, one from Glenorchy (Tolosa St?) to the summit and one from the summit to the city could link with the light rail, bike and walking tracks and perhaps the ferries.
The West Hobart bypass will probably be less expensive than a tunnel system. The Mona plans for Macquarie Point are the best I have seen with the great idea of a central monument commemorating the history of the first Tasmanians and the sad and difficult interactions with European settlers as well as their ancient history. We live in a very special place and we need to look after it with great care. plished. I wrote back that I want to hear more of what they are going to accomplish if they are elected. A short while later a letter arrives saying words to the effect that we need not worry as his Government is going to address each and every one of our suggestions and concerns. How about we begin by having these politicians stop spending our money on their postage telling us how great they are. strong leaning to them, this seems a major shortcoming. In that regard it is a disappointment, to me, that Sue Hickey has hitched her moderate and sensible wagon to the Right-wing party run by those such as Abetz and McQuestin. If she had run as an independent, then I feel that she would have succeeded and been able to make a more constructive contribution.
Take lead on cigarettes
KATHRYN Barnsley deserves congratulations for her article about action that can significantly reduce the immense damage done by cigarettes (Talking Point, January 18). Through flavours, filter, and other technological gimmicks, tobacco companies have quietly developed new products that are more enticing, easier to smoke, tastier, more attractive to children — and even more deadly.
Governments have a responsibility to inform consumers about these new harms being visited on us by the world’s most disreputable industry, and they can act to regulate the product itself. This issue — literally a matter of life and death, with an especial focus on protecting children and young people — should be above politics. I urge all parties to support strong policies to regulate the tobacco industry’s lethal products. If Tasmania takes the lead in promoting strong action, other states and territories are likely to follow, enabling a national approach; and we will all be in your debt.