workers’ rights or safety
else. And there lies the problem, these “branded” protesters have been taught that their ideology is more important than the law or showing respect for others. They have found a loophole in the law where the punishment doesn’t fit the crime and they dismiss the human impact.
Human impact is important, and it is this that has brought on the need for changes to the legislation, to make the punishment fit the crime.
As large regional employers our industry understands its obligations when looking after the mental health and wellbeing of workers.
Following an incident staff need support, some need time off and some are traumatised for months. It really is that serious for us.
Just imagine what would happen if someone invaded your office building, worksite, school or factory. There would be outrage and a series of support measures immediately put in place to support all those affected. That’s what we have to do, every time.
These invasions and the trauma they cause are followed by cheers from environmentalists, token fines paid for by a charity and then unbelievably a platform to brag about it using social and traditional media.
People straight out of court, who have been found guilty of a crime and charged are then given an opportunity to brag about it. Not many criminals get that opportunity, society wouldn’t stand for it.
This is a clear sign that the punishment does not fit the crime and these extremists have been allowed, by a shortcoming of the law, to make a mockery of the courts, the police processes, and societies expectation that ALL workplaces be safe and free from bullying and intimidation. It’s time to show the same respect for forestry that all other businesses enjoy and recognise that our local forestry industry is modern, environmentally responsible and is critical to supporting local businesses.
We are an important part of your community and we support you.
All we ask is for reasonable protection of the Tasmanian forestry industry and our workers from extremist behaviour.