Bass MP Janie Finlay: Marinus Link business case withheld from Labor

Labor has accused the Liberals of blocking access to a business plan for one of the nation’s biggest energy projects, the Marinus Link undersea interconnector.

Bass Labor MP Janie Finlay at Trevallyn Dam on issues about the Marinus Link business case. Picture: Alison Foletta

Labor has accused the Liberals of blocking access to a business plan for one of the nation’s biggest energy projects, the Marinus Link undersea interconnector.

Bass Labor MP Janie Finlay made the claim on Saturday following a media report suggesting the project may be at risk of falling over.

“Days after the election, the Liberals have been found actively withholding information,” Ms Finlay said.

Marinus link supplied image

“It’s not just that in response to Tasmanian Labor’s call for a full briefing on the whole-of-government business case for Marinus that‘s been withheld, it’s that it’s been actively blocked by the premier. That’s not okay, particularly at a time when Tasmanians are seeking for their parliament to work together and to build trust.”

Ms Finlay said the government was days away from a “critical decision” on Marinus and access to the information was critical.

“Tasmanian Labor have repeatedly call on the Liberals to reveal this information.” she said.

“What is in this business case they don’t want Tasmanians or Tasmanian Labor to know?”

The decision for stage one cable was promised by July 31.

According to The Australian, a source accused Premier Jeremy Rockliff or his staff of blocking a briefing to Labor by Energy Minister Nick Duigan.

Artist's impression of Marinus Link cable on Bass Strait seafloor.

Mr Duigan said the government was working “sensibly and methodically” when it came to the future of Marinus Link.

“The Tasmanian Government is working closely with the Commonwealth and Victorian Governments regarding the Marinus interconnector project,” he said.

“This is a vital project for the state, and Tasmania must ensure we get the best possible deal.

“We are carefully and methodically working through the details, with a decision expected soon. Once this is finalised, all relevant information will be publicly released. The opposition will be briefed in line with caretaker conventions.”

Ms Finlay said the conventions were clear.

“It is incumbent upon the Liberals to make sure non-government members are briefed on critical decisions that might impact a future government,” she said.

Originally published as Bass MP Janie Finlay: Marinus Link business case withheld from Labor