Jessica Munday set to run in Franklin in captain’s pick by leader Dean Winter
One of Tasmania’s most respected union leaders has received the nod to run at the state election. Why she has sought preselection.
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Unions Tasmania secretary Jessica Munday is set to run for Labor in Franklin at the state election in a captain’s call.
It is understood Dean Winter wants her on his team.
Ms Munday confirmed she had nominated and will take leave from her job to campaign.
Many in the party were furious she was not chosen by the ALP’s national executive to fill the casual Senate vacancy when Anne Urquhart retired to contest the federal seat of Braddon.
Ms Munday said the July 19 election was “a turning point for our island”.
“When Dean Winter asked me to join his team and run in this election I thought long and hard about it,” she said.
“I’m running because I genuinely believe that this election can be a turning point for our island.
“On the one hand we can double down on Liberal privatisation, and cuts to jobs and services.
“Or, we can go for a fresh start with a new Labor government, and embrace a positive future for Tasmania where we pick up those left behind, stand behind our workers, and invest to give the community the public services they deserve.”
Ms Munday first joined the union movement when she was studying at the University of Tasmania and working two jobs.
“I’ve spent my whole life fighting for working people in Tasmania, because I know what it’s like to struggle to get by,” she said
“I’ve worked in supermarkets and call centres, and I joined the union movement to help support my workmates.”
She was secretary of the Community and Public Sector Union before taking on the top job at Unions Tasmania.
“Over the last decade leading the union movement in Tasmania, I’ve fought against Liberal Party cuts to jobs and take home pay for workers, and better services for the whole Tasmanian community.
“I’m a mum of three incredible kids who I don’t want to have to leave Tasmania to get a job that pays well or to have decent access to health and education.
“Tasmanians shouldn’t settle for less just because we are the smallest state.”
Some party members have been critical of her support for former leader David O’Byrne and one expressed shock at her backing from Mr Winter.
Health and Community Services Union secretary Robbie Moore said she was “exactly the right person” for parliament.
“She has drive, motivation and persistence and is always fighting for Tasmanian workers.”
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Originally published as Jessica Munday set to run in Franklin in captain’s pick by leader Dean Winter
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