‘Weeks of lost opportunities’: oppositions criticise July 17 opening date

THE Chief Minister’s opposition have slammed his decision to wait four weeks and reopen the NT’s borders on July 17

THE Chief Minister’s opposition have slammed his decision to wait four weeks and reopen the NT’s borders on July 17.

Country Liberal Party Leader Lia Finocchiaro, who this week proposed opening the borders on Monday, said the wait would mean “weeks of lost opportunities” for Territory businesses that now could not capitalise on the school holidays and critical dry season tourist trade.

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Territory Alliance Leader Terry Mills, a supporter of creating a travel bubble with South Australia and Western Australia, accused Mr Gunner of basing his decision on “election timing”.

However, Mr Gunner said his decision was based on advice from chief health officer Dr Hugh Heggie and the need to be “absolutely sure” that the rate of coronavirus spread in southern states was under control.

According to legal advice he’d received, Mr Gunner also said the creation of travel bubbles could be inconsistent with the constitution, with the risk heightened because of the NT’s lack of statehood.

Mr Gunner, pre-empting criticism from the opposition parties, said he didn’t have the “luxury” to wash his hands of responsibility if things went wrong.

“I know I can’t make everyone happy, but I can keep people safe, and alive,” Mr Gunner said. “That is why I am listening to the expert medical advice, like I have always done.”

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Mr Mills said the Chief Minister was on “a callous power trip” while hurting local businesses that needed the dry season visitors now.

He said it was also a blow for families trapped on other sides of the borders.

“July 17 will mean weeks of lost opportunities for Territory businesses that could have capitalised on the school holidays,” Mr Mills said.