Par Avion chief joins leaders in questioning lack of data around Public Health decision-making

Tourism operators demand to know what Public Health says is a satisfactory level of risk amid a lack of data behind Tasmania’s extended border closures.

• Hotel escapee free from jail after doomed COVID Subway run
• Border call based on ‘advice about public anxiety’

AN AVIATION tourism operator has labelled the state government’s lack of transparency around why borders will not reopen before December 1 as “public servant bulls---”.

Shannon Wells, managing director of Par Avion has joined scientific and industry leaders who have questioned the lack of medical data in Public Health’s decision-making.

“We need to have more clarity. A date is useless, we need to know what Public Health says is a satisfactory level of risk,” Mr Wells said.

“The lack of metric and the fact they’re not allowing dancing but kids can play contact sport together but can’t dance at a formal ... it’s typical public servant bulls---.

Shannon Wells Managing Director for Par Avion. Picture: RICHARD JUPE

“There are livelihoods at stake here and we’re not getting any transparency. I’m very stunned in the lack of transparency in the decision-making other than ‘I’m a doctor, trust me.’”

Mr Wells suggested a ‘magic number’ or clear metric to understand why the border date has been set, and if the December 1 date will go ahead.

He said businesses need reassurance to begin taking bookings and preparing to ramp up again.

“I think the Premier was very brave to shut the borders, but I think it’s going to be braver to open them,” Mr Wells said.

The sun’s always shining above the clouds! ⠀ Thanks to Pilot Kayle for capturing this serene scene this morning, what a way to start the day ⛅️

Posted by Par Avion on Wednesday, 26 August 2020

At Par Avion, Mr Wells has flying students slated for lessons in October, but can’t find a way to get them into the state other than putting them in hotel quarantine.

“I’m happy to pay for it, but there is no discussion about what are some alternative ways that businesses, schools, or the community can get people into (the state),” he said.

Mr Wells said if travelling between states with zero cases, there’s little possibility of COVID-19 transmission, and that trust needs to be placed in other states and territories.

Shannon Wells Managing Director for Par Avion. Picture: RICHARD JUPE

A recent survey by the Mercury shows there is a narrow margin between those who agreed with the December 1 date.

Fifty-six per cent of respondents were for the date, while 46 per cent were against.

A Public Health spokesperson said the current border closure encompasses modelling for other states and territories.

“Public Health advice about border measures takes into account the current and projected trends in COVID-19 in other states and territories, aiming to ensure the safety of Tasmanians and maintain public confidence,” they said.

Follow @navaronefarrell