Greens take aim at Government over the ‘politicisation’ of WorkSafe Tasmania

The war of words over WorkSafe Tasmania’s attempt to ban forest protests has heated up again, with the Greens labelling the action an “overreach” of the agency’s powers.

THE Greens have again taken aim at the government over what they say is the “politicisation” of WorkSafe Tasmania over the agency’s decision to ban Bob Brown Foundation members from protesting in forest areas.

Raising the issue as a matter of public importance in parliament on Thursday, Greens Leader Cassy O’Connor said WorkSafe’s actions were an “overreach” of its powers.

Ms O’Connor said it was wrong that the regulator was “pouring in time and resources” to stop protesting.

Last month, WorkSafe banned the foundation from forest protest activity until the environmental group was able to satisfy the regulator it was managing safety risks.

Bob Brown and Roland Browne at the Bob Brown Foundation offices after being served with a WorkSafe notice. Picture: RICHARD JUPE

The foundation took the matter to the Hobart Magistrates’ Court last week, and parties agreed the prohibition notice would be set aside, meaning the foundation would no longer need to proceed by way of appeal.

But this week, the Bob Brown Foundation claimed it could face a $50,000 fine if it does not provide information to WorkSafe Tasmania on the safety of workers at protest camps in the Tarkine.

Citing the Greens’ referral of the matter to the Integrity Commission – the party referred Attorney-General Elise Archer, Resources Minister Guy Barnett and WorkSafe chief executive Mark Cocker – Ms O’Connor on Thursday said public trust in institutions was essential.

“There is such a stink about this issue,’’ she said.

Greens Leader Cassy O’Connor in state parliament. Picture: KIM EISZELE

The Government has repeatedly denied it had referred the actions of Bob Brown Foundation protesters to the regulator.

Ms Archer said the Greens should respect the Integrity Commission process and let it take its course.

“The Greens are choosing to be judge, jury and executioner in this saga they think exists,’’ she said.

“If they really have these concerns they say they do, then they would let the Integrity Commission do its job. That’s what it’s there for.

“If the shoe was on the other foot and the Greens weren’t afforded due process, you can imagine what the Greens would be saying.”

Earlier, during Question Time, Premier Peter Gutwein took aim at the Greens for their “attack” on the regulator after Ms O’Connor first raised the matter.

During the second debate, independent Clark MP Madeleine Ogilvie said she was worried “someone was going to get hurt” in the course of protest action in forest areas.

Labor Braddon MP Shane Broad feared someone could be killed if the behaviour of protesters was not reined in.