Independent MP Craig Garland key to Michael Ferguson’s future in Tasmania’s parliament

Independent MP Craig Garland could hold Deputy Premier’s fate in his hands with the opposition pushing for a vote of no-confidence. Here’s what he had to say.

Spirit of Tasmania V. Picture: Supplied

Key independent Craig Garland will spend his weekend considering his options as pressure builds for a no-confidence vote in Deputy Premier Michael Ferguson when parliament resumes on Tuesday.

Labor is expected to move a motion of no confidence, which the Greens, Jacqui Lambie Network (JLN) MP Andrew Jenner, and independent Kristie Johnston are likely to back.

Meanwhile, ex-JLN turned independent MPs Miriam Beswick and Rebekah Pentland, along with Franklin member David O’Byrne, have said they would examine the evidence before making a decision around Mr Ferguson’s future.

Labor Leader Dean Winter with his deputy Anita Dow at the Spirit of Tasmania Terminal at East Devonport. Picture: Supplied.

Minister Michael Ferguson. Picture: Nikki Davis-Jones

Until now, Mr Garland is the only MP who has not indicated how he would vote should a no-confidence motion proceed.

So far, 17 members of parliament have made it clear they would likely vote in favour of a no-confidence motion.

For it to be successful, the motion would need 18 votes.

That means Mr Garland will likely be key to whether the motion is successful.

On Saturday, the Braddon independent MP told the Mercury that he was not up to speed with what had happened since both the former and current TT-Line heads gave evidence at a parliamentary inquiry on Monday into the bungled delivery of the new Spirits and the associated terminal works in Devonport.

Craig Garland Independent member for Braddon. Parliament question time. Picture: Chris Kidd

Mr Garland said the reason he had not committed on Mr Ferguson’s future so far was because he was on the West Coast all week as part of his role on the government’s Joint Select Committee on Energy Matters.

He also told the Mercury he had limited phone service while on the work trip.

“We went around the power stations and out to the Granville Wind Farm,” Mr Garland said.

“We had a look at Whaleback Ridge and the proposal that’s being put forward for there, and then yesterday, we wound up out on Robbins Island with ACEN for an overview of what they planned to do.”

Mr Garland said it was a “pretty full-on week” for him.

“Because I’m really interested in the whole energy thing; it’s probably the most important thing on the horizon right at the moment.

“Each day, I didn’t have much time, I didn’t see the news, I didn’t read any papers, and — like I said — the phone reception was not up to speed.”

Spirit of Tasmanian IV first sea trial. Picture: Spirit of Tasmania

Ahead of what is expected to be a wild week in parliament, Mr Garland said he would take time between now and Tuesday to do his research ahead of an expected no-confidence vote.

“I think it’ll just take care of itself. I’ll be talking to other members in the house; no doubt I’ll be talking to Michael.

“I don’t like muckraking. I haven’t even thought about how I’ll vote.

“I’ll have a listen to the Public Accounts Committee hearing on Monday and go from there.

“Today, I’m just going to have a bit of time with the family after being away all week. I think things will take care of themselves next week.”