Tasmanian Liberals united, says new Premier Peter Gutwein

The Liberals are a united party, says the newly-installed Premier but he was unable to shed any light on the whereabouts of his leadership rival.

TASMANIA’S new premier has emphasised the unity of his party during his first full day on the job.

Premier Peter Gutwein took advantage of a live broadcast of his Tuesday press conference to spruik Tasmania to interstate audiences.

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“This is the best place in the country and one of the best places in the world to live, and we’ve got a fantastic strong economy at the moment there’s plenty of opportunity here in Tasmania,” he told the cameras.

Attorney-General Elise Archer, Premier Peter Gutwein and Deputy Premier Jeremy Rockliff. Picture: RICHARD JUPE

Mr Gutwein was flanked by his re-elected Deputy Premier Jeremy Rockliff and Attorney-General Elise Archer in a conspicuous show of unity.

He said he was sure that former leadership aspirant Michael Ferguson was around somewhere after withdrawing his nomination ahead of yesterday’s party room vote.

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“Mr Ferguson I’m sure is working very hard in his electorate and with respect of his ministerial portfolios. I want to say in terms of Mr Ferguson, I’ve always held Mr Ferguson in high regard,” Mr Gutwein said.

“He has capacity, he has intellect and he’s very hard working minister.

“There are very few health ministers that have ever taken on the role for nearly five years and he should be given great credit for the work that he has done in the past.

“And in terms of the decision yesterday, I thank him for ensuring that we have a unified team standing behind me.”

Ms Archer — who was standing for Deputy Premier on a ticket with Mr Ferguson — said the events of Monday which saw Mr Gutwein installed as leader had been a sign of strength not disunity.

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“It’s important that we work through a process, it’s highly democratic,” she said.

“Our party is one where we are always strong and united as has been said we like each other, unlike the Labor Party. Our party is strong and united.”

New Tasmanian Premier Peter Gutwein on a Sandy Bay building site. Picture: RICHARD JUPE

Mr Gutwein acknowledged that the government has more work to do in the health portfolio.

“We need to ensure that the right services are being delivered in the right places and that people can get the right treatment when they need it.

“So we’re working through those issues. But health, you know, is always going to be a challenge.

“I don’t think there’s any Premier or Treasurer that would not be prepared to make that statement.”