Premier Jeremy Rockliff has called for an end to “political games” as the state’s new parliament prepares to sit, following a snap election that delivered another minority government.
Speaking outside parliament on Tuesday, the Liberal leader acknowledged the tough lead-up to the election and promised to work with crossbenchers to govern in the best interests of Tasmanians.
“The Tasmanian people have spoken, the political games must end today,” Rockliff said.
“I’m going to embrace the goodwill across the parliament and embrace the will of the people who elected a minority parliament to work together in the best interests of the Tasmanian people.”
“We recognise that early elections aren’t what the Tasmanian people want or need but here we are with a brand new parliament, 35 members that are passionate and very forthright in believing for what they stand up for but also doing the best for their constituencies.”
“It’s incumbent on all of us to work together.”
“Tasmanians are sick and tired of the political games – it ends today and we’re raring to go to get on with the job.”
Labor leader Dean Winter is expected to move a motion of no-confidence in Premier Rockliff and his government when parliament resumes this morning.
So far, that motion has only attracted support from Labor itself, with no crossbench MPs backing it.
It appears doomed to fail, with the Greens and independents David O’Byrne and Kristie Johnston signalling they will vote against it — leaving Labor well short of the 18 votes needed.
