Independent MP David O'Byrne Supports No-Confidence Motion Against Tasmania's Treasurer

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Independent MP David O'Byrne Supports No-Confidence Motion Against Tasmania's Treasurer

Independent Member of Parliament David O'Byrne has declared his intention to support a no-confidence motion targeting Tasmania's embattled Treasurer and Deputy Premier Michael Ferguson. O'Byrne's stance, revealed on Sunday, aligns with concerns over what he perceives as a significant failure in policy and governance concerning the roll-out of two new Spirit of Tasmania ferries and the related port upgrades. By voicing his support for the motion, O'Byrne has effectively added to the momentum for Ferguson's removal, signaling that there are ample votes from the crossbench to secure the success of the motion during the upcoming parliamentary session.

O'Byrne, a former Labor member who turned independent, emphasized the need for accountability, pointing to Minister Ferguson's earlier move to relinquish his infrastructure portfolio as a sign of accepting responsibility. He asserted that in the event the no-confidence motion gains approval, he expects the boards of TasPorts and TT Line, the operator of Spirit of Tasmania, to be disbanded with administrators taking over. In order for the motion to pass, a total of eighteen votes is required, a figure that can be achieved with the collaboration of crossbenchers, Labor, and the Greens, who collectively command 15 seats in Tasmania's lower house.

The ongoing pressure for Ferguson's resignation stems from the significant delays and financial discrepancies associated with the port upgrades in Devonport needed for accommodating the new ferries. The estimated cost overrun is substantial, amounting to $300 million beyond the initial budget, coupled with additional expenses incurred due to delays in the vessel deployment totaling $88 million. Should the no-confidence motion succeed, tradition dictates that Ferguson would be demoted to the backbenches and be mandated to surrender his ministerial positions, including his role as deputy premier. However, Minister Eric Abetz has publicly expressed support for Ferguson and dismissed the necessity for his resignation, asserting the backing of his fellow colleagues.

While the opposition leader, Dean Winter, highlighted the urgency of holding Ferguson accountable and emphasized the need for his departure, questions arise surrounding the potential implications of such a motion in Tasmanian politics. Winter condemned assertions that a no-confidence vote would have no tangible impact, raising concerns over potential disruptions to constitutional conventions and democratic processes if Ferguson were to remain in his position post a successful motion. The upcoming parliamentary sessions are poised to be eventful as the fate of Treasurer Ferguson hangs in the balance, with discussions underway on potential legislative changes affecting state-owned entities in Tasmania should there be a change in government leadership following the next election.