In a remarkable performance on ABC Radio this morning, Planning Minister Felix Ellis showed exactly why his government’s Development Assessment Panel agenda is so problematic.
In response to reasonable questions about his proposed legislation, Felix Ellis launched straight into political attack mode. The Minister characterised every Tasmanian who has a problem with Development Assessment Panels as a ‘NIMBY’ – despite the fact these concerns are completely legitimate and coming from across the political spectrum. Disturbingly, he also proudly trumpeted his commitment to sidelining community voices at every turn.
Given his government is currently undergoing a consultation process on this legislation, it’s concerning to hear the Minister already dismissing every concern that’s been put forward. It looks like consultation on this issue will be nothing more than a sham, with the Liberals dead set on forging ahead with a fundamentally unchanged bill regardless of the submissions they receive.
The Minister keeps on saying he wants to take the politics out of planning. What he doesn’t want the public to know is that his new bill will put him – a politician – right in the middle of the planning process. Felix Ellis’ utter contempt for the community shows why allowing Ministerial intervention would be such a problem.
Clearly this Minister only has one priority – doing the bidding of big developers. He shouldn’t be allowed anywhere near the planning process.
The Greens stand with all Tasmanians who oppose Development Assessment Panels, and we will fight to make sure this bill does not receive Parliamentary approval.
