Mr BAYLEY question to MINISTER for ARTS, Mr JAENSCH
My question is on behalf of a number of constituents in Clark. Minister, there’s been an outpouring of concern for TMAG staff and it’s incredible collection following reports that over 19 positions face cuts under efficiencies rolled out following the Budget. While your government denies the scale of the cuts, you acknowledge job losses in the overarching department – 250 for Building Tasmania and flow on impacts to TMAG. TMAG is central to Tasmania’s cultural and artistic fabric, maintaining the state collection and showcasing Tasmanian art and artists in a heritage listed building in the heart of Hobart. Late last year in the foyer to the main gallery there were buckets on the floor catching drips from the leaking roof. No one can say TMAG is overfunded. Minister, what is the appropriation revenue from state government for operating expenses for the last 10 years? How much of this was for wages in each year? What safeguards will be put in place to ensure adequate management and conservation of the state collection? And which positions are quarantined from abolishment in the event current staff apply for a redundancy?
