Forestry Tasmania welcomes industry talks

Bob Gordon, Managing Director

Forestry Tasmania stands ready to play a constructive role in the development of a new blueprint to guide the forest industry into the future.

It is abundantly clear that the industry shake out we are experiencing has led to a mood for change - change that can delivered through goodwill on all sides.

The Premier's proposed approach makes good sense. By gathering the stakeholders together, the prospects for achieving consensus are greatly enhanced.

Forestry Tasmania is a major contributor to the state's economy. We directly employ 500 staff, 1200 contractors and inject about $184m into the state economy through payments to suppliers, staff and contractors.

The industry shake out, brought on by the Global Financial Crisis and the collapse of Managed Investment Schemes has caused considerable hardship, but I am confident the industry can emerge stronger and more resilient.

Without pre-empting the outcome of discussions initiated by the Premier, a truce between activists and the industry would be desirable.

I very much look forward to being a participant in the process.