Debate not stifled by Labor and union games

Petty, juvenile games being played by the Electrical Trades Union trying to trademark the term "Strong Choices" would not stop the Government talking to Queenslanders about the State’s $80 billion debt problem, Treasurer Tim Nicholls said today.

Mr Nicholls said it was very disappointing, bordering on disgraceful, that the union movement would seek to shut down an open and transparent consultation process, which Queenslanders have embraced in their tens of thousands.

“Queenslanders know that Labor, supported by the union movement, left this state with an $80 billion debt and that Strong Choices are needed to pay down that debt.

“Even Federal Labor leader Bill Shorten said recently that unions weren’t the only voice that should be listened to. 

“The ETU seem to think that because they’ve filled in a form that they’ve registered a trademark when in fact nothing could be further from the truth.

“Registering a trademark is a lengthy process and the ETU would be better off using its time to be part of the conversation we’re having with Queenslanders about our choices to increase taxes, reduce services or sell or lease some assets.”

Mr Nicholls said the ETU’s latest stunt came hard on the heels of yesterday’s attempt by Labor in Parliament to stop the Government talking about the $80 billion debt.

“Labor and the unions just don’t want Queenslanders to hear the true facts and consider the Strong Choices for themselves.

“Yesterday’s attempt by Shadow Treasurer Curtis Pitt to curb discussion of the extent of Labor’s debt was nothing short of an attempt to hide Labor’s past.

“Labor and the unions don’t seem to realise Queenslanders are genuinely interested in discussing the State’s finances with more than 44,000 submissions received and more than 190,000 unique visitors to the site.

“Thousands more have taken part in the discussion through virtual town hall meetings and in public community forums.”

The Queensland Government is determined to consult with Queenslanders about the Strong Choices needed to pay down Labor’s $80 billion debt and the website and the advertising will continue as planned.

Mr Nicholls urged Queenslanders to visit the website at www.strongchoices.qld.gov.au and have their say on the choices to pay down debt and fund the infrastructure a growing state needs.

[ENDS] 8 May 2014

Media contact: Treasurer’s Office 3719 7200