Media Release

Peter Gutwein MP
Shadow Treasurer

Monday 18th January 2010

Aird admits he’s confused about water and sewerage

Michael Aird’s confused, incoherent handling of water and sewerage continues. Mr Aird has denied committing to providing water and sewerage rebates to customers before Christmas.

As I like to help Mr Aird out where I can, for his benefit here is exactly what he said on ABC radio on 1 December 2009:

Michael Aird: I’ve spoken to Geoff Willis about it - have agreed that it can be done and it will be done. And it will be done as soon as possible.

Tim Cox: When is as soon as possible?

Michael Aird: Well, I.., Tim.., I would hope that we we’ll have measures in place by.., by Christmas.

Tim Cox: So, another three or four weeks?

Michael Aird: Well.., I.., I would think.., err.., the actual implementation will be put in place before Christmas.

These comments prompted Onstream CEO Geoff Willis and Ben Lomond Water CEO Barry Cash to say that Mr Aird’s promise were not deliverable.

Mr Aird’s recent claims that he did not say it could be done before Christmas show that he will do and say anything to try and sweep this mess under the carpet.

Once again, either Mr Aird is confused, or he is deliberately trying to mislead Tasmanians.