And that’s just for starters. Party leader Cassy O’Connor goes on to call on the university to “reflect” on popular opposition to its move to the Hobart CBD
In a speech in parliament Ms O’Connor called on the university to “press pause” given “deep resistance to the move” among staff, students and the Hobart community.
Plus, “there is a concern about diminishing quality of learning at UTAS. It would be wonderful if they just press pause and had a deeper conversation with those affected communities,” she said.
“Given this is a public institution, much loved by Tasmanians, needed by Tasmanians, … they have a responsibility to apply a deft and responsive touch here to this issue, because it has caused concern in the community,” Ms O’Connor added.
The point that U Tas is governed by a state act comes up in a Legislative Council inquiry now underway. Although the university might suggest that moving to the CBD is covered by its legislation.
The dispute over the CBD-move has run for years and became an umbrella grievance covering other issues – from course redesign to staff conditions. Until now it appeared that the university would politely wait-out public opposition, on the assumption that ultimately the government would not make trouble for the city move.
Of course that was before Premier Jeremy Rockliff lost his majority in the House – two Lib MPs went to the crossbench over plans for the new AFL stadium.
People get worked up over property development in Hobart.