Leader of the Opposition

LIA FINOCCHIARO MLA
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MEDIA RELEASE
7th May 2020

Gunner Government isn’t focused on the economy or scrutiny
Today we see further proof the Gunner Government isn’t focused on the economy or scrutiny, with the Chief Minister dismissing the importance of economic planning for the Territory post COVID-19, as well as a potentially explosive report into his office which preceded his former Chief of Staff’s exit, Opposition Leader Lia Finocchiaro said today.
 “It’s dismaying that the Chief Minister treats Territorians with such contempt,” Mrs Finocchiaro said.
 In response to the news that the peak industry bodies have joined forces calling for an economic recovery commission, the Chief Minister’s office was described in the NT News saying, the ‘Government would turn its attention to rolling out an economic recovery plan after the battle with coronavirus was over’.
 “This response sadly typifies just how poorly the Gunner Government prioritises the economy. The attitude shows why we have suffered for more than 3 ½ years and why there is no plan for the future. To the Gunner Government, the economy is just an after-thought,” Mrs Finocchiaro said.
 “The proposal put forward has merit, but it also demonstrates clearly that business has lost confidence in the Gunner Government to fix the Territory economy.
 “Furthermore, news that a review into the Chief Minister’s office was thrown away lacks credibility. The Chief Minister doesn’t believe in scrutiny, transparency and accountability.
 “This is a dangerous attitude for the Government to take, further demonstrated by its continued refusal to provide financial and budget information. Government scrutiny in the democratic world is underpinned by an open provision of information.
 “The Gunner Government isn’t focused on the economy and isn’t focused on scrutiny,” Mrs Finocchiaro concluded
​ENDS 

"Only together can we build a better Territory for you and your family.”

- LIA FINOCCHIARO MLA, Leader of the Country Liberal Party and member for Spillett