Do you think Peter Garrett lost a bit of backbone on the Tasmanian Pulp Mill issue?

Answer 1

It didn't take that long. He lost credibility in my eyes when he joined the ALP.

I'm not against the ALP, but Garrett of all people should have known that their 'green' policies are subject to the test of whether or not they cost jobs. I mean they ARE 'Labor'!

As far as I'm concerned, he's now just another politician, interested in power more than policy.

But some of his music is still good, lol ;-P

Cheers :-)

Answer 2

Nup. I don't think we should read much into his actions prior to the election. He has to appear as cohesive within his party or it would be extremely damaging and the Libs would go nuts making a big deal about how Labor's ministers are not united, they couldn't run our country, blah blah blah and in the process manage to distract voters from all other important issues. Garrett is just playing it smart and it takes a lot of backbone for an activist to play politics and endure this kind of pragmatism.

Labor couldn't have had much influence over the pulp mill at this time anyhow so it wasn't worth letting the issue create a political risk. And the Libs are really p***ed that he didn't take the bait. Give Garrett time - when he is really in a position to influence things he'll show us his backbone and sign Kyoto.

Answer 3

Yes,
I think Peter Garret before he entered politics would have been a major activist against the pulp mill. He now is restricted with party policies though I believe he could be a creditable watchdog on environmental issues within the labour party, he now lacks the "clout" of a true independent political analyst.

Answer 4

Unfortunately, yes! I guess that comes with being a politician. To get into power, and do some major changes, they have to compromise on some issues. It sucks, but that's how it works. I hope he will have a chance to regain some karma points after the election.

Answer 5

yeap!!!!