 Tasmanian gay activists have welcomed the appointment of
David Bartlett to the office of State Premier.
Tasmanian Gay and Lesbian Rights Group spokesperson, Rodney
Croome, said Bartlett, and his Deputy, Lara Giddings, have excellent records on
social inclusion and human rights.
"We are hopeful Mr Bartlett will re-invigorate the
legal and social reform program that characterised the early years of the current
State Labor Government,” Croome said.
"We are confident he will be a premier for all
Tasmanians."
Croome said discrimination against gay, lesbian, bisexual
and transgender people continues to tear Tasmanian families and communities
apart.
"Surveys show unacceptably high levels of workplace
discrimination, street abuse and school-yard bullying in Tasmania, all of which
a stronger commitment from Government can help reduce."
"We will be seeking a meeting with the new Premier to
discuss how to foster a more inclusive and just Tasmania."
In his role as Education Minister, David Bartlett has
officially endorsed and funded the Pride and Prejudice school anti-homophobia
program.
Julian Punch from the Coming Out Proud Program State
Steering Committee congratulated David Bartlett on his election.
Punch said he endorsed “the relighting of the social inclusion torch in this
state through his commitment to the culture change of a 'clever and kind
community'”.
“David has always been a proven and true friend to our
community when at times the government has vacillated in its full commitment to
the issues that affect sexual and gender diverse people,” Punch said.
“He will be greatly assisted by his Deputy the Minister for Health and Human
Services Lara Giddings, who has shown a similar understanding of the issues
facing our community.
IMAGE: Newly sworn in Premier of
Tasmania David Bartlett and new Deputy Premier Lara Giddings
speaking at a press conference in Hobart, Monday, May 26, 2008.
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