Michael Ferguson's captain's call on temporary upgrades to Berth 1 at Devonport is looking increasingly like it'll never happen.

Searoad Executive Chairman Chas Kelly told ABC radio this morning that Michael’s Ferguson’s temporary fix at Berth 1 is a “waste of money” and the funds should be spent expediting the permanent upgrades to Berth 3 so they’re ready as soon as possible.

Mr Kelly also said the temporary solution will cost at least $75 million and could potentially cost hundreds of millions. He expressed doubts the new Spirits would be able to fit at Berth 1, raising potential safety concerns due to increased collision risks with larger ships operating out of Berth 2.

This is yet another huge mess with Michael Ferguson's fingerprints all over it.

Let's not forget: Michael Ferguson used his ministerial powers to personally direct TasPorts and TT-Line to upgrade at Berth 1 as a temporary fix for his failures at Berth 3. He did so without knowing the project’s cost or timeline. 

Now, after learning the new Spirits will only be able to operate at half capacity from Berth 1, are we about to find out they won't be able to operate from there at all?

Embattled Minister Michael Ferguson needs to come clean and explain whether he's still committed to his temporary fix.

Anita Dow MP
Deputy Labor Leader
Shadow Minister for Infrastructure