28
Jan
The Tasmanian state government is approaching a decision on whether to return the Spirit of Tasmania IV ferry to the state. Currently, efforts are underway to lease the vessel in the northern hemisphere until Devonport's berthing infrastructure is prepared. Labor has criticized the government for spending over $1 million on berthing and associated costs in Scotland. Premier Jeremy Rockliff emphasized the importance of due diligence to ensure value for taxpayers. Transport Minister Eric Abetz noted that crewing costs for the completed ship are $380,000 per month, with additional storage expenses. To mitigate the tourism industry's annual revenue loss of $500…