When a State premier makes a comment, in response to a vicious attack on protesters, that they [protesters] should stay out of forests and leave forest workers to carry out their legitimate work, it implies that violent behaviour towards protesters is legitimate. Premier Bartlett’s comments could and possibly will escalate what is a tinderbox situation in our forests. This irresponsible behaviour, on the part of the State Premier flies in the face of democracy. It is a given right of Australians to peacefully protest against anything they do not agree with. It is the only way a democratic society can show opposition to individual policies and situations. Premier Bartlett has shown once again that he is unfit to lead a democratic government and should, like his predecessor and two deputy premiers, resign from office. How much more do the people have to see before they realise that this government is totally dysfunctional and out of touch with the views and wishes of the majority of Tasmanians.

David Leigh.

I missed that comment David. I’m slightly astounded, although not surprised, that Bartlett would say something like that. After all, it’s not hard to express your distaste for the protestors whilst also totally condemning violence. It’s a fairly basic political manoeuvre, from somewhere near the start of the manual.
The fact that he didn’t take this path, does, as you say, almost give legitimacy to violent actions against protestors.
I really do have to agree with whoever said that it’s not a case of this government not practising good governance, it’s that they don’t know what it is!