The Minns Labor Government’s weak response to protests in the Port of Newcastle is sinking businesses in the Newcastle and Hunter regions.

Shadow Minister for Tourism Kevin Anderson said Viking Cruises have cancelled their November 29 visit to Newcastle due to protests in the Port of Newcastle.

“The loss of more than 900 visitors to Newcastle and the Hunter is a tragedy for businesses and wineries in the Hunter region,” Mr Anderson said.

“Passengers on the Viking Venus would have already had bookings for tours across Newcastle, at wineries in the Hunter Region, and to nearby towns and cities in the Hunter region.

“Tourism is a key pillar of the Hunter economy, and this cancellation is an anchor to the region’s growth. 900 additional tourists would have meant easy sailing for businesses heading into the busy school holiday period.”

During question time, Mr Anderson asked the Minister for Tourism if the government had any plans to reimburse businesses for their losses.

“In one of the worse performances in question time under the Minns Labor Government, the Minister for Tourism was all at sea when it comes to the impacts of these protests on businesses in the Hunter,” Mr Anderson added.

“The Minister was out of his depth and local businesses will have a sinking feeling that Labor has no plans to prevent future cruise ship cancellations.

“This is a big issue for Hunter businesses and represents a real hit to the bottom line.

“Labor’s weakness is response to Rising Tide is hurting the NSW Visitor Economy, and the Minister must urgently change course to stamp out Rising Tide and welcome the cruise industry back to the Port of Newcastle.”