Tas govt asked for plebiscite support

The Tasmanian government has been asked to ensure it will provide adequate mental health services for members of the gay and lesbian community who may suffer through a "negative and nasty" campaign against same-sex marriage in the lead up to a plebiscite on the issue.

In state parliament on Thursday Health Minister Michael Ferguson was asked by the Labor opposition to promise adequate funding will flow to deal with the "fallout" from the federal government's proposed February plebiscite.

"Think a little bit better about the community, think a little bit better of Tasmanians for their capacity to engage in an important social question with respect from both sides," Mr Ferguson hit back, adding the Liberal government has made a record investment in mental health.