Cassy O'Connor MP | Greens Leader and Treasury spokesperson
Brighton Mayor, Tony Foster, is a strong voice for his community on the issue of the harm caused by poker machines and the Federal Hotels' monopoly gaming Deed.
In a stinging statement released today, Mayor Foster is damning of the harm caused by poker machines in his community and the lack of research on the profound harm caused to low income Tasmanians as a result of the proliferation of poker machines in pubs and clubs in Tasmania.
Mayor Foster also adds to the growing chorus of concern among Tasmanians, including front line community sector organisations, about the prospect of the monopoly Deed being extended by the Liberals.
On behalf of the Greens and all Tasmanians who want these machines wound back in Tasmania, I strongly urge the Premier and his Cabinet to listen to the voices of reason and not extend the monopoly Deed.
The Liberals also need to have an open and honest conversation with Tasmanians, asking their views on the number, type and design of poker machines in Tasmania and whether a monopoly Deed ever was, or is, appropriate for a small state with so many in our community living at the social and economic margins.