Cassy O'Connor MP | Greens Leader and Treasury spokesperson
The Liberal Government was given a very simple choice by MONA, embrace the new Tasmanian economy or fall back into step with their familiar old allies and major donor, Federal Hotels.
Treasurer Peter Gutwein knows that if the government truly wanted to help MONA establish its high rollers’ casino, it could - that is what Parliaments are for. It would take an amendment to the Gaming Control Act to remove the exclusivity clause – the license to print money which has cost low income Tasmanians so dearly.
It would seem that the State Liberals have picked their side and are - once again, as the old parties always do – preparing to march to Federal Hotels' tune.
Treasurer Gutwein waxed lyrical about the government's relationship with Federal Hotels, but could only say he'd met with Mr Walsh once. He has not so far met with the Tasmanian Council of Social Services (TasCOSS) to hear their concerns about the damage poker machine are doing in our community.
This government has no mandate to extend the monopoly Deed but it does have the power to back in MONA if it chooses.
David Walsh deserves our thanks for taking such a strong, self-sacrificing stance against pokies in our community.