Cassy O’Connor MP | Greens Leader and Treasury spokesperson
Treasurer Gutwein is failing to stand up for both disadvantaged Tasmanians and the cultural icon, MONA, in his acquiescence to Federal Hotels.
It is great shame for Tasmanians that the Liberals have again sided with their old and tired bedfellows, Federal Hotels.
We are at risk of losing the economic and social benefit of MONA's Robin Hood-eqsue development because this government is entirely beholden to Federals.
While the high end tourist developments of Federal Hotels are a drawcard for tourists, it's important to remember they were paid for out of the pockets of low income Tasmanians who play the pokies.
Federal Hotels have bled disadvantaged suburbs dry to pay for their developments and hefty donations to the Liberal and Labor parties since the monopoly deal was sealed.
If the government truly wanted to support MONA and it's long term viability it would bring in an amendment to the Gaming Control Act, rather than marching to Federals' tune.