Andrea Dawkins MP | Greens’ Gambling spokesperson
The addition of the Country Women’s Association to the campaign against pokies in pubs and clubs is most welcome.
With more and more voices joining the campaign for the removal of pokies from pubs and clubs it is difficult to see how any responsible political leader could justify backing the financial interests of their donors over the communities they serve.
There are no arguments or excuses that have any merit.
Displaced employees will quickly find new work in a hospitality industry that has a skills and staff shortage.
Money that currently flows to Federal Group will instead be spent in the community, creating local jobs.
Most importantly, these machines will no longer be just around the corner, ready to predate on people in at risk communities.
Removing pokies from pubs and clubs is a policy no-brainer that can create only good outcomes for everyone, and has tremendous public support.
Will Hodgman and Rebecca White need to think long and hard about whether they intend to prioritise the lives and wellbeing of Tasmanians, or the coffers of Federal Group.
This should not be a difficult choice.