Andrea Dawkins MP | Greens Gaming spokesperson
July saw pokie losses in Tasmania jump to their highest level in 3 years, once more raising questions of how the Hodgman Government plan to support the community - all while continuing to cosy up to Federal Hotels.
With over $17Mil pumped through machines last month - almost $3Mil more than the preceding month - it is obvious that problem gambling is reaching crisis point in Tasmania.
We are talking about $17,675,852 that has come from the pockets of ordinary Tasmanians - people who deserve to see the humanity within the Liberal Government, not the results of electoral donations and secret deals.
The Liberal Government are once again failing the most vulnerable members of our community, all the in name of backroom deals and political donations. It’s the recurring theme of this government, and it is simply nauseating.
Poker machines are leeches in our community; they destroy families, ruin our communities and social culture and are eroding Tasmania’s once vibrant music scene.
We all know there are healthier ways to encourage patrons to visit pubs and clubs and ensure they have a great night.
The Hodgman Liberal Government needs give up their own addiction and address the scourge of pokies in our communities, instead of pilfering from the poorest to keep their wealthy benefactors happy.