The Greens’ appalling double-standards and hypocrisy have again been put on display, this time on the subject of gambling.
Cassy O’Connor feigns moral outrage that other political parties have accepted donations from businesses involved in the gambling industry when the Greens themselves have received monies from a high-end gambler.
It was revealed last year that Duncan Turpie, reportedly a member of the Punters Club that also includes Mona founder David Walsh, had made substantial donations before the last federal election to the Greens*.
Ms O’Connor should explain why it is fine for the Greens to receive donations seemingly from the proceeds of gambling but why it is not acceptable for others.
Further, she should explain to Tasmanian pubs and clubs why they should not be permitted to benefit from the gambling industry when the Greens have.
Mr Turpie has every right to make political donations – as they are a legitimate part of our electoral system.
The same right applies to Greg Farrell and it is hypocritical for Ms O’Connor to say it is okay for one donor but not the other.
The Greens have been all over the place on gambling – from wanting to blow up the pokies everywhere to being fine with those in casinos but not in pubs and clubs, to now supporting an additional casino in Tasmania.
Ms O’Connor cannot have it both ways, and should be held to account for her hypocrisy.
* Canberra Times, 9 September 2014 www.canberratimes.com.au/act-news/greens-benefactor-duncan-turpie-reclusive-highend-gambler-emerges-as-acts-largest-donor-20140909-10csq5.html
More Media Releases from the Parliamentary Secretary for Small Business and Trade