[Greens-Media] Noreen Hay Affair: Iemma must establish a Royal Commission

[Lee Rhiannon]

Media Release - 29 February 2008

Noreen Hay Affair: Iemma must establish a Royal Commission

Greens MP and donations spokesperson Lee Rhiannon says evidence before
ICAC of Labor MP Noreen Hay’s relationship with developer Frank Vellar
shows why Premier Iemma must establish a Donations Royal Commission and
ban developer donations.

“These latest revelations should send a clear message to Premier
Iemma that it’s time to investigate whether Wollongong Council is just
the tip of the iceberg,” Ms Rhiannon said.

“Premier Iemma must establish a full scale Royal Commission like the
Police Royal Commission to dig deep into the culture of donations in
this state.
 
“Only with Royal Commission powers can developers, Ministers and
their party officials be questioned, and information gathered, to
ascertain whether the millions of dollars in developer donations have
influenced Ministerial decisions in NSW.

“This case shows why Premier Iemma’s donations reform package does
not go far enough. 

“Developer donations must be banned, otherwise these kind of deals
will continue to haunt the government.
 
 “Where there are donations, doors will continue to be opened by
politicians for developers.

“The Greens welcome Mr Iemma’s decision to stand down Ms Hay. 

“The question remains why he has not forced Minister Tripodi to do
the same,” Ms Rhiannon said.

For more information:  Lee Rhiannon - 0427 861 568, 9230 3551


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Lee Rhiannon, MLC
The Greens
Parliament of New South Wales
Macquarie St 
Sydney 2000
Tel: +61-2-9230 3551 Fax: +61-2-9230 3550
Email lee.rhiannon at parliament.nsw.gov.au
Web http://www.lee.greens.org.au/

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