[Greens-Media] O'Farrell gives Packer VIP ride

[John Kaye]

O'Farrell gives Packer VIP ride

Media release: 14 November 2013

Premier Barry O'Farrell's legislation will do much more than just lift the
ban on a second casino, according to Greens NSW MP John Kaye

('Packer could hit the jackpot with Crown exemptions', Sydney Morning
Herald, 14 Nov., p. 3, http://j.mp/smh131114)

Dr Kaye said: "The NSW parliament is set to enshrine into law Premier Barry
O'Farrell's sweetheart deal with James Packer.

"The gambling tycoon is to get special VIP treatment, with legislation that
sweeps aside obstacles like an independent regulator and smoking
restrictions in bars, hotel rooms and public places.

"The special deal that is only available to Mr Packer is a tribute to his
political power and influence over not just the O'Farrell government but
also Labor and the Christian Democrats.

"The gambling tycoon's influence will not end with the passage of the
legislation.

"Gaming Minister George Souris is to be given the power to direct the
supposedly independent regulator in almost every aspect of the licencing
and policing of the Barangaroo casino.

"Even if the regulator is deeply concerned about an operational or
licencing matter at Crown's facility, the Minister can force it to turn a
blind eye. Unlike in the case of the Star, George Souris and his successors
will not even need to satisfy themselves that the direction is in the
public interest or desirable to protect the integrity of the casino.

"Barangaroo will stand alone in NSW as a monument to irresponsible smoking
and a relic of times-past. In the name of fatten up Mr Packer's profits,
the O'Farrell government is exposing Crown's employees to dangerous side
stream smoke in every part of the building except the restaurants.

"Premier Barry O'Farrell has gifted Mr Packer full control over the
conditions of his licence. It is outrageous that the regulator cannot
strengthen or change it without the gambling tycoons permission.

"The independence of the regulator has been comprehensively undermined by
Mr Packer's casino push," Dr Kaye said.

For more information: John Kaye 0407 195 455

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John Kaye
Greens NSW MP
phone: 0407 195 455
web: www.john.nsw.greens.org.au
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