Call for Premier to disclose pokie plan for pubs

Greens MP Lee Rhiannon said today that any moves to increase the number of pokies and other gaming machines in NSW hotels would inevitably lead to more cases of problem gambling and hardship for the families and friends of problem gamblers.

"Today's media report that the hotel industry has successfully lobbied the Iemma government to review Labor's poker machine policy is bad news," Ms Rhiannon said.

"We need a phase out plan for gambling machines in NSW hotels, not an underhand deal to increase the numbers after the election.

"The public have a right to know before the election what deals have been made, how many machines will be installed and where they will be.

"We call on Premier Morris Iemma to publicly disclose details of his talks with the hotel industry.

"NSW already has the highest rate of gambling addiction in Australia. Any increase in the number of machines in NSW hotels will add to this problem.

"The hotel and club industry contributed nearly $2 million to the Labor Party.

"The Australian Hotels Association and individual hotels would be making further donations in the lead up to the state election but this money will not be publicly disclosed until February 2008.

"The relationship between the Labor government and the hotel and club industry is very unhealthy. It has appalling consequences for problem gamblers and their friends and families.

"The Coalition also receives large donations from the hotel and club industry.

"Labor and the Coalition have a history of voting together to pass legislation that allows hotels and clubs to increase their allocation of gambling machines," Ms Rhiannon said.