Premier in the hot tub … Jon Kudelka’s ( http://www.kudelka.com.au/ ) take when then-Premier Lennon was upgraded by Crown when signing a Betfair deal a few years ago …
FORMER Premier Paul Lennon has been hired as a lobbyist by Tasmania’s monopoly pokies operator.
Mr Lennon, who was deputy premier at the time the Federal Group’s current monopoly on pokies was extended, has been engaged by the company as the State Government determines how to regulate the gaming industry after 2023.
Mr Lennon’s consultancy firm Paramul has listed Federal Group as a client on the Tasmanian lobbyist register.
Federal Group spokesman Daniel Hanna yesterday confirmed the appointment.
“As a company, we engage many consultants to provide us with expertise and assistance on a range of matters,” he said.
“Paul is well regarded and provides the company with strategic advice and advocacy support.”
Mr Lennon did not return the Mercury’s calls yesterday.
Greens leader Cassy O’Connor said Mr Lennon was an unusual choice given the divisive nature of the pokies issue during his time as premier.
“Tasmanians who want Federal’s poker machines pulled out of pubs and clubs will remember that, during his time in politics, Mr Lennon and the Labor Party were a big part of the problem,” she said.
Denison MP Andrew Wilkie said Federal’s engagement of Mr Lennon demonstrated the symbiotic relationship between the poker machine industry and Tasmanian politicians.
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