The Tasmanian Greens today called on candidates in the Retirement Benefit Fund’s board elections to declare up front whether they support continued investment of public servants’ superannuation in tobacco companies.
Greens Health spokesperson Paul O’Halloran MP said that the RBF currently has about $27 million invested in companies like Philip Morris, British-American Tobacco and Imperial Tobacco.
“There are eight candidates in the running, and only one of those candidates has made any reference in their statement to RBF investing in tobacco products, and even that was only advocating for a review,” Mr O’Halloran said.
“What I am calling for is a clear statement about what prospective board members will do in the event they are elected, so that voters can make an informed choice.”
“Every fund member can use their influence to bring about positive change, by voting for candidates who support an end to tobacco investments.”
“I would urge all candidates should to go a step further, and promise to actively support investment in ethical healthcare stocks that deliver both health and financial returns.”
“We believe that very few fund members would support this type of investment and that, with enough positive pressure, the board will take action.”
“The superannuation of government employees should not be used to prop up tobacco industry interests, whose products cost thousands of lives and billions of dollars.”
“Other public superannuation entities around the country are winding up their investments in these unsavoury companies, and it’s disappointing for Tasmania to be lagging.”
Paul O’Halloran MP Greens Health Spokesperson Monday, 20 May 2013
