The Rockliff-Ferguson government has serious questions to answer over the departure of Tasracing CEO Paul Eriksson just four months into his three-year reappointment.
The announcement of Mr Eriksson’s departure only four months into his reappointment is very odd and requires further explanation.
The disinterested Racing Minister, Madeleine Ogilvie, knew almost nothing about the reappointment at Estimates last month.
But now, as Mr Eriksson prepares to walk away at the end of the week, Ms Ogilvie has an obligation to explain his departure – in particular whether Tasmanians will be forking out for a severance package.
Will Mr Eriksson receive a golden handshake like the ones paid out to Hydro Executives last year?
The Tasmanian racing industry was continually let down by the Liberal government during Mr Eriksson’s time in charge.
We were the only state to shut down its racing industry during the pandemic – race meetings were cancelled at Elwick and Mowbray due to poor track maintenance and greyhound and harness trainers in the North West have been left with nothing after Tasracing decided to leave the Devonport Showgrounds.
Now, Mr Eriksson is leaving with 32 months remaining on his contract.
The Tasmanian people deserve to know if their money will be used to pay him out or not – and the Minister needs to step up and be transparent about any severance arrangements.
Dean Winter MP
Shadow Minister for Racing
