Premier denies release of Star documents
Posted: Monday, 12 March 2012 | By: John Robertson ,Steve Whan
The O'Farrell Government should release all documents relating to its involvement in the sordid Star casino affair, as well as documentation of gaming breaches and patron complaints – following revelations a Freedom of Information (FOI) request for documents on the Star has been denied.
"Barry O'Farrell should keep his promise of a transparent and accountable government and release all documents relating to the Star casino affair and regulation breaches and complaints at the casino," Opposition Leader, John Robertson said today.
"We have already seen the O'Farrell Government block a parliamentary call for papers relating to the Star casino – they cannot dodge an FOI request for further information.
"The people of NSW deserve to know the truth behind the scandal that has engulfed the O'Farrell Government and the Star casino.
"It's clear the Premier is desperately trying to cover up the involvement of his office and the Minister for Gaming, George Souris in this sordid affair."
Shadow Minister for Gaming, Steve Whan said: "The O'Farrell Government cannot block the release of information to protect the Minister for Gaming, George Souris."
"We have already seen the government block a call for papers in the Upper House to protect Mr Souris and now we see FOI requests being denied.
"Where will the O'Farrell Government's attempts to protect its own back in this murky affair end? The Premier's behaviour flies in the face of his pre-election commitment to be open and transparent.
"The NSW Labor Opposition is also seeking to force the government to release all documents relating to its involvement in the Star affair - if this request is denied, it will prove the O'Farrell Government is trying to cover up the behaviour of its own staff and Ministers."
Tags: Barry O'Farrell, FOI, gaming, George Souris, John Robertson, Steve Whan, The Star