Tasmania’s RSL Takes Legal Action Against One of Their Branches
After the release of a contentious video linking poker machines’ ban to Anzac Day celebration. Tasmania’s RSL headquarters have decided to take action against their Glenorchy branch. The advertisement was about the Love Your Local movement and featured retired Glenorchy RSL serviceman. However, the video has been taken off all social media platforms.
Disciplinary procedures have taken place by the RSL state branch composition against sub-branches and individuals. This may result in individuals being suspended, expelled or reprimanded. More so, sub-branches might have their charters rescinded or get suspended.
What Led to Tasmania’s RSL Considering to Take Legal Action?
According to Terry Roe, the RSL’s state president, a final decision on what will happen will be made this week. The advertisement which was released on Thursday the 1st of February, stated that the club will close. It included that Anzac Day commemorations will not take place if the removal of poker machines persist.
The ad raised the liberal’s political opponents, which includes Jacqui Lambie, the former Senator and the ire of anti-pokies groups. However, the claim was disproved by the national RSL. The state RSL said that Anzac Day proceedings will not be cancelled and condemned the use of Memorial Day as a political tool. Roe claimed that on Friday, 2nd February, he engaged in a conversation with Glenorchy RSL president to remove the ad. Roe also said that he sent an email prior to the election campaign to remind the branches to persist in being non-political.
Tasmania’s RSL Glenorchy branch
John Chivers, the president of the Glenorchy RSL, stated that they removed the advertisement out of respect for those who have served. He stated that: “We stand by our comments that if we lose gaming machines our club will close and no longer be a gathering place for ANZAC day celebrations in Glenorchy.”
However, the video, in turn, made the retired serviceman a laughing stock. Andrew Wilkie, the retired serviceman, claimed that he was delighted that the ad was removed. He said that the people behind the ad quickly became a laughing stock.
