Senator Eric Abetz

Senator Eric Abetz today paid tribute to John Gay, who has announced his immediate retirement from the Board of Gunns and all related companies.

“John Gay is a great Tasmanian who rather than being vilified, should be celebrated for his efforts to support Tasmanian jobs and grow the Tasmanian economy,” said Senator Abetz.

“Mr Gay rose from the bottom to the top of Gunns over a career of more than 30 years, managing the company for nearly 25 years.

“During that period, the company has employed – directly and indirectly – thousands of Tasmanians.

“If not for Green misinformation, Mr Gay’s vision for a pulp mill in Tasmania would likely have been achieved already, and the Tasmanian forest industry would not be facing the difficult situation it currently is.

“It will not be lost on anyone that as a result of Green misinformation, this once proud Tasmanian Company is now being sold off piece by piece to mainland companies, and Tasmanian forestry industry jobs continue to be exported overseas.”

“I wish Mr Gay and his family well in retirement.”