Allegations of Corruption and Downfall
In 2006, allegations of corruption involving Mr Lennon reached fever pitch, with numerous news outlets detailing instances of perceived graft and corruption. Among these were allegations surrounding the renovation of Mr Lennon's home by Gunns' subsidiary Hinman Wright and Manser. Mr Lennon refused to fully disclose the amount paid for the services provided by Hinman Wright and Manser, a large-scale civil construction firm not traditionally associated with residential home renovations. While no impropriety was officially found or prosecuted, the fact the renovations happened in such close proximity of time with Gunns negotiations with the Tasmanian Government in relation to a $2 billion Pulp Mill, aroused serious public suspicions.
Following an opinion poll which showed his preferred premier rating at 17 per cent, Lennon announced on 26 May 2008 that he would stand down as Premier of Tasmania and leave politics altogether. He said he had made the decision 'for himself and his family'. On the afternoon of 26 May 2008, Lennon resigned his commission as Premier to the Governor of Tasmania, the Hon. Peter Underwood. The Deputy Premier, David Bartlett, received his commission at Government House as the 43rd Tasmanian Premier shortly thereafter. He officially resigned from his seat of Franklin the following day.
On Tuesday 10 June 2008, the Tasmanian Electoral Commission announced Ross Butler as his replacement in parliament after a recount of votes.
Read more about this topic: Paul Lennon
Famous quotes containing the words corruption and/or downfall:
“Among the best traitors Ireland has ever had, Mother Church ranks at the very top, a massive obstacle in the path to equality and freedom. She has been a force for conservatism, not on the basis of preserving Catholic doctrine or preventing the corruption of her children, but simply to ward off threats to her own security and influence.”
—Bernadette Devlin (b. 1947)
“Show me one thing here on earth which has begun well and not ended badly. The proudest palpitations are engulfed in a sewer, where they cease throbbing, as though having reached their natural term: this downfall constitutes the heart’s drama and the negative meaning of history.”
—E.M. Cioran (b. 1911)