Tas: Crean to retire as Tasmanian Treasurer

AAP General News (Australia)
02-01-2004
Tas: Crean to retire as Tasmanian Treasurer

By Renee Barnes

HOBART, Feb 1 AAP - Tasmanian Treasurer David Crean today announced his retirement
from politics due to ill health.

Dr Crean, a longtime sufferer of kidney disease, said he would not stand for the upper
house seat of Elwick at the election in May.

"This has obviously been a very difficult decision, however, I have been advised by
my doctors that for my future long-term health and well-being this is the appropriate
course of action," he said.

"I simply cannot provide a guarantee to the people of Elwick that I can serve them
for another six years without the possibility of having to retire part-way through the
term."

The younger brother of former federal Labor Party leader Simon Crean, Dr Crean has
held Elwick since 1992 and became Treasurer in 1998.

The 53-year-old, whose father Frank was federal treasurer and deputy prime minister
during the Labor Whitlam government, was awaiting the result of medical tests before he
decided whether he was fit to run.

Premier Jim Bacon said that he was saddened at learning of Dr Crean's retirement but
praised his decision.

"He has been a valued member of my team and few would argue that he will go down in
history as Tasmania's finest treasurer," he said.

"He is not only a great performer, but a close and valued friend."

Mr Bacon said he would announce Dr Crean's replacement as treasurer in cabinet tomorrow.

He said the administrative wing of the ALP would determine Dr Crean's replacement to
stand in Elwick during the election in May.

Under the Tasmanian electoral system, the 15 members of the Legislative Council serve
a six-year term.

These seats are determined on rotation, with elections for individual seats held every year.

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KEYWORD: CREAN NIGHTLEAD

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