Hodgman unaware of Mantach details
PREMIER Will Hodgman says he does not know how a former Tasmanian Liberals director allegedly stole almost $50,000 from the party, or how the money was spent.
Former Liberals state director Damien Mantach was, in 2008, forced to repay $48,000 in personal expenses reportedly charged to a party credit card.
Mr Mantach, who had served in the role for three years, was made to resign after returning the money.
He is facing investigation in Victoria over the alleged embezzlement of $1.5 million in Liberal Party election funds between 2010 and 2014, when he was serving in an equivalent role.
Mr Hodgman said he was informed that the issue had been "uncovered" in 2008 while he was serving as opposition leader, but was not given all the details.
PremierWill Hodgman says he does not know how a former Tasmanian Liberals director allegedly stole almost $50,000 from the party.
"I was informed that Mr Mantach's employment would not continue in Tasmania and he would discharge the liability that he had incurred," he said.
"I was made aware of the quantum of the liability, not as to the specifics of it, but was given an assurance that the matter was being properly addressed."
Mr Hodgman said he was confident the Liberal Party handled the matter appropriately, despite it not being reported to police at the time.
"I was assured by the party president and director that the matter had been finalised," he said.
"I have confidence that it was properly handled by the members of the executive."
Mr Hodgman stressed the party funds were recovered in full.
Former Tasmanian Liberals president Dale Archer would not comment on what was discussed at the briefing.
"I've made it really clear that it's not my position to discuss anything to do with the Liberal Party," he said.
"I'm not an office bearer and I don't have the authority to do that."
Current Tasmanian Liberals president Geoff Page said he did not attend the 2008 meeting and, as such, could not comment.
Tasmanian Liberals director Sam McQuestin did not respond to several requests for comment.