The video was posted to the Love Your Local campaign’s Facebook page and featured Glenorchy RSL sub-branch president hitting out at Labor’s policy to ban pokies in pubs and clubs by 2023. 

Mr Chivers said that the RSL would be closed down and that Anzac Day commemorations would not take place. 

The video was pulled from Facebook on Friday after backlash from former servicemen and women, including RSL Tasmania president Terry Roe. 

Mr Roe said the video was “pretty disrespectful” and that he was disappointed by its contents. 

A statement from Mr Chivers said he still stands by his comments that “should we lose gaming machines our club will close and no longer be a gathering place for ANZAC Day celebrations in Glenorchy”.

Premier Will Hodgman and Treasurer Peter Gutwein defended the video on Friday. 

Mr Hodgman said the only thing “distasteful” about the incident was that RSL may have to shut if pokies were banned by a future Labor government. 

Bass Labor candidate, and ex-servicemen, Adam Gore hit out at Mr Hodgman and Mr Gutwein for defending the video. 

“What I found disgusting is when treasurer Peter Gutwein supported these comments about Anzac Day,” he said.

“I stand here furious that we have MP’s talking to the public about Anzac Day and the loss of it [if pokies are banned] – we know this is not the case.

“I would like to see Peter Gutwein and Will Hodgman apologise for putting Anzac Day in the political sphere.”

Mr Gutwein said he would not apologise. 

“The only people who should apologise is Labor for trying to bully and silence people from having their say,” he said.

“Everyone is entitled to voice their opinions, particularly during an election campaign.”