Saints, Too, will Feel Effects of Tobacco Demise: Claney

Source from:  BY DAVID JOHNSTON Greg Claney 09/26/2006

Greg Claney OVENS and Murray league chairman Greg Claney is expecting the imminent demise of the tobacco industry to be felt by sporting clubs in the Ovens Valley including the Myrtleford Saints. Claney called on government representatives for action to soften the blow. "You can't have 80 to 90 families affected without affecting the town and in turn the sporting clubs they run," Claney said. "I am not sure what they get direct, but (the Saints) benefit from the general economy of the town to enable support and sponsorship. "It's going to be a very difficult time. "The local politicians need to stand up and be counted. "It is an industry which has provided governments of all persuasions with a lot of dollars over the years. "Perhaps it's a time to allow people to exit what has been their life for 40-50 years in some cases with some dignity. "You can talk all you like, but it's when it hits the wall people are faced with the harsh reality." Myrtleford president Bill O'Donohue said the demise of the tobacco industry would be felt by the Saints. "It's going to hurt us for sure," he said. "But we've got a lot of loyal supporters and sponsors who we're confident will stick with us." Enditem