Lack Of Leadership On Member For Sanderson

The disgraceful conduct of the Member for Sanderson, Len Kiely, provides the Chief Minister with an opportunity to demonstrate some much needed leadership. CLP Leader, Jodeen Carney is calling on the Chief Minister to take action. His resignation from the Deputy Speakership is mere tokenism.

"This is a time for action not words.” Jodeen Carney said.

"Len Kiely has said that he has taken responsibility – he hasn't. He still has his job. He can still get drunk at government functions. And, he can still be rude and offensive to women.

"In his statement, Mr Keily said that he regrets his behaviour was offensive to 'a member of the public'. This conduct was offensive to everyone, especially this woman who was trying to do her job.

"I certainly wouldn't stand for that sort of behaviour. This requires nothing less than Kiely to leave parliament. Although he cannot be sacked from parliament he can be thrown out of the ALP and he should be. If I were Chief Minister I would be expecting his resignation from parliament on my desk.

"It is clear that fifth floor spin doctors are trying to cover this up as much as they can and it was evident from the newspaper report they were trying to cover the incident up after it happened.

"No more deceptive words, no more obfuscation, just action is required.

"The Chief Minister has a chance to assert her authority. After last month's damaging Bonson Memo, she should demonstrate some leadership and move to have him sacked from the ALP.

"If she does not lead strongly on this matter, especially in the environment of the current debates in the Territory, Ms Martin will look weaker than ever.

2006-07-14