No Sign Of Northern Territory Code Of Conduct

The Martin Labor Government made much in its first term of office about introducing a 'Code of Conduct' to govern the behaviour of Members of Parliament both inside and outside of the Parliament. Since coming to Government the Chief Minister promised a Code of Conduct, but it is still missing. It remains ALP Party policy.

"We are doing what the Chief Minister promised to do in 2001. This promise was held off until 2004 when the Leader of Government Business promised legislation before the end of 2004. We are fast approaching the end of 2006 and still no sign of the legislation,” Jodeen Carney said today.

"Recently the disgraceful behaviour of Len Kiely earned him nothing more than a slap on the wrist when he should have been heavily sanctioned.

"Questions still remain about Ministers undertaking questionable behaviour in respect to possible abuse of their positions.

"I also think that it is inappropriate for Ministers to employ members of their family in their office.

"It is also important that there should be a clear line between Ministers and the senior public servants that they are responsible for. My proposed Code includes a provision which prohibits extra-professional relationships between Ministers and Senior executives of the departments that they have direct responsibility for.

"What we have put forward is a base starting point for a Code of Conduct for Members and Ministers because the Labor Government's 5 year old promise and model of two years ago has gone nowhere.

"We have waited long enough for the Chief Minister to come good on her promise. On Wednesday, on behalf of the CLP, I will be seeking the Parliament's approval for adoption of a Code a Conduct. I will also be introducing the supporting legislation to give the Code the teeth that it needs to be effective.

"The Chief Minister has yet another chance to either show some leadership or again go into hiding. "

2006-08-20