Personal Explanation

Members' Staff

The Hon. L.A. HENDERSON (15:19): I seek leave to make a personal explanation.

Leave granted.

The Hon. L.A. HENDERSON: I rise today to make a personal explanation. Members of this place will be aware that allegations were levelled at my office around the 'upset unionist' account. Yesterday, the President made a statement, which has resolved the matter. Clearly, my office had done nothing wrong. When I put my hand up to run for parliament, I knew that with it came the reality that we as members are open to public scrutiny. Whilst this may be the case, it is my firm belief that the staff of this place should not be open to such public and media scrutiny. It is my firm belief that staff should not be collateral damage, particularly a non-political 20-year-old trainee.

I would like to thank the Clerk of the Legislative Council, the manager of People and Culture and electorate services for their pastoral care of the staff member during this time. This matter has served as a reminder for me of the importance of us caring for our staff.