Dr WOODRUFF question to PREMIER, Mr ROCKLIFF
It is on the public record that the Integrity Commission has been investigating at least two MPs since 2022. These years‑long investigations clearly show why the commission needs to have both its powers and funding beefed up. These delays raise other questions.
Last week, a report by ABC journalist Adam Holmes noted that taxpayers have funded over $250,000 in legal fees for unknown MPs for unknown reasons. We do not even know how many ministers or Liberal backbenchers this spending relates to. Looking at these ongoing Integrity Commission investigations and these huge legal bills side by side, it is reasonable to ask whether there is a relationship.
We know you cannot comment on the specifics of an Integrity Commission matter, but surely you can provide a general response as it is clearly in the public interest. Has any taxpayer funding been used to assist any of your MPs in relation to Integrity Commission investigations?
ANSWER
Speaker, I am advised that our public officers and ministers are involved in a vast array of work programs, strategic issues, and complex matters in undertaking their duties in serving the Tasmanian community. However, sometimes they may be the subject of legal proceedings, inquiries, claims, or actions, despite the fact that they are acting in good faith and within the scope of their duties. It is appropriate to provide legal assistance for indemnity to public officers and ministers to ensure fair treatment of employees and to protect the Crown’s interests and the integrity and effective management of the State Service.
SUPPLEMENTARY QUESTION
Dr WOODRUFF – A supplementary question, Speaker?
The SPEAKER – I will hear the supplementary question.
Dr WOODRUFF – The Premier did not answer the question. The Cabinet approves those legal fees. My question was: has any taxpayer funding been used to assist any of your MPs in relation to Integrity Commission matters that must have come before you and Cabinet?
The SPEAKER – I draw the Premier to that question.
Mr ROCKLIFF – I am not able to comment on Cabinet matters and do not intend to do so.
Dr Woodruff – He will not confirm or deny it – $250,000 of taxpayer money?
The SPEAKER – I will be taking no-one until the Leader of the Greens has finished her conversation.
