STATE ELECTION: 17 DECEMBER 2018

Implausible deniability

Member for Orange Philip Donato MP today expressed his serious concern about the apparent unethical and inappropriate behaviour by Nationals members toward their former endorsed candidate for the seat of Orange, Yvette Quinn.

“It’s very disappointing but not surprising to hear of the allegations by the former Nationals’ candidate for Orange Yvette Quinn, of inappropriate behaviour by senior members of the National Party, including The Hon. Rick Colless MLC,” said Mr Donato.

“It is reported in the media today that the extent of support by the National Party for Ms Quinn was limited to her launch after being democratically elected by the party branch, and it was soon after that her own party turned on her when polling wasn’t what they had hoped.

“The Nationals have a history of failed commitments, and this is another example of a failed commitment to their very own. That is exactly why the National Party cannot be trusted. They’ll do anything to win, and at any cost it would seem.   

“I can’t even begin to imagine how intimidating it must have been for this impressionable young lady to have been ambushed and repeatedly pressured into resigning by the very people who should have been providing her with support. Instead these powerful and influential National party members allegedly induced her with offers of money and job opportunities.

“It’s completely unethical and behaviour tantamount to bullying, which is unbecoming of a statesman; Mr Colless is a current serving member of the Government and he should now publically respond to these serious allegations. Plausible deniability doesn’t cut it anymore.

“The National Party do not represent the interests of Regional New South Wales. They just represent their own selfish interests and don’t care about collateral damage caused while pursing it.”

Based on media release issued by Mr Donato’s office.