Article
Labor Statements on David O’Byrne Investigation
Media release – Tasmanian Labor, 17 August 2021
Rebecca White MP, Labor Leader, 17 August 2021
Report of independent investigator delivered
Labor Leader Rebecca White has acknowledged the finalisation of an independent investigation into a complaint made in relation to Labor Member for Franklin David O’Byrne.
“This independent investigation was carried out in line with the policy of the Labor Party and at arm’s length from the Labor Party and myself,” Ms White said.
“It was carried out by a highly respected independent investigator, Barbara Deegan.
“I acknowledge that this has been a difficult time for the individuals involved and the Labor party more broadly.
“I also acknowledge the investigator has concluded that no further action is required.
“David O’Byrne has a clear commitment to Tasmania and will continue his strong work in the electorate of Franklin as a member of the Parliamentary Labor team.”
ABC: Report into David O’Byrne, former Tasmanian Labor leader, finalised with ‘no further action required’
by state political reporter Alexandra Humphries
…
Labor Party member Rachel Midson alleged Mr O’Byrne sexually harassed her when she was 22 years old and an employee of the Liquor, Hospitality and Miscellaneous Union (LHMU), when Mr O’Byrne was the union’s secretary and her boss.
She alleged Mr O’Byrne sent her unwanted texts and twice kissed her without her consent, and that she was performance managed after asking Mr O’Byrne to stop sending her messages.
Mr O’Byrne stepped aside from the leadership and publicly apologised to her after the ABC reported on the complaint on June 30, saying he thought the texts and kisses were consensual at the time but now understood “this was not the case”.
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