The ‘excuse’ Neil Mitchell says Daniel Andrews can no longer use to ‘dodge’ questions about union dealings
Neil Mitchell says Daniel Andrews can’t keep dodging questions about his dealings with the firefighters union and subsequent controversial reform of Victoria’s fire services.
As reported by The Age, a leaked search warrant confirmed anti-corruption police had spent more than two years looking at suspected corrupt conduct involving dealings between the state government and the union.
Daniel Andrews has continually refused to answer questions about IBAC’s investigation, saying secrecy provisions prevented him from commenting on the situation.
“Well, that has changed,” Neil Mitchell said.
“IBAC has released witnesses from the secrecy provision.
“So the Premier no longer has that excuse.
“The dealings of the government with the firefighters union were controversial, questionable and demand an answer.”
The Premier again dismissed questions on the matter when asked by journalists on Wednesday.
Six questions have been put to the Premier by the opposition.
- Were you investigated?
- Were you questioned? If so, what date?
- Did you provide evidence? If so, what?
- Were you, or any of your staff, asked to provide documents?
- Was anybody from your office questioned?
- What accusations of impropriety were put to you?
“They are all legitimate questions,” Neil Mitchell said.
“I don’t think for a moment the Premier is going to answer them, but I believe very strongly he should.
“I always thought there was a nasty smell around this whole issue.
“Whether I’m right, or not, we will know soon.”
Press PLAY below to hear Neil Mitchell’s thoughts on the matter
(Photo by Asanka Ratnayake/Getty Images)