Independent MP Craig Garland has issued an apology after being sentenced for driving with cannabis in his system, saying he knows he “did the wrong thing”.
The Braddon MP fronted the Burnie Magistrates Court on Monday where he was handed a six-month driving ban and fined $1,096.
“I know I did the wrong thing and I’m not making any excuses for it,” Garland said in a statement following his sentencing.
He was caught during a roadside drug test on Smith Street in Smithton on November 2 last year and pleaded guilty to the charge in June.
Garland said he understood his position as an elected official meant higher standards were expected of him.
“As a member of parliament, I have a higher standard of behaviour expected of me and an example to set and I and the everyday Tasmanians know that I am not above the law,” he said.
“I apologise for letting the community down and for falling short of public expectations.”
Magistrate Leanne Topher cancelled his licence but granted him a restricted permit to drive only between his Boat Harbour home and Parliament House.
She found a complete ban would cause severe and unusual hardship due to limited public transport.
Garland’s lawyer told the court the MP had been prescribed medicinal cannabis for chronic pain to avoid pharmaceutical painkillers.
“Although my driving was not impaired at the time, I understand that any amount of unlawful cannabis in my system is an offence if I am driving,” he said.
While disqualified, Garland will rely on family, staff and volunteers to help him travel across his electorate.
