Clarence Mayor Brendan Blomeley has called for ex-Greens leader Cassy O’Connor to be hauled before the Legislative Council Privileges and Conduct Committee over accusations he bullied and intimidated women.
O’Connor, who was recently elected to the Legislative Council as a Green, made the allegations against Blomeley in a speech under parliamentary privilege last week.
She claimed Blomeley was not preselected as a Senate candidate by the Liberal Party “because he failed to disclose he had been charged with breaching an apprehended violence order”.
“He has frequently displayed disrespect, disdain and contempt for women,” O’Connor said.
Blomeley responded on Monday by calling O’Connor’s claims “unsubstantiated and defamatory”.
“O’Connor [has] … continued to shamelessly attack my reputation under the guise of parliamentary privilege,” he said.
“[She has] abused the privilege extended to all Parliamentarians in such an egregious and unparliamentary manner and in direct contravention of the Code of Conduct Members of the Parliament of Tasmania Parliamentary Conduct.”
He is also asking for “the opportunity to formally respond” as his “reputation has been adversely affected by the unsubstantiated and defamatory assertions”.
Clarence City Councillor Emma Goyne has also weighed in, condemning O’Connor’s actions as “disgusting” and accusing her of dragging political discourse in Tasmania to a “new low”.
“It takes quite a lot to make me mad, but last week’s cowardly actions under privilege still have my blood boiling,” she wrote online.
“Since meeting Brendan shortly before I was elected to council in 2022, I have at all times found him to be a kind, considerate and respectful gentleman.”
“He has been incredibly supportive of my initiation into both politics and motherhood – of which each were a wonderful surprise, but not an easy journey and Brendan’s kindness has helped me through some very difficult times.”
“Anyone that knows Brendan, knows that he stands on principle, works hard for our community and clearly articulates his position on issues.”
