Milton Orkopoulos Criminal Allegations

Mr ADRIAN PICCOLI: My question is directed to the Minister for Water. Given that Gillian Sneddon, former Minister Milton Orkopoulos' electoral officer, knew of allegations that he was sexually assaulting children before his arrest by police, how is it possible that the Minister, who was then Milton Orkopoulos' chief of staff, had no knowledge or inkling whatsoever of those allegations against his former boss before his arrest?

Mr NATHAN REES: There is not a lot one can do when asked that sort of question other than to state the facts and let those facts speak for themselves. Mindful that sentencing is yet to occur, I will be careful in what I say and will simply state those facts. I worked for the former Minister for just under 12 months, resigning on 4 August 2006. I learned of the allegations, the investigation into those allegations and the charges arising on the same day as the rest of Australiathat is, early November 2006, more than three months after leaving the former Minister's employ.

Mr Andrew Stoner: That is a Sergeant Schultz defence.

The SPEAKER: Order! The Leader of The Nationals will cease interjecting. His comment was highly inappropriate.

Mr NATHAN REES: I recall exactly where I was and what I was doing, and I felt ill. At no time during the investigation, or subsequent to it, was I contacted by the police, the prosecution or the defence. The prosecutor made it clear during the case that the former Minister led a secret life,; secret from his wife, his family, his friends, the community and his colleagues. Most compellingly, it is difficult to imagine the pain, grief and anguish of the young victims who came forward, and our sincere sympathies are with them. I have just outlined the facts of the matter. I have stated them simply, clearly and honestly. I cannot prevent the Opposition from raising this issue. However, if it does after, having been informed of the facts, it will be a function of one of two things: stupidity or rant grubbiness.

Mr Adrian Piccoli: Point of order: I refer to Standing Order 129. He led a secret life

The SPEAKER: Order! What is the member's point of order?

Mr Adrian Piccoli: My point of order is Standing Order 129, which relates to relevance. He led a secret life, but not secret from Bryce Gaudry, Jan Burnswoods and other members.

The SPEAKER: Order! The member for Murrumbidgee will resume his seat. Members will cease calling out, including the member for Bathurst. If the member for Murrumbidgee makes another outburst like that I will have him removed from the Chamber.