SA Greens MLC Mark Parnell to quit state parliament
SA Greens founding member Mark Parnell has announced he will leave parliament at the next state election. But he says he is not planning to twiddle his thumbs in retirement.
SA News
Don't miss out on the headlines from SA News. Followed categories will be added to My News.
- MP taxpayer-funded claims likely to be released
- Are you getting the most from your Advertiser subscription?
Founding member of the South Australian Greens, and current Legislative Council MP Mark Parnell, will not run at the next State Election.
Mr Parnell, who in 2006 became the first Greens candidate to get elected to the South Australian Parliament, has decided to finish his career in politics at the next State Election.
His announcement means Greens members wishing to follow in his footsteps will be able to put their hands up for preselection within months.
Members will also be able to nominate for Senate preselection – another area seen within the party as winnable.
Mr Parnell told The Advertiser the fact that he would be 70 before he finished another term in Parliament played a big part in his decision.
“I had considered recontesting, but decided against still doing this at the age 70,” he said.
“I am not retiring to play golf or twiddle my thumbs.
“My plans are to spend more time with community groups.”
Mr Parnell said he will not be endorsing anyone to replace him or be drawn on the issues his replacement should be focused on.
MORE NEWS
SA nurses and ambos answer Victoria’s urgent plea
Injured mum sues Tea Tree Plaza over broken foot
Deputy PM concedes new trade logo ‘hopping mad’
“There is no line of succession,” he said.
“There are no factional deals.
“All members are entitled to nominate and all members are entitled to vote.”
An email to SA Greens members this morning from Party Director Dominic Mugavin said a call for nominations for the Senate would be made in mid-July.
Nominations for Mr Parnell’s spot are expected in early October.