Sam Dastyari quits: Senator’s resignation statement in full

LABOR senator Sam Dastyari has dramatically quit the parliament after his troubling, close links to Chinese donors were revealed. Here’s his resignation statement in full.

• Sam Dastyari quits Senate over China links

‘I’ll be making a short statement and I won’t be taking any questions.

Today after much reflection I’ve decided that the best service I can render to the federal parliament Labor party is to not return to the senate in 2018.

I’ve not reached this decision lightly but in my deliberations I’ve been guided by my Labor values that tell me that I should leave if my ongoing presence distracts from Labor mission. It is evident to me we are at that point so I will spare the party any further distraction.

Sam Dastyari resigns from parliament today. Picture: John Feder/The Australian.

I love the Labor party it has always given me more than I have given back. I know Australia needs a Labor government and I refuse to let my personal situation put that prospect at risk. I have always put the pursuit on the Labor cause first.

Reflecting on the events that led to my decision, I leave knowing that I’ve always honoured my parliamentary oath, I’ve always acted with integrity and I remain a loyal, patriotic Australian.

My parents Ellen and Nasser fled a war torn Iran, so that they could, like so many migrants, start a new life here as Australians. I’m also proud of my achievements as an Australian senator.

13 days ago Malcolm Turnbull capitulated to the campaign I played a small role in helping lead for a royal commission into systemic misconduct In Australians banking industry.

Five days ago Turnbull had to release data to show that 1 in 3 corporations paid no tax in the latest financial year that information would otherwise been secret.

‘I remain a loyal, patriotic Australian.”

And I’m proud of the fact that I have and will continue to speak for the millions of Australians who cheer the great multicultural nation that we have become as well as speaking against those who wish to drag us back into an intoll rant past.

The Labor Party will intolerant past. The Labor Party will have the time to choose my replacement ahead of the Parliament returning next year.

I will coordinate the departure with the NSW branch. I will continue to be an active grassroots member of the Labor Party.

For now, I wish to thank all of the many people who have supported me throughout my time as a Senator. Firstly, Bill Shorten.

He’s a first-rate Labor leader. He will make a first-rate Prime Minister. I thank him for his patience and for his perseverance. Penny Wong, my amazing Senate leader, as well as my Senate colleagues from the Labor Party.

Dastyary was facing growing pressure.

I thank them for their friendship and for their solidarity. My Labor colleagues in the House of Representatives, especially those who mentored me since the day I joined, as well as those with whom I’ve grown close in the recent years.

My staff- an extraordinary group of young, diligent and dedicated professionals. Party secretary Kayla Benane as well as the thousands of New South Wales Labor Party members who have suppotered me throughout my career.

The mightying mighty, resilient and relentless NSW trade union movement that fights for fairness and decency for all Australians.

Finally, and most importantly, I want to thank my amazingly supportive wife, Helen, out two gorgeous daughters, as well as my extended family, and in particularly, my sister. I said earlier in this statement that I’m a patriotic Australian.

I meant that with all my heart I leave the senate with nothing but good thoughts for our country and for our people.

Thank you.’