Broadwater MP Verity Barton hauled over coals by LNP executive over unpaid fines

MEMBER for Broadwater Verity Barton has been hauled over the coals by the LNP after refusing to pay overdue traffic fines.

LNP Member for Broadwater Verity Barton pictured at her first home after recently leaving her parents home

MEMBER for Broadwater Verity Barton has been hauled over the coals by the LNP after refusing to pay overdue traffic fines.

The 28-year-old MP, already in one of the LNP’s weakest Gold Coast electorates, was called into an hours-long meeting with party heavyweights on Wednesday night over her reluctance to pay overdue fines.

The controversial MP was called before the LNP executive where members debated the future of the member of Broadwater.

Senior LNP figures said Ms Barton was hauled over the coals over the unpaid fines which have been referred to the State Penalties Enforcement Registry.

Ms Barton released a statement saying she inadvertently overlooked reminder notices for overdue tolls in 2012, leading to suspension of her licence.

A similar incident occurred in 2013, leading to another licence suspension.

“All fines have now been paid and my driver’s licence is valid,’’ she said.

“I acknowledge these suspensions occurred because of my own mistakes and my actions are

not what is expected of a community leader and I sincerely apologise for that.’’

The full statement appears below.

Read more in tomorrow’s Gold Coast Bulletin.

Verity Barton says her driver’s licence is valid after she paid all fines owing.

Verity Barton’s statement

“In response to queries about incidents regarding my driver’s licence being suspended, I

would like to clarify the circumstances which led to that occurring.

“In 2012, on a visit to Brisbane, I travelled through a toll road but failed to pay the fee at the

time.

“Through my own oversight, I failed to heed reminder notices which led to my licence

being suspended until I paid the fine.

“In 2013, a similar incident occurred which again led to the suspension of my driver’s

licence.

“All fines have now been paid and my driver’s licence is valid.

“I acknowledge these suspensions occurred because of my own mistakes and my actions are

not what is expected of a community leader and I sincerely apologise for that.

“I am saddened that these mistakes may overshadow my commitment to Broadwater.

“I am deeply passionate about serving the people of Broadwater and, if given the

opportunity, I will be working extremely hard to provide them strong representation in the

LNP Government.’’