MPs given the heads up on covert cameras
Following the fallout of the Adem Somyurek branch-stacking scandal, Victorian MPs have taken extreme steps to make sure their offices are free from hidden cameras and listening devices.
VIC News
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Victorian MPs have been briefed on how to sweep their offices for covert recording devices in the fallout of the Adem Somyurek branch-stacking affair.
The Herald Sun has been told some MPs have already spoken with security companies about having their offices professionally checked for hidden cameras and listening devices.
Security at Parliamentary House has also advised staff how they can conduct their own searches.
It comes after disgraced MP Adem Somyurek was sacked following an undercover investigation uncovered allegations of corruption.
Covert recordings made in the parliamentary office of a staffer of federal backbencher Anthony Byrne caught Mr Somyurek using sexist and homophobic language to describe his colleagues.
Factional allies Robin Scott and Marlene Kairouz were also forced to quit the front bench in the fallout.
In a security memo to parliamentary staff MPs were advised that they could arrange to have their offices swept for bugs amid concerns hidden cameras or listening devices could be hidden in offices.
“While there are commercial companies that the security team can enlist to conduct a sweep of these areas if you have any concerns, there are also some basic iPhone applications that can also be used to conduct sweeps of your office,” the memo said.
“Hidden Camera Detector Apps are quite handy and work by utilising the phones own flash and camera.
“There is also basic listening device detector apps that work on identifying any Wi-Fi signals that may be emitting from the office.”
MPs were warned that the do-it-yourself approach may not be 100 per cent effective.
“For total peace of mind, the security team have a security contractor who can sweep offices
with commercial grade equipment that will 100% detect and identify any cameras or listening devices hidden in an office area.”
Opposition backbencher James Newbury said paranoia had swept state parliament.
“This is more proof of why Daniel Andrews has lost control of the pandemic in Victoria,” he said.
“His ministers are more focused on whether a Labor colleague has planted a bug in their office than getting coronavirus under control”.
A government spokesperson said: “Security of electorate offices is a matter for the Parliament.”
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