Liberal MP Taylor Martin apologises after ‘ugly’ breakup text messages

A Liberal MP has apologised after “ugly” and “undignified” text messages he sent were exposed. An investigation is underway.

A NSW Liberal MP has apologised and vowed to cooperate with an investigation after “ugly and undignified” text messages he sent to a woman were exposed.

Taylor Martin, an upper house state MP, agreed to stand down from the Liberal party temporarily while a senior counsel investigates allegations made against him by a woman in the Liberal party.

Mr Martin, 32, was believed to be in a relationship with the woman. She has chosen to remain anonymous.

The woman lodged a formal complaint against Mr Martin with the Liberal party on Friday.

On Sunday, Mr Martin issued a statement citing youth and inexperience for the way he handled the matter.

Taylor Martin has apologised for text messages he sent to an intimate partner.

“I was young and inexperienced and I found myself involved in a situation that was way beyond me,” he said in a statement.

“There were heated words during my attempts to go separate ways that I sincerely regret.

“It was an ugly and undignified parting of ways. If I could undo any hurt that has been caused I would do it in a heartbeat.

“I am so sorry and apologise unreservedly to everyone that has been caught up in it.

“I truly welcome the process that the party has commenced and I intent to fully cooperate.

Mr Martin has been a member of the NSW upper house for almost six years. He came to the position after being chosen to replace ex-police minister Mike Gallacher.

NSW Opposition Leader Mark Speakman said he had spoken with Mr Martin and “he has told me he welcomes the process”.

In the meantime, he said, “he will excuse himself from the party room”.

Mr Martin’s inaugural speech to Parliament touched on themes including bullying and domestic violence.

Taylor Martin has been an upper house MP in NSW since 2017.

“Domestic violence hits a nerve with just about everyone in our state,” he said.

“As we are seeing reported incidents on the rise and more and more people taking a stand, I am certain every family has at least one story to tell close to home.

“I know I do amongst my friends and family. I will be an advocate amongst young men. I participate in the annual White Ribbon Day walk.

“I invite my friends and colleagues every year to join in, and I would like to see this initiative taken into all our schools.

“We need to ensure that young boys who will become young men get the mentoring needed to teach and emphasise the value of respect in all relationships even if — indeed especially when it is not modelled in their home.”