Chief Minister Michael Gunner aware of drug taking claims on fifth floor

CHIEF Minister Michael Gunner confirmed allegations of drug taking by fifth floor staffers has been raised previously during his time as Chief Minister.

CHIEF Minister Michael Gunner has confirmed allegations of drug taking by fifth floor staffers has been raised previously during his time as Chief Minister.

However, Mr Gunner said there has never been any proof to substantiate the “rumours”.

A fifth floor staff meeting will be held on Monday to reinforce his zero tolerance on drug taking.

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Mr Gunner was also asked if he was aware that his former chief-of-staff Alf Leonardi had called a meeting of fifth floor office chiefs to warn them of the claims of drug use, particularly cocaine, among fifth floor staff.

“I’ve been aware of allegations, I have never received any information, I have no knowledge and I certainly have no tolerance of any drug use,” Mr Gunner said.

“We are in a very robust industry and we are all subject to scrutiny.

“Sometimes that scrutiny isn’t fair and sometimes it can be misinterpreted and I am constantly reminding my team that they have to be extremely careful about how they behave.

“I think everyone would be aware that politics invites a lot of gossip and rumours and variations on that gossip.

“I think there has been a lot of gossip about everyone in parliament over every term and I think you always have to be hesitant in taking that to the public.

“I have never been provided any information to support any allegation around illegal drug use.”

Mr Gunner said: “I think everyone on my team who has seen the actions of this week have a clear understanding of that, but I will be reinforcing that at the staff meeting (on Monday).

“My caucus has discussed this issue all week.”

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Mr Gunner said he tried to lead be example with public behaviour.

“You have to be extremely careful about how you are seen to behave,” Mr Gunner said.