NT Speaker Kezia Purick apologises over staffer’s investigation into Terry Mills and Robyn Lambley’s possible new North Australia Party

SPEAKER Kezia Purick has offered a “sincere and heartfelt apology” to the house for the actions of one of her staffers in attempting to interfere with the formation of a new political party

SPEAKER Kezia Purick has offered a “sincere and heartfelt apology” to the house for the actions of one of her staffers in attempting to interfere with the formation of a new political party

SPEAKER Kezia Purick has offered a “sincere and heartfelt apology” to the house for the actions of one of her staffers in attempting to interfere with the formation of a new political party.

Addressing the house at the beginning of Parliament, Ms Purick said she had accepted an apology from the staff member, her executive assistant Martine Smith.

It had been revealed Ms Smith had contacted a Queensland businessman who had previously registered the business name the North Australia Party and suggested he object to the planned registration by independents Terry Mills and Robyn Lambley of a similarly named party.

RELATED: SPEAKER KEZIA PURICK ACCUSED OF TRYING TO SPOIL TERRY MILLS' PARTY AS RIFT DEEPENS

RELATED: ROBYN LAMBLEY AND TERRY MILLS LOOKING TO ESTABLISH BRANCH OF NATIONALS IN THE TERRITORY

Ms Smith had also apologised to “some” of the members involved, she said. Ms Purick said Ms Smith had been “reprimanded”.

On Monday, the Labor caucus voted not to use its majority to dump Ms Purick from the speakership over the affair.

“As Speaker of the Legislative Assembly it’s a great honour to occupy this chair and preside over this assembly,” Ms Purick said.

“Sitting here I am well aware the assembly has put its faith into me to act fairly and to act with integrity and expects me to be impartial and treat you all equally.

“I perhaps more than any other occupant of this chair understand what the assembly has bestowed upon me it can take away also.

“In my service to this assembly I have tried always to act in good faith and trust you will allow me to continue to do so.

“I apologise sincerely to all members of the assembly for the recent events which have resulted in a focus on the assembly and my office instead of the work we do as members serving our constituency and debating legislation.”