Blain MLA Mark Turner warned of ‘disruptive’ conduct after unofficial Christmas visit

Mark Turner has landed himself in hot water after delivering Christmas cupcakes to frontline staff without government approval. Here’s how the cookie crumbled.

Blain MLA Mark Turner is in hot water for making an unauthorised visit to frontline staff on Christmas Day. Picture: Mark Turner

Mark Turner has been dressed down for delivering Christmas cupcakes to healthcare staff without government approval.

The Blain MLA said he received an email from Chief Minister Natasha Fyles’ office on Thursday advising his visit to Palmerston frontline workers on Christmas Day was conducted without approval.

It comes after he spent time in the regional hospital in early December with unexpected cardiac issues.

However in emails seen by this publication, the Department of Health was the first to raise concerns of the unexpected Christmas visit with a complaint sent to the Chief’s office last week.

“I unreservedly apologise to the Chief Minister and Minister for Health that I, and my daughter, delivered cakes without prior approval or notice,” Mr Turner said.

“After contacting the office of the Chief Minister, I was further advised that Erin and I had engaged in disruptive conduct when we dropped off the cakes at the emergency department.

Blain MLA Mark Turner took his seven-year-old daughter Erin with him on his visit to frontline staff on Christmas Day. Picture: Mark Turner

“If there is an allegation of disruptive conduct that is shocking and one I refute entirely.

“We intended to spread a bit of Christmas happiness to what I know are our hardworking health heroes.”

Acting Chief Minister Nicole Manison said there were “simple” processes in place for MLAs visiting hospitals.

“The Chief Minister’s Office received a complaint from the Department of Health about Mr Turner,” she said.

“We respect any member of parliament who wants to show their appreciation to our frontline staff, however this needs to be done in a manner that does not disrupt their frontline duties or make staff feel uncomfortable.

Mr Turner also visited police in his electorate on Christmas Day. Picture: Mark Turner

“That’s why there are simple processes in place for members of parliament wanting to visit emergency centres.

“These processes ensure visits can occur whilst causing minimal disruption to frontline duties.”

Mr Turner has suggested the hospital’s security team quarantine the CCTV footage of his visit.

“Depending on what the footage shows it may be worth referring it to the Special References Unit at the Northern Territory Police,” he said.

“Should other members support the motion, I will refer the matter to the Privileges Committee at the (next parliament) sittings.”

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Originally published as Blain MLA Mark Turner warned of ‘disruptive’ conduct after unofficial Christmas visit