Former premier Lara Giddings has discussed her future, as former Labor MP David O’Byrne keeps quiet

FORMER Premier Lara Giddings talks about the “beautiful man” in her life and her decision to quit politics.

Lara Giddings announced that she will not be contesting the next state election, but will remain in office until the election to support the Labor Party. Picture: MATHEW FARRELL

FORMER Labor minister David O’Byrne is keeping quiet about his future after former premier Lara Giddings announced her intention to leave politics at the next state election.

Mr O’Byrne yesterday declined to comment on whether he would put his hand up again to run for Labor in Franklin, but has previously said he would “never say never”.

Mr O’Byrne narrowly missed out on retaining his seat in Franklin in the 2014 state election and now works for the not-for-profit Beacon Foundation.

Ms Giddings — who led the state from 2011-2014 and now serves as shadow attorney-general — yesterday ended speculation about her future by announcing she would not contest the election, due early next year.

She plans to remain in State Parliament until the end of her term.

The Sunday Tasmanian reported in March that Labor heavyweights were calling on Ms Giddings to stand aside before the election to make way for Mr O’Byrne to re-enter parliament on a countback.

Instead, her decision means no recount will be held and Labor will go to the election without an incumbent in Franklin — where the party hopes to gain seats.

Ms Giddings decided not to stand again after her government lost the March 2014 election.

She is passionate about the need for euthanasia legislation, and said there was still work to be done on the issue.

The Voluntary Assisted Dying Bill she co-sponsored with Greens leader Cassy O’Connor last year is due for consideration in the House of Assembly at the end of May.

“Very few people will ever take up the opportunity (to use euthanasia laws), but right now they’re doing it anyway,” she said.

“They’re suiciding on their own in tragic circumstances. We should face up to this difficult issue, and I hope this parliament does it.”

Ms Giddings plans to take time off after leaving politics, but will eventually re-enter the workforce.

“I’ve now met a beautiful man who comes with four gorgeous children and I see a future for me in my family life, as well as a future in another career,” she said.

“I’m only 44, I’ve got a career ahead of me yet and I’m looking forward to that.”

No announcement has yet been made on the political future of Labor Lyons MP David Lewellyn, who is in his mid seventies.

Preselection for Labor has opened, with candidates to be announced in July.