Premier says access to MP’s emails is the Integrity Commission’s problem

The Integrity Commission cannot access emails of MPs under investigation for misconduct — and it’s a problem for the commission with the parliament, the Premier says.

Tasmanian Premier Jeremy Rockliff answers questions in parliament on Tuesday 19th November 2024. Picture: Linda Higginson

Removing a roadblock stopping access to the emails of MPs under investigation for misconduct is a problem for the Integrity Commission to solve with the parliament, Premier Jeremy Rockliff says.

A major investigation is being held up because the Commission can’t access MPs’ emails — which are protected by parliamentary privilege.

Mr Rockliff’s response came after he was asked by the Greens if he would order any Liberal MPs under investigation to release their emails to the Commission.

“I expect MPs to comply with the law,” he said adding that the problem was one for the Integrity Commission to solve.

“A parliamentary protocol is a matter for the Commission to continue to explore with parliament.

“Creating a protocol requires the leadership and negotiation of the Integrity Commission as an independent statutory body, the clerks of each House of parliament, the Speaker of the House of Assembly and the President of the Legislative Council.”

The Commission has two long-running investigations ongoing into state MPs, both dating back to 2022.

Investigation Loyetea is examining “a number of allegations that an elected representative failed to declare and manage a conflict of interest”.

Investigation Olegas is looking into claims that a grants program improperly used public funds to pursue electoral goals and that conflicts of interest were not properly declared.

The state government has shelled out more than $200,000 so far this year to cover legal costs run up by a minister or ministers — but won’t say who or what for.

Cassy O'Connor Greens member for Hobart. Picture: Nikki Davis-Jones

Tasmanian Integrity commission Chief Commissioner Greg Melick.

Integrity Commission chief Greg Melick SC says the Commission is having “significant problems” negotiating a protocol to investigate MPs and their staff.

“It makes it almost impossible to investigate a member of parliament or member of parliamentary staff unless they fully comply and consent rather than being compelled,” he told a parliamentary committee recently.

“It’s not a desirable situation. The public is entitled to know that members of parliament and parliamentary staff are subject to the same requirements as other members of the public service.”

Greens Democracy and Integrity Spokeswoman Cassy O’Connor said Mr Rockliff could help the Commission out.

“Jeremy Rockliff said he would lead a government of integrity, but he’s failed the most basic test of that commitment,” she said.

“Right now, MPs can indefinitely stall an Integrity Commission investigation simply by refusing to co-operate.

“Co-operating with the Integrity Commission investigations should be a basic requirement that the Premier expects from the members of his party.

“Disturbingly, it seems he doesn’t care.”