Comments withdrawn by Labor Member of the Legislative Council, John Gazzola, in Parliament late this afternoon is nothing more than a cosmetic attempt to paper over Labor division.
In Parliament this afternoon, Mr Gazzola said:
“To assist you in maintaining the standards of the council, I withdraw my use of unparliamentary language and reflecting on the chair out of respect for the standing orders of this place and honourable members.” (Hansard, 22/05/14)
On Tuesday, Mr Gazzola used his Address in Reply speech to label current President, Russell Wortley, a parasite and called on him to resign:
“I have formed my own view that you are a parasite and an embarrassment to the Labor movement. The final advice, given your record as a minister, would be that you should resign as President of the Legislative Council.” (Hansard 20 May 2014)
“Mr Gazzola’s withdrawal is nothing more than a cosmetic measure,” said Shadow Health Minister Rob Lucas.
“I suspect that Mr Gazzola might have been threatened with expulsion if he didn’t withdraw the comments – only Mr Gazzola can answer that question.
“Despite Mr Gazzola’s withdrawal, it is clear that division, dysfunction and disunity is rife in Weatherill Labor’s ranks.
“These allegations are out there and now must be dealt with in an appropriate manner.
“Over the past few days, we have seen anything but stable and effective government – South Australians have seen a parasitic Labor Government.
“There is no stability in a government that is at one another’s throats.
“Instead of focusing on themselves, this Government should be focused on job creation, growing the economy and addressing serious issues affecting South Australians.
“South Australians deserve better.”