Police ditch probe into bribe claims

POLICE have dropped an investigation into a bribe allegedly offered to former workplace relations minister David O’Byrne to appoint a union leader to the Tasmanian Industrial Commission.

A complaint from Liberal backbencher Nic Street, who will run against Mr O’Byrne in Franklin at the state election, could not be substantiated, Tasmania Police said.

“Tasmania Police investigators have completed an assessment of the allegation of bribery,” a statement said.

“The assessment found there was insufficient corroborative evidence to support any charge, therefore the matter will be filed.”

A Federal Court hearing into a separate matter in 2015 heard the appointment of former Communications, Electrical and Plumbing Union state secretary Nicole Wells had been a “stitch up”.

A witness claimed Ms Wells’ partner and fellow unionist Kevin Harkins had said Mr O’Byrne was to receive “a bit of lolly” for the 2012 appointment.

Mr O’Byrne, who lost his seat in 2014, Ms Wells and Mr Harkins all vehemently denied the claims.

Mr O’Byrne said yesterday the Liberal Party had applied similar tactics to the personal campaign waged against independent Doug Chipman in the recent Pembroke by-election.

“It’s yet another example of the lack of substance of this Government,” he said.

“Instead of seeking to have a contest of ideas about the future of Tasmania, they seek to engage in smear and sleazy politics.”

Mr Harkins described the allegation as “rubbish”.

“The Liberal Party and their cohort have seen it as a good opportunity to attack a union leader and have let common sense fly out the window,” he said.

The matter has reportedly been referred to the Integrity Commission, which does not disclose its investigations.

Mr Street said he had no regrets about the complaint.

“It is reassuring that the police have investigated the case,” he said.

“It is very important that it was examined, given the seriousness of the allegations.”

Meanwhile, an investigation into claims of impropriety in the Tasmanian branch of the Police and Community Youth Club will also not proceed. Police received two audit reports after concerns were raised by a former employee.

“The assessment found there was insufficient evidence to support any charge,” Tasmania Police said.