“No action” after Tas Labor allegations

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No further action will be taken by the Tasmanian Labor opposition against short-lived leader David O’Byrne following an investigation into allegations of sexual harassment.

Mr O’Byrne was appointed to the post in June following the Labor Party’s third consecutive electoral defeat, but resigned his post as leader in early July after the accusations were exposed.

He was accused of sending inappropriate text messages to a junior employee and kissing her without her consent in 2007 and 2008, while working for the Alcohol, Hospitality and Miscellaneous Union.

Mr O’Byrne issued a public apology when he resigned, saying he believed at the time his conduct was consensual but now understood it was not.

Labor Secretary of State Stuart Benson said on Tuesday he had received the findings of an independent investigation into the allegations.

“I have accepted the main conclusions and recommendations,” he said in a statement.

“The main findings and recommendations have been sent to the Complainant and the Respondent. I now consider this investigation to be complete and no further action is required.”

Mr Benson said he was obligated to adhere to the strict confidentiality clauses involved in the labor complaint process and would not comment in detail.

“These clauses exist to protect those who come forward and for the interests of due process, procedural fairness and natural justice for all parties,” he said.

“On legal advice, out of respect for the Complainant and Respondent and to respect the confidentiality provisions of the policy, I am unable to make any other public statements on this matter. “

Mr Benson noted that the investigation was led by former Fair Work commissioner Barbara Deegan, who had “no conflict of interest or connection” with the Labor Party.

Mr. O’Bryne, who represents the Southern Franklin electorate, has remained in the backbench since his resignation.

He was elected leader of the Labor Party following the party’s electoral defeat on May 1 under Rebecca White, who has since been reinstated in top positions.

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