Baird 'deeply sorry' as by-elections loom after ICAC resignations
NSW Premier Mike Baird speaks about the resignation of MPs following ICAC revelations during a media conference in Sydney. (AAP Image/Paul Miller) (AAP Image/Paul Miller)
NSW Premier Mike Baird says he's "deeply sorry" the Liberals have let down the people of Newcastle and the party will not field candidates in two Hunter by-elections in October.
The premier's office has confirmed Liberal candidates won't contest the seats vacated by disgraced former parliamentarians Tim Owen and Andrew Cornwell, after they were forced to step down over damaging revelations at the state's corruption watchdog.
Newcastle's Mr Owen quit parliament last week after confessing to lying to the Independent Commission Against Corruption (ICAC), and ex-Charlestown member Mr Cornwell resigned after admitting to receiving wads of cash from banned donors in the lead-up to his 2011 election.
In an extraordinary open letter released over the weekend, Mr Baird said his government had never taken the city for granted.
"I am deeply sorry for the way the Liberal Party has let down the people of Newcastle," he said.
"What hurts me most of all is that the actions of a few have tarnished the wonderful achievements of the Liberals & Nationals in the Hunter Valley since 2011."
He made a "solemn promise" to deliver on commitments for the region.
"And above all, while I lead this State, we will never again let the people of Newcastle down," he said.
Share a tip-off, video or photo with us
