Is Fred Nile waiting in the wings to be new Asst Deputy Upper House President?

“The Labor government has given no justification for creating a new position of Assistant Deputy President. This move seems to be designed to assist Labor politically rather than improve the running of the NSW Upper House,” Ms Rhiannon said.

“The NSW Upper House is already well served with a President, a Deputy President, and seven Chairs of Committees who assist the President on a daily basis.

“This new position will be filled tomorrow and at this stage it appears Reverend Fred Nile is the only nominee.

“The new position is most likely to attract extra pay and perks. The NSW Parliamentary Remuneration Tribunal in the past has ruled that way.

“If Rev Fred Nile does take this position Premier Iemma should be embarrassed as quite recently Rev Nile advocated a moratorium on Islamic immigration and for decades has bred hostility against the gay and lesbian community and manoeuvred to dismantle a woman’s right to an abortion.

“Apart from the ‘moral’ issues that the Christian Democrats back Reverend Nile has consistently supported the government of the day in promoting a conservative agenda.

“He voted with the government when they weakened workers’ compensation laws; watered down community consultation in the planning process; dismantled public ownership of Sydney’s water supply; restricted the availability of public housing; and made it harder to stop land clearing.

“As Labor does not have the numbers in the Upper House Rev Nile’s vote has been crucial on many government bills.

A motion to appoint an Assistant Deputy President was put to the NSW Upper House yesterday. Today the Upper House will vote on who fills the position.

For more information:  Lee Rhiannon - 9230 3551 or 0427 861 568