In that article I was incorrectly quoted as saying “as we’re seeing in ICAC, we’re still trying to recoup the damage that occurred as a result of the independents putting the last(federal) Labor government in power.”

By way of clarification, this was not a direct quote from me. It was actually two quotes on entirely different issues stitched together in a way that made no sense.

In a broad ranging discussion with the reporter, I spoke about the recent ICAC inquiries affecting the Liberal and Labor parties (but not, I am proud to say, The Nationals) and I noted that some Liberal and Labor candidates may be damaged at the ballot box because of them.

On an entirely separate issue I discussed the damage done to the independent brand and to the country more broadly, by them putting the last federal Labor government in power – something quite apparent to any reasonable and impartial observer.

I have spoken with the editor about his paper’s mistake. He accepted my point as a valid one and this letter is to correct the public record.

Bede Burke

Tamworth