Embattled Liberal Adam Brooks will not take his seat in parliament, Premier Peter Gutwein says.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
$0/
(min cost $0)
or signup to continue reading
Former minister Mr Brooks has been under pressure over allegations he used a fake identity to trick women he met via dating apps.
He was confirmed as having won a Braddon seat on Thursday after a tense three-way Liberal contest for two seats.
However, on Friday morning Mr Gutwein said he had spoken with Mr Brooks last night, and he was currently being treated interstate for his mental health.
Mr Gutwein said that Mr Brooks had also been charged with a firearms offence while in Queensland - which he confirmed was different to the summons he was expecting in Tasmania.
"Last night just after 7pm I spoke with Adam Brooks by phone," Mr Gutwein said.
"Mr Brooks advised me that he is interstate where he is being supported and undertaking treatment for his own mental health. He explained to me that he is currently very unwell but in a safe environment.
"Last night in that conversation he also provided me with new information regarding his circumstances. He told me that he left Tasmania on Wednesday to take a break and seek treatment in Queensland.
"Last night he also informed me that yesterday he was visited by the Queensland police and subsequently charged with firearms offences and also in relation to a matter relating to a document, and that he has been bailed to appear in court."
Mr Brooks has sought legal advice, and Mr Gutwein said he intends to defend himself against the new charges.
"... however due to his state of health and the need to focus on his own personal circumstances, it is his intention not to take his seat in the Parliament and to forward his resignation to the Governor today," Mr Gutwein said.
A recount is expected to commence shortly, with Mr Gutwein saying he believes another Liberal candidate will take the seat in Braddon.
That would return beaten Liberal Felix Ellis to the parliament, assuming he decided to contest the recount.
If not, another beaten Liberal candidate would be elected.
Either way, the Liberals' bare majority (13 of 25 seats) would remain in place.
Roger Jaensch and Jeremy Rockliff were the other Liberals elected in Braddon.
Our journalists work hard to provide local, up-to-date news to the community. This is how you can continue to access our trusted content:
- Bookmark www.examiner.com.au
- Make sure you are signed up for our breaking and regular headlines newsletters
- Follow us on Twitter: @examineronline
- Follow us on Instagram: @examineronline
- Follow us on Google News: The Examiner