STATE Treasurer Michael O’Brien accused Labor-aligned councillors of “muckraking” as he reacted to John Burt’s resignation on Monday.
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Praising Mr Burt’s contributions to Ballarat, through the council and Ballarat Specialist School, Mr O’Brien said he believed there had been “some politics being played by some Labor people on council”.
“I know Cr Burt is somebody who has been a great contributor to the local community, not only through his council role, but also through his role as the principal of the special development school here in Ballarat,” Mr O’Brien said.
“I know there’s been some politics being played by some Labor people on council which has been, I think, detrimental to their reputations.
“It’s very unfortunate that people would try and engage in that muckraking at any time.”
Ballarat West MP Sharon Knight, who first raised allegations of mayoral vote tampering in state parliament earlier this month, said she wished Mr Burt well but remained “concerned”.
Ms Knight said she believed serious questions remained unanswered regarding Premier Denis Napthine’s behaviour.
“I am considering further steps to get to the bottom of this controversy,” Ms Knight said.