NORTHERN Tablelands MP Adam Marshall has spoken with police after receiving threats over his stance on the government’s proposal to ban greyhound racing.
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Speaking exclusively to Fairfax Media, Mr Marshall says despite the threats and vitriolic letters, he will vote with the government to outlaw dog racing by July 1, next year.
“It has become quite personal,” he said on Tuesday.
“I have received threats but I won’t backdown on my beliefs.”
Mr Marshall said he had spoken with local investigators but did not want the issue to sidetrack the debate – which has already seen two people charged after allegedly making threats against Nationals leader and Deputy Premier, Troy Grant.
“I have had to take some advice on the nature of those threats, but that hasn’t deterred me,” Mr Marshall said.
“It has concerned my family more than it’s concerned me. In this debate, I think its unfortunate that it has become personal.”
Parliament sat early into last Wednesday morning with dozens of MPs from both sides speaking on the bill which was eventually passed.
Mr Marshall confirmed he had received threats in his letterbox, and via email, as well as abusive and vitriolic messages on social media.
“A lot of the email letters and traffic, the vitriolic commentary on social media has largely come from people outside my electorate and largely outside this region,” he said.
“They are not local threats. When you enter politics, I understand in roles you’re going to cop some flak, but this has got personal.”
Under the bill, racing will be outlawed from July 1, 2017, but breeding, training and owning greyhounds will continue for a number of years after that.
Mr Marshall said he couldn’ turn a blind eye after seeing the evidence. “I’m supporting the bill, not because of loyalty to a party or a leader, I’m supporting it because, as difficult as it is, I believe it is the right decision,” he said.
“Given the McHugh report, and what I have read you can’t ignore that.
“With all the documentation I’ve been able to get my hands on, it’s a terrible situation, but it’s the only viable option for the industry and that’s why I am supporting it.”