Napier praised for gay rights record

This media release was issued by the TGLRG on 9.2.10.

Tasmanian gay activists have praised Tasmanian Liberal MP, Sue Napier, following news she will retire from State Parliament due to illness.

Tasmanian Gay and Lesbian Rights Group spokesperson, Rodney Croome, said,

"On issues affecting gay, lesbian, bisexual and transgender people, particularly the decriminalisation of homosexuality in the 1997, Sue Napier was a voice for compassion and common sense within the Liberal Party."

"Mrs Napier can be proud of her contribution to making Tasmania a more inclusive and tolerant society."

"The Liberal Party can honour Sue Napier by putting in place policies that will build on her legacy."

"We wish Sue Napier well in what we hope will be a rapid recovery."

Speaking on ABC Radio this morning Mrs Napier said one of her proudest achievements was gay law reform.

"I came into Parliament passionate about gay law reform and sex discrimination and together with (former Attorney-General) Ray (Groom) was able to introduce reform on legislation in those two areas", Mrs Napier said.

"A lot of people said 'why are you concentrating on that' and I said 'because it's important - it's important for individuals and their freedom'".

"The rights of the individual have always been pretty important for driving me along."

Mrs Napier, who has represented the Launceston-based electorate of Bass, was the first woman to be State Deputy Premier and the first to be State Opposition Leader.

For her ABC interview visit,
http://www.abc.net.au/hobart/programs/hobart_mornings/

For more on her retirement visit,
http://www.abc.net.au/news/stories/2010/02/09/2813883.htm

For further comment contact Rodney Croome on 0409 010 668.