Barbara Pocock raises questions about DPS 'close friendship'

The Canberra Times

Greens senator Barbara Pocock has questioned why a female deputy secretary was moved from a department over a perceived conflict, while the male secretary stayed in place.

Transcript

00:00 But my question is, in so many circumstances like this, it is the woman who pays the price

00:06 and clearly Ms Saunders paid a price.

00:09 Her secondment I understand was a materially lower rate of pay.

00:13 What consideration was given to moving Mr Stefanik?

00:17 I wasn't there.

00:19 I'm asking, could you take on notice?

00:22 Yeah, okay.

00:23 You weren't there, I understand that.

00:24 But why was only, is it the case that only consideration was given to Ms Saunders moving?

00:32 What consideration and if no consideration was given to Mr Stefanik moving, why not?

00:38 Because there are two ways in which that relationship could have been sorted and without question

00:44 I haven't heard any word in relation to Ms Saunders' circumstances and she has been voiceless

00:49 in this process entirely in this public discussion, which I think is a real concern.

00:56 So I would like to know what consideration was given to Mr Stefanik moving.

01:00 I'll take that on notice, but it's quite hard for me to understand and look into that, Senator.

01:05 Do you see it as a material issue?

01:09 I really see the issue and I accept that issue.

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