ID :
181177
Tue, 05/10/2011 - 13:36
Auther :

Aussie Labor kingmaker Obeid quits NSW parliament


SYDNEY (AAP) - Labor powerbroker Eddie Obeid, the man credited with the rise and fall of three NSW premiers, has quit parliament, ending months of speculation.
The media-shy upper house MP resigned just hours before the federal budget, citing his granddaughter's battle with kidney cancer for his decision to end his 20-year parliamentary career.
"My wife Judy and I need to spend all our time supporting our son Moses and his wife Nikki through this difficult time," the factional heavyweight and former fisheries minister said in a statement.
"I am proud of my achievements as an MLC and as a minister."
Ever since former premier Kristina Keneally in September called for fresh blood in the ALP, speculation has been rife Mr Obeid would soon quit Macquarie Street.
The 67-year-old, along with fellow right factional leader Joe Tripodi, has been blamed for the leadership instability and infighting which marred the final years of the state Labor government.
The backbencher's resignation will draw a line under a bitter period for the party, which culminated in Labor's landslide loss at the March election.
Mr Obeid wished new Labor Opposition Leader John Robertson and his fellow Labor MPs well, and said he looked forward to spending more time with his nine children and 28 grandchildren.
Mr Robertson thanked Mr Obeid for his contribution as an MP.
"I wish Mr Obeid and his family all the best during this difficult time," he said in a statement.
Chief of staff to former premier Kristina Keneally, Walt Secord, is favoured to replace Mr Obeid in the Legislative Council.



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