Convicted rapist Gareth Ward is refusing to step down as the state MP for Kiama, after Parliament's attempt at expelling him was blocked by lawyers.

Council of the City of Sydney

Gareth Ward, the state MP for Kiama, has been convicted of rape and three counts of indecent assault but is refusing to resign his seat. His conviction has shocked many constituents, with some calling for his resignation while others continue to support him. Parliament attempted to move a motion to expel Ward, but his legal team blocked the move. The government is now seeking an urgent hearing in the Court of Appeal to review the judge's decision. Despite being in jail, Ward's office remains open and continues to serve the electorate, though he is unable to participate in parliamentary activities.

Gareth Ward refuses to step down after rape conviction

Kayama, on the state's south coast, is known for its natural beauty and for currently having a convicted rapist, Gareth Ward, as a state MP. For the more than 60,000 people who live in this electorate, it's a shock. I was quite disgusted, to be honest. He needs to go out, really, he needs to go. I think he would be better if he just stood down. Others still support him. He's a good man and has done a lot for this community and I just don't believe he's done it. I think he's innocent. I feel quite sorry for him. I think the whole thing was a bit of a set-up, actually. Gareth Ward will appeal his conviction of rape and three counts of indecent assault and is refusing to resign. It's an unconscionable situation to have someone who's currently sitting in jail, convicted of serious sexual offences, who is demanding to remain a Member of Parliament and continue to be paid. Clearly, he's got no shame. Parliament was to move a motion to expel him today, but Ward's lawyers blocked it. How's he doing? I've got to... How's he doing? Why don't you ask him yourself? I'd like to, but he's in jail. If he is capable of instructing lawyers to run a case in court, he is capable of resigning. The Government has now pushed for an urgent hearing in the Court of Appeal on Thursday. The House needs to be able to make its judgement to protect itself and we will be seeking a review of the judge's decision. Mr Ward's constituents receive an error message when trying to access his website, but his Instagram has been reactivated. His office on Terrelong Street is open, staff telling members of the public they are continuing to take inquiries for the electorate, despite Gareth Ward sitting in a Cessnock jail. No longer able to debate, move motions or vote on matters of importance to his community. That's been convicted and has had a trial, should not have their job. That decision still hanging in the balance. Sarah Navin, 10 News.

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