05 September 2009

Inquiry urged over businessman's murder


NSW Opposition Leader Barry O'Farrell has called for an urgent investigation into claims the murder of Michael McGurk may be linked to a tape with information damaging to the state government.

Mr O'Farrell on Saturday said the state's Independent Commission Against Corruption (ICAC) should act immediately following allegations the slain businessman had an audio tape containing revelations of the bribing of state and federal Labor politicians.

Mr McGurk, 45, was shot dead outside his home in Cranbrook Avenue, Cremorne, on Sydney's north shore, about 6.30pm (AEST) on Thursday.

His young son witnessed the killing.

Mr McGurk's home and office had been burgled recently, the ABC reports.

"There are serious allegations that a tape existed alleging corruption with the Rees government," Mr O'Farrell told reporters in Sydney on Saturday.

"A man has died and that's why ICAC should get off its backside and investigate this as a matter of urgency.

"ICAC shouldn't wait. It needs to be proactive... so that everyone knows exactly what went on.

"Every member of the Rees government will be on the phone to each other saying: `What the hell is this about' and that's more energy that's being wasted and not being put into fixing the state's problems."

Mr O'Farrell said a year on from election as leader, Mr Rees was making the same promises and people were seeing no progress.

"His leadership is under question.

"There is factional infighting and as a result energies are being diverted away from the problems confronting families and small businesses.

"Nathan Rees lacks authority and has the wrong priorities.

"The people of NSW need hope not another wasted year."

5 Sep 2009

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