NSW Labor MP denies sexual assault allegations by former staffer

Labor’s western Sydney MP Hugh McDermott has vowed to clear his name after a former staffer accused him of sexual and verbal abuse.  

Nicole Scott, a former staffer who was fired from the MP’s Prospect electorate office before Christmas, has filed a complaint to the Public Service Association of NSW, it was revealed on Saturday.

Dr McDermott has ‘categorically denied’ allegations he deliberately brushed against her breast multiple times and pressed his groin against her back while she was seated at her desk.

Ms Scott has also alleged Dr McDermott answered the door at his home during a mutually agreed meeting without a shirt on and with his pants undone. 

‘I welcome the opportunity to clear my name,’  NSW Labor MP Hugh McDermott said

Nicole Scott has has filed a complaint to the Public Service Association of NSW

Nicole Scott has has filed a complaint to the Public Service Association of NSW

NSW Opposition Leader Luke Foley told reporters the party would begin an investigation alongside a separate probe by the NSW parliament.

‘There’s no place in the party I lead for the harassment of women,’ he said.

He admitted he was surprised to learn of the allegations, when told about them on Friday evening.

Ms Scott would receive all due care and support, he added.

‘I feel a duty of care to her as a former Labor staffer,’ Mr Foley said.

‘No-one will be judged here until the investigations take their course.’ 

'I am deeply concerned to hear of the allegations, which I categorically deny,' Hugh McDermott said

‘I am deeply concerned to hear of the allegations, which I categorically deny,’ Hugh McDermott said

Dr McDermott said he was ‘deeply concerned’ about the allegations which he could ‘categorically deny’.

‘Any allegation of harassment is a very serious matter,’ he said in a Facebook post late Friday.

‘At no time has any member of my staff spoken with me about such allegations, nor have they lodged a formal complaint through any of the channels available to them which would trigger a proper investigation and consideration of any such matter.’

Ms Scott’s employment was terminated due to ‘operational requirements’, he added.

Dr McDermott on Saturday voluntarily stood aside from his role as chair of the Wastewatch Committee until the investigation was complete.

‘I welcome the opportunity to clear my name,’ he said. 

State Opposition Leader Luke Foley said he was surprised to hear about the sexual assault allegations against his  Labor colleague Hugh McDermott

State Opposition Leader Luke Foley said he was surprised to hear about the sexual assault allegations against his  Labor colleague Hugh McDermott



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