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I’ve Learnt A Lot,’ Mr O’brien Says (Press, 4 September 1976)

This is a Generative AI summary of this newspaper article. It may contain errors or omissions. Please note that the language in the summary is reflective of the original article and the societal attitudes of the time in which it was written.

Summary: I’ve Learnt A Lot,’ Mr O’brien Says (Press, 4 September 1976)

On 4 September 1976, J. G. O'Brien, the Labour Member of Parliament for Island Bay, spoke candidly during a television interview on TV1's "Tonight" programme. This was his first interview since he had been charged with indecent assault on a male in Christchurch, a charge from which a magistrate determined there was no case to answer. O'Brien stated that he had not contemplated resigning from Parliament, emphasising that the incident could have happened to anyone in his position. He mentioned that he was awaiting medical clearance before he could return to Parliament the following week and reflected on how the experience in Christchurch had significantly impacted him. O'Brien expressed that it had served to humble him and provided insights into some of the darker aspects of life, including vindictiveness and violence, which he noted were largely unknown to politicians who often operate in a sheltered environment. Throughout the interview, O'Brien highlighted that he had received support from many friends during this tumultuous period, although he was hesitant to delve deeply into the details of the court case or his health status. Under persistent questioning, he revealed that he had spent time in four hospitals due to the after-effects of the assault. However, he stressed the need for privacy regarding his health situation, maintaining that it was a private matter among himself, his doctors, and his wife. When asked about the amount of alcohol he reportedly consumed on the night of the incident, O'Brien stated that the amounts were exaggerated and did not match the reality of the situation. He refuted speculation about his sexual orientation, firmly stating that he was not homosexual. Despite the challenges he faced, O'Brien reaffirmed his commitment to fulfil his responsibilities towards the Island Bay electorate, signalling his intention to focus on his duties as a public representative.

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Publish Date:4th September 1976
URL:https://www.pridenz.com/paperspast_chp19760904_2_34.html