Craig Thomson has been thrown in the slammer — a 12-month sentence (suspended for nine months) for misusing $24,538 in union funds. Fair enough, too. But all we ever wanted was an apology.
Sorry to the members of the Health Services Union whose hard-earned funds he whittled away on prostitutes and personal gifts.
Sorry to the union movement broadly for trashing the reputation of trade unions and the good work of good members.
Sorry to the constituents of Dobell, who were so poorly served by a deceptive, distracted local member.
Sorry to Julia Gillard, whose prime ministership was largely spent first defending you, then dealing with the fallout.
Sorry to the Labor government, which could never outrun the scandal as you almost convincingly maintained your innocence.
Sorry to all of us, forced to wallow in the mud of your scandal, crippling good government and public debate, as you lied day after day.
Sorry might be the hardest word, Craig, but it’s all we ever wanted. You’ve got plenty of time to think about it now. We’ll wait.
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