After months of shying away from the media South Australia’s former Opposition Leader David Speirs has addressed the cameras, after his first court appearance since being charged with a drug offence. Mr Speirs' legal woes led to his resignation from the parliament triggering a by-election in the seat of black to be held tomorrow.
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00:00Fronting the media after his first court hearing over alleged drug offences.
00:07I didn't realise there were so many journalists in South Australia. I've missed all of you guys.
00:12David Spears arrived at the Christie's Beach Magistrates Court this morning after it was revealed last month he was charged with supplying a controlled substance.
00:21He resigned from politics days later.
00:25This has been a very difficult time for me personally, a very difficult time for friends and for family members.
00:32Now for me it's just a time to get around friends and family.
00:37Police allege the offending happened in early August, around the same time Mr Spears stepped down as the state's opposition leader.
00:45I couldn't execute my responsibilities as a member of parliament and also deal with my mental health and wellbeing through this process.
00:56A magistrate allowed Mr Spears to have his bail conditions varied so he can travel overseas.
01:02He's had to pay a $15,000 surety and will be required to provide prosecutors with his itinerary.
01:10Mr Spears wasn't required to enter a plea today. He'll remain on bail ahead of his next court appearance in March when he'll face a charge determination hearing.
01:19But first comes tomorrow's by-election in the southern suburb seat of Black, triggered by Mr Spears' departure.
01:26The former member said he'd already cast his vote for the Liberal candidate.
01:31That passing off the baton could be a really great way for me to move off into the sunset.
01:37Whether the court case will have an impact on the result remains unknown.