Jarrod Bleijie defends removal of viral Queensland MP singing video

Queensland Deputy Premier Jarrod Bleijie has defended the removal of a viral video featuring several Members of Parliament performing a Dolly Parton tribute. The video, posted by MP Ariana Doolan, featured Bleijie, Multiculturalism Minister Fiona Simpson, and various backbenchers singing the 1980 hit ‘9 to 5’.

Bleijie stated he requested the video be taken down because the singing abilities of his colleagues reflected poorly on his own theatrical skills. He suggested that future parliamentary musical performances should utilize pitch-correction technology like AutoTune for those who cannot sing.

Addressing concerns regarding the appropriateness of filming such content during a sitting day, Bleijie clarified that the video was recorded during a lunch break and lasted only approximately 20 seconds. He noted that the arts community remains a significant feature of the Crisafulli government.