UNION leader Peter Malinauskas will enter State Parliament after accepting an offer from Premier Jay Weatherill to replace disgraced former MP Bernard Finnigan.

Mr Malinauskas released a statement this morning.

“After careful consideration, I will today put forward my nomination to become a Member of the Legislative Council in State Parliament,” he said. “The Premier’s request to nominate comes at both a challenging and exciting time in South Australia.

“If my nomination is successful, I look forward to being part of the state Labor team and working together to ensure South Australia not only meets these challenges, but also continues to prosper as a state.

“As a union leader, I have sought to develop collaborative relationships with both businesses and workers to ensure good outcomes for working people and this is something I can continue as a member of Parliament.

“I will now let proper party process take place and speak with members of the ALP State Executive and members of the party to ask for their support.

“I do not intend to make further comment until this process has run its course.”

Parliament will formally appoint Finnigan’s replacement on December 1.