Former NSW Deputy Premier John Barilaro settles defamation case against YouTuber Jordan Shanks

Original Source: 9News

Former New South Wales Deputy Premier John Barilaro has settled his defamation case against YouTube personality Jordan Shanks.

The Sydney Morning Herald reported that per the settlement, Mr Shanks, who operates the friendlyjordies YouTube account, was to issue an apology and pay court costs.

Mr Barilaro had sued Mr Shanks in May, alleging he was defamed by two videos.

Mr Shanks' apology was read out in court this morning.

Former NSW deputy premier John Barilaro has settled his defamation case against YouTuber Jordan Shanks. (Dominic Lorrimer)

The apology expressed the importance of freedom of expression for political communication, but conceded that Mr Shanks accepted some of the videos posted were offensive to Mr Barilaro, and apologised for that hurt.

In a statement, Mr Barilaro said he accepted, and was grateful for, Mr Shanks' apology.

Mr Shanks' lawyer Mark Davis said no damages would be paid and no videos will be taken down. Two videos will be edited under terms of the settlement.

Jordan Shanks issued an apology to Mr Barilaro and will pay court costs. (The Sydney Morning Herald)

Mr Shanks will also stop selling merchandise of Mr Barilaro on his retirement from politics.