[Greens-Media] Still no accountability for Vivian Solon's deportation

[Edwards, Jon (Sen K. Nettle)]

13.05.06

Still no accountability for Vivian Solon's deportation

Australian Greens Senator Kerry Nettle noted today that no one has
yet been held to account for the Vivian Solon scandal and that the
email released today confirms the Ms Solon's case was known at the
highest levels.

"No one has yet been held accountable for the abhorrent treatment
of Ms Solon that is forecast to cost taxpayers $10 million," said
Senator Nettle.

"The Minister and former Minister remain at their posts.
The departmental heads have been promoted or shifted sideways,
and, when I last enquired, action had not been taken against the
officials named as responsible in the Comrie Report.

"If a public servant blew $10 million through waste or mismanagement,
they would be held accountable.  Yet no one has been held accountable
for the cruel treatment of Ms Solon. The Greens say this is not
acceptable.

"The email to Ms Godwin, clearly shows that warnings about Ms Solon's
fitness to travel were known at the highest levels within the
department.

"I don't imagine every deportation is reported to the first assistant
secretary.  Ms Solon's case must have been reported because those
involved knew they were on shaky ground in deporting Ms Solon and
wanted to cover themselves. Judging by the Government's failure to
take responsibility for this matter, they seem to have covered both
themselves and the senior level officers they reported to.

"The Senate Inquiry into the Solon scandal did not interview Ms
Godwin because she had already been moved out of the Department
before the Inquiry began.

"Ms Godwin should appear before Senate Estimates next week to
explain this email and her involvement in the case.  The public
and Ms Solon have a right to know the truth."

Contact: Max Phillips 0414 338 526