[Greens-Media] SENATOR KERRY NETTLE: Minister shields ASIO from questions on West Papua

[Edwards, Jon (Sen K. Nettle)]

25.05.06

Minister shields ASIO from questions on West Papua


Justice Minister Senator Chris Ellison, today refused to answer
questions from Senator Kerry Nettle during Senate Estimates concerning
ASIO's interest in West Papuan independence activists or allow ASIO
officials to answer questions concerning alleged Indonesian intelligence
monitoring of West Papuan activists in Australia.

Senator Nettle asked Paul O'Sullivan, Director General of ASIO, whether
ASIO was concerned about Indonesian security officials filming
activities at pro-West Papua demonstrations she attended in Sydney,
Canberra and Melbourne. 

Senator Ellison refused to say whether Australia had received any
request from Jakarta to monitor the activities of West Papuan activists
in Australia claiming that the government does not comment on
intergovernmental communications.

"ASIO is happy to talk about assisting police with investigations about
the Cronulla riots but when a Senator asks them about the West Papua
issue then the Minister claims that they can't comment on security
matters," Senator Nettle said.

"ASIO can and should tell the parliament and the public whether it is
involved in monitoring West Papuan activists or has been in
communication with the Indonesian authorities.

"ASIO is one of the most powerful organisations in Australia and the
public should expect its representatives in parliament to have their
questions answered by ASIO in Senate hearings."

Contact - Jon Edwards 0428 213 146