Editor, The Age: It is an alarming practice for the Attorney-General and the Immigration Minister to leave the running of refugee assessments to ASIO (‘ASIO : No calls for refugee reviews’, The Age 25/5). This serious failure by government ministers to evaluate and review ASIO`s findings on individuals – who are being detained indefinitely without being told the reasons why they are deemed to constitute a threat to Australia – discredits our democratic way of life.
While understanding there cannot be widespread disclosure of ASIO`s sources when gathering information pertaining to some people who are seeking a new life in Australia, those deemed unacceptable must be given the opportunity to prove their innocence. We cannot be proud of our cherished rule of the law if selected individuals are denied this basic human right.
– Keith McEwan,CLA member, Castlemaine Vic.