Baxter strip searches

Letter to the Editor - The Australian
9 January 2003

Dear Sir/Madam

The article (Detention centre's 19-fire blitz, 9 January) concerning the arson at the Baxter immigration detention facility and strip searches is not correct.

Strip searches are not routine exercises and are a measured and considered response to a very specific situation. Due to the sensitivity associated with such a procedure, all strip-searches are carried out according to strict legislation and procedures. Approval can only be given by the Secretary or Deputy Secretary of the Department. The privacy and dignity of detainees is maintained at all times and detainees are fully briefed prior to the commencement of any searches.

Departmental records show that in each case when a strip search was requested by the detention services provider at Baxter it was approved by the Department the same day.

Roger Wheatley
Acting Director
Public Affairs
DIMIA