Comments need clarification

Letter to the Editor - The Northern Territory News
21 November 2003

Dear Sir/Madam

A number of comments made by Justice Mildren in his judgement on the Minasa Bone case need to be clarified.

The temporary air exclusion zone was implemented to ensure the safe operations of all aircraft and to protect the privacy of those on board the Minasa Bone.

The Northern Territory Legal Aid Commission did not have instructions to act for those on board the Minasa Bone and there was no evidence a request for legal assistance was made.

The Migration Act makes it clear in these circumstances there is no obligation to volunteer such access.

The Government's key witness was never asked if those on board the Minasa Bone had made a claim for asylum.

Stewart Foster
Director
Public Affairs
DIMIA