THE HON MARK DREYFUS QC MP
SHADOW ATTORNEY-GENERAL
SHADOW MINISTER FOR THE ARTS
MEMBER FOR ISAACS
MEDIA RELEASE
ABBOTT GOVERNMENT'S DISGRACEFUL ATTACK ON PROFESSOR GILLIAN TRIGGS
The Abbott Government has launched a disgraceful political attack on the President of the Human Rights Commission, Professor Gillian Triggs.
Under questioning from Labor Senators Penny Wong and Jacinta Collins today, Professor Triggs confirmed that the Secretary of the Attorney-Generals Department sought a meeting with her earlier this month to advise that Senator Brandis wanted her to resign.
An alternative position was offered to Professor Triggs to induce her to give up her statutory role, which has a five year fixed term.
This is shameful behaviour from a Government which cannot tolerate criticism.
As President of the Human Rights Commission, Professor Triggs has given opinions on the policies of both Labor and Liberal governments.
Instead of engaging with the substance of her criticism, Senator Brandis and his colleagues have instead resorted to personal smears against Professor Triggs.
Professor Triggs is an eminent international lawyer of great integrity. Since her appointment in 2012 she has carried out her role with distinction.
The Government should not be interfering with an independent statutory office holder undertaking her role in accordance with the law.
TUESDAY, 24 FEBRUARY 2015
