9 May 2008
Queensland Corrective Services Bill raises human rights concerns
Human Rights Commissioner, Graeme Innes, said today that the Corrective Services Amendment Bill to be introduced into Queensland parliament next week, which curtails the rights of prisoners to make complaints, raises significant human rights concerns.
The legislation stops prisoners making a complaint of discrimination unless they have exhausted internal processes and complained to the Ombudsman. It also requires consideration be given to whether discrimination is ‘reasonable’ in a way that does not apply to other complaints of discrimination.
“The human rights principle of equality before the law means that prisoners should have their rights protected to the same extent as other Australian citizens,” said Commissioner Innes. “In its current form, this Bill raises significant human rights questions.
“It will also create inconsistencies with Commonwealth discrimination law,” Mr Innes said.
Mr Innes supported Queensland Anti-Discrimination Commissioner, Susan Booth’s call for a consultation process before the Bill is made law. This consultation process would address whether there are ways of preventing vexatious complaints without curtailing the rights of prisoners.
“It is easy for us to recognise the need to protect the rights of the majority,” Mr Innes said. “The real test of a society comes when we are asked to accord the same rights to minorities such as those in prison.”
Media contacts: Brinsley Marlay (02) 9284 9656 or 0430 366 529
