provides misleading information on Brahminy program
allegations need to be investigated
youths must be brought home
Roger
Jaensch has been caught lying again, this time providing misleading information
to Tasmanians about the nature of the allegations regarding the Brahminy
program for at risk youth run in the Northern Territory.
Despite
repeated calls for the six Tasmanian participants to be brought home while a
review is held, Minister Jaensch continues to back the program and insist that
they’re safe.
Shadow
Child Safety Minister Josh Willie said frankly, Mr Jaensch cannot know this
when so many allegations have been raised about the program and the man running
it, Allan Brahminy.
“The
Minister’s claims that recent allegations about participants being mistreated
were historical and only involved former participants are untrue,” Mr Willie
said.
“We
know that at least one parent has been raising allegations since February and
is calling for her son to be brought home.
“Minister
Jaensch also claims the first time he found out about the allegations was
through recent media reporting, despite his department initiating an
investigation in February. Did Minister Jaensch know about the concerns in
February or not?
“Roger
Jaensch has also said it’s up to Allan Brahminy to answer questions over his
identity and background when it’s actually the government’s responsibility to
ensure these allegations are investigated.
“The State Government is essentially acting as a parent to these children and, while the allegations remain untested, it has a responsibility to bring them home.
“It is beyond time for this incompetent Minister to go. His position is untenable and if he won’t go voluntarily, the Premier must step up and sack him.
Josh Willie MLC
Shadow Minister for Child Safety and Youth Affairs
