Published Friday, 27 July, 2007 at 04:50 PM
Premier and Minister for Trade
The Honourable Peter Beattie
STATEMENT FROM PREMIER PETER BEATTIE ON THE HANEEF MATTER
“This is a great day for Australia simply because it proves our vigorous, open, democratic system works.
“In any democracy it is vital that people are free to openly question the system – whether it is the judicial system or the political system.
“Those questions have led to a review and a young man is now free to get on with his life.
“That’s a great outcome for Dr Haneef, his family and for the entire country.
“We have to be careful when dealing with potential terrorism threats that we don’t leave the Australian way of life by the wayside.
“With regard to Dr Haneef’s employment, he is currently suspended from duties at the Gold Coast Hospital.
“This occurred when his 457 work visa was withdrawn by the Federal Immigration Minister.
“It would have been illegal for Queensland Health to pay a person who doesn’t have a work visa.
“If the Howard Government now allows Dr Haneef to keep his work visa then Queensland Health would welcome him back as an employee at the Gold Coast Hospital.
“Should Dr Haneef wish to resume his employment at the Gold Coast Hospital then the local District Manager will meet with him to make those arrangements.”
Ends
Friday July 27, 2007
For more information: Premier’s Office – 3224 4500
“In any democracy it is vital that people are free to openly question the system – whether it is the judicial system or the political system.
“Those questions have led to a review and a young man is now free to get on with his life.
“That’s a great outcome for Dr Haneef, his family and for the entire country.
“We have to be careful when dealing with potential terrorism threats that we don’t leave the Australian way of life by the wayside.
“With regard to Dr Haneef’s employment, he is currently suspended from duties at the Gold Coast Hospital.
“This occurred when his 457 work visa was withdrawn by the Federal Immigration Minister.
“It would have been illegal for Queensland Health to pay a person who doesn’t have a work visa.
“If the Howard Government now allows Dr Haneef to keep his work visa then Queensland Health would welcome him back as an employee at the Gold Coast Hospital.
“Should Dr Haneef wish to resume his employment at the Gold Coast Hospital then the local District Manager will meet with him to make those arrangements.”
Ends
Friday July 27, 2007
For more information: Premier’s Office – 3224 4500