Published Thursday, 21 February, 2008 at 01:34 PM
Attorney-General and Minister for Justice and Minister Assisting the Premier in Western Queensland
The Honourable Kerry Shine
Opposition Doesn't Understand Extradition Process: Shine
The Government has given the application for the extradition of Dr Jayant Patel from the United States the highest priority, Attorney-General and Minister for Justice Kerry Shine said today.
“We provided $561,000 to the office of the Director of Public Prosecutions during 2006-07 to deal with this complex and difficult process and the DPP dedicated two high level and experienced Consultant Crown Prosecutors to the process on a full time basis,” Mr Shine said.
“Criticism of the extradition process by the Federal and State opposition clearly demonstrates no understanding of what is involved in complex extradition proceedings.
“I am sure that after comments by a family friend of Dr Patel on ABC radio this morning, the general public can understand why the DPP must make certain all the paperwork satisfies the requirements of the United States authorities.”
Mr Shine criticised the Queensland Liberal leader Mark McArdle for his comments that the DPP should be sacked or resign.
“Before Mr McArdle speaks on such issues I would urge him to read the relevant legislation regarding the DPP.”
“The Director of Public Prosecutions Act 1984, which was introduced by a Coalition Government, clearly states that the appointment of the DPP can only be terminated in limited circumstances and there is certainly no reason for that to happen,” Mr Shine said.
Media Contact: Troy Davies 3239 6400, 0488 799 273
“We provided $561,000 to the office of the Director of Public Prosecutions during 2006-07 to deal with this complex and difficult process and the DPP dedicated two high level and experienced Consultant Crown Prosecutors to the process on a full time basis,” Mr Shine said.
“Criticism of the extradition process by the Federal and State opposition clearly demonstrates no understanding of what is involved in complex extradition proceedings.
“I am sure that after comments by a family friend of Dr Patel on ABC radio this morning, the general public can understand why the DPP must make certain all the paperwork satisfies the requirements of the United States authorities.”
Mr Shine criticised the Queensland Liberal leader Mark McArdle for his comments that the DPP should be sacked or resign.
“Before Mr McArdle speaks on such issues I would urge him to read the relevant legislation regarding the DPP.”
“The Director of Public Prosecutions Act 1984, which was introduced by a Coalition Government, clearly states that the appointment of the DPP can only be terminated in limited circumstances and there is certainly no reason for that to happen,” Mr Shine said.
Media Contact: Troy Davies 3239 6400, 0488 799 273