MP's prison visit blocked

Issue 

SYDNEY — On March 23, NSW Labor and Coalition MPs voted to deny a request by Greens parliamentarian Lee Rhiannon to join a NSW Legislative Council inquiry visit to the "Supermax" (maximum security) wing of the Goulburn prison.

"The major parties have ganged up to frustrate scrutiny of conditions at the Supermax, where five terror suspects are being kept without trial for indefinite periods and inmates are segregated by race", independent MLC Peter Breen said in a media release issued by Rhiannon on March 23. The Greens MLC said it was the first time to her knowledge that members of a NSW parliamentary inquiry have voted against another MP joining them. The motion opposing her request was moved by Labor MLC Eddie Obeid.

Dale Mills

From Green Left Weekly, April 5, 2006.
Visit the Green Left Weekly home page.


If you like our work, become a supporter

Green Left is a vital social-change project and aims to make all content available online, without paywalls. With no corporate sponsors or advertising, we rely on support and donations from readers like you.

For just $5 per month get the Green Left digital edition in your inbox each week. For $10 per month get the above and the print edition delivered to your door. You can also add a donation to your support by choosing the solidarity option of $20 per month.

Freecall now on 1800 634 206 or follow the support link below to make a secure supporter payment or donation online.