Friday, 21 December 2007

The creeping veil of secrecy.

One of the basic tenets of a democracy is transparency. The public have the right to view the workings of government - even when that includes blunders that the politicians seek to hide.

Over the years the right to transparency has been the subject of many battles resulting in the passing of the " Freedom of Information act ". Ever since governments have been hatching plots to restrict that information.

The latest battle is between the government and it's police force. Frustration has resulted in some officers leaking information to the media. The Police Integrity Commission ( PIC ) has now moved to permanently plug that leak.

It is proposed that no police officer will be allowed any form of comment other than that authorised by the Police Media Unit. As a result, the public will only have access to whatever information the spin doctors choose to release !

The penalties are draconian. An officer who breaks that edict can be dismissed from the force and may even serve time in gaol.

The fact that such comment is " true and accurate " - and " in the public interest " will be no defence. The intention is to permanently gag our police and force them to work behind a wall of silence.

If this edict becomes law the morale of New South ales police can only sink lower. Obviously there must be balance in comments - otherwise indiscretion could wreck a police investigation if the crooks become aware of surveillance - but the police should have the same rights as ordinary citizens when it comes to expressing opinions.

The fact tha recruitment is barely keeping pace with resignations indicates that there are serious problems with policing in this state. If this " gag policy " becomes law then job satisfaction may pass beyond the point of no return !

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