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Legislative Council - Fifty-First Parliament, Second Session (51-2)
2008-07-22 Daily Xml
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POLICE, WHYALLA

The Hon. T.J. STEPHENS (15:38): I seek leave to make a brief explanation before asking the Minister for Police a question about Whyalla police.

Leave granted.

The Hon. T.J. STEPHENS: On Friday 11 July, at around 4am (when most of us are tucked up in our beds), two of Whyalla's police officers were rammed in their patrol car on the Port Lincoln Highway. The police vehicle was boxed in by two stolen four-wheel drives and rammed repeatedly. This would have been a terrifying experience for these officers, and today I publicly honour their service to Whyalla and South Australia.

Chief Inspector Alby Quinn praised both officers for acting professionally during this ordeal and has publicly criticised the actions of the offenders—and rightly so. During an emotionally charged press conference, Chief Inspector Quinn did not mince his words when describing the behaviour of the offenders. Considering these two officers are lucky to be alive today, Chief Inspector Quinn, although not adhering to political correctness, should be applauded for his stand and not vilified.

It has been reported to me that Chief Inspector Quinn is under investigation for his comments. My question is: is it true that Chief Inspector Quinn is under investigation; if so, will the minister speak to the Commissioner and ensure that Chief Inspector Quinn is commended for his support of his officers, rather than chastised?

The Hon. P. HOLLOWAY (Minister for Police, Minister for Mineral Resources Development, Minister for Urban Development and Planning) (15:39): I would have hoped that the honourable member would seek a bit more information before raising allegations of this nature. I am aware of the events in relation to the ramming of police officers, and I can certainly say that, as Minister for Police, I totally abhor the behaviour of those responsible.

I trust the police will swiftly bring them to justice; then, perhaps, a little less trust, but I would like to think that our courts might then deal with them appropriately to provide a suitable penalty in relation to that. As to any investigation concerning officers' comments, I will have to take that question on notice because I am not aware of any information about that.

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