Eric Abetz (Tasmania, Liberal Party, Minister for Employment) Share this | Hansard source

The Human Rights Commission, quite frankly, has not covered itself in glory in the way that it has dealt with this issue. At a time when children in detention were increasing by the hundreds virtually every month: 'Nothing to be seen here, move on.' When we stopped the criminal people-smuggling activities, when the children in detention were absolutely declining at a faster rate than, I think, ever before and we were getting them out of detention, all of a sudden we needed a review. Can I indicate that I personally expressed that view to the human rights commissioner, Professor Triggs. I do not think she has, with respect, done the Human Rights Commission any favours. Having said that, I am willing to accept that she is good-hearted, but I think she has been very unwise in the way that she has handled this matter. I do not think, Senator, you will do well to rely on this report— (Time expired)