Carol Brown (Tasmania, Australian Labor Party, Assistant Minister for Infrastructure and Transport) Share this | Hansard source

I will start by indicating that I don't accept your statements, Senator Shoebridge. What's important to note here—and I'm sure you already know this—is that suspensions from the Witness Protection Program are temporary in nature, and the purpose of these measures is to ensure rapid reinstatement of protection and assistance for a participant. While a suspension is in place, protection and assistance can still be provided to the benefit of the participant if the commissioner is satisfied that it is necessary and appropriate to do so in the circumstances.