The State Government is seeking applications for the role of Public Interest Monitor.

Police Minister Judy Spence said suitable candidates were being sought to fill the position, which requires an independent person who oversees the use by police of surveillance warrants and covert search warrants.

26 Aug 2005

Judy Spence
Police & Corrective Services,
pol...@cabinet.qld.gov.au

Ms Spence said the Public Interest Monitor was created under the Police Powers and Responsibilities Act 2000, and ensures Queensland has one of the most accountable and transparent police services in Australia.

An advertisement seeking to fill the vacancy will appear in The Courier Mail on Saturday.

"The Public Interest Monitor has an important function in ensuring that police and the Crime and Misconduct Commission are compliant in their applications for these type of warrants, and that they are used appropriately," Ms Spence said.

"The Public Interest Monitor is there to ensure the rights of the public are upheld.

"Covert search warrants and surveillance warrants can involve undercover policing, so it is vital that police follow the letter of the law when they apply for and use these powers.

"The Public Interest Monitor is required to attend any hearing to a Supreme Court judge or magistrate when police apply for these warrants, and to subsequently check that police officers adhere to these warrants.

"Their role is to test the validity of these applications, and can include them questioning police and examining or cross-examining any police officer applying to the court.

"The Public Interest Monitor can also make submissions on the appropriateness of granting the application."

Ms Spence said the current appointments of Public Interest Monitor and two deputy positions were due to expire in November.

Appointment is for a maximum of three years, starting on November 7, 2005.

Media contact - Alison Smith 3239 6218 / 0439 673 287