Roger Jaensch has been caught lying again, this time providing misleading information to Tasmanians about the nature of the allegations regarding the Brahminy program for at risk youth run in the Northern Territory.
Despite repeated calls for the six Tasmanian participants to be brought home while a review is held, Minister Jaensch continues to back the program and insist that they're safe.
Shadow Child Safety Minister Josh Willie said frankly, Mr Jaensch cannot know this when so many allegations have been raised about the program and the man running it, Allan Brahminy.
"The Minister's claims that recent allegations about participants being mistreated were historical and only involved former participants are untrue," Mr Willie said.
"We know that at least one parent has been raising allegations since February and is calling for her son to be brought home.
"Minister Jaensch also claims the first time he found out about the allegations was through recent media reporting, despite his department initiating an investigation in February. Did Minister Jaensch know about the concerns in February or not?
"Roger Jaensch has also said it's up to Allan Brahminy to answer questions over his identity and background when it's actually the government's responsibility to ensure these allegations are investigated.
"The State Government is essentially acting as a parent to these children and, while the allegations remain untested, it has a responsibility to bring them home.
"It is beyond time for this incompetent Minister to go. His position is untenable and if he won't go voluntarily, the Premier must step up and sack him.
Josh Willie MLC
Shadow Minister for Child Safety and Youth Affairs
