… but more must be done to crack down on People Smugglers

Independent JLN Senator for Tasmania Jacqui Lambie has agreed in principle with the Turnbull Government’s recently announced refugee resettlement deal struck with the US – but wants a tougher approach to bringing People Smugglers to justice.

“At the next sitting of parliament I’ll ask for a briefing on the latest deal announced by the Turnbull Government on asylum seekers on Manus and Nauru – however I agree in principle with this move.

However, I would like the Government to pay some attention to a people smugglers’ policy I announced in a speech to the Senate over a year ago where I called on Australia to become tougher on people smugglers.

After it was revealed that former Australian PM Abbott may have authorised a $30K payment to Indonesian people smugglers I told the Senate that:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KudiZXuAtBw

“Australia, indeed the world, must deal with people smugglers in a different manner. People smugglers are international criminals, who should be taken before the I.C.C. (International Criminal Court) and held to account for their human rights abuses and crimes.

If we are going to pay money to anyone – it should be to boost the resources and reach of the International Criminal Court. People smugglers, their accomplices – including government officials and politicians – wherever they live in this world, they should fear the I.C.C and the penalties that the I.C.C. can impose on them.

If it’s found that the International Criminal Court doesn’t have the physical capability or the legislative power to investigate, put on trial and put in jail – people smugglers… then it’s up to the countries of the United Nations to take action.

Australia should take the lead on this issue and restore our Nation’s integrity. Our Foreign Minister should make a speech to the UN calling for a policy of accountability and justice for people smugglers.
She should not be part of a plan which bribes with Australian cash, international criminals who smuggle, murder, rape and abuse asylum seekers.” said Senator Lambie.
Rob Messenger for Senator Jacqui Lambie Senator for Tasmania