In Senate Question time today Sports Minister Kemp was once again unable to defend his poor handling of investigations into the alleged use of banned substances by Australian cyclists.
Minister Kemp attempted to pass the buck by implying that investigations into these allegations had not been made easier by the disclosure of information contained in investigation reports.
Allowing these investigations to bumble along for eight months has left Australian cyclists in a precarious position where just 10 days from the Olympics we still have certainly one and possibly two appeals yet to be heard, the outcomes of which could still impact on the make up of the Olympic cycling team.
The Minister also failed to give his assurance that other evidence, including payment and ordering records contained on Del Monte computers has been considered, or more disturbingly, can even be found. He also failed to answer questions on the long delays in DNA testing.
The truth is that had the evidence of illegal injecting practices not been brought forward by concerned people, this issue would have been swept under the carpet.
Much easier for Minister Kemp. He could pretend the whole thing never happened.
The fact is that the Minister failed in his duty to act immediately and decisively on this issue in December last year.
Last week John Howard attempted to distance himself from this issue by saying “I don’t think it’s fair for the prime minister of the day to intervene every day in particular issues.” It is fine to be the first to congratulate our cricket team on a win or to present the rugby world cup, but not to comment on such a serious issue?
Mr Howard has clearly passed the buck back to you Minister Kemp.
Contact: Kate Roffey – (02) 6277 3334 or 0417 148 059
