2nd March 2007The shoe is now firmly on the other foot for Ashley McKay, with the Crime and Misconduct Commission ordering an investigation into the actions of six Queensland Government employees involved in his landmark tree clearing case.
Mr McKay, Torres Park, Augathella, was pursued through the courts by the Qld Department of Natural Resources for alleged clearing offences, despite the fact the grazier had permits allowing his actions.
Mr McKay’s case was presented before seven different courts between 2000 and 2005, with the legal saga coming to an end when Brisbane District Court Judge Alan Wilson SC upheld an appeal and overturned the only conviction the State had inflicted upon Mr McKay during that time.
Now, following a formal complaint from Mr McKay to the CMC about the actions of 13 Government officers in pursuing the case, six staff – four from the Department of Natural Resources and two from Crown Law – are now facing internal departmental investigations.
“I have always maintained that this was more of a political witch-hunt than a genuine prosecution and this has been vindicated by the CMC referring it for further investigation,” Mr McKay said.
A spokesman for current Natural Resources Minister, Craig Wallace, confirmed an investigation was underway as a result of the CMC referral.
But he said no further comment was possible while the inquiry was in process.
SOURCE: Extract from full story in Queensland Country Life March 1.
