Habeas Corpus case commences in Nauru court_11June2013
Habeas Corpus case commences in
Nauru court
The court hearing for the habeas corpus case commenced in the
Nauru Supreme Court yesterday (10 June) challenging the legality of
asylum seekers being detained at the Regional Processing Centre on
Nauru.
The habeas corpus application is being heard before Supreme
Court Judge John von Doussa QC. Leading counsel for the defendants
is Julian Burnside QC, assisted by Australian-based barrister Jay
Williams and Stephen Donaghue for the Secretary for Justice.
At yesterday's hearing the court heard sworn evidence from an
asylum seeker and two Salvation Army staff who gave statements on
the institution's role in looking after the welfare and wellbeing
of the asylum seekers.
The Centre's security manager was questioned about the security
arrangements for the Centre and Secretary for Justice Ms Lisa Lo
Piccolo questioned over the visa conditions and resettlement
arrangement for the asylum seekers.
Judge von Doussa continued a non-publication order that the
identities of all defendants be suppressed by both name, electronic
imaging or any other means that could lead to their identification
outside the precincts of the court.
The hearing continues today (Tuesday, 11 June).