Tuesday 12 January 2010
NEW POWERS NEEDED TO COMBAT ARSON
The Brumby Government must address community fears about firebugs through increased monitoring of suspected arsonists on days of extreme fire risk, Shadow Minister for Bushfire Response and Leader of The Nationals Peter Ryan said today.
Mr Ryan said new crime statistics showing the number of acts of arson in Victoria had increased by 24 per cent over the past three years proved it was time for tougher powers and restrictions, including extended supervision orders (ESO).
“The Liberal Nationals Coalition announced in October we would legislate to introduce tough, new restrictions on arsonists, including ESOs on any person convicted of arson or arson-related offences upon release from custodial sentence,” Mr Ryan said.
“Under an ESO, restrictions can be imposed on the activities, residence and movements of those considered to pose a high risk of re-offending.”
“A Coalition Government would also establish an Arson Prevention Taskforce to stop bushfires before they started.
“The taskforce would be responsible for identifying known arsonists, increasing contact with and monitoring of them during the fire season and increasing patrols in areas identified as vulnerable to arson attack.
“The Brumby Government has refused to adopt either of these policies, which would give Victorians greater security on days such as today when parts of the state are facing potentially catastrophic fire conditions.” Mr Ryan said a Coalition Government would focus on giving police the resources they needed to stop arson before it occurred.
“South Australia’s highly regarded anti arson Operation Nomad has caught arsonists in the act of lighting fires because of increased monitoring and patrolling.
“New South Wales has also reduced the number of deliberately lit bushfires over the past few years through its anti arson squad Strike Force Toronto.
“The Brumby Government simply isn’t doing enough to protect Victorians from arsonists.
“Labor must take an active role in monitoring suspected and convicted arsonists. It’s not enough to rely on information passed on by the public on extreme fire days,” Mr Ryan said.
