AFP funding cuts might burst the dyke in oncoming
17 Nov 2008
Media release “The ability of the Australian Federal Police to detect a flood of Dutch ecstasy
en-route for Australia as reported today in The Advertiser might be in jeopardy with Homeland Security Minister Bob Debus confirming AFP budget cuts,” Christopher Pyne, the Shadow Minister for Justice and Border Protection said today.
“Mr Debus on the weekend confirmed that the AFP would be cut some $24 million,” Mr Pyne said.
“While seen in the context of a billion dollar budget this might seem small, the AFP is already stretched with the extraordinary demands of international operations combating terrorism and domestic operations,” he said.
“Some analysts have suggested there has been a shift within the AFP from fighting organised crime and the drug trade to focusing more intently on combating terrorism, contributing to a reported increase in the quantity and purity of Afghan heroin entering Australia.
“Now is not the time to be cutting funds to the AFP.
“The Federal Opposition calls on the Government to secure the funding base for the AFP in the upcoming budget.
“Stamping out the supply of illicit drugs in Australia is vital in protecting young people from the debilitating effects,” Mr Pyne said.
10th April 2008
Media Contact: Adam Howard 0400 414 833