In the Supreme Court of Appeal, between Nov 21 – 22 will stand Karen Casey. A staggering seven years have passed since the ditching of her aircraft, at sea. This singular event has been examined and dissected through:-
• CASA Special Audit.
• Chambers Report
• ATSB First Investigative Report.
• NTSB Canadian Report.
• Senate Inquiry and Recommendations.
• ASRR.
• Current Second ATSB Investigation.
The results have been less than satisfactory, ‘Zero outcome’ is probably a better descriptor. This sorry indictment has dragged on through a change of Australia’s government; a change of the ATSB head and through two previous heads of the CASA. Despite the efforts of several Senators and a minister, nothing of any consequence has changed. Although there was hope of questions, which demanded answers, being asked of ATSB last Estimates; Sen. Cameron expected to start proceedings – however – ATSB slipped through the net.
The ‘second’ report into the incident has been tarnished by the actions and attitude of certain ATSB officers; which, stand alone, without the ‘second’ report, should be enough to provoke a second Senate inquiry. But to delay the report until after the Casey appearance at the court of appeal is despicable. The report itself may be of no benefit to Karen now; probably would not even be admitted into evidence – it could however; if it were ‘honestly done’ provide her counsel with data to support argument.
To me, the truly disgusting thing is that CASA walk away from their despicable behaviour Scot free, well paid, well fed, happy within their sheltered workshop, supported by government. With the full knowledge that their lives will remain secure, comfortable and trouble free; with an unlimited amount of ‘get-out-of goal-free cards’. Make no mistake, the CASA can, does and will in the future continue to enjoy being fully unaccountable to the parliament, the law, man; or, the gods themselves.
To me, the truly disgusting thing is that ATSB walk away from their despicable behaviour Scot free, well paid, well fed, happy within their sheltered workshop, supported by government. With the full knowledge that their lives will remain secure, comfortable and trouble free; with an unlimited amount of ‘get-out-of goal-free cards’. Make no mistake, the ATSB can, does and will in the future continue to enjoy being fully unaccountable to the parliament, the law, man; or, the gods themselves.
Karen Casey has non of these advantages; injured, in constant pain, unwell and unable, no matter how willing, to support herself. From proud, independent, life loving flight nurse to ‘dependent’ and left to fight the might of these agencies and the ‘insurers’ alone; to Australia’s everlasting shame..
No matter; there’s little I can do or say which will make a difference – hells bells, the bloody minister and the Senate combined failed to dent the monolith. But it intrigues me that a government operation can tell a minister, a Senate committee, three inquiries and an industry to Fuck off – and get away with it. Makes a hellish statement on the state of a nation, a mockery of parliament and beggars the constitution. Abandon all hope of whatsisname fixing it all up, spoiling the manicure with dirty hands or disturbing the immaculate hair-do with concern for one helpless individual.
Aye well; we can wish Karen all the best in 10 days time; which is, by the by, of neither intrinsic or practical value.
Selah.
