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----- Original Message -----
Sent: Monday, October 27, 2003 8:34 PM
*Terrorist
screening processes questioned*
The Federal Opposition believes there has been a lapse in intelligence
gathering in the case of a deported French man with suspected Al Qaeda
links.
Authorities believe Willie Virgile Brigitte's capture may have broken up a
terrorist cell operating in Australia.
French authorities are holding Mr Brigitte, 35, after Australia deported
him 10 days ago for breaching his tourist visa.
The Government says security agencies moved swiftly against Mr Brigitte
after briefings by French authorities.
Attorney-General Philip Ruddock says he would have liked earlier warning
about the Frenchman's background. ASIO is investigating the case.
Labor leader Simon Crean says Mr Brigitte had been in Australia since May
and agencies and the Government should have been better informed.
"It's not just the worrying dimension of the amount of time he was
allowed to stay once notification was made, it's why wasn't the
notification made earlier," Mr Crean said.
"We need much closer cooperation obviously with all of those who are
fighting terrorism and I think what this highlights is that we haven't got
as strong a connection as we should have with the French."
Federal Justice Minister Chris Ellison has told Parliament Mr Brigitte's
deportation is a timely warning against complacency.
Senator Ellison says investigations into Mr Brigitte's visit continue.
"The Australian Government has acted swiftly and decisively in
relation to this serious matter," he said.
"Investigations are ongoing. I'll not discuss the result of actions
taken under the warrants but I can say they were directed against a number
of people who it was believed could have had material relating to Mr
Brigitte's presence in Australia."
New South Wales Premier Bob Carr says he is reassured by how the
investigation is progressing.
"If you are mucking around with someone who has got Al Qaeda
background, training in Pakistan and Afghanistan, our surveillance will
collect you," he said.
However, no Australia-based associates of Mr Brigitte have been charged
and French authorities are continuing to question him.
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