Vic: AIRC bemoans lack of contempt powers

AAP General News (Australia)
12-08-2003
Vic: AIRC bemoans lack of contempt powers

The national industrial court has bemoaned its lack of coercive powers after an industrial
advocate accused of gross negligence, deceit and dishonesty refused to appear before it.

GARY BAILEY was summonsed to appear before a full bench of the Australian Industrial
Relations Commission over claims he'd lied to the court and misrepresented himself as
a lawyer.

But he refused to attend -- despite a warning that he could be barred from acting on
behalf of clients there in the future.

The commission's vice president MICHAEL LAWLER says it's unfortunate that Mr BAILEY
can't be forced to give evidence.

The commission doesn't have enforcement powers of its own, but can pursue sanctions
through the Federal Court.

The hearing's been adjourned until Wednesday.

AAP RTV bp/dk/rca/rp

KEYWORD: BAILEY (MELBOURNE)

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