State Attorney-General Deb Frecklington says Queensland Human Rights Commission staff concerns a matter for boss Debbie Platz
The attorney general has refused to weigh in on concerns raised about the new Queensland Human Rights Commissioner following an incident that left staff in tears and raised concerns about potential conflicts of interest.
This imprint He specifically revealed details of a planning day for employees in March, was organized to work on changes to the independent agency’s strategic plan.
New boss Debbie Platz did not attend, but a presentation by Anne Macdonald, founding director of charity Uniforms 4 Kids, left some staff visibly upset and worried.
Sources at the event stated that the statement they felt was insensitive and racist.
Attorney-General Deb Frecklington said in Parliament House on Sunday: “Any of these allegations, which I understand to be the case, are a matter for the human rights commissioner.”
Asked whether the government was concerned about staff reports, the minister did not elaborate.
“That’s all I can say,” he replied.
“It is an independent body, the human rights commissioner is doing his job… and all allegations made against the human rights commissioner should be discussed with him as an independent commissioner.”
The independent commission and the commissioner are responsible to the Attorney General.
Sources said the incident and its handling reinforced concerns about Platz’s history, approach and disconnect from the office’s legal role to prevent discrimination and protect human rights.
According to those who were there, Macdonald made comments to staff suggesting that he and Platz were friends. It was later revealed that the commissioner’s husband, Glenn Ferguson AM, chaired the charity set up by his mother.
“[That] To me, this is a huge red flag for conflict of interest, regardless of whether the charity is a great cause or not,” one source said.
In a phone interview Friday, Macdonald said he was devastated to hear how his comments were perceived.
“I’m very, very sorry… and I apologize unreservedly,” Macdonald said.
In a written response to questions, Platz said he was aware of Macdonald’s language and behavior, which he found “unacceptable under any circumstances.”
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Matt Dennien is a reporter covering state politics and public services for the Brisbane Times. He previously worked for newspapers in Tasmania and Brisbane community radio station 4ZZZ. Contact him securely on Signal @mattdennien.15Connect via email.
