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Neil Mitchell names Tim Pallas

Posted by: 3AW Mornings | 6 April, 2009 - 8:54 AM

ABOVE: Neil Mitchell reveals the background to the story.

A Victorian Government minister tipped off former assistant police commissioner Noel Ashby in 2007 that then union chief Paul Mullett might be under investigation, according to a secret briefing paper prepared on behalf of Ashby.

After reading The Age's article on Monday, Neil Mitchell investigated and has named Tim Pallas as the alleged minister involved.

Mr Pallas has since told the media: "I have no knowledge of OPI investigations as Roads Minister. I have had no knowledge of those matters."

If this is true, what action should Premier John Brumby take?

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Blog comments Your Say

  • Noel Ashby is a perfect example of what happens when people are consumed with power and authority. There's no-one in this whole charade who comes out crystal clean. If you believe Ashby, then the obvious question is - WHO (allegedly) passed on information to Pallas? The OFI doesn't come out looking credible as well, particularly when (allegedly) an investigation of this magnitude has obviously been compromised. This whole charade is a perfect example of why we need a totally independent body to fully investigate all relevant material. There are a lot of players in this saga with an axe to grind. Anyone with an intimate knowledge of the hierarchy of Victoria Police would know there has been a significant problem regarding corruption for many years. This is just the tip of the iceberg. The Premier should take immediate steps to appoint a suitably qualified retired Judge or QC with the same powers of a Royal Commissioner, to fully investigate all relevant matters.

    Lenny Monday 6 April, 2009 - 8:04 PM
  • Tim Pallas, Police Commissioner Noel Ashby, Paul Mullett. It is interesting how public opinion can influence the speed and balance of those scales held by the blindfolded woman. Influence peddelers are no different to the merchants in the church.

    Edward James Monday 6 April, 2009 - 5:29 PM
  • Tim Pallas is a very tough Minister and would do anything to get what he wants. In Echuca he has admitted he will do anything to ensure the Yorta Yorta Aboriginal Nation gets it's way over and above the needs and wants of an entire community of 30,000+ people. The issue is the new Murray Bridge Corridor, blocked by the Yorta Yorta. Not good enough an entire community must suffer.

    Peter Conway Monday 6 April, 2009 - 1:22 PM
  • Unfortunately how could anyone believe anything that comes out of Noel Ashby's mouth. He is a liar and is more dodgier than a chinese building site.

    noel wyzman Monday 6 April, 2009 - 9:57 AM
  • Neil Mitchell,

    Why did the minister know specific information regarding an OPI investigation. ie. Why is the OPI divulging information that may comprimise their investigation. Surely the specifics of any investigation should be kept in house until the investigation is complete. If this is not the case then the OPI is obviously engaging in politics, which is not their role!

    Michael Monday 6 April, 2009 - 9:35 AM

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