Camera surveillance considered for baggage handlers

Date: 11/05/2005
Source: ABC News
Author: -

Baggage handlers at Australian airports may be subject to spy cameras and personal security checks after alleged links between personnel at Sydney Airport and drug trafficking were revealed by police.

Customs Minister Chris Ellison is due to meet a task force on airport security this evening in response to the arrest of several people over a major cocaine smuggling operation, alleged to have operated through the airport.

Senator Ellison says he is looking at checks for baggage handlers on entering and leaving the airport, as well as better surveillance in cargo holds and other sensitive areas.

"The question is also whether you have covert television cameras as well, because obviously you have to have overt ones in halls and areas such as that but in relation to surveillance I would also support it being covert," he said.

He says this is an opportunity for the Transport Workers Union to become involved.

"Let's see the... union go along with our measures for the installation of increased surveillance in those work areas and I would say to the union, 'We want to work with you; we'd look forward to your co-operation in relation to increased surveillance'," he said.

Meanwhile, the head of Sydney Airport has promised his full-cooperation on any security improvements deemed necessary.

Max Moore-Wilton has rejected union claims that airport security has been cut by 40 per cent.

But he says there does appear to be a gap in security procedures for baggage handlers which are mostly employed by Qantas.

"This does appear to be a gap in the mandated security procedures and we will do everything possible to improve that situation if that's what the appropriate authorities tell us needs to be done," he said.

"It does look on the face of it that something does need to be done."

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