Extension of time for the report of the commission to conduct an inquiry into the activities of the Federated Ship Painters and Dockers Union

Overview

The Letters Patent issued by Queen Elizabeth II in 1983 extend the timeframe for the inquiry by Commissioner Francis Xavier Costigan, Q.C., LL.B, into the Federated Ship Painters and Dockers Union and its officers and members, which was originally appointed in 1980. This extension was made in recognition of the complexity and sensitivity of the matters under investigation, aiming to ensure a thorough and comprehensive examination. The inquiry was initially established under the Royal Commissions Act 1902 and other enabling powers, and the extension reflects the need for additional time to complete the investigation and report findings and recommendations to the Governor-General by 30 June 1984. The extension underscores the importance of a meticulous and unbiased inquiry, aligning with the policy objective of addressing potential issues within the union through a formal and rigorous investigative process.

Scope and Application

The Letters Patent issued under the authority of the Queen and the Governor-General of the Commonwealth of Australia, varied multiple times since its initial issuance on 10 September 1980, pertain to the appointment of Francis Xavier Costigan, Q.C., LL.B as a Commissioner to conduct a comprehensive inquiry into specific matters concerning the Federated Ship Painters and Dockers Union and its officers and members. The scope of this inquiry extends to examining various aspects of the Union's operations, governance, and the conduct of its members. The Commissioner is mandated to report his findings and recommendations to the Governor-General by no later than 30 June 1984. This prerogative instrument is an authoritative directive under the Royal Commissions Act 1902 and other enabling powers, underscoring its significance within the Commonwealth of Australia's legislative framework. The inquiry's jurisdiction and reach are confined to the specific matters designated in the Letters Patent, with the ultimate goal of delivering a detailed and authoritative report to facilitate informed decision-making and potential legislative action.

Key Provisions

This legislative instrument (C2004Q01021) issued by Queen Elizabeth II on 21 December 1983, through the Governor-General of Australia, extends the time for a Commissioner to complete an inquiry into the Federated Ship Painters and Dockers Union and its officers and members. The Commissioner, Francis Xavier Costigan, was initially appointed via Letters Patent on 10 September 1980, and the terms of this appointment were subsequently varied on several occasions. The current variation extends the deadline for the submission of the inquiry report and recommendations to 30 June 1984. This action is taken under the authority of the Royal Commissions Act 1902 and other enabling powers, ensuring that the Commissioner has sufficient time to thoroughly complete the investigation. The obligations imposed by this legislation primarily rest on the Commissioner, requiring him to diligently pursue the inquiry and prepare a comprehensive report detailing the findings and recommendations. The Commissioner must ensure that all aspects of the investigation are conducted with due diligence and thoroughness, adhering to the terms of the original and subsequent Letters Patent. The primary focus of these obligations is to provide a detailed and accurate account of the matters under investigation, thereby fulfilling the purpose of the Royal Commission. Should the Commissioner fail to meet the extended deadline of 30 June 1984, or if there are any other breaches of the terms set forth in the Letters Patent, consequences could include legal scrutiny or potential administrative actions. However, the specific penalties or consequences for non-compliance are not explicitly detailed in this instrument. The overarching expectation is that the Commissioner will adhere to the extended deadline and fulfil the requirements of the inquiry as mandated by the legislation.