A whisper; who dares

[Rose_Thorns]

Within the Australian constitution is the right, amongst other wonderful things, to freedom of speech. This not only allows criticism of the most highly placed public servants in the land, but allows us to vote against them if we dislike their policies or the way they set about running the country.

Apparently, not so for CASA. No criticism allowed and worse, no vote to ensure that if a 'pigs ear' is being made of our regulatory management we can get rid of them come election time. Apparently, anyone who dares critise the department of no idea is a moving target for serious attention. What is that quotation about absolute power and corruption.

Today's story is about a chief pilot who dared question (loud and long) the actions of certain individuals at the local field office. Story goes, that he is now required under the threat of loosing approvals to 'visit' with CASA for attitude adjustment and counselling. The same office apparently are setting wonderful new training standards, story goes that a certain worthless FOI decided that some boys asymmetric training was not exactly compliant with the order, as writ. Engine failure after take off and blue line climb out in a light twin can be accepted by CASA if it is conducted in 'desk top' training device. Rumour has it that all. except CASA, think this was a complete waste of time, money, resources and is probably the best example of negative training, enforced by CASA in a long sorry history.

No critics, bollix. A story a day until someone gets the message.

[kimwestt]

(Think I know who u r !!!)
Rumored around said desktop training was that initially said Worthless FOI tried to insist that a full shutdown was required as part of the twin endorsement. A well known and respected ATO declined that invitation - surprise, surprise.
Allegedly, rumouredly, the Desktop job was EFATO at TOSS, complete the EFATO checks, and climb away.
Perhaps the Worthless FOI should read the PA#! operating manual, and quote_
"continued OEI flight below blue line speed will result in a negative climb gradient"
Only slightly short of criminal behaviour, one might think!!
Scenario:
Airborne off a RWY, Vtoss +5, EFATO,
Response:
Dat FOI said this will fly at this speed on one engine, so why are we going down - - - - - - - -!!!

[tric]

Sorry to disappoint you mate, our constitution does not include freedom of speech. :=

Look here - Free Speech and the Constitution (http://www.aph.gov.au/LIBRARY/pubs/rn/2001-02/02rn42.htm)

Freedom of Speech and the Constitution
The Australian Constitution does not have any express provision relating to freedom of speech. In theory, therefore, the Commonwealth Parliament may restrict or censor speech through censorship legislation or other laws, as long as they are otherwise within constitutional power. The Constitution consists mainly of provisions relating to the structure of the Commonwealth Parliament, executive government and the federal judicial system.(6) There is no list of personal rights or freedoms which may be enforced in the courts. There are however some provisions relating to personal rights such as the right to trial by jury (section 80), and the right to freedom of religion (section 116).

Since 1992 decisions of the High Court have indicated that there are implied rights to free speech and communication on matters concerning politics and government, e.g. permitting political advertising during election campaigns.(7) This is known as the 'implied freedom of political communication'. Issues arising from these decisions include defining when communication is 'political' and when the freedom should prevail over competing public interests.(8)

[The Green Goblin]

Perhaps this particular Pilot needs to read the accusations of Polar Aviation against CASA.

Yes sir, is that right sir, yes sir, you learn something everyday sir etc etc :p

[kimwestt]

OK - well is there such a thing as a democratic right to anything?:uhoh:

[Pinky the pilot]

OK - well is there such a thing as a democratic right to anything?

After giving your name and residential address, you have the right to remain silent.....until you have a lawyer present.:hmm:

Not strictly correct either.:eek:

[Rose_Thorns]

It is difficult, when you are so spoilt for choice, to pick a subject. Of course the huge issues have been well and truly 'gazumped', such as;-

The narrowly avoided downgrade by the FAA is well known, (well done the diplomats).

The embarrassing interview in the Senate estimates committee (a month ago) regarding lost cases, causes and money in the courts.

The 15 years wasted on regulatory programs and panels. The Kiwi's must just quietly smile every time they open their rule books and probably the bank book as well. Better than a test win.

But, Engineers always have the best yarns. A favourite at 'smoko' is the one about two AWI who pitched up to do an inspection on an aircraft.

Peaches - "Strewth mate, look at the altimeters they are 300 foot different, that' s got to be worth a RCA at least".

Cream – "Careful mate, I got caught out once by a smart arse engineer once, the sub scale settings were different, check it out".

Anyway, with microscopic precision the sub scale settings were checked. "Gotcha" cooed Peaches and, chuckling happily set about writing it up in great detail. The Chief Engineer noted the paperwork and glee and asked 'what you found boys'. While Cream looked smug, Peaches let the CE have it, chapter and verse on altimeters. "Nah" said the engineer, 'the pilots altimeter is electric, look', and turned on the master switch. Like magic, the altimeters all read the same.

Was the RCA issued?, yes. Was it acquitted? No. Is it still causing problems ? Yes.

Scary story ain't it, when you think about it.