The CASA problem
It should not be forgotten that following the loss of his flying school Glen was prevented by CASA from working as an instructor.
The means used was to threaten the prospective employer. This displays the outrageous arrogance and vindictiveness of a regulator that has had no direct Ministerial control for more than 30 years.
The problem with attempts to deal with CASA is that it believes that it’s the only bastion between aviation chaos and an irresponsible GA community who will run amuck if given the slightest leeway. Big superior boss with the big stick is ingrained, and part of the Canberra psyche. Commonsense, fairness and objectivity are not the predominant drivers. The cushy jobs and huge salaries, way above those politicians who should be in charge, have by human nature subverted the purpose of governing in the public interest. Exactly as forecast in 1988 when aviation was taken out of Departmental control and Ministerial responsibility and oversight.
The whole sorry saga is a reminder that to discard a principle, in this instance the Westminster principle of Ministerial responsibility, and substituting the arms of government with statutory (monopoly) authorities, might have long term deleterious consequences.