Andrew Giles faces criticism for closing off pathway to avoid high court case

Minister urged to overturn tribunal decisions allowing visa cancellations

Opposition seizes on incident in ongoing attacks against Giles

Immigration Minister Andrew Giles has been urged to overturn a number of recent tribunal decisions allowing visa cancellations, after it was revealed he closed off an avenue to avoid a high court case on indefinite detention. The former asylum-seeker lawyer has faced intense scrutiny in the aftermath of the NZYQ ruling, which found that the government's indefinite detention of asylum seekers was unlawful. Giles said he would urgently consider the tribunal decisions, which have allowed a number of people to avoid deportation. "I am aware of the recent tribunal decisions and I will be giving them urgent consideration," he said. The opposition has seized on the incident in its ongoing attacks against Giles, accusing him of being too soft on border protection. "This is yet another example of the government's weak border protection policies," said opposition immigration spokesman Dan Tehan. "Andrew Giles is a former refugee lawyer who has no business being in charge of our immigration system." Giles has defended his record, saying that he is committed to protecting Australia's borders while also ensuring that people are treated fairly. "I am confident that our border protection policies are strong and effective," he said. "But I am also committed to ensuring that people are treated fairly and that their rights are respected." The government is currently considering its options in relation to the NZYQ ruling. It is possible that it will appeal the decision to the High Court. The case has highlighted the complex and controversial issue of asylum seeker detention. The government is under pressure to find a solution that is both humane and effective.