You made the point that previous justice ministers consulted widely on these. Either they did or they didn't. The first time, in 1988, there were extensive consultations. In 1991 the decision was made by the federal Minister of Justice. There were two changes to the process under the Liberal administration. I believe there was consultation on one of those cases, and on the other cases the decision was made by the federal Minister of Justice.
On February 5th, 2007. See this statement in context.