Page 90 - Week 02 - Wednesday, 24 May 1989
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different ways with this area, will examine how to find ways and methods of dealing with homeless youth and ways in which to encourage youth to look after themselves.
Let me in terms of this maiden speech express my thanks. My particular thanks go not only to our own followers throughout the Rally but particularly to my wife. All people married to candidates or living with them or whatever who have had to manage through the last six months will know that this has been a very busy time. We have three children under five, the youngest of which was only two months old when we started working towards this campaign. My wife's support has been absolutely fantastic, and I cannot emphasise that strongly enough. I also wish to thank all the people, particularly those in Reid, who have provided support in very many ways. I also thank the people who have deserted the other political parties and flocked to our ranks. Their support is appreciated, and as our ranks swell with the addition of those people, I hope that we can do them the appropriate justice that the other parties have not been able to provide for them.
MS MAHER (11.46): This is not only my maiden speech but the first time I have stood up in this chamber. I wish to take this opportunity to officially congratulate all members on their election to the Assembly, especially Rosemary Follett, whose election to Chief Minister is not only a personal triumph for her but also a triumph for women within the political arena and in the community in general. I also extend that acknowledgment to my other colleagues Mrs Grassby and Mrs Nolan.
I am aware, as we all are, of the mammoth task ahead of us. I feel that if we could all establish effective working relationships at both a personal level and party level within the Assembly it would make our job a little bit easier. Also the people of Canberra would have a Government working for them, not against them.
As you are aware, my party, the No Self Government Party, campaigned hard against the imposition of this form of government on the people of Canberra. We campaigned because we had the interests of people at heart. We campaigned to ensure that the best features of Canberra, the city we love, were retained. Now that self-government is here we will continue to campaign to ensure the best possible deal for each and every Canberra citizen, young and old.
It is in this spirit that I reply to the Chief Minister's speech. I welcome those parts of her speech which mentioned open and accountable government, budget processes that are open to public scrutiny and participation, transport, development, et cetera, but those matters which are of particular concern to me deal with social justice and the environment. I applaud the Chief Minister's commitment to a fairer and more equal society.
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