Page 1884 - Week 06 - Thursday, 2 May 1991
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currently existing within the ACT Government Service, including the Receiver of Public Moneys, will be utilised where possible. Thirdly, the development of the office's computer system requirements and the conducting of a publicity campaign will take place within the ACT Government Service. Lastly, program management will be based on New South Wales procedures for accountability which have proved to be highly successful.
In conclusion, I believe that the passage of this Bill through the Assembly will result in significant social welfare benefits, not just to tenants and landlords but to the community at large. The establishment of the Office of the Director of Rental Bonds is an exciting initiative, consistent with the ACT Government's aims, and one which I believe should be fully supported by the Assembly. I take this opportunity to thank the many community groups, the Real Estate Institute and the many individuals who have assisted us over a lengthy period to get this legislation right. Mr Speaker, I present the explanatory memorandum for the Bill.
Debate (on motion by Mrs Grassby) adjourned.
UNPARLIAMENTARY LANGUAGE
MR SPEAKER: Members, I have given careful consideration to some of the language used in the Assembly during the recent sittings. On Thursday, 18 April 1991, during the adjournment debate Mr Berry made the comment, "They have their snouts in the trough".
Ms Follett: They have.
MR SPEAKER: The remark was made during a speech in which he was referring to government members and, in particular, members of the Residents Rally. A point of order was taken that it was a reflection on members in the Assembly and that it should be withdrawn.
It was put to me that I had allowed that expression in the past. As I said at the time, I doubt that I have allowed or would ever allow such language to be used in the same context as it was on this occasion. However, I undertook to review the matter and report back to the Assembly. The term "snouts in the trough" may have been used in the Assembly before, although Assembly staff have not been able to readily establish whether it has or not. Therefore, if it was used, I cannot establish in what context.
In regard to the current episode, having reviewed the Hansard, I have concluded that the Rally members were individually and then collectively identified as having "snouts in the trough". I also believe that the remark was a reflection on those members, as it implies that they have taken improper advantage of their position by taking more
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