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Legislative Assembly for the ACT: 2002 Week 1 Hansard (11 December) . . Page.. 72 ..

MR CORBELL (continuing):

I have instructed the Department of Urban Services and Planning and Land Management to put in place a process for an external, independent environment assessment of the western alignment. In parallel with that assessment, there will also be an assessment of the cost of that alignment and the impact that will have on the budget. That is a normal process that needs to be undertaken.

There are, of course, a range of other statutory measures that need to be taken as well, including variation to the Territory Plan, potential inquiry by this place through the planning committee, when it is established, and consideration by the National Capital Authority. The time frame is tight-the government does not deny that-but we will be seeking to meet our commitment in relation to timing.

Mr Stanhope: I ask that further questions be placed on notice.

Canberra Hospital

MR STANHOPE: Mr Speaker, I wish to clarify my answer to a question from Mr Smyth. I think I gilded the lily to the extent that I did not acknowledge the level of incompetence of the previous government in relation to the delivery of health services. Of course, their incompetence extended beyond the Canberra Hospital. In fact, the $18 million contained in the bill which the Treasurer will shortly table relates to the Department of Health and Community Care. Of the $18 million being applied to the department, over $14 million, I believe, is being provided to the Canberra Hospital. I had neglected to mention that the previous government's administration of health extended beyond just the Canberra Hospital.

Mr Smyth: So you are apologising for misleading.

MR STANHOPE: No. In fact, I am acknowledging that $4 million will go to plugging other holes, but $14 million will go to the Canberra Hospital.

Authority to broadcast proceedings

Mr Speaker

Paper

Mr Speaker presented the following paper:

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