Page 685 - Week 03 - Thursday, 15 March 2007
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hailstorms and floods we have seen recently. They are the ones affected, too, and there were a number of them there as well; let us not forget them.
Today was quite extraordinary and the government should be utterly ashamed of themselves for letting things get to a situation where so many good people were so upset that they not only demonstrated out here but brought their vehicles and left them—and many of them actually resigned. I call on the government as a whole, but the minister especially, to get their act together.
Public transport—violence
MR MULCAHY (Molonglo) (6.28): I received an email, as did other members for Molonglo, late last night from a Mr Smith of Isaacs and I just want to put it on the record because these are issues of concern that I have mentioned previously. He says:
Dear Member
As a concerned parent of a young student that uses Woden Bus Interchange on a daily basis to attend school, I am most disturbed at the level of violence that occurs in the area and the seemingly lack of interest that the authorities show in the safety or security of the passengers that must use the interchange.
During the last few weeks I have become aware of a number of armed hold ups perpetrated against students, both male and female, with the offenders threatening violence, and in one instance holding a knife to a young woman’s throat. The motive for this violence appears to be the theft of property including mobile phones, ipods and cash. I am also aware of illegal drugs being touted for sale after school to students. Unfortunately, it has come to the stage where I feel it unsafe for my daughter to use the bus interchange.
This type of behaviour is clearly unacceptable, and reflects directly upon the Government and the Police. We are long term residents and ratepayers in ACT and have watched the deterioration of levels of safety at basic public amenities within our area. The recent stabbing of an ACTION bus driver in this vicinity also highlights the pressing need for swift and decisive action to be taken against the miscreants that have been able to operate unhindered in this area for some considerable time.
Could I please have an explanation as to what you are prepared to do about this ongoing problem and a time frame in which your remedial action can be expected …
I endorse that sentiment, Mr Speaker, and I would hope that someone will take up this valid concern from this constituent.
Question resolved in the affirmative.
The Assembly adjourned at 6.30 pm until Tuesday, 1 May 2007, at 10.30 am.
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