Page 3222 - Week 11 - Tuesday, 13 November 2007

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There is no more significant bill that can be debated in this place than a bill that appropriates moneys for the benefit of the community, and, on that basis, it is very important that there be appropriate scrutiny of any such bill. It was on that basis that the government had intended to refer the matter to the public accounts committee, so we, of course, support the motion.

MR MULCAHY (Molonglo) (11.05), in reply: I do not think there is a lot more to add, except to make it very clear that the matter was discussed between the Chief Minister and me. I thank the government for supporting this proposal and referring it to the committee. I will repeat that I am somewhat dismayed by Dr Foskey’s attempt to cast a different version of proceedings here before the Assembly. This is the first time—

Mr Stanhope: I think she is just trying to understand the motion, Mr Mulcahy, to be fair.

MR MULCAHY: Dr Foskey gave the impression to the Assembly she knew nothing about what I was proposing, and that is, in fact, quite wrong. I have also from the discussion I had with the Chief Minister—

DR FOSKEY: On a point of order, Mr Speaker, I just want clarification whether the definition of being told is being—

MR SPEAKER: No, that is not a point of order, Dr Foskey.

DR FOSKEY: Look, well, I think I will just let it pass.

MR MULCAHY: I appreciate, Mr Speaker, that the Chief Minister has indicated, that there will be an appropriate debate to take place when the public accounts committee reports back no later than 4 December. We look forward in the opposition to having the opportunity to debate this range of initiatives. They are significant; there are substantial outlays involved here. This has come less than, I think, 12 weeks since we passed the budget, and, after we have had the appropriate inquiry by the committee, it will be an opportunity for us to discuss in more detail in this chamber the various initiatives that are being put forward.

Question resolved in the affirmative.

Outdoor cafes—licence fees

Statement by minister

MR HARGREAVES (Brindabella—Minister for Territory and Municipal Services, Minister for Housing, Minister for Multicultural Affairs) (11.07): I seek leave to make statement regarding outdoor fees determinations.

Leave granted.

MR HARGREAVES: Mr Speaker, in 2005, following lengthy consultation with industry, the government agreed to increase the fees that apply for the placement of


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