Page 743 - Week 02 - Thursday, 12 February 2009
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what should not, but it is a package that injects cash into the economy quickly and tries to increase consumer confidence—that is what the cash payments are about—and then injects significant money, taxpayers’ money, into essential public infrastructure: social housing, public housing and schools.
Mr Hanson: Do you think questions should be asked about it? Do you think there should be Senate scrutiny?
MS GALLAGHER: I have absolutely no problem with questions being asked. I have problems with delays to the passage of a very important bill.
Mr Hanson: Can you ring Kevin Rudd and tell him, please.
MS GALLAGHER: The Prime Minister has been responding to questions on this. It is a significant amount of taxpayers’ money. Questions have been asked, but also delays have been imposed and concessions are being sought for each special little interest group. That is what is being sought—questions, but concessions as well, because everyone has a better idea about what should be in the stimulus package.
Here in the ACT this will provide $350 million over three years into important projects in the ACT economy—social housing, $102 million; and around $230 million going into primary schools and then secondary schools as part of the later stages. What is not clear, either from the Greens or from the Liberals—I note the amendment from Mr Seselja; it says that there are a number of positive aspects to the stimulus package. The question then is this. There are obviously a number of not positive, or negative, aspects to this stimulus package. I am not sure that we over here are quite clear about what elements of the stimulus package Mr Seselja does not like—
Mr Seselja: We are not clear on your position.
MS GALLAGHER: what part of the stimulus package Mr Seselja does not like.
Mr Seselja: Do you believe it is all absolutely good and there couldn’t have been anything else added.
MADAM DEPUTY SPEAKER: Mr Seselja!
MS GALLAGHER: Is it the schools? Is it just public schools? Is it social housing? Exactly what part?
Mr Coe: You’ve got a great record on social housing, haven’t you?
MS GALLAGHER: We know your views on home insulation, because you have been giving yourself a big pat on the back for that all week. But as to other elements of the stimulus package—I am sure that other members will be able to rise and answer—what part of $350 million coming into the ACT, essentially into social housing and education, do you guys not like?
Mr Seselja: Do you think she will tell us about any more of the details? Do you think she knows any more details?
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