Page 1805 - Week 05 - Wednesday, 4 May 2011

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know there are 800 places, up to, about, that can be delivered through that. That is an absolute benefit to Canberra families. That is in addition.

Can I just remind those in this chamber that over the last two years over 1,000 new childcare places have been brought on line across the service sector. The regulation unit and indeed the office for children and youth services have worked very closely with the sector. I convened a roundtable where over 70 representatives turned up—

Mr Coe interjecting—

MR SPEAKER: Thank you, Mr Coe.

MS BURCH: and I listened to them and their concerns, recognising that the quality framework is the thing they must bring in, they are committed to do. They have looked to me for support and this is what we have done.

Opposition members interjecting—

MR SPEAKER: Order, members!

MS BURCH: We have responded with $16 million and again I wait to see a single cent come from them, because last election those opposite stole—

Opposition members interjecting—

MS BURCH: They did not put it in their costings, but the day before the election the sudden thought bubble was: “Two centres; one north, one south.” That is what we have delivered.

Bimberi Youth Justice Centre—personal duress alarms

MRS DUNNE: My question is to the Minister for Children and Young People. Minister, on 17 February 2011 in question time, you took on notice a question in relation to the issuing of personal duress alarms to Bimberi staff and MSS security guards. Hansard published your answer on 10 March 2011. The Hansard stated:

… duress alarms are issued to all operational staff …

On the same day, 10 March, you took on notice a question relating to the issuing of a personal duress alarm to a woodwork trainer. You signed that answer on 21 April 2011 and the Secretariat received your answer on 2 May, the same day that I received it. You stated in that answer:

In the past there have been no comprehensive records in relation to the allocation of duress alarms. This has been rectified and improved record keeping was introduced in 2011.

You also stated:

The Trainer ... was issued with a personal duress alarm on 3 February 2011.


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