Page 3666 - Week 09 - Tuesday, 23 August 2011
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I think it is important, in the context of this debate over the next few months, that all stakeholders have the opportunity to put forward their views, but that we do reach a conclusion this year and move forward through the 2012 year with our agreed outcome to see—by the city’s centenary in 2013, whichever model we go with—the change that is needed in tertiary education to set this sector up for continued growth throughout the next century.
DR BOURKE: A supplementary, Mr Speaker.
MR SPEAKER: Yes, Dr Bourke.
DR BOURKE: Thank you, Mr Speaker. Minister, given the importance of creating a new economy and sustainable jobs for Canberrans, will the government pursue its policy to grow the ACT’s education sector?
MR BARR: I thank Dr Bourke for the question. It is indeed important that we continue our efforts in this area, not just in tertiary education and not just in relation to the particular issue we confront with the University of Canberra and the Canberra Institute of Technology. There is, of course, a vibrant private training market within the ACT and there are ample opportunities to grow the export of secondary schooling in the territory as well.
I note a number of non-government providers in the secondary schooling area currently offer boarding opportunities and are seeking to grow that export industry for the territory. In a number of discussions I have had with operators in the non-government sector the possibility of expanding Canberra as an education destination of choice, not just in the tertiary sector but across all areas of education and training, has certainly been very positively embraced.
It is important that throughout all the politics that will no doubt be played on this issue in the next few months the government remains focused on ensuring that education is a major employer in the city and it continues to be a major contributor to the economic development of the ACT.
Ms Gallagher: I ask that all further questions be placed on the notice paper.
Supplementary answers to questions without notice
Bimberi Youth Justice Centre—review
MS BURCH: During the last sittings Ms Hunter asked a question on the number of recommendations in the Bimberi review that have been progressed. Just before I came down, I was given a table. There are 64 recommendations with work commenced or completed. What I propose to do is to put this in a table, treat it as a QON and provide it to the Clerk this afternoon.
Parkwood Road recycling estate—fire
MR CORBELL: Ms Hunter asked me a question in relation to 44-gallon drums or the like that were located near the scene of the fire at Parkwood on the weekend. I am
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