Page 606 - Week 02 - Wednesday, 22 February 2012
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successfully advocate to the federal government for increased spending on GP services in the ACT?
MS GALLAGHER: I have not. The answer to that is that I have convinced the federal government to increase spending on GPs in the territory. That is exactly what—
Mr Smyth interjecting—
MS GALLAGHER: That is around Medicare rebates essentially, Mr Smyth. As you understand, as you well know, and as Mrs Dunne confirmed last week, it is a matter entirely within the area of commonwealth responsibility. But your question was different, Mr Smyth. Unlike you, we actually listen to the questions and then try to be helpful and answer them. We know that you have already written your answer. We already know that. You have written what answer you would like me to give. But your question is wrong. We have had increased spending. The increased spending is going into GP training places in the ACT. They have been doubled—to actually train the workforce, a local workforce, so that it is sustainable into the future. And the other area is in a GP superclinic.
If we were able to have question time for the opposition, it would be: what single thing have you done to lobby the commonwealth? Have you done a single thing? Have you written a letter? Have you lobbied Gary Humphries? Have you done anything? I am not saying that it is your fault; I am asking what the opposition has done. It is very easy to come in here and throw stones.
Members interjecting—
MR SPEAKER: Ms Gallagher, one moment, thank you. Members! Ms Gallagher, it is not to challenge the opposition necessarily in your response. And, members, the opportunity to ask supplementary questions will come shortly.
MS GALLAGHER: Thank you, Mr Speaker. We do not walk away from our responsibilities, but I am just drawing to the Assembly’s attention that every member in this place has responsibilities. Mr Hanson has been sitting in the health shadow’s chair now for nearly 3½ years. What has he done? Has he had a meeting with the federal health minister? Has he sought anything? I would suggest that you have done nothing.
Mr Hanson interjecting—
MS GALLAGHER: If you have, it has not had any impact.
MR SPEAKER: A supplementary question, Mr Smyth.
MR SMYTH: A supplementary, thank you, Mr Speaker.
Mr Hanson interjecting—
MR SPEAKER: Order! Mr Smyth has the floor.
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