Page 2882 - Week 07 - Thursday, 7 June 2012
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I know we have had a discussion about the NDIS, but one thing we have to recognise is that this is not going to make funding available to everybody and that there is still going to be a need. While it is a significant reform and it should happen and it is great that it is happening, we are still going to need to fund services in the ACT because not everyone will be captured by that system. That is something that has to start getting greater recognition in the debates we are having about funding. Everyone keeps talking about the NDIS, and it is going to be very good for a lot of people, but not all people are going to get funded under it. So we have to factor that in to how we are funding services for people with disability.
On ageing, with respect to improving services for older Canberrans, the ACT Greens welcome provisions around upgrades to pathways and bus stops, because they will have a big impact on older people. However, as I have already pointed out, things such as cultural awareness and interpreter assistance for older people need to be looked at. We need to also look for opportunities for older people to continue to be involved in the community. We know we have an ageing population. That is something that needs to be recognised.
With regard to my electorate of Brindabella, it was good to see some funding there, such as the restoration of the Bonython sportsgrounds, improvements to the Tuggeranong Arts Centre and, as I have already stated, the Erindale bus station, for which we had a budget bid in. Also it is good to see that Taylor primary school will be redeveloped. I hope that will bring back some normalcy for the students and parents who use that school, and that it is done in a timely way.
One thing that is disappointing is that we need to see improved bus services to this area. It is something that we keep talking about, and I hope we will see it in the future.
Question resolved in the affirmative.
Bill agreed to in principle.
Estimates 2012-2013—Select Committee
Reference
MS GALLAGHER (Molonglo—Chief Minister, Minister for Health and Minister for Territory and Municipal Services) (4.48): Pursuant to standing order 174, I move:
That the Appropriation Bill 2012-2013 be referred to the Select Committee on Estimates 2012-2013.
MR SPEAKER: The question is that the motion be agreed to. Those of that opinion say aye, to the contrary no. I suspect the ayes have it.
Ms Gallagher: Well, no-one voted for it. So is it off to estimates or what?
Mr Hanson: Yes.
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