Page 235 - Week 01 - Wednesday, 26 February 2014

Next page . . . . Previous page . . . . Speeches . . . . Contents . . . . Debates(HTML) . . . . PDF . . . . Video


As to Mr Hanson’s comments about the palliative care conference report, I point out to him the following: firstly, there is a wealth of insight in the research in those papers which I have no hesitation in asking the government to seriously consider. Secondly, if you care to look up the definition of “report” in Wikipedia it says a report is an account of any informational work, usually of writing, speech, television or film, made with the specific intention of relaying information or recounting certain events in a widely presentable form. The Free Dictionary says it is a formal account of the proceedings or transactions of a group. The Oxford dictionary says that as a verb it is to give a spoken or written account of something that one has observed, heard, done or investigated. The Webster dictionary when referring to it as a noun says it is a story in a newspaper or on radio or television that is about something that has happened or that gives information about something. So I think the word “report” is quite adequate in describing what the palliative care conference papers represent.

As to my forum, it is intended as a wide-ranging discussion. Indeed, a wide range of stakeholders will attend the forum, including the AMA, Palliative Care ACT, Dying with Dignity, representatives from religious bodies, aged care, health care and healthcare consumers to mention just a few. I have no hesitation in calling on the government to seriously consider that and also the papers and the research that was presented at the palliative care conference.

When one considers something, one does not necessarily have to adopt it, Mr Hanson—through you, Madam Speaker. It is the very consideration of these very important and sensitive matters that I would like to have. I would like us to talk about them and to have this open discussion.

Lastly, I want to thank the health minister and my government for their support of my desire to continue exploring these very important and sensitive issues.

Motion agreed to.

Adjournment

Motion by Ms Gallagher proposed:

That the Assembly do now adjourn.

Big Issue

MR RATTENBURY (Molonglo) (6.19): On 5 February this year, I took part in the Big Issue’s selling challenge as part of International Vendor Week. I had the spot outside the Canberra Centre during the lunch hour selling copies of Big Issue alongside Bianca, a regular Big Issue vendor. I did manage to sell 13 copies in 30 minutes, which I think Bianca thought was a decent effort, although she reckons she could have sold more herself as a much more experienced seller.

International Vendor Week shone the spotlight on the work done by the Big Issue in developing the skills and self-confidence of people from disadvantaged backgrounds as well as providing an income-earning opportunity through selling the magazine.


Next page . . . . Previous page . . . . Speeches . . . . Contents . . . . Debates(HTML) . . . . PDF . . . . Video