Page 1536 - Week 05 - Wednesday, 14 May 2014
Next page . . . . Previous page . . . . Speeches . . . . Contents . . . . Debates(HTML) . . . . PDF . . . . Video
irrespective of financial circumstance. All parents want the best fit for their children, and that may be in any number of school settings.
There is too much evidence to suggest that one school system is superior in all circumstances to another. Let us celebrate the fact that in Canberra we have great schools and they are found in every suburb and in every system.
I congratulate the staff who work in our public schools and who take pride every day in the important and transforming role they play in the lives of the ACT’s young people. I would also like to add my support to the national Walk Safely to School Day on Friday, 23 May. It is a great initiative and one that helps to keep children active and healthy. I note that 25 ACT primary schools have signed up to this initiative, and I would encourage others to do so.
Obesity is reaching critical levels in Australia, with one in four children now diagnosed as overweight or obese, and exercise is important in addressing that. That said, I find it staggering to this day why Rob de Castella’s SmartStart for kids, a local program that addresses obesity in children with programs that engage and activate children, was axed by this ACT Labor government.
Not all families are in a position to walk their children to school, but I would encourage those that can, to do so; and those that cannot, to perhaps take their children walking after school or on the weekend. This time of the year is perfect walking weather in Canberra, and walking is a healthy, free activity that families can do together.
Question resolved in the affirmative.
The Assembly adjourned at 6.49 pm.
Next page . . . . Previous page . . . . Speeches . . . . Contents . . . . Debates(HTML) . . . . PDF . . . . Video