Page 4016 - Week 13 - Tuesday, 25 November 2014
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because commercial networks would not support them because it was not financially viable. We need to do more for women’s sport, not less. Without a free-to-air TV presence for these sports, they risk losing key sponsors that keep these clubs afloat as well as supporting gifted and talented players. It will also mean that fewer young girls and women can see their sporting stars and be inspired to participate and compete.
Reading the Canberra Times this morning, I was drawn to Canberra Capitals centre Lauren Jackson’s comments on what these budget cuts will mean. She said that yesterday was a very dark day for women’s sport and expressed fears that the removal of women’s sport from the ABC’s schedule would mean a sponsorship and player exodus.
I love my sport and I know that my anger at the federal government’s cuts to the ABC and their impact upon the broadcasting of women’s sport is shared by many Canberrans. Unfortunately, I could not make it to the protest outside Parliament House this morning, the second in as many weeks, but I am told that it was well attended. I hope that Prime Minister Abbott and his federal government colleagues listen to the community and take into account the devastating consequences of their budget cuts to our local news, to the broadcasting of women’s sport and to the families that are losing their jobs.
We must support our national broadcaster and acknowledge the fantastic people at the ABC, the important job they are doing in our community and their dedication to our city over many years. The ABC is such a significant part of Canberra that we must not forget how important it is to have a genuine local and independent media voice in our territory.
Finally, I would like to thank George Blatman, a very passionate supporter of the ABC, for writing my speech for me today.
Question resolved in the affirmative.
The Assembly adjourned at 5.15 pm.
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