Page 4340 - Week 12 - Thursday, 24 October 2019
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The committee notes that the minister’s response to the petition under standing order 100 made reference to development application 201935300, which consists of a proposal for a new fast food outlet for Chisholm shops. The minister indicated that the DA in question has been subject to major notification under the Planning and Development Act 2007, with 116 representations having been made by the close of the notification period on 6 September 2019. The minister also stated that the Planning and Land Authority would:
… consider all representations made during the notification period and assess the DA against the requirements of the act and Territory Plan.
Following consideration of the petition and the minister’s response, the committee has determined that it will not be holding an inquiry into the matter at this time.
Sitting suspended from 11.57 am to 2.00 pm.
Reflection on the chair
Statement by Speaker
MADAM SPEAKER: Members, I would like to make a statement. Yesterday in debate a point of order was raised by Mr Gentleman concerning comments made by Miss Candice Burch about the recent actions of the chair in making a ruling concerning the same question rule. Miss Candice Burch is quoted in yesterday’s uncorrected proof copy of Hansard as saying:
When I tried to raise these issues again last sitting week, the Canberra Liberals were silenced by the Speaker who thinks that we have spent enough time in this place talking about the disaster that is Network19. Ms Cody obviously did not get that memo.
I consider those remarks made by Candice Burch to be a reflection on the chair. I refer members to page 74 of the Companion to the Standing Orders where it makes reference to criticisms of actions and conduct of the Speaker. The Companion points out that reflections on the chair should only be made by way of substantive motion as to do otherwise is to undermine the authority of the house as vested in the Speaker of the day and runs the substantial risk of drawing the institution of the Assembly into disrepute.
I believe it to be a substantial duty of the Speaker to intervene in cases like this to protect the institution. I also draw members’ attention to the members code of conduct, which requires that members should promote and support the principles by leadership and example in order to maintain and support public trust and confidence in the integrity of the Assembly and the conduct by its members of public business.
I also remind members that it is not in order to criticise the actions of the Speaker outside the chamber. The Companion lists numerous occasions when my predecessors have taken action in relation to such comments. I ask Miss Candice Burch to withdraw any reflection on the chair.
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