Page 217 - Week 01 - Thursday, 13 February 2020
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Annemieke and Danton, and the support we have received, which has been impeccable, including the assistance with the drafting of this report. Thank you, Frieda, Alice, Lydia and Michelle. All committees hope that the recommendations they make are taken seriously by government and implemented. This committee, Madam Speaker, is no different. On a personal level I genuinely believe this provides a clear, comprehensive, strategic course for government, which prioritises nature in our city. I commend the report to the Assembly.
Question resolved in the affirmative.
Crossbench executive members’ business
Ordered that crossbench executive members’ business be called on.
Air quality
MR RATTENBURY (Kurrajong) (10.43): I move:
That this Assembly:
(1) notes:
(a) over the 2019-20 summer, severe bushfires caused ongoing smoke pollution in the ACT, with air quality readings for PM2.5 reaching extreme hazardous levels on several occasions, and extended periods of poor air quality;
(b) smoke pollution was stressful and disruptive for ACT residents, caused short-term health issues for many people, and may contribute to long-term health issues;
(c) smoke pollution caused significant disruption to activities in the ACT including the cancellation of events and the closure of businesses, facilities and workplaces;
(d) climate change is leading to hotter, drier weather and extended fire seasons, creating a risk of further extended smoke events in the future; and
(e) the summer’s events have exposed a range of issues that the ACT Government should consider regarding air quality, including:
(i) extent and quality of indoor and outdoor air quality monitoring and data;
(ii) availability and distribution of face masks;
(iii) ability of buildings to protect people from smoke;
(iv) measures to protect vulnerable people from smoke;
(v) air quality standards for workers, especially outdoor workers;
(vi) air quality standards for events, including sporting events;
(vii) mental health and wellbeing support during extended smoke events;
(viii) availability of public places for people to shelter from smoke; and
(ix) availability of public information and research on air quality issues;
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