Page 157 - Week 02 - Thursday, 25 May 1989
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such a casino may be expected to contribute to Territory revenue". The social impact study report examines the likely economic effects of the proposed section 19 development. I suggest that members read chapter 6 of the report dealing with the economic effects. In addition, Jebb and Associates have been commissioned to provide the further updated material that I mentioned earlier.
Secondly, the motion refers to "the practicability and desirability of locating any casino in Canberra at a site in Canberra other than on section 19". My colleague Mr Berry referred to the fact - and this will tell you how fair dinkum these anti-job people are - that Hector said, "You can have your casino if you want it, but you can have it next to the sex shop at Fyshwick". Hector, by his own admission, claimed a detailed knowledge, having been a regular reviewer of films out of the sex shop there - - -
A member: Come on, Paul, you are pushing your luck a bit.
MR WHALAN: He did acknowledge having reviewed at least one film, so he at least knew the location of the place. The other facetious proposal was that the casino should be located out in the bush over near Queanbeyan. The question of locating the casino at a site other than section 19 has been examined and a preliminary examination of alternative sites has indicated very few alternative locations, all of which have significant planning and environmental disadvantages. If another site is to be identified, it is considered that there will be a negative impact on the premium received and revenue earned as the development will be away from the central Civic area. If the premium obtained is lower for a site away from section 19, the community facilities that can be funded may have to be reduced, with subsequent negative impacts on construction and employment opportunities - jobs.
The removal of a casino as part of the section 19 redevelopment will detract from the aim of giving the Civic Centre a heart, with the life and vitality for all the community in most hours of the day, every day of the year.
Paragraph (c) of the motion refers to "an assessment of the environmental impact of such a development and an assessment of the findings of the Caldwell report". The ACT Government is very conscious of its responsibilities relating to environmental considerations and has appointed an expert consultant to provide advice on possible environmental impacts and the action required under relevant environmental legislation.
The Civic Centre policy plan of January 1989 addressed environmental and heritage issues and provided opportunities for extensive public consultation. That is another document which is available in the library and which should be examined by all members of the Assembly in relation to this matter.
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