Page 1324 - Week 07 - Thursday, 24 August 1989
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is quite unnecessary. However, that is a majority committee recommendation. We feel this is essential, commonsense legislation. It will not solve all the problems of public behaviour. There are a number of underlying causes behind problems of public behaviour. There are a number of other things that need to be done in the criminal law area in Canberra to tidy up our act and make Canberra a safer place. But this piece of legislation is a good start to bring back some balance into the ACT system which is - and I am sure any victim of crime knows this - far too much in favour of the criminal.
Police powers have been whittled down over the years. This is a commonsense, sensible power they had which now is being given back to them in limited form, more limited than I would like. But still it is a step in the right direction. We will closely monitor it too to ensure that police are given any necessary powers they need to do their job properly. This is a start. I am hoping that the draft liquor amendment Bill, which I have sent out to a number of groups and individuals for consultation and comment - also I have received a letter from the Chief Minister and I hope to speak to her shortly on that - when that is finalised into an acceptable draft form, will be a further step to counter antisocial behaviour in our community.
I am pleased to see that the majority - and it seems quite a significant majority - of the Assembly are prepared to accept this Bill. It is not quite as strong as I would like to see it. We will keep monitoring it and will put forward any amendments in future to ensure that it is totally effective, but it is a step in the right direction and I commend it to the Assembly.
MR SPEAKER: The question now is: That this Bill be agreed to in principle. Those of that opinion say aye, to the contrary no; I think the ayes have it.
Mr Collaery: I call for a division, Mr Speaker. There were some noes across the chamber.
Mr Whalan: I take a point of order, Mr Speaker. I would like to draw the attention of Mr Collaery to standing order 155 and ask him whether he wishes to pursue his call.
Mr Collaery: Mr Speaker, I withdraw the proposal. It appears that I would have to vote with Mr Whalan and Mrs Grassby who clearly are in the minority. I would hate to join their company.
Question resolved in the affirmative.
Bill agreed to in principle.
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