Page 903 - Week 04 - Tuesday, 27 March 1990
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presentation of a report of the committee. For example, if some Bills were to be introduced on Thursday, 29 March 1990, the committee, under the current resolution of appointment, would be unable to report on the introduced Bills until the Assembly resumes sitting on 24 April 1990, some three-and-a-half weeks later, which I find unacceptable, especially if the report is completed and just sitting around awaiting authorisation before distribution.
If the proposed amendment that I have moved today is adopted, the committee would be able to present its findings during the non-sitting weeks, thus allowing members to utilise fully the time available to consider its findings and, if necessary, prepare amendments to correct any perceived flaws in the legislation. I am sure all members will agree that it is essential that the Assembly effectively fulfils its role as a legislation-making body. The proposed amendment will, it is hoped, enhance members' ability to carry out this task in a more timely and considered fashion. I commend my motion to the Assembly.
MR STEFANIAK (8.02): I rise to support my colleague on the committee, Carmel Maher, and commend this motion to the Assembly. As Carmel said, if a number of Bills are presented on Thursday, before we have a three-week break, this proposed amendment would enable the committee to distribute to the Speaker its reports next week, so members would have several weeks to peruse them and suggest any necessary amendments. I think it is a very sensible motion, and I commend it accordingly.
MR STEVENSON (8.03): The Standing Committee on the Scrutiny of Bills and Subordinate Legislation is important to this Assembly and of great value to all of us. The sooner the reports can get to us the better. I commend the motion.
Question resolved in the affirmative.
LEGAL AFFAIRS - STANDING COMMITTEE
MR JENSEN, by leave: I move:
That a standing committee on Legal Affairs be appointed to inquire into and report on matters:
(1) (a) referred to it by the Assembly; and
(b) considered by the Committee to be of concern to the community.
(2) The Committee shall consist of 3 Members.
(3) The Committee be provided with the necessary staff, facilities and resources.
(4) The foregoing provisions of this resolution, so far as they are inconsistent with the standing orders, have effect notwithstanding anything contained in the standing orders.
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