Page 2419 - Week 09 - Tuesday, 6 August 1991
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Mr Speaker, I should point out that, in addition to the consideration of reports on the functional reviews at the November Special Premiers Conference, that conference will address the crucial issue of reforming intergovernmental financial arrangements, including issues relating to taxation powers and the extent of tied grants. I am sure that none of us underestimate the challenges which lie ahead in these areas.
However, as a participant in discussions at the July conference, it was most encouraging for me to note the extent to which heads of government and representatives of local government were prepared to consider the various issues in a cooperative spirit and from a national perspective, rather than confining their outlook to the interests of individual jurisdictions or levels of government. I see this willingness as a favourable indication for the success of future conferences, and particularly for tackling the major financial issues I have mentioned.
Mr Speaker, my commitment to promoting intergovernmental cooperation has been evident since my first term of office as Chief Minister. At that time I started a process with the Commonwealth, New South Wales and local governments in the areas surrounding the ACT, which recognised that all these levels of government need to work in a cooperative and consultative manner in order to achieve coordinated delivery of government services in the region.
This approach continues to be an important means of promoting the well-being of the ACT and surrounding region, as is evidenced by the recent release of a draft regional economic development strategy. In this context, Mr Speaker, I should pay tribute to my predecessor, Mr Trevor Kaine, for his efforts in furthering regional initiatives. Indeed, in achieving cooperative working arrangements between the various levels of government, it is essential to put aside political differences and gain bipartisan support, as was seen around the conference table in Sydney last week.
Mr Speaker, the ACT stands to gain from all the national agreements which were reached at the July conference, but I should like to mention three areas which are of particular significance to the ACT. Firstly, I was delighted to be able to secure a place for us on the National Grid Management Council. The policies adopted by the council will have a direct impact on the future costs of supply to consumers - including consumers in the ACT - and I considered it most important that we should have a voice in determining access to the grid and the operation of the council. Our membership is also important in ensuring that there is some balance on the council between State utilities and consumers with no generating capacity, such as ourselves.
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