Page 1630 - Week 06 - Thursday, 13 August 1992
Next page . . . . Previous page . . . . Contents . . . . Debates(HTML) . . . . PDF . . . .
Further along, that facility was closed, Madam Speaker. The house remained empty for two years, during which time the neighbours, in an effort to maintain the amenity of their neighbourhood, mowed the lawns and tended the gardens, until vandalism made the effort appear futile. In due course the house was auctioned. This is a very good example of the changed attitude of a group of people. The only thing that changed their attitude from being pro to anti was the lack of consultation when the purpose was changed.
Madam Speaker, Mr Connolly accuses people of being NIMBYs, but that really is an excuse. Give the people an opportunity to be involved in occurrences and developments in their own neighbourhood. I believe that that is fair and proper, and in fact it is what the regulations require. Supported accommodation of various types is now recognised as necessary. People realise that it has to go somewhere. However, people also have a right to have their legitimate concerns addressed. They have a right to be involved, as the current regulations supposedly allow, and they should be given the chance to be supportive and protective, as our writer earlier explained. Further, they have the right to be given the opportunity not to be NIMBYs, which can occur only after the event when they have not been consulted. I believe, Madam Speaker, that there is a need for more open dealings with local communities.
I conclude by quoting again from that lady's letter. She stated:
I believe it is time the Government addressed the issue of public consultation in a more positive manner and reviewed the way facilities, which are of vital community need are established within the framework of residential areas or other suitable locations. Otherwise the end result is to generate further mistrust, fear and anger. I would be grateful if you would take this matter up with the Assembly. Enclosed is a copy of the Social Contract we offered.
That contract was offered to the department. Madam Speaker, I am sorry that I had to take such a drastic step as to move for disallowance in order to bring this matter to the attention of the Assembly; but, unfortunately, earlier, more reasonable approaches by the community and me were totally unsuccessful. I will conclude my statement by seeking leave to table the social contract that was drawn up by the residents of Fraser and offered to the department. I seek leave to table that for the benefit and interest of not only the Assembly members but also, hopefully, the Minister for Housing and Community Services.
Leave granted.
MR CORNWELL: I thank members.
Debate (on motion by Mr Connolly) adjourned.
Next page . . . . Previous page . . . . Contents . . . . Debates(HTML) . . . . PDF . . . .