Page 2309 - Week 08 - Tuesday, 17 August 1993
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acknowledging the work of the planners. Mr Lamont indicated the integrity of the system and defended the planners against some unwarranted remarks here and there - and that is all it is - about the people in the system. I thank each of those members.
This is probably a fairly appropriate time for me to table this approval and for the Assembly to have this debate. I do not think it was anticipated. I do not normally do any more in these circumstances than get up and table the documents. There is a deal of concern in the community about planning issues. I would ask the question: When does any planning change in Canberra not create some noise? That is the history of our city. No matter how small the proposal may be - - -
Mr Lamont: The smaller, the louder.
MR WOOD: I do not know about that. It will create some problems.
Mr Kaine: Only if it is around Reid.
MR WOOD: No, not just Reid. Reid certainly, but other parts as well. In the comments tonight, which I endorse, members have said that the system is working. Let me applaud the way the committee is working. It is a very good exercise in cohesion, cooperation and good sense.
Mr Kaine: Collegiate government at its best.
MR WOOD: Mr Kaine, it is a very effective utilisation of the way that this Assembly is structured. The process is good. I see the committee, as this Assembly does, working in the interests of Canberra. West Belconnen was a variation that created a lot of noise - and it is not surprising that it should. The committee examined this Belconnen variation earnestly and came up with very sensible proposals. We accepted those, and I can indicate that we have accepted the recommendations of the PDI Committee. The documents I have tabled will incorporate those. I believe that the committee has also found that the process itself is working quite well.
It might have been a good thing if all those concerned people in the community - and I do not think there are vast numbers, but certainly in two or three areas people are concerned - were in here tonight to hear the verification of the system. In a short space of time the PDI Committee will be discussing North Watson. The Government has made a decision on that, and do not be surprised at what may finish up under the committee's consideration. I am sure that when you go through that proposal you will find the same meticulous attention to detail that you found in respect of the Belconnen golf course. If you do not, that is a good thing because it is a further check in the system. Further down the track Tuggeranong Homestead or North Duffy may also emerge. I do not know what is going to happen to those. I am not in a position to indicate at this stage. I am sure you will find again that this system is one of integrity, that the process is meticulous and that everything has been considered. The North Watson proposal is so large and comprehensive that you may find some need for refinement or some areas that are capable of some adjustment. I will welcome that. I am sure that the committee is doing a good job. I see the committee as working well. I see it as a good bonus in the system that we have.
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