Page 3746 - Week 12 - Thursday, 21 October 1993
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the principles and framework of the legislation before draft legislation is prepared. The Government is inviting all interested persons and organisations to provide comment on the paper. Comments will be specifically sought from relevant environmental, legal, and business and development interests. In addition, a small reference group of representatives from the various interest groups is being formed to provide ongoing input into the development of the legislation. Officers from my department will also be available to discuss the proposed legislation with interested persons. A brief overview document will be widely distributed as a means of raising awareness about the proposal generally and directing interested persons and organisations to the discussion paper. Looking ahead, further opportunities for comment will be made available as the detailed provisions for the legislation are prepared.
In summary, I emphasise that there are opportunities for improved environmental and community outcomes by taking a broader perspective and recognising interrelationships between the various parts of the environment. In developing this new approach to environmental management in the ACT, the Government's commitment towards achieving effective environment protection, both now and into the future, is demonstrated. I urge all members and the community generally to take an active interest in the development of integrated environment protection legislation and to provide your comments on the discussion paper which I have tabled.
Debate (on motion by Mr Moore) adjourned.
HENNESSY HOUSE
MR BERRY: Yesterday Mr Cornwell asked me a question in relation to Hennessy House.
MR DEPUTY SPEAKER: I am sure that it was an intelligent one.
MR BERRY: And, as usual, you will get an intelligent and full answer. I referred earlier to the number of beds. The number of beds available in the ACT for psychiatric patients is 17 per 100,000 population - around that in New South Wales, where the number is around 15 beds per 100,000 population. The numbers are about the same, give or take a couple.
There are times when the demand peaks so that the numbers are not adequate and there are problems in accommodating patients. At the moment we are looking at how to deal with these peaks in demand without tying up large resources in institutions. This would go against the national mental health plan, as people would appreciate, and against statements made in the Burdekin report. Demand on the level of services provided from all areas, including Hennessy House, fluctuates. At the present time all of the available beds at Hennessy House are occupied. Yesterday you talked about a six-month waiting list. My advice from officers today is that there is no-one on the waiting list. That is the advice I have as a result of my inquiries. Somebody might think they are on the waiting list - I do not know.
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