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The Territory, as I have just explained, is, I believe, part of a region. This opens up many opportunities for a growing tourist market. Tourism is one of the biggest growth industries in the Territory at the moment, and all members should be aware of the great potential for attracting both local and overseas tourist dollars. The coming of winter will bring people through our region travelling to the snow. This is only one of the many opportunities that the Government needs to tap into to provide not only employment but also the opportunity to promote Canberra as a tourist destination. Events such as the Canberra Festival, Floriade and Autumnfest are definitely a step in the right direction.
Mr Speaker, as we move towards the year 2000 and beyond, we, as the elected representatives of the people, need to be more environmentally responsible. The introduction of the recycling bins should not stop us from addressing other environmentally sensitive issues within our community. As an example, there is a growing concern by the people of this Territory about energy efficiency and water conservation in private and public businesses as well as within the homes of the community. Therefore, any suggestions that might assist in producing cleaner energy from sources, including fossil fuels, must be seriously looked at being implemented so as to increase energy efficiency.
There is another issue that is very topical. The Federal Government should be made to pay for the municipal and other services provided to them by this Government. One example is the AFP ACT Police presence at the recent protest of loggers on Capital Hill. The Federal Government indicated that they would pay for that policing; but, to the best of my knowledge, they have made no attempt to do so. This is a slap in the face, not only for the ACT Government but also for the people of the Territory. This obviously is a reflection of the Federal Government's feelings towards the Canberra community as a whole.
As I have already stated, the members of the Assembly need to be more aware of the needs and wants of the Canberra community and the region of which it is part, not only when elections are imminent but for their entire term of office. In relation to my electorate of Ginninderra, as a member of the Liberal Government there are several matters that I will be pursuing. For improved community health facilities, I will be urging the Chief Minister, as Minister for Health, to implement as soon as possible the northern health precinct to be based around existing facilities at Calvary Hospital at Bruce. This will, I hope, include a long-stay convalescent unit; a paediatrics ward for non-acute cases; a rehabilitation centre to service North Canberra, Belconnen and Hall; and a medical clinic and specialist centre. As well, construction of a new 80-bed nursing home in Belconnen, which will incorporate a special self-contained residence for young people with disabilities, will also be, I hope, a priority.
With regard to community safety, I will be moving to revitalise and strengthen the Neighbourhood Watch program. This has been a very worthy project, with citizens helping other citizens to keep their homes safe. The more we support these volunteer organisations, the more we limit crime in our neighbourhoods, saving the
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