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Legislative Assembly for the ACT: 1996 Week 2 Hansard (28 February) . . Page.. 439 ..

Mr Humphries: You did not think a weather station in Tuggeranong was necessary until you spoke to the community.

MR BERRY: You ask the ordinary householder what they think "operates any fuel-burning equipment or industrial plant, or carries on or permits the carrying on of any trade, industry or process on those premises" means in the context of residential premises. I hope that you will try to explain that in the course of debate on the issue.

Mr Speaker, whilst there is no reason to resist this legislation, I think the Government has fallen well short of what is required of a government that has some strategy in its thoughts on this issue. As I said, I do not think there is any particular evidence that there has been a lot of consultation or that the community is fully aware of what these provisions might mean in respect of ordinary residences.

MS HORODNY (5.00): We will be supporting this legislation. It is obvious that smoke from wood heaters has been identified as a major problem in parts of Canberra, particularly in the Tuggeranong region. The proper use of a slow combustion stove, however - proper use including, obviously, that it does not produce smoke - can be an efficient use of a renewable source of energy if that wood - - -

Debate interrupted.

MR SPEAKER: Order! It being 5.00 pm, I propose the question:

That the Assembly do now adjourn.

Mr Humphries: I require the question to be put forthwith without debate.

Question resolved in the negative.

Debate resumed.

MS HORODNY: The proper use of a slow combustion stove, including the stove not producing smoke, which is possible if the stove is run correctly, can be a very efficient use of a renewable source of energy if the wood that is used comes from a renewable source such as plantations. I have received complaints from constituents about the impact on their respiratory health of the smoke haze, which has become familiar in the ACT in winter. As we know, respiratory ailments are on the increase nationally. This piece of legislation is another initiative that will make people more aware of their personal responsibility towards the environment.

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