Next page . . . . Previous page . . . . Speeches . . . . Contents . . . . Debates(HTML) . . . .

Legislative Assembly for the ACT: 1997 Week 6 Hansard (19 June) . . Page.. 1793 ..

MR HUMPHRIES (continuing):

it will be possible for the Assembly to have a clear view about what is being put and what is in issue. No doubt, members would complain loudly if legislation were introduced on, say, Thursday for passage on the same day. I am trying to avoid that by putting this on the table now.

However, Mr Speaker, when it first began this process, the Government made a commitment that it would fully consult with relevant parties both in the broader community and in the Assembly. It has consulted with parties across the community, but discussions with members of this place are still continuing. For that reason, the Government wishes to indicate that in next week's sittings of the Assembly it will have to bring forward a position as to what fate the 4.00 am trial should enjoy. I commend the Bill to the Assembly.

MR WOOD (10.43): Mr Speaker, I move:

That the debate on this very strange approach by the Government be adjourned.

Question resolved in the affirmative.

MR KAINE (Minister for Urban Services) (10.44): I present the Motor Traffic (Alcohol and Drugs) (Amendment) Bill (No. 2) 1997, together with its explanatory memorandum.

Title read by Clerk.

MR KAINE: I move:

That this Bill be agreed to in principle.

Members will recall that the Government recently introduced into the Assembly amendments to the penalties imposed on people who drink and drive. The Government is further supporting the drive against this dangerous practice with the amendments now presented. From now on, alcohol-affected people who contribute to traffic accidents can no longer escape the law simply because they are injured and receiving medical attention.

The current provisions of the Motor Traffic (Alcohol and Drugs) Act 1977 already allow the police to have blood or body samples analysed for alcohol or drugs. In the case of injured people, this process was often hindered, firstly, because the police were unable to have the samples taken while injured people were being treated by hospital staff. This meant that the police had to wait around at hospitals while these people received medical attention. Secondly, the law requires that these samples be taken within two hours of arriving at a hospital. This period often expired during the course of treatment.

Next page . . . . Previous page . . . . Speeches . . . . Contents . . . . Debates(HTML) . . . .