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

Legislative Assembly for the ACT: 2002 Week 4 Hansard (10 April) . . Page.. 935 ..

Ms Tucker: It did happen!

MR CORNWELL: All right. But if you wish to put a stop to it, it can be done. We must never forget that. There have been rules and regulations instituted in the past. What immediately comes to mind is the use of poisonous gas in warfare. That was outlawed after World War I. Its use has occurred in a few areas since but, in general, it is not used. It was not used to the same extent in World War II as it was in World War I. Simply because-

Mr Pratt: They used the atom bomb instead!

MR CORNWELL: I will come to that in a moment. Simply because a decision was taken, that was respected.

I do not believe we have any right to prolong pain, if we can do something to ease it. If that means further research which will improve the lot of people in the future, in relation to disabilities, then I do not believe we have any right to stop it. I do not believe, either, that, simply because of their beliefs, people have the right to allow others to suffer pain. I can respect their beliefs, but I do not believe they have the right to allow others to suffer pain that could be alleviated.

Our friend Mr Pratt commented about the atom bomb. I would like to remind members about Columbus. You know, we have to take a few chances here, haven't we? Columbus discovered America-I know that wasn't much fun for the natives over there. The Industrial Revolution took place; we had the atomic age; computers, and IT. All of these things were moving forward. This was progress.

These things were not always in everybody's best interests-no doubt there were people who were most unhappy with some of the things that went on. I recall the Luddites. Were they not involved in attempting to prevent the Industrial Revolution?

Through history, we have had the problem of people who have legitimate reservations. However, I do not believe we should therefore seek to impede progress, particularly if it is going to be beneficial to mankind. There is no guarantee on this, I grant you. Nevertheless, we should attempt to improve the lot of people, particularly those with disabilities.

I conclude by saying that we were all elected on the oath or affirmation which says that we will faithfully serve the people of the Australian Capital Territory as members of the Legislative Assembly, and discharge our responsibilities according to law.

I therefore believe that, in the interests of the people of this territory, we have a responsibility to consider the laws that come before us. If this legislation is introduced here, I will support it. I believe it is a good law, and I have a responsibility to discharge my responsibilities to the people of the ACT, according to that good law.

MR SPEAKER: The discussion has concluded.

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