Page 1316 - Week 05 - Thursday, 31 May 2007
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These options and any others agreed as part of the community consultation process will be discussed in detail with the community over the last quarter of 2007. Depending on the outcome of this process, it is possible that there will be territory plan variations required. If so, the variations would of course include a further round of public consultation. This means that over the coming months the government will be consulting with the community on the possible future uses of 12 primary school sites and eight preschool sites on at least one occasion, and in many cases three times. This community consultation program represents a fantastic initiative by the government, which is committed to involving the community in the decision-making process. I look forward to seeing what the community comes up with.
Another fantastic initiative of the Stanhope government that I would like to bring to the attention of the Assembly is the proposed investment of a whopping $90 million for upgrading every public school in Canberra over this year and the next three years. This includes new and improved classrooms, play equipment and specialist teaching areas. We are also spending $20 million on providing state-of-the-art information technology in schools, including upgrading broadband links to every public school. In addition, between now and 2011 the government will be spending over $175 million on building four new schools in Gungahlin, west Belconnen and Tuggeranong. These schools will provide students with modern teaching and learning environments.
Finally, I would like to express my appreciation to Stephen Ryan and Kristin Blume of the property group for all of the work that they have done in developing these options in this consultation process. I would also thank very sincerely Kim Fischer from my office, who has spent an enormous amount of time making sure that the process is welcomed by the community.
Mr Speaker, I present the following paper:
Public consultation on the future use of former school sites—ministerial statement, 31 May 2007.
I move:
That the Assembly takes note of the paper.
Debate (on motion by Mr Pratt) adjourned to the next sitting.
Economy—management
Discussion of matter of public importance
MR SPEAKER: I have received letters from Mrs Burke, Dr Foskey, Mr Gentleman, Ms MacDonald, Ms Porter, Mr Pratt and Mr Smyth proposing that matters of public importance be submitted to the Assembly. In accordance with standing order 79, I have determined that the matter proposed by Ms Porter be submitted to the Assembly, namely:
The importance of responsible financial management in providing the basis for the delivery of sustainable, high class services to the ACT community.
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