Page 5593 - Week 15 - Wednesday, 9 December 2009
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into the following categories: prevention of exposure and reduction of risk, education and training, data and research needs, and indicators of environmental health.
The United Nations General Assembly Special Session on Children in 2002 recognised that exposure to hazardous chemicals needs to be addressed to ensure the health and wellbeing of children. And they therefore pledged to protect the environment in a sustainable manner.
While there is no one solution for all cases, change at the local level begins this process for children and young people in Canberra. That is why today I have put forward this motion as the first step in addressing the importance of procuring and using cleaning products that have least risk to children with asthma or allergies, and building finishes including paint and floor coverings that are low emission and therefore safer for all children regardless of their health status.
Sustainable development is achieved when synergies are formed between the competing needs of society, the environment and the economy. Today I call for your support in improving the environments in which children in the territory learn, play and grow. By supporting this motion, we can be that step closer to securing their health today and in the future.
Following on from our last sitting week, the ACT Greens sought more information regarding the current review of the statement of requirements for cleaning contracts in schools. In light of this information, I have tabled an amended motion today. This allows a full and frank discussion to occur about the issues I have highlighted.
We know that environmental health is an emerging area of research. As a result, some of the evidence that is being collected is not as readily known to the general public as we would like. Part of our role as policy and lawmakers is to bring this information to the public for debate and action. It is, as I have previously said, often necessary for us to make decisions in the best interests of the community well before everyone agrees on the scientific evidence.
We have seen historic cases such as the James Hardie case where people were working with and using asbestos that at the time was perceived and approved as safe. We know now that it was not. The health, social and financial costs of asbestos are being felt and will continue to be felt around Australia for decades to come.
In recent decades, the management of risk has been at the forefront of our minds in many ways. We also need to appreciate that children and young people require protection beyond that of adults as they are not always in a position to represent their needs or wants.
We believe it is essential to have some agreement on a way forward. Change must be initiated in order to effect improvements in the built environments of children and young people. The ACT Greens seek a cooperative approach which will enable parents and carers in the ACT to feel assured that the built environment their children reside in is safe.
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