Page 2138 - Week 06 - Tuesday, 21 June 2011
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MS HUNTER: In June 2009 it was Mrs Dunne. Mrs Dunne brought forward a matter of public importance, and it was “the importance of the ACT government being open, honest and accountable in its negotiations”. Then, in March 2010, it was Mr Coe, and for Mr Coe the title was “the importance of honest, open and accountable government”. And today, in June 2011, we have Mr Doszpot, and the title of his matter of public importance is “the importance of openness and transparency in government”.
Mr Doszpot interjecting—
MADAM DEPUTY SPEAKER: Mr Doszpot!
MS HUNTER: As I said, this is a vital issue, but it does interest me that it is on some sort of speed dial or some sort of regular play.
Anyway, somehow I doubt that the Canberra Liberals have been spurred into action by Wikileaks’ Mr Assange and have been reinvigorated in their belief in the public right to know. I would be very pleased to hear that that was, in fact, the case, and I would like to hear Mr Seselja stand up and support the Wikileaks cause. It would certainly be a far cry from the John Howard era reliance on conclusive certificates that I think lingers in many Canberrans’ memories of Liberal-style government.
Mr Doszpot interjecting—
MADAM DEPUTY SPEAKER: Mr Doszpot! Come to order, please.
MS HUNTER: I have obviously got them going this afternoon.
Madam Deputy Speaker, I was tempted to table my previous speeches or simply draw members’ attention to the relevant pages of Hansard, because the Greens’ position on this issue is crystal clear. It is our party policy—and I have made many statements in this place that not only reflect abstract principles on the issue but practical measures, some ideas, some ways forward that will improve openness and accountability.
I think we need to go back, reflect and have a look at the Greens’ track record on this issue. It really goes right back to the parliamentary agreement.
Mr Hanson interjecting—
MADAM DEPUTY SPEAKER: Mr Hanson! Come to order, please.
MS HUNTER: Just to refresh memories, the appendix, the first part of the parliamentary agreement, is all about parliamentary reforms. It is almost entirely concerned with improving parliamentary processes to improve openness and transparency. Particular mention should also be made of the adoption of the Latimer House principles, as they offer a significant amount and contain a range of ideals and goals for more open and transparent government.
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