Page 1963 - Week 05 - Thursday, 3 May 2012
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Mr Seselja asked that question on 29 March. Ms Burch then impugned my honesty by saying that I had a record of not getting things right and she did not believe what I said. I will quote part of Ms Burch’s answer to Mr Seselja’s question:
In different contexts—
this is in relation to public art—
it assists society in many ways. Public art can build a sense of place and ownership, stimulate thought and dialogue, humanise urban spaces, educate in healthcare settings—
I will not comment on that—
increase property values and stimulate tourism and local economic development.
It is in fact the case that, in answer to Mr Seselja’s question, Ms Burch did say that public art increased property values. My questions were legitimate in asking on the basis of what research she came to that conclusion. I put on the public record that Minister Burch refused to answer or cannot answer that question.
MS BURCH (Brindabella—Minister for Community Services, Minister for the Arts, Minister for Multicultural Affairs, Minister for Ageing, Minister for Women and Minister for Gaming and Racing): I did check the Hansard, and you will see that there are a few words before that where I made reference to an article in the Canberra Times on 27 March. I quoted from where a commentator made reference. I will quote:
Public art’s benefits are extensive. In different contexts …
Mrs Dunne: I just said that.
MS BURCH: This is from the article. I was quoting the article, Mrs Dunne:
In different contexts it assists society in many ways. Public art—
Members interjecting—
MR SPEAKER: Order! Mrs Dunne got a silent hearing. Let us give Ms Burch the same courtesy.
MS BURCH: Mr Speaker, Hansard shows that I made reference to this article. The quote was from the art commentator, Philip Nizette, who is a landscape architect. I refer anyone who wants more to the Canberra Times, where they will see those words word for word in his article.
MR SESELJA (Molonglo—Leader of the Opposition): Given Ms Burch—
MR SPEAKER: We are not having a debate on this.
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