Page 2729 - Week 09 - Wednesday, 12 August 2015
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MR BARR: I am happy to have that public debate about the importance of putting saving lives ahead of a few dollars.
MADAM SPEAKER: A supplementary question, Mr Smyth.
MR SMYTH: Treasurer, how much will the fire and emergency services levy increase for commercial properties in 2015-16 and in subsequent years?
MR BARR: There are, of course, increased charges for some commercial properties that are associated with the commonwealth’s reduction in their share of fire payments. The commonwealth occupy a number of commercial properties. They have determined not to make an appropriate contribution to the protection of those buildings that their staff occupy. So the government is seeking to maintain that level of emergency service cover and is recovering that through commercial fire and emergency service levies.
MADAM SPEAKER: A supplementary question, Mr Wall.
MR WALL: Treasurer, how much extra will households have to pay as a result of the new funding model for the Emergency Services Agency?
MR BARR: The ACT government seeks to minimise taxes and charges whilst maximising service delivery.
MADAM SPEAKER: A supplementary question, Ms Porter.
MS PORTER: Chief Minister, what other states and territories have a similar levy?
MR BARR: Such levies are commonplace across the country, recognising the importance of the provision of these services to the community.
Mr Coe interjecting—
MADAM SPEAKER: Order, Mr Coe!
MR BARR: I reiterate the point that faced with the choice between someone you love dying or receiving the support of our emergency services, I am confident that the people of Canberra would choose—
Opposition members interjecting—
MADAM SPEAKER: Order, Mr Hanson and Mr Coe!
MR BARR: I am confident that the people of Canberra would choose an appropriately resourced Emergency Services Agency.
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