Page 2733 - Week 08 - Thursday, 11 August 2016
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In those early days we did not agree on much it would be fair to say. But over a 25-year journey in the Labor Party and the time that we have spent together in this caucus I am not sure whether you have become more conservative as you have aged, Simon, or I have become a little more left wing or we have met in the middle somewhere, but these days Simon and I are in agreement on most issues. I value his counsel and advice, and I am in awe of his record of achievement in this place.
Ladies and gentleman, there are not many people who will have the opportunity to serve in so many portfolios and to make such a difference to the life of this city. Simon’s legacy is there for all to see; it will be an enduring legacy, and he has very eloquently outlined in his valedictory speech those areas where he has contributed so much to this city.
I, along with my parliamentary colleagues, am incredibly grateful for that contribution. I know I speak on behalf of everyone who has been a member of this caucus over the time that you have been in this place, Simon—you have always been passionate. No-one has ever been in any doubt where you stand on issues, and that is a good thing. It demonstrates your passion and your commitment to public life and the causes you champion.
The record you leave in this place, all of those achievements, demonstrate that you have put public policy and public interest first and that those reforms are enduring. Not many people would be able to say that they have shaped the national capital of the greatest country in the world. Simon, you have. Thank you for all you have contributed and all that you will continue to contribute. I note your observation about still being an active participant and a citizen of this city, and I know you will be. I will probably discourage you from writing letters to the editor; and, if you ever end up writing for City News—I am kidding. I digress.
It has been an honour and a privilege to work with you. I wish you and your family all the very best for the future. On behalf of all of our colleagues and everyone who has worked with you, thank you. Go well.
MR HANSON (Molonglo—Leader of the Opposition), by leave: It strikes me that I spent much of the past eight years arguing with Simon Corbell, but when I reflected on that, he has been arguing with Liberals for more than twice that period; and with some success, I would have to acknowledge. As Madam Speaker would attest in her time as the shadow attorney-general and Mr Coe arguing on light rail and all of us and all our predecessors, you have been a formidable opponent, there is no question. You have been a true believer for the Labor cause. Your passion has shone through on issues that are dear to you, particularly the environment and that of rights. You have argued your case—not that we have always agreed with you—but you have argued it passionately and you have argued it effectively.
I also acknowledge that as a minister you have been very professional in what you have done. There is no doubt that you are across your brief. It is seldom that you do not have an answer to a question. You have been methodical in the way you have conducted your business. Mostly you have been unflappable; we have got under your
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