Page 3543 - Week 10 - Tuesday, 12 September 2017
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Will it be possible to verify every single fact contained within every utterance of everyone in the context of this debate? That might be a challenge that is beyond anyone but then that, I think, would apply to almost any public policy debate in this city, this country or the world at this point in time.
MADAM SPEAKER: Before I call questions without notice, I will just go back to Mrs Dunne’s point on standing order 59. The Clerk has brought to my attention that there was once, under standing order 117(f), the following: questions may be asked to elicit information regarding business pending on the notice paper but discussion must not be anticipated. That was struck out in 2008. Again, I will take your comment. I think it will go to both sides. It may limit where you want to go as well.
Transport—roadside drug testing
MR HANSON: My question is to the Attorney-General. Attorney, it has been announced that New South Wales will become the first state in Australia to include cocaine in roadside drug testing. The Australian Criminal Intelligence Commission’s national wastewater analysis showed the ACT to be in the top three cocaine-using jurisdictions in the country, reportedly “far above” all other states. Attorney-General, what studies have you done on the implementation of cocaine testing for drivers in the ACT?
MR RATTENBURY: Madam Speaker, I have responsibility for roadside drug testing in the ACT.
Opposition members interjecting—
MR RATTENBURY: Yes, personally; it is a big job. I will take Mr Hanson’s question on notice and provide him with the details of any studies that have been done or any examination of that matter by the ACT public service.
MR HANSON: Minister, will you be reviewing the ACT laws in light of the new decision? Will you make any review public?
MR RATTENBURY: Certainly, I have been actively considering this issue of roadside random drug testing broadly in the context of both concerns that have been raised by people about thresholds and what the appropriate thresholds are for roadside drug testing; and also substances that are not currently included.
There are a number of substances that are not currently included that can inhibit a driver’s ability behind the wheel, including some legal prescription drugs that can inhibit people’s capabilities. This is a live issue within the government and I will be happy to inform the Assembly if the government does form a view to make any change in that space.
MR PARTON: Minister, is this another case where New South Wales residents are going to be protected by laws but ACT residents are not?
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