Minutes of Proceedings - 1992-09-30
Sixth Assembly First Session 29/09/1992 Parliamentary Record No. 13
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Date : 30/09/1992__________________________________________________________________________________
1. MEETING:
The Assembly met at 10.00 a.m., pursuant to adjournment. The Speaker, the Honourable N.M. Dondas, took the Chair.
2. PRAYERS.
3. PETITIONS:
Mr Poole presented a petition from 1266 citizens of the Northern Territory requesting the Assembly to support an application to provide a Tatts Lotto Agency at the Serv-Well Supermarket, Milner Road, Alice Springs.
Petition read.
Mr Collins presented a petition from 316 citizens of the Northern Territory requesting the Assembly to provide respite care
facilities in Alice Springs.
Petition read
4. DISTINGUISHED VISITOR - HON. J. CARLTON, M.P.:
The Speaker drew the attention of the Assembly to the presence in the Gallery of Hon. Jim Carlton, M.P., Shadow Minister for
the Environment in the Commonwealth Parliament.
On behalf of Members, the Speaker extended a warm welcome to the distinguished visitor.
5. DISTINGUISHED VISITOR - MR B. ENWEREJI:
The Speaker drew the attention of the Assembly to the presence in the Gallery of Mr Barchee Enwereji, Deputy Director of Publications, from the Abia State House of Assembly in Nigeria.
On behalf of Members the Speaker extended a warm welcome to the distinguished visitor.
6. NOTICES:
The following notices were given:
Mr Coulter: To present the Mineral Royalty Amendment Bill 1992 (Serial 162).
Mr Finch: To present the Commercial Passenger (Road) Transport Amendment Bill 1992 (Serial 181).
Mr Manzie: To present the Domestic Violence Bill 1992 (Serial 184).
Mr Manzie: To present the Juries Amendment Bill 1992 (Serial 185).
Mr Manzie: To present the Trustee Amendment Bill 1992 (Serial 182).
Mr Manzie: To present the Justices Amendment Bill 1992 (Serial 183).
Mr Stone: To present the Anti-Discrimination Bill 1992 (Serial 188).
Mr Ortmann: To present the Territory Insurance Office Amendment Bill (No. 2) 1992 (Serial 186).
Mr Ortmann: To present the Corporations (Northern Territory) Amendment Bill 1992 (Serial 187).
Mr Ortmann: To present the Cullen Bay Marina Bill 1992 (Serial 179).
7. QUESTIONS:
Questions were asked of Ministers.
465
And the Member for Wanguri asking a question asserted that the Chief Minister had involved the Commissioner of Police in political matters -
Suspension of Standing Orders: The Chief Minister (Mr Perron) moved -
That so much of Standing Orders be suspended as would prevent the Chief Minister moving a motion to call the Opposition to substantiate a statement made by the Member for Wanguri.
Question - put and passed - there being an absolute majority of the whole number of Members present and no dissentient voice.
Mr Perron thereupon moved - That this Assembly calls upon the Opposition to substantiate forthwith the statement made by the
Member for Wanguri that the Chief Minister has used the Commissioner of Police as a political tool and to withdraw the statement and apologise to the Assembly.
Debate ensued.
Paper tabled: The Leader of the Opposition (Mr Ede), by leave, laid on the Table the following Paper -
. Memorandum, Commissioner of Police to the Chief Minister re Dalway - Allegation that a $300,000 deficiency was referred to Police in March 1992, dated 29 September 1992.
Proposed censure amendment: Mr Ede moved the following amendment -
Omit all words after "That" and insert in their stead -
"This Assembly censures the Chief Minister for his use of the Police Commissioner's correspondence for political purposes.".
The Leader of Government Business (Mr Setter) moved - That the question be now put.
Question - That the question be now put - put.
The Assembly divided (the Speaker, Hon. N.M. Dondas, in the Chair) -
AYES, 14 NOES, 8
Mr Coulter Mr Bailey
Mr Dondas Mr Bell
Mr Finch Mr Cartwright
Mr Hatton Mr Ede
Mr Manzie Mrs Hickey
Mr McCarthy Mr Lanhupuy
Mr Ortmann Mr Parish
Mr Palmer Mr Stirling
Mr Perron
Mr Poole
Mr Reed
Mr Setter
Mr Stone
Mr Vale
And so it was resolved in the affirmative.
Question - That the amendment be agreed to - put and negatived.
Debate continued.
____________________
Suspension of sitting: The sitting was suspended between 12.04 p.m. and 2.00 p.m.
____________________
466
Debate resumed.
Question - That the motion be agreed to - put.
The Assembly divided (the Speaker, Hon. N.M. Dondas, in the Chair) -
AYES, 13 NOES, 8
Mr Dondas Mr Bailey
Mr Finch Mr Bell
Mr Hatton Mr Cartwright
Mr Manzie Mr Ede
Mr McCarthy Mrs Hickey
Mr Ortmann Mr Lanhupuy
Mr Palmer Mr Parish
Mr Perron Mr Stirling
Mr Poole
Mr Reed
Mr Setter
Mr Stone
Mr Vale
And so it was resolved in the affirmative.
8. SUBORDINATE LEGISLATION AND TABLED PAPERS COMMITTEE, NINTH REPORT - PAPER TABLED:
The Chairman of the Subordinate Legislation and Tabled Papers Committee (Mr Setter) laid on the Table the Ninth Report of
the Subordinate Legislation and Tabled Papers Committee.
9. PRIVILEGE - QUOTE FROM LETTER - REQUEST FOR REFERRAL TO COMMITTEE OF PRIVILEGES:
The Member for Araluen (Mr Poole), pursuant to Standing Order 83, raised as a matter of privilege that the Member for Millner (Mr Parish) had quoted from a letter, during the previous debate, forming part of the proceedings of the Public
Accounts Committee which had not been authorised for publication and requested that the Speaker refer the matter to the Committee of Privileges.
Paper tabled: Mr Parish, by leave, laid on the Table the following Paper -
. Letter, Mr James H.B. Bell, MBE, Chairman of Directors, Dalway Pty Ltd to Hon. S.P. Hatton, MLA,
Minister for Industries and Development, dated 8 May 1992.
The Speaker agreed to consider the matter and to advise the Assembly of his decision later this day.
10. SESSIONAL COMMITTEE ON THE USE AND ABUSE OF ALCOHOL BY THE COMMUNITY - CONSULTATIONS IN THE EAST ARNHEM REGION - STATEMENT - MOTION TO NOTE STATEMENT:
The Chairman of the Sessional Committee on the Use and Abuse of Alcohol by the Community (Mr Poole), by leave, made a statement in relation to matters brought to the Committee's attention during consultations in the East Arnhem Region.
Paper tabled: Mr Poole laid on the Table the following Paper -
. Letter, Mr I.V. Holland, Superintendent, Northern Territory Police to the Sessional Committee on Use and Abuse of Alcohol by the Community, undated.
467
Mr Poole moved - That the Assembly take note of the Statement.
On the motion of the Member for Arnhem (Mr Lanhupuy) debate was adjourned.
11. REGULATIONS 1991, NO.57 - AMENDMENT OF THE PLANNING REGULATIONS - MOTION POSTPONED:
The Chairman of the Subordinate Legislation and Tabled Papers Committee (Mr Setter) moved - That consideration of Notice No.1 standing in his name relating to the proposed disallowance of Regulations 1991, No.57, Amendment of the Planning Regulations, be postponed until 25 November 1992.
Question - put and passed.
12. HIGH CRIME LEVELS - MOTION, AS AMENDED, AGREED TO:
The Leader of the Opposition (Mr Ede), pursuant to notice, moved - That
- This Assembly expresses its concern at the continuing high levels of crime in the Territory and expresses the view that the Government should take note of the constructive proposals to combat this problem placed before this Assembly by the Opposition.
Debate ensued.
Paper tabled: The Attorney-General (Mr Manzie) laid on the Table the following Paper -
. Letter, Mr Ken Parish, MLA, Member for Millner to Mr and Ms Maloney, dated 15 September 1992.
Debate continued.
Mr Manzie moved the following amendment -
Omit all words after "That" and insert in their stead:
"This Assembly:
1. recognises and applauds the program of law reform undertaken
by the Northern Territory Government in law, order and public
safety. In particular -
(a) the introduction of laws to make parents more responsible
for the criminal behaviour of their children;
(b) the introduction of tough, codified anti-drugs legislation which
focusses on the protection of children;
and
(c) development of community-based policing programs,
school-based constables and neighbourhood watch; and
2. reaffirms its opposition to attempts to weaken this strong
legal regime (in particular, the socially-irresponsible policies
of the Northern Territory Branch of the Australian Labor Party).
Debate continued.
Paper tabled: The Member for Barkly (Mrs Hickey), by leave, laid on the Table the following Paper -
. "Warning: crime figures are high"; Article, N.T. News, dated 12 September 1992.
468
Debate continued.
Question - That the amendment be agreed to - put and passed.
Question - That the motion, as amended, be agreed to - put and passed.
13. VARIETY CLUB BASH - ALLEGED MISBEHAVIOUR - MOTION NEGATIVED:
The Member for Macdonnell (Mr Bell), pursuant to notice, moved - That -
This Assembly expresses its deep concern at the recent behaviour of the Chief Minister, the Attorney-General,
the Minister for Conservation and the Minister for Tourism associated with the Variety Club Bash through the
Northern Territory and particularly:
(1) regrets the threat posed by their behaviour to the ongoing success of a very important nation-wide fund-raising event;
(2) regrets the resulting tarnished image of the Northern Territory as a tourist destination;
(3) regrets that their behaviour has set back the constitutional development of the Northern Territory;
(4) condemns the public attacks on the Territorians who, after due administrative process, sought to enforce a rational
plan of management;
(5) questions the threats by Ministers of the Crown, particularly by the Attorney-General and first law officer
of the Northern Territory, to break the law; and
(6) supports the Uluru-Katatjuta Board of Management and the measure of recognition of Aboriginal traditional ownership
that it represents.
Debate ensued.
Papers tabled: Mr Bell, by leave, laid on the Table the following Papers -
. "Respecting the rock", Article, Canberra Times, dated 17 September 1992;
. "NT Forfeits its claim to Uluru", Article, Sydney Morning Herald, dated 15 September 1992;
. "Misunderstanding at Uluru", Article, The Australian, dated 15 September 1992;
. Letter, to Participants in the Variety Club Bash from Graham Mapp, Chief Barker, dated 10 September 1992; and
. Press Release, "Variety Club Bash 1992" from R.J. (Bob) Lockhart, Director - Consumer and Corporate Affairs, Kellogg (Australia) Pty Ltd, dated 14 September 1992.
Question - put and negatived.
14. INTEREST COSTS - MOTION NEGATIVED:
The Leader of the Opposition (Mr Ede), pursuant to notice, moved - That -
"This Assembly:
(1) expresses its concern at the rapid escalation in interest costs as a proportion of the Territory budget; and
469
(2) expresses its concern at the rapid increase in budget recurrent expenditure at the expense of fixed capital
expenditure.
Paper tabled: Mr Ede, by leave, laid on the Table the following Paper -
. Northern Territory Budget Overview 1989-90 to 1992-93.
Debate continued.
Papers tabled: The Treasurer (Mr Coulter) laid on the Table the following Papers -
. The Cost of Debt Servicing;
. Summary, Economic Transactions of Northern Territory Public Sector;
. Chart 3.3 Current Expenditures;
. Chart 3.5 Gross Fixed Capital Expenditure;
. 1992-93 Budget, N.T. Public Sector, Staffing and Expenditure;
. Graph, Gross Fixed Capital Expenditure;
. Graph, Current Expenditures; and
. Figure 1: Northern Territory Gross and Net Debt.
Debate continued.
Question - put.
The Assembly divided (the Speaker, Hon. N.M. Dondas, in the Chair) -
AYES, 9 NOES, 14
Mr Bailey Mr Coulter
Mr Bell Mr Dondas
Mr Cartwright Mr Finch
Mr Collins Mr Hatton
Mr Ede Mr Manzie
Mrs Hickey Mr McCarthy
Mr Lanhupuy Mr Ortmann
Mr Parish Mr Palmer
Mr Stirling Mr Perron
Mr Poole
Mr Reed
Mr Setter
Mr Stone
Mr Vale
Motion negatived accordingly.
15. PRIVILEGE - QUOTE FROM LETTER - REQUEST FOR REFERRAL TO COMMITTEE OF PRIVILEGES DENIED:
The Speaker advised the Assembly that he had considered the request of the Member for Araluen (Mr Poole) to refer a matter to the Committee of Privileges.
The Speaker made a statement and informed the Assembly of his decision in the following terms -
"Earlier in today's sitting, the Honourable Member for Araluen, pursuant to Standing Order 83, made a complaint relating to a
possible contempt under Standing Order 274 and requested me to refer the matter to the Committee of Privileges.
470
I have considered the request and I advise the Assembly that I do not propose to refer the matter to the Committee of Privileges.".
16. BRUCELLOSIS AND TUBERCULOSIS ERADICATION CAMPAIGN, ADMINISTRATION - MOTION NEGATIVED:
The Member for Macdonnell (Mr Bell), pursuant to notice, moved - That this Assembly notes with concern aspects of the Northern Territory Government's administration of the Brucellosis and Tuberculosis Eradication Campaign (BTEC).
Debate ensued.
Papers tabled: The Minister for Primary Industry and Fisheries (Mr Reed) laid on the Table the following Papers -
. BTEC Strategic Plan 1992-1997, The BTEC Program Post 1992;
. BTEC Occasional Paper No.1, dated January 1990 - BTEC in the Northern Territory;
. BTEC Occasional Paper No.2, dated January 1990 - Management and Handling Buffalo in a BTEC Program;
. BTEC Occasional Paper No.3, dated April 1990 - Operational Management Review 1989;
. BTEC Occasional Paper No.7, dated June 1991 - Financial Assistance Under BTEC;
. BTEC Occasional Paper No.8, dated June 1991 - BTEC Cattle Compensation Policy;
. BTEC Occasional Paper No.9, dated June 1991 - BTEC Buffalo Compensation Policy; and
. BTEC Occasional Paper No.10, dated August 1991 - Applying for BTEC Part D and Part F Assistance;
Debate continued.
Paper tabled: Mr Reed laid on the Table the following further Paper -
. National Bovine Brucellosis and Tuberculosis Eradication Campaign Standard Definitions and Rules, Volume One.
Mr Reed moved - That the question be now put - put and passed.
Main question - put and passed.
17. REFERENCE TO STANDING ORDERS COMMITTEE - ESTIMATES IN APPROPRIATION BILLS - MOTION AGREED TO:
The Leader of the Opposition (Mr Ede), pursuant to notice, moved - That -
The following matter be referred to the Standing Orders Committee:
(1) the most appropriate procedure for considering in detail the Departmental estimates contained within Appropriation Bills;
and
(2) that the Committee report to the Assembly in time to effect any recommended changes before consideration of the 1993-94 Budget.
Debate ensued.
Question - put and passed.
471
18. CRIMINAL CODE AMENDMENT BILL (No.3) 1992 (Serial 189):
The Member for Macdonnell (Mr Bell), pursuant to notice, presented a Bill for an Act to amend the Criminal Code.
Bill read a first time.
Mr Bell moved - That the Bill be now read a second time.
On the motion of the Attorney-General (Mr Manzie) debate was adjourned.
19. DISCHARGE OF GOVERNMENT BUSINESS:
The Member for Macdonnell (Mr Bell) moved - That Government Business, Order of the Day, relating to the Cullen Bay Development Bill 1991 (Serial 119) be discharged from the Notice Paper.
Debate ensued.
The Minister for Lands and Housing (Mr Ortmann) moved - That the question be now put.
Question - That the question be now put - put.
The Assembly divided (the Speaker, Hon. N.M. Dondas, in the Chair) -
AYES, 15 NOES, 8
Mr Collins Mr Bailey
Mr Dondas Mr Bell
Mr Finch Mr Cartwright
Mr Hatton Mr Ede
Mr Manzie Mrs Hickey
Mr McCarthy Mr Lanhupuy
Mr Ortmann Mr Parish
Mrs Padgham-Purich Mr Stirling
Mr Palmer
Mr Perron
Mr Poole
Mr Reed
Mr Setter
Mr Stone
Mr Vale
And so it was resolved in the affirmative.
Question - That the motion be agreed to - put and passed.
20. PUBLIC ACCOUNTS COMMITTEE REPORT No.16 - REPORT ON THE AUDITOR-GENERAL'S REPORT 1989-90 - PAPER NOTED:
The Order of the Day having been read for the resumption of the debate on the question - That the Assembly take note of the Paper -
Question - put and passed.
21. PROHIBITION ORDERS UNDER THE LIQUOR ACT - STATEMENT NOTED:
The Order of the Day having been read for the resumption of the debate on the question - That the Assembly take note of the Statement -
Question - put and passed.
22. SESSIONAL COMMITTEE ON THE ENVIRONMENT - REPORT SEPTEMBER 1992 - PAPERS TABLED - PAPERS PRINTED - MOTION TO NOTE PAPERS:
The Chairman of the Sessional Committee on the Environment (Mr Palmer) laid on the Table the Report of the Sessional Committee on the Environment, dated September 1992, and associated submissions as follows:
472
___________________________________________________________________
Submission
No. Title
___________________________________________________________________
1. Northern Land Council;
2. Greenpeace Australia and Friends of the Earth (Fitzroy);
3. The Environment Centre N.T. Inc.;
4. Friends of the Earth, Sydney;
5. Australian Conservation Foundation;
6. Supervising Scientist for the Alligator Rivers Region;
7. Energy Resources of Australia Ltd (ERA);
8. Department of Mines and Energy, June 1992;
Attachments; and
Check Monitoring in Georgetown/Magela Creeks during the
1991/2 Wet Season, June 1992.
Mr Palmer moved - That the Report be printed.
Question - put and passed.
Mr Palmer moved - That the Assembly take note of the Report.
Debate ensued.
Question - put and passed.
23. JURISDICTION OF COURTS (CROSS-VESTING) AMENDMENT BILL 1992 (Serial 177):
The Attorney-General (Mr Manzie), pursuant to notice, presented a Bill for an Act to amend the Jurisdiction of Courts (Cross-vesting) Act.
Bill read a first time.
Mr Manzie moved - That the Bill be now read a second time.
On the motion of the Member for Macdonnell (Mr Bell) debate was adjourned.
24. FINANCIAL TRANSACTION REPORTS BILL 1992 (Serial 178):
The Attorney-General (Mr Manzie), pursuant to notice, presented a Bill for an Act to provide for the giving of further information
in relation to suspect transactions reported under the Financial Transaction Reports Act 1988 of the Commonwealth and the
giving of information in relation to other suspect transactions, and for related purposes.
Bill read a first time.
Mr Manzie moved - That the Bill be now read a second time.
On the motion of the Member for Macdonnell (Mr Bell) debate was adjourned.
25. DISCHARGE OF BUSINESS:
The Leader of Government Business (Mr Setter) moved - That the following Government Business Orders of the Day be discharged from the Notice Paper:
. No.12 - relating to the Ministerial Statement on the Northern Territory University and Fightback!;
. No.14 - relating to the Ministerial Statement on Disability Services Policy;
. No.15 - relating to the Ministerial Statement on the Report of the Consultants, Cresap, on the Department of Health
and Community Services;
. No.16 - relating to the Annual Report of the Legal Aid Commission, 1990-91;
. No.19 - relating to papers on Territory Parks and Reserves, Plans of Management; and
. No.21 - relating to the Ministerial Statement on the World Heritage Listing of Kakadu National Park, Stage 3.
473
MINUTES OF PROCEEDINGS - Wednesday 30 September/Thursday 1 October 1992 A.M.
Question - put and passed.
26. ADJOURNMENT:
The Leader of Government Business (Mr Setter) moved - That the Assembly do now adjourn.
Debate ensued.
And the Assembly having continued to sit until 12 midnight -
THURSDAY 1 OCTOBER 1992, A.M.
Debate continued.
Question - put and passed.
The Assembly adjourned at 12.10 a.m. until today at 10.00 a.m.
====================
ATTENDANCE:
All Members attended the sitting.
474
__________________________________________________________________________________
Date : 30/09/1992
1. MEETING:
The Assembly met at 10.00 a.m., pursuant to adjournment. The Speaker, the Honourable N.M. Dondas, took the Chair.
2. PRAYERS.
3. PETITIONS:
Mr Poole presented a petition from 1266 citizens of the Northern Territory requesting the Assembly to support an application to provide a Tatts Lotto Agency at the Serv-Well Supermarket, Milner Road, Alice Springs.
Petition read.
Mr Collins presented a petition from 316 citizens of the Northern Territory requesting the Assembly to provide respite care
facilities in Alice Springs.
Petition read
4. DISTINGUISHED VISITOR - HON. J. CARLTON, M.P.:
The Speaker drew the attention of the Assembly to the presence in the Gallery of Hon. Jim Carlton, M.P., Shadow Minister for
the Environment in the Commonwealth Parliament.
On behalf of Members, the Speaker extended a warm welcome to the distinguished visitor.
5. DISTINGUISHED VISITOR - MR B. ENWEREJI:
The Speaker drew the attention of the Assembly to the presence in the Gallery of Mr Barchee Enwereji, Deputy Director of Publications, from the Abia State House of Assembly in Nigeria.
On behalf of Members the Speaker extended a warm welcome to the distinguished visitor.
6. NOTICES:
The following notices were given:
Mr Coulter: To present the Mineral Royalty Amendment Bill 1992 (Serial 162).
Mr Finch: To present the Commercial Passenger (Road) Transport Amendment Bill 1992 (Serial 181).
Mr Manzie: To present the Domestic Violence Bill 1992 (Serial 184).
Mr Manzie: To present the Juries Amendment Bill 1992 (Serial 185).
Mr Manzie: To present the Trustee Amendment Bill 1992 (Serial 182).
Mr Manzie: To present the Justices Amendment Bill 1992 (Serial 183).
Mr Stone: To present the Anti-Discrimination Bill 1992 (Serial 188).
Mr Ortmann: To present the Territory Insurance Office Amendment Bill (No. 2) 1992 (Serial 186).
Mr Ortmann: To present the Corporations (Northern Territory) Amendment Bill 1992 (Serial 187).
Mr Ortmann: To present the Cullen Bay Marina Bill 1992 (Serial 179).
7. QUESTIONS:
Questions were asked of Ministers.
465
And the Member for Wanguri asking a question asserted that the Chief Minister had involved the Commissioner of Police in political matters -
Suspension of Standing Orders: The Chief Minister (Mr Perron) moved -
That so much of Standing Orders be suspended as would prevent the Chief Minister moving a motion to call the Opposition to substantiate a statement made by the Member for Wanguri.
Question - put and passed - there being an absolute majority of the whole number of Members present and no dissentient voice.
Mr Perron thereupon moved - That this Assembly calls upon the Opposition to substantiate forthwith the statement made by the
Member for Wanguri that the Chief Minister has used the Commissioner of Police as a political tool and to withdraw the statement and apologise to the Assembly.
Debate ensued.
Paper tabled: The Leader of the Opposition (Mr Ede), by leave, laid on the Table the following Paper -
. Memorandum, Commissioner of Police to the Chief Minister re Dalway - Allegation that a $300,000 deficiency was referred to Police in March 1992, dated 29 September 1992.
Proposed censure amendment: Mr Ede moved the following amendment -
Omit all words after "That" and insert in their stead -
"This Assembly censures the Chief Minister for his use of the Police Commissioner's correspondence for political purposes.".
The Leader of Government Business (Mr Setter) moved - That the question be now put.
Question - That the question be now put - put.
The Assembly divided (the Speaker, Hon. N.M. Dondas, in the Chair) -
AYES, 14 NOES, 8
Mr Coulter Mr Bailey
Mr Dondas Mr Bell
Mr Finch Mr Cartwright
Mr Hatton Mr Ede
Mr Manzie Mrs Hickey
Mr McCarthy Mr Lanhupuy
Mr Ortmann Mr Parish
Mr Palmer Mr Stirling
Mr Perron
Mr Poole
Mr Reed
Mr Setter
Mr Stone
Mr Vale
And so it was resolved in the affirmative.
Question - That the amendment be agreed to - put and negatived.
Debate continued.
____________________
Suspension of sitting: The sitting was suspended between 12.04 p.m. and 2.00 p.m.
____________________
466
Debate resumed.
Question - That the motion be agreed to - put.
The Assembly divided (the Speaker, Hon. N.M. Dondas, in the Chair) -
AYES, 13 NOES, 8
Mr Dondas Mr Bailey
Mr Finch Mr Bell
Mr Hatton Mr Cartwright
Mr Manzie Mr Ede
Mr McCarthy Mrs Hickey
Mr Ortmann Mr Lanhupuy
Mr Palmer Mr Parish
Mr Perron Mr Stirling
Mr Poole
Mr Reed
Mr Setter
Mr Stone
Mr Vale
And so it was resolved in the affirmative.
8. SUBORDINATE LEGISLATION AND TABLED PAPERS COMMITTEE, NINTH REPORT - PAPER TABLED:
The Chairman of the Subordinate Legislation and Tabled Papers Committee (Mr Setter) laid on the Table the Ninth Report of
the Subordinate Legislation and Tabled Papers Committee.
9. PRIVILEGE - QUOTE FROM LETTER - REQUEST FOR REFERRAL TO COMMITTEE OF PRIVILEGES:
The Member for Araluen (Mr Poole), pursuant to Standing Order 83, raised as a matter of privilege that the Member for Millner (Mr Parish) had quoted from a letter, during the previous debate, forming part of the proceedings of the Public
Accounts Committee which had not been authorised for publication and requested that the Speaker refer the matter to the Committee of Privileges.
Paper tabled: Mr Parish, by leave, laid on the Table the following Paper -
. Letter, Mr James H.B. Bell, MBE, Chairman of Directors, Dalway Pty Ltd to Hon. S.P. Hatton, MLA,
Minister for Industries and Development, dated 8 May 1992.
The Speaker agreed to consider the matter and to advise the Assembly of his decision later this day.
10. SESSIONAL COMMITTEE ON THE USE AND ABUSE OF ALCOHOL BY THE COMMUNITY - CONSULTATIONS IN THE EAST ARNHEM REGION - STATEMENT - MOTION TO NOTE STATEMENT:
The Chairman of the Sessional Committee on the Use and Abuse of Alcohol by the Community (Mr Poole), by leave, made a statement in relation to matters brought to the Committee's attention during consultations in the East Arnhem Region.
Paper tabled: Mr Poole laid on the Table the following Paper -
. Letter, Mr I.V. Holland, Superintendent, Northern Territory Police to the Sessional Committee on Use and Abuse of Alcohol by the Community, undated.
467
Mr Poole moved - That the Assembly take note of the Statement.
On the motion of the Member for Arnhem (Mr Lanhupuy) debate was adjourned.
11. REGULATIONS 1991, NO.57 - AMENDMENT OF THE PLANNING REGULATIONS - MOTION POSTPONED:
The Chairman of the Subordinate Legislation and Tabled Papers Committee (Mr Setter) moved - That consideration of Notice No.1 standing in his name relating to the proposed disallowance of Regulations 1991, No.57, Amendment of the Planning Regulations, be postponed until 25 November 1992.
Question - put and passed.
12. HIGH CRIME LEVELS - MOTION, AS AMENDED, AGREED TO:
The Leader of the Opposition (Mr Ede), pursuant to notice, moved - That
- This Assembly expresses its concern at the continuing high levels of crime in the Territory and expresses the view that the Government should take note of the constructive proposals to combat this problem placed before this Assembly by the Opposition.
Debate ensued.
Paper tabled: The Attorney-General (Mr Manzie) laid on the Table the following Paper -
. Letter, Mr Ken Parish, MLA, Member for Millner to Mr and Ms Maloney, dated 15 September 1992.
Debate continued.
Mr Manzie moved the following amendment -
Omit all words after "That" and insert in their stead:
"This Assembly:
1. recognises and applauds the program of law reform undertaken
by the Northern Territory Government in law, order and public
safety. In particular -
(a) the introduction of laws to make parents more responsible
for the criminal behaviour of their children;
(b) the introduction of tough, codified anti-drugs legislation which
focusses on the protection of children;
and
(c) development of community-based policing programs,
school-based constables and neighbourhood watch; and
2. reaffirms its opposition to attempts to weaken this strong
legal regime (in particular, the socially-irresponsible policies
of the Northern Territory Branch of the Australian Labor Party).
Debate continued.
Paper tabled: The Member for Barkly (Mrs Hickey), by leave, laid on the Table the following Paper -
. "Warning: crime figures are high"; Article, N.T. News, dated 12 September 1992.
468
Debate continued.
Question - That the amendment be agreed to - put and passed.
Question - That the motion, as amended, be agreed to - put and passed.
13. VARIETY CLUB BASH - ALLEGED MISBEHAVIOUR - MOTION NEGATIVED:
The Member for Macdonnell (Mr Bell), pursuant to notice, moved - That -
This Assembly expresses its deep concern at the recent behaviour of the Chief Minister, the Attorney-General,
the Minister for Conservation and the Minister for Tourism associated with the Variety Club Bash through the
Northern Territory and particularly:
(1) regrets the threat posed by their behaviour to the ongoing success of a very important nation-wide fund-raising event;
(2) regrets the resulting tarnished image of the Northern Territory as a tourist destination;
(3) regrets that their behaviour has set back the constitutional development of the Northern Territory;
(4) condemns the public attacks on the Territorians who, after due administrative process, sought to enforce a rational
plan of management;
(5) questions the threats by Ministers of the Crown, particularly by the Attorney-General and first law officer
of the Northern Territory, to break the law; and
(6) supports the Uluru-Katatjuta Board of Management and the measure of recognition of Aboriginal traditional ownership
that it represents.
Debate ensued.
Papers tabled: Mr Bell, by leave, laid on the Table the following Papers -
. "Respecting the rock", Article, Canberra Times, dated 17 September 1992;
. "NT Forfeits its claim to Uluru", Article, Sydney Morning Herald, dated 15 September 1992;
. "Misunderstanding at Uluru", Article, The Australian, dated 15 September 1992;
. Letter, to Participants in the Variety Club Bash from Graham Mapp, Chief Barker, dated 10 September 1992; and
. Press Release, "Variety Club Bash 1992" from R.J. (Bob) Lockhart, Director - Consumer and Corporate Affairs, Kellogg (Australia) Pty Ltd, dated 14 September 1992.
Question - put and negatived.
14. INTEREST COSTS - MOTION NEGATIVED:
The Leader of the Opposition (Mr Ede), pursuant to notice, moved - That -
"This Assembly:
(1) expresses its concern at the rapid escalation in interest costs as a proportion of the Territory budget; and
469
(2) expresses its concern at the rapid increase in budget recurrent expenditure at the expense of fixed capital
expenditure.
Paper tabled: Mr Ede, by leave, laid on the Table the following Paper -
. Northern Territory Budget Overview 1989-90 to 1992-93.
Debate continued.
Papers tabled: The Treasurer (Mr Coulter) laid on the Table the following Papers -
. The Cost of Debt Servicing;
. Summary, Economic Transactions of Northern Territory Public Sector;
. Chart 3.3 Current Expenditures;
. Chart 3.5 Gross Fixed Capital Expenditure;
. 1992-93 Budget, N.T. Public Sector, Staffing and Expenditure;
. Graph, Gross Fixed Capital Expenditure;
. Graph, Current Expenditures; and
. Figure 1: Northern Territory Gross and Net Debt.
Debate continued.
Question - put.
The Assembly divided (the Speaker, Hon. N.M. Dondas, in the Chair) -
AYES, 9 NOES, 14
Mr Bailey Mr Coulter
Mr Bell Mr Dondas
Mr Cartwright Mr Finch
Mr Collins Mr Hatton
Mr Ede Mr Manzie
Mrs Hickey Mr McCarthy
Mr Lanhupuy Mr Ortmann
Mr Parish Mr Palmer
Mr Stirling Mr Perron
Mr Poole
Mr Reed
Mr Setter
Mr Stone
Mr Vale
Motion negatived accordingly.
15. PRIVILEGE - QUOTE FROM LETTER - REQUEST FOR REFERRAL TO COMMITTEE OF PRIVILEGES DENIED:
The Speaker advised the Assembly that he had considered the request of the Member for Araluen (Mr Poole) to refer a matter to the Committee of Privileges.
The Speaker made a statement and informed the Assembly of his decision in the following terms -
"Earlier in today's sitting, the Honourable Member for Araluen, pursuant to Standing Order 83, made a complaint relating to a
possible contempt under Standing Order 274 and requested me to refer the matter to the Committee of Privileges.
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I have considered the request and I advise the Assembly that I do not propose to refer the matter to the Committee of Privileges.".
16. BRUCELLOSIS AND TUBERCULOSIS ERADICATION CAMPAIGN, ADMINISTRATION - MOTION NEGATIVED:
The Member for Macdonnell (Mr Bell), pursuant to notice, moved - That this Assembly notes with concern aspects of the Northern Territory Government's administration of the Brucellosis and Tuberculosis Eradication Campaign (BTEC).
Debate ensued.
Papers tabled: The Minister for Primary Industry and Fisheries (Mr Reed) laid on the Table the following Papers -
. BTEC Strategic Plan 1992-1997, The BTEC Program Post 1992;
. BTEC Occasional Paper No.1, dated January 1990 - BTEC in the Northern Territory;
. BTEC Occasional Paper No.2, dated January 1990 - Management and Handling Buffalo in a BTEC Program;
. BTEC Occasional Paper No.3, dated April 1990 - Operational Management Review 1989;
. BTEC Occasional Paper No.7, dated June 1991 - Financial Assistance Under BTEC;
. BTEC Occasional Paper No.8, dated June 1991 - BTEC Cattle Compensation Policy;
. BTEC Occasional Paper No.9, dated June 1991 - BTEC Buffalo Compensation Policy; and
. BTEC Occasional Paper No.10, dated August 1991 - Applying for BTEC Part D and Part F Assistance;
Debate continued.
Paper tabled: Mr Reed laid on the Table the following further Paper -
. National Bovine Brucellosis and Tuberculosis Eradication Campaign Standard Definitions and Rules, Volume One.
Mr Reed moved - That the question be now put - put and passed.
Main question - put and passed.
17. REFERENCE TO STANDING ORDERS COMMITTEE - ESTIMATES IN APPROPRIATION BILLS - MOTION AGREED TO:
The Leader of the Opposition (Mr Ede), pursuant to notice, moved - That -
The following matter be referred to the Standing Orders Committee:
(1) the most appropriate procedure for considering in detail the Departmental estimates contained within Appropriation Bills;
and
(2) that the Committee report to the Assembly in time to effect any recommended changes before consideration of the 1993-94 Budget.
Debate ensued.
Question - put and passed.
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18. CRIMINAL CODE AMENDMENT BILL (No.3) 1992 (Serial 189):
The Member for Macdonnell (Mr Bell), pursuant to notice, presented a Bill for an Act to amend the Criminal Code.
Bill read a first time.
Mr Bell moved - That the Bill be now read a second time.
On the motion of the Attorney-General (Mr Manzie) debate was adjourned.
19. DISCHARGE OF GOVERNMENT BUSINESS:
The Member for Macdonnell (Mr Bell) moved - That Government Business, Order of the Day, relating to the Cullen Bay Development Bill 1991 (Serial 119) be discharged from the Notice Paper.
Debate ensued.
The Minister for Lands and Housing (Mr Ortmann) moved - That the question be now put.
Question - That the question be now put - put.
The Assembly divided (the Speaker, Hon. N.M. Dondas, in the Chair) -
AYES, 15 NOES, 8
Mr Collins Mr Bailey
Mr Dondas Mr Bell
Mr Finch Mr Cartwright
Mr Hatton Mr Ede
Mr Manzie Mrs Hickey
Mr McCarthy Mr Lanhupuy
Mr Ortmann Mr Parish
Mrs Padgham-Purich Mr Stirling
Mr Palmer
Mr Perron
Mr Poole
Mr Reed
Mr Setter
Mr Stone
Mr Vale
And so it was resolved in the affirmative.
Question - That the motion be agreed to - put and passed.
20. PUBLIC ACCOUNTS COMMITTEE REPORT No.16 - REPORT ON THE AUDITOR-GENERAL'S REPORT 1989-90 - PAPER NOTED:
The Order of the Day having been read for the resumption of the debate on the question - That the Assembly take note of the Paper -
Question - put and passed.
21. PROHIBITION ORDERS UNDER THE LIQUOR ACT - STATEMENT NOTED:
The Order of the Day having been read for the resumption of the debate on the question - That the Assembly take note of the Statement -
Question - put and passed.
22. SESSIONAL COMMITTEE ON THE ENVIRONMENT - REPORT SEPTEMBER 1992 - PAPERS TABLED - PAPERS PRINTED - MOTION TO NOTE PAPERS:
The Chairman of the Sessional Committee on the Environment (Mr Palmer) laid on the Table the Report of the Sessional Committee on the Environment, dated September 1992, and associated submissions as follows:
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___________________________________________________________________
Submission
No. Title
___________________________________________________________________
1. Northern Land Council;
2. Greenpeace Australia and Friends of the Earth (Fitzroy);
3. The Environment Centre N.T. Inc.;
4. Friends of the Earth, Sydney;
5. Australian Conservation Foundation;
6. Supervising Scientist for the Alligator Rivers Region;
7. Energy Resources of Australia Ltd (ERA);
8. Department of Mines and Energy, June 1992;
Attachments; and
Check Monitoring in Georgetown/Magela Creeks during the
1991/2 Wet Season, June 1992.
Mr Palmer moved - That the Report be printed.
Question - put and passed.
Mr Palmer moved - That the Assembly take note of the Report.
Debate ensued.
Question - put and passed.
23. JURISDICTION OF COURTS (CROSS-VESTING) AMENDMENT BILL 1992 (Serial 177):
The Attorney-General (Mr Manzie), pursuant to notice, presented a Bill for an Act to amend the Jurisdiction of Courts (Cross-vesting) Act.
Bill read a first time.
Mr Manzie moved - That the Bill be now read a second time.
On the motion of the Member for Macdonnell (Mr Bell) debate was adjourned.
24. FINANCIAL TRANSACTION REPORTS BILL 1992 (Serial 178):
The Attorney-General (Mr Manzie), pursuant to notice, presented a Bill for an Act to provide for the giving of further information
in relation to suspect transactions reported under the Financial Transaction Reports Act 1988 of the Commonwealth and the
giving of information in relation to other suspect transactions, and for related purposes.
Bill read a first time.
Mr Manzie moved - That the Bill be now read a second time.
On the motion of the Member for Macdonnell (Mr Bell) debate was adjourned.
25. DISCHARGE OF BUSINESS:
The Leader of Government Business (Mr Setter) moved - That the following Government Business Orders of the Day be discharged from the Notice Paper:
. No.12 - relating to the Ministerial Statement on the Northern Territory University and Fightback!;
. No.14 - relating to the Ministerial Statement on Disability Services Policy;
. No.15 - relating to the Ministerial Statement on the Report of the Consultants, Cresap, on the Department of Health
and Community Services;
. No.16 - relating to the Annual Report of the Legal Aid Commission, 1990-91;
. No.19 - relating to papers on Territory Parks and Reserves, Plans of Management; and
. No.21 - relating to the Ministerial Statement on the World Heritage Listing of Kakadu National Park, Stage 3.
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MINUTES OF PROCEEDINGS - Wednesday 30 September/Thursday 1 October 1992 A.M.
Question - put and passed.
26. ADJOURNMENT:
The Leader of Government Business (Mr Setter) moved - That the Assembly do now adjourn.
Debate ensued.
And the Assembly having continued to sit until 12 midnight -
THURSDAY 1 OCTOBER 1992, A.M.
Debate continued.
Question - put and passed.
The Assembly adjourned at 12.10 a.m. until today at 10.00 a.m.
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ATTENDANCE:
All Members attended the sitting.
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Last updated: 04 Aug 2016