The Local Government Amendment Bill 2013 was debated extensively. This Bill seeks to force local government amalgamations by sidestepping the Dadour provisions which would otherwise empower local residents to vote on proposed council amalgamations. We strenuously opposed the Bill and Lynn read into Hansard portions of letters sent to her and highlighted the divisive impact of the changes proposed for the South Metropolitan Region highlighting the Hands off Cockburn and Battle for the Burswood campaigns.
The controversial shark cull was a focus for questions this week. When asked to identify shark experts who had actually advised that the baited hook drum lines would reduce shark attacks, the Minister said only that “There was a broad appreciation…” He also confirmed that tiger sharks, the species being caught and killed, have not been involved in any of the WA fatalities. The #noWAsharkcull alliance achieved a major milestone Wednesday when Sea Shepherd via the EDO WA filed a challenge to the shark cull in the Supreme Court. The case will be heard March 4. On Thursday Lynn joined a peaceful protest outside the court where Steve Marsh is awaiting the outcome of his case for compensation for GMO contamination.
Robin also made an adjournment speech on the poor effectiveness of the Aboriginal Heritage Act 1972, asked questions on the Metropolitan Noongar Native Title recognition, cane toads, fracking and others. He further responded to over 1000 emails lobbying against new coal in Collie and exporting coal through Bunbury.
Lynn quizzed the government over the Hazelmere waste-to-energy incinerator and the closure of Kulcha, Multicultural Arts of WA.
For more information about questions that Lynn and Robin have asked, please visit their websites:
Information on bills currently before Parliament can be read by clicking on the links below:
