Minister calls on Opposition to pass crucial legislation

12/09/06
Community Development Minister David Templeman has called on the Opposition to put petty politicking aside and pass two Bills crucial to the protection of Western Australian children without further ado.
Mr Templeman said it was time for the Opposition to stop its self-indulgent dithering over inconsequential aspects of the Children's Commissioner Bill, which was due to come on for debate today.
The Minister had also urged them to swiftly pass the Parental Responsibility Orders legislation once it returned from an Upper House Committee.
"I urge the Opposition to stop playing games and support these two pieces of crucial Government legislation in the Upper House which deal with social issues affecting children," he said.
"The Government of WA is committed to delivering a Children's Commissioner to the people of WA, and I call on the Opposition to join us in achieving that goal.
"The Opposition is big on talk - but I believe you are what you do, not what you say, and I want action.
"We have put forward what we believe is the best model.
"The time for filibustering from the Opposition is over. It is now in their hands whether we have a Children's Commissioner or not."
Mr Templeman's calls came as the State Government yesterday committed another $50million for another 133 staff, including 87 caseworkers to meet the increasing needs of vulnerable children and families at risk.
This was on top of the extra $140million provided in the 2006-07 Budget - the biggest ever increase in funding in the department's history.
The Minister said it was important to note that the role of a Children's Commissioner was to be an advocate for children and young people.
"Our model provides that," he said.
"The Children's Commissioner will be independent and will report directly to Parliament.
"The Children's Commissioner will have the power to initiate and conduct inquiries.
"However, it is important that the roles of advocacy and investigation do not become confused - the commissioner should not be judge and jury."
"Thorough investigative mechanisms and powers already exist in our democratic system through offices such as the CCC, the Ombudsman, the Auditor General, the judiciary and the Coroner.
"The commissioner will be able to comment publicly and its reports will not be subject to amendment or approval of the Minister or Government.
"It will have a statutory and enforceable right of access to children's files held by the Department for Community Development.
"We have had extensive discussions and negotiations with the Opposition and have already made several concessions with the aim of securing the passage of the Bill, and at this stage I see no reason to make any further concessions.
"It will be a sad day when the Opposition votes against delivering this extremely important, independent advocate for our children and young people."
The Minister also urged the Opposition to swiftly pass the Parental Responsibility Order legislation when it is returned from an Upper House committee.
"The Parental Responsibility Orders legislation is, in my view, an excellent piece of legislation which places the onus on good parenting - something which is often sadly lacking in today's world, and leads to more and more children coming into contact with the Department for Community Development.
"This legislation will further bolster the department's role in early intervention and the prevention of harm of children.
"Some parents need that extra bit of support and education - and that extra bit of incentive and encouragement - to become better, more responsible parents.
"This legislation may well prevent a child from coming into contact with DCD, and ensuring that, wherever possible, the most caring person in a child's life is a parent, not a caseworker.
"The Carpenter Government is committed to protecting our children. I want the Opposition to prove to the people of WA that they share that commitment and pass these important Bills."
Minister's office - 9220 5050