Premier condemns Liberal Party efforts to block bill to close Swan Valley Nyungah camp

17/05/03
The Liberal Party has made a serious error of judgement in blocking Government attempts to get legislation to close the Swan Valley Nyungah camp at Lockridge through the Legislative Council, Premier Geoff Gallop has warned.
Dr Gallop said the Liberals had yesterday attempted to water down the legislation despite supporting its urgent passage through the Legislative Assembly on Thursday.
The Premier said the Government would not accept the Liberal Party's amendments because they had rendered the bill worthless.
"It is clear the Liberal Party did not want to support this legislation but could not bring themselves to vote against it," he said.
"Instead, they have engaged in subterfuge, using amendments in the Upper House to gut the legislation.
"They have betrayed the commitment they gave yesterday to support the bill, but more importantly, they have betrayed the women and children of that camp who the Government is attempting to protect.
"This was a chance for the Parliament to take a strong stand against child abuse and family violence and it failed."
Dr Gallop said the Government would move to reinstate the bill at the earliest opportunity.
"In the meantime, I urge the Leader of the Opposition, Colin Barnett, to speak to his Upper House members and bring them to their senses," he said.
Premier's office: 9222 9475