Northern Territory News
Government Dodges Question Time Scrutiny
The Henderson Government is desperately trying to wriggle out of proper Parliamentary scrutiny on the eve of next week’s historic Legislative Assembly sittings.
Deputy Opposition Leader Kezia Purick said the letter sent by Speaker, Jane Aagaard, to MLAs on Friday requests Members consider adjourning the House on Monday evening until Friday morning – shutting down Question Time in the process.
“This is a desperate Government that wants to hide its failures,” Ms Purick said.
“The request to the Speaker was that she approve two additional sitting days, not take three days away.
“Question Time would allow the Opposition to scrutinise the Henderson Government’s monumental failure to deliver any houses under SIHIP; Labor’s deceptions on land release at Bellamack and Johnston; it’s systemic failures on law and order; the break-down of the health system; the funding freeze that crippled Darwin’s electricity system; declining education standards in the bush and other areas of serious concern to Territorians.
“While it’s little wonder the Henderson Government doesn’t want Territorians reminded of its appalling track record, it’s testament to its lack of accountability that it would dare shut down Question Time.”
2009-08-08
