[Greens-Media] Rattenbury becomes first Greens Speaker

[Manderson, Roland]

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ACT GREENS  MEDIA RELEASE
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Rattenbury becomes first Greens Speaker 

The ACT Greens have taken on the responsibility of implementing the
agreed Assembly reform agenda with the election today of Greens MLA
Shane Rattenbury as the Speaker of the ACT legislative Assembly.

"Clearly being elected as speaker is a great privilege and
responsibility" Mr Rattenbury said today.

 "We went to the election promising a more accountable government and a
more transparent approach to facing up to the big challenges in front of
us."

 "Our agreement with the ALP includes a commitment to make the Assembly
work more collaboratively, and to strengthen the role it has in ensuring
public access to information, policy development, and decision making."

"I understand the role of Speaker is a demanding one, and it will be a
fairly steep learning curve to start. But I am confident, with my legal
training and recent experience in leading the Greenpeace delegation at
the vital climate change negotiations in Bali, I will develop the
necessary skills quickly."

 "There has also been a lot of argument between ALP and the Liberal
parties about the need to have a 'government' or an 'anti-government'
Speaker.  As a member of the third party in this Assembly I am confident
I will be able to find a non partisan approach in managing the business
in the chamber."

 "I am also looking forward to building on the work of the past Speaker
in looking to give the Assembly a stronger role on in public life."

"The ACT Assembly is a small and flexible parliament and it is usual for
the Speaker to also contribute to the development of legislation and
debate. I intend adding to that record by taking an active role in
pursuing key issues, climate change in particular" Mr Rattenbury said.


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Roland Manderson
ACT Greens media contact
Legislative Assembly for the ACT 
ph(02)62050551   m 0412241379
==== www.act.greens.org.au ===== 
  
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