[Greens-Media] Keneally parlt reforms must be more than window dressing

[John Kaye]

Keneally parlt reforms must be more than window dressing
 
Media release: 7 September 2010
 
NSW parliament needs much more than a few minor reforms to begin to serve the people of this state, according to Greens NSW MP John Kaye.
 
Dr Kaye said: "The state needs a parliament with teeth that can hold the executive government to account.
 
"NSW has suffered at the hands of a government that has made bad decisions and squandered resources without the scrutiny of a parliament that can force ministers to respond to questions.
 
"While Premier Keneally's reforms might go some small measure towards ending the behind-closed-door deals that are destroying NSW, much more will be needed to make both Labor and the Coalition realise that they must be open and transparent in their decision making.
 
"Rubber stamping business as usual will not stop the rot.
 
"Ministers need to be forced to answer direct questions and the parliament needs to be given more powers and resources to investigate government activities.
 
"The best of all possible reforms will be completely undermined if Ministers do not abandon their long held practice of treating parliament with contempt.
 
"The Premier's commitment to a reformed parliament will be measured by the behaviour of her ministers and their willingness to work for accountability and openness. 
 
"Real change also needs greater electoral reform to ensure that the parliament is more representative of the community and less shackled to Labor and Liberal political wheeling and dealing," Dr Kaye said. 
 
For more information: John Kaye 0407 195 455