[Greens-Media] PARNELL: Labor & Liberal force through MP super increase under cover of budget

[Parnell]

Media Release
Thursday 16th September 2010


Labor & Liberal force through MP super increase under cover of budget


Despite fierce opposition from the Greens, Dignity for Disability MLC Kelly Vincent and Anne Bressington MLC, Labor and Liberal have used their numbers to force through a Bill to increase MPs super.

Greens MLCs Mark Parnell and Tammy Franks accused the old parties of forcing the Bill through today as an attempt to avoid scrutiny while all eyes of the media and the community are focused on the State Budget.

"This is a very dark day for our Parliament," said Mr Parnell.

"There is absolutely no reason to force this Bill through the Upper House of Parliament in less than 24 hours.

"This is not just a simple Bill - it goes much further than just the increase in the rate from 9% to 15.4%.  The Bill runs over 10 pages and includes 18 separate clauses.

"I told all Members of Parliament last night that I did not want this to proceed today as there has been barely a chance to read it, let alone consider any changes.

"It is simply outrageous that I and my cross bench colleagues haven't been given a chance to get a briefing or consult on the content of a Bill that will soon become part of State law.

"I thought the job of the Parliament was to scrutinise and improve legislation.  We have been given absolutely no opportunity whatsoever to do our job.

"This sneaky move does no credit to any of the Members who voted in favour, and just gives all MPs a bad name," he said.




For further comment contact Craig Wilkins on 0434 007 893




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