Seniors Week

Seniors Week

I have had the pleasure of attending many local functions as part of Seniors Week. To highlight the services available for seniors in the Lismore electorate I have made available a newly revised local Seniors Card Directory. Many people who previously left details with Bill Rixon will automatically receive an update. Anyone interested in being added to this list should contact my office. Congratulations to Alva Sandor on receipt of her Premier's Individual Seniors Award for her voluntary work and major contributions to community life.

Countrylink Travel Time Extended

I am concerned with local media reports that passengers using Countrylink services may find their journeys taking longer from later this year. The timetable, due to be introduced later this year, shows it will take over half an hour longer between Sydney and Brisbane. Country passengers will be hardest hit with people travelling from Grafton to Sydney expected to be on the train almost an extra hour.

NSW Heritage Week Seminar

The National Archives of Aust, in conjunction with the State Records Authority of NSW are conducting free seminars in northern NSW. These seminars are timed to coincide with NSW Heritage Week beginning 1 April and are aimed at raising the general level of understanding of archives in the community and promoting the wider use of archival resources. The Richmond-Tweed Regional Library is holding a seminar at the Lismore & District Workers Club on Wednesday 5 April 10 am to 12 noon. Further details are available from my office.

Ross Cameron's Comments Refuted

Comments by Federal Member for Parramatta, have been met with much rural community retaliation. As soon as I heard the comments, I sent Mr Cameron a letter expressing many of the opinions conveyed and challenged him to be more sympathetic and understanding to our needs. Furthermore, I extended an invitation for him to visit our area and view first hand the needs and positives of regional NSW.

Review of Animal and Plant Health legislation

The Government is undertaking a review of its animal and Plant Health legislation. Relevant Acts include; Plant Diseases Act 1924, Stock Diseases Act 1923, Exotic Diseases of Animals Act 1991, Apiaries Act 1985, Cattle Compensation Act 1951 and Swine Compensation Act 1928. The review must determine whether the powers and activities provided within the six Acts under review create a net public benefit and whether the objectives of these Acts are being achieved in a manner which least restricts competition. Submissions close 15/4/00 and copies of the issue paper are available upon request.

Review of Student Transport Scheme

The Legislative Assembly Public Accounts Committee is reviewing the School Student Transport Scheme (SSTS). The Committee is concerned about the efficiency, economy and effectiveness of the current scheme. Individuals and organisations are invited to make written submissions to assist the inquiry process. Closing date is 14/4/00.

LifeForce

A one-day suicide prevention program is being run in Lismore on Friday 12 May, from 9.30 to 3.30 pm. LifeForce is committed to working towards significantly reducing Australia's high suicide rate by implementing strategies that focus on prevention and intervention. Details can be obtained from my office.