Nursing Courses

Nursing Courses

Following representations, I have been advised that there are two refresher courses currently being conducted within the Northern Rivers Area Health Service. A Registered Nurse refresher course is in progress and being conducted from Grafton and an Enrolled Nurse refresher course also commenced at Coraki early November. The Northern Rivers Area Health Service supports recruitment initiatives and aim to ease access for those who have expended time and energy in prior education programs.

Senior Citizens Week 2002

A package of information containing a nomination form for Senior's Week Premier's Individual Award and a Community Award have been posted to all Senior Citizens groups and organisations last week. As I have ample forms, my staff will be happy to forward these to any organisation that may have not received this information.

Remembrance Day 2001

It was my pleasure to attend a Remembrance ceremony last weekend and very humbling to be involved in laying a wreath in honour of those who gave their lives for the freedom of our country. It is an appropriate time to pay tribute to the sacrifices of personnel who are engaged in the war against terrorism in Afghanistan. Our thoughts and prayers are with the families and friends of those currently serving.

Public Liability

Public liability is a class of insurance which, for voluntary community groups, amateur sporting clubs and charities, is turning into a threat to their survival. Public liability insurance premiums have risen beyond the means of these non-profit organisations. Sometimes almost all the revenue generated from an annual event or sporting event is lost in paying the insurance premium. Some cannot get insurance at all. I have received a number of approaches from various community groups and halls in this regard and earlier this year I highlighted the strain on Country Shows and small country halls. The State Government must take an interest and a role in finding a solution before too many more voluntary organisations and charities close down.

Builders Insurance

Whilst the Coalition are continually raising this issue in the House, my office is still receiving enquiries from builders who are being experiencing difficulties. Any builders requiring assistance should contact my office.

Workers Compensation

One of the biggest costs of being in business is the cost of workers' compensation insurance premiums. The State Government controlled scheme is in deficit to the tune of $2.4 billion. Businesses are facing dramatically rising premiums and the deficit is continuing to balloon. The so-called reforms forced through the Parliament last July amidst an historic blockade of the NSW Parliament, have not lowered premiums. I will leave the problems of doctors' indemnity insurance and the vexed area of householders' flood cover for another time.

Commonwealth Day

Commonwealth Day will be celebrated next year on Monday 11th March 2002. In London this takes the form of a commemorative ceremony at Westminster Abbey attended by the Queen and visits to the Houses of Parliament. There is an opportunity for two young people aged 18-25 years to represent the NSW Commonwealth Parliamentary Association at these events in London. The places are open to people who may be in London at that time as no travel costs are included. I would be pleased to nominate young people. A form is available via the Electorate Office and applicants should add a brief resume and any comments to the form. The successful applicants will be notified during January 2002.

School Visits

I am always delighted to welcome school visits to the NSW Parliament. When the Parliament is sitting I am able to meet the school and give a short address on the workings of Parliament.

Congrats to the Nats

I take this opportunity to congratulate Ian Causley, Federal Member for Page, and Larry Anthony, Federal Member for Richmond, on their re-election. The vote was certainly an endorsement of support for the members' hard work and commitment to the electorates of Page and Richmond.

Fair Trading Advisory Committee visit

The Fair Trading Advisory Committee will be visiting Lismore on Friday 23 November as part of its inquiry into the use of television Infomercials and direct response advertising. The community consultation will take place at the Lismore & District Workers Club from 2.00pm - 4.00pm. For further information or to RSVP contact Carol at the Lismore office of the Department of Fair Trading on 6627 6500. The Committee is also calling for submissions from interested parties. Copies of the Background Paper can be obtained from my office or the Department website on www.fairtrading.nsw.gov.au