Parliamentary Speeches
Occupational Licensing Legislation Amendment (01/09/2009)
Mr DONALD PAGE (Ballina) [4.26 p.m.]: As I indicated in my contribution to the agreement in principle debate, the Opposition does not oppose the legislation; the Opposition supports any reasonable measure to reduce red tape, and that is essentially what this legislation is intended to do. However, during my contribution to the agreement in principle debate I expressed concern about removal of provisions related to optical dispensers' licensing and the health implications of that removal. The reservations I expressed then are even more pronounced now. Whatever happens with this legislation in the upper House, as legislators we should be mindful to ensure that people in the optical dispensing business are not confronted with a group who dispense optical lenses without providing any assurance that the optical lenses they dispense are appropriate for those who will receive them. Although I am concerned about that aspect, the issue is not sufficient reason to oppose the legislation.
Based on what the Minister has said, it seems to me that the amendments are necessary and reasonable. However, I make the point that when the Opposition supports legislation, it is incumbent upon the Minister to provide a briefing note of amendments that are introduced at the last moment, particularly as the Minister has had adequate time during the parliamentary recess to consult. I am disappointed that the Minister has not engaged the Opposition in consultation in relation to the amendments because the consequence is that Opposition members have not had time to consult with interested parties or conduct research. However, having said that, on the basis of what the Minister has stated I am prepared to allow the amendments to be passed.
