Mary Porter AM MLA - Labor Member for Ginninderra

DISCUSSING ANIMAL’S WELFARE

From the Porter Report August 2010 - DISCUSSING ANIMAL’S WELFARE

Mary at the RSPCA Cattery

Recently Mary announced that she will work with the Minister, Mr Jon Stanhope, the Department of Territory and Municipal Services and Industry stakeholders to develop a government discussion paper on what should be covered in a mandatory code on domestic animals in the ACT. This will be tabled later this month.

“When considering evidence of the continued rise in the numbers of animals surrendered in the ACT, and in the increased avenues through which animals are purchased, it is clear that there is a need for the Government to take a fresh look at the breeding, supply and care of domestic animals in the ACT,” Mary asserted.

The discussion paper will pose a range of options that Mary has suggested, to address this issue, such as how to ensure an animal is being sold by a registered breeder, how to ensure proper vaccination, de-sexing and micro chipping, and whether we should consider a system of information sharing to support responsible pet ownership in respect to health and well-being of companion animals.

“I would like to acknowledge the excellent work of AWAC in producing a draft voluntary Code of Practice for the Sale of Animals in the ACT,” Mary concluded.

PORTER RECOGNISES INVALUABLE PROJECT

From the Porter Report August 2010 - PORTER RECOGNISES INVALUABLE PROJECT

Mary with Students and Staff of Cranleigh School

Mary recently toured and later officially launched important developments at Cranleigh School, as part of another Building the Education Revolution project.

“When considering the special needs of the students who attend Cranleigh School, it is fair to say that the projects financed by the BER funding are invaluable,” Mary said

Cranleigh School has had a range of facilities designed to suit the needs of the students. Recently the existing school library was refurbished through the School Infrastructure Refurbishment Program. The work being undertaken concurrently with the BER project included the improvement of the multifunctional open space and wet areas such as toilets and laundry facilities.

“Obviously the school environment and facilities are critical in assisting students to reach their full potential, and also in assisting teaching staff,” Mary stated.

“The extent and quality of these facilities, evident to me on a recent tour of the school, as well as at today’s launch, is great to see, and I am sure they will continue to benefit the school community for many years to come,” Mary concluded.

BROADBAND SENIORS KIOSK OPENING

From the Porter Report August 2010 - BROADBAND SENIORS KIOSK OPENING

Mary with Leon Cornish

Mary opened a Broadband for Seniors Kiosk at the Belconnen Bowling Club, Hawker, recently.

“Broadband is one of the modern faces of social inclusion,” Mary said. “Access to information, the speed and scope of communication that is available over the internet has become an important means of keeping us all in touch with one another.”

Broadband for Seniors is part of a $15m Australian Government initiative to increase the skills of older Australians using computers and the internet. The aim is to help older members of the community become better connected, enabling them to discover a whole new social experience on the web.

“I was delighted to open this Broadband for Seniors kiosk at the Belconnen Bowling Club. I am Patron of this vibrant community club, and completely support this Federal Government initiative,” Mary concluded.

Information on kiosk hours, training and session bookings can be obtained from the Belconnen Bowling Club’s staff on 6278 3376.

Community centres, club or other seniors’ organisations interested in hosting a free kiosk can find more information, and can register their interest, at the following website: http://www.necseniors.net.au.

PORTER OPENS NEW COMMUNITY PARKS

From the Porter Report August 2010 - PORTER OPENS NEW COMMUNITY PARKS

Mary with a Holt Resident

Last month Mary officially opened new community parks in Cook and Holt.

“These parks are the first of eight new community parks to be completed as part of the ACT Government’s $2.4 million investment into revitalising former school sites,” Mary said.

Both Community Parks retain and build on existing elements of the former school sites. New play equipment has been installed, whilst existing and well loved play equipment on both parks has also
refurbished to Australian Standards.

The community was involved in the design of the new parks, in both instances, particularly in working with the contracted artists, Phil Nizette and Jennifer Jones of Wellspring Environmental Arts and Design on the art work.

“The parks provide terrific new opportunities for recreation and socialising by the local community,” Mary stated. “They are complete with barbeque and picnic areas, creating a special space for family gatherings and community events.”

“I am pleased to announce that Cook and Holt Community Parks are now officially open. I wish everyone from the local community many hours of happy and healthy play in the new parks,” Mary concluded.