Crossbench in the Assembly
ACT Greens MLA Deb Foskey has pointed to disarray among the Canberra Liberals as evidence that a stronger crossbench, with more Greens, is needed in the ACT Legislative Assembly.
“Mr Mulcahy’s resignation from the Liberal Party and his move to the crossbench will not change the balance of power in the Assembly, but may offer different views” Dr Foskey said today.
“It remains to be seen however if Mr Mulcahy on the crossbench votes any differently to his ex-colleagues. He will have to show that he offers an alternative to the ACT Liberals if he is to be re-elected next year. “
“Mr Mulcahy will find being a crossbench is hard work, and quite different to being part of a party machine (however dysfunctional) as one person has to be on top of all portfolios.”
“With the ACT election coming up next October, this whole sorry episode shows that Canberra voters will have to think seriously about how to get the best from their Assembly.”
“A majority government and an incoherent opposition has not served us well.”
“In the lead up to the recent federal election, the Clerk of the Senate Harry Evans drew attention to international research which found that minority governments deliver better economic, health and social outcomes than do majority governments.”
“The ACT Greens promise a strong team that – with the balance of power – would hold the ACT Government to account, and ensure community concerns remain at the heart of its deliberations” Dr Foskey said.
