WELL it’s been quite a week in politics and I just want to point out a few ‘truths’ to the people of the Barkly.
I know the people of the Barkly are interested in the truth and not some of the sad and cynical allegations made by the Opposition and the hysteria raised by some parts of the media.
First of all the truth about the SIHIP program.
SIHIP is a $672 million program that will see the construction of 750 new houses, 230 rebuilds and 2500 upgrades plus essential infrastructure including power, water and sewage.
This is a core commitment for both the Australian and the Henderson Labor Government as we work to deliver even better services to all Territorians.
In Tennant Creek, Julalikari led the way in terms of SIHIP and evolved a project plan through a number of phases to both vision and now effectively create the new suburbs of Tennant Creek by first refurbishing the existing housing stock, improving utility services of power, water and sewerage in addition to developing the street scapes.
This visionary planning will position the Julalikari Council Aboriginal Corporation well demonstrating real ‘runs on the board’ for attracting further Commonwealth and NT Government support for new houses that will be built right throughout the town in the future.
Secondly I’d like to point out the important events in the Northern Territory Parliament last week, events that will provide stable government for all Territorians.
Last week the Henderson Labor Government entered into a parliamentary agreement with the Independent Member for Nelson, in an agreement common to Australian and international politics.
This type of agreement allows for a government, which holds the majority of seats in the parliament, to enter into an agreement with another member or members for the current term to support the government in favour of Supply and Appropriation Bills (the Budget) and against any no-confidence motion in the government, except in a proven case of corruption or serious maladministration.
To the obvious disappointment of the Opposition who wanted to seize power as an unelected government, this agreement means stability will continue, financial certainty will also continue for both investors and Territory families, and we avoid a costly election that could well have been all about race politics.
It will also mean even more transparent government.
As the Member for Barkly I find it difficult to witness both the Country Liberals and the media using Indigenous issues as a political football and when the debate is based on rumour and innuendo devoid of the facts and touted by people who rarely visit Tennant Creek and the Barkly.
Real results will only ever be achieved through working issues out in a collective forum with honesty as the best policy.
And finally in regards to SIHIP, it is a five year Indigenous Housing program - the largest that the NT has ever seen - delivering new housing, rebuilds, upgrades and essential infrastructure for the most disadvantaged of our society.
I for one plan to stick around and see it through.