|
Dear CAP Member, What do you think of the state of ACT politics now that Chief Minister Jon Stanhope has passed the baton to Katie Gallagher? We thought it was a good time to reflect on what is wrong (and what is right) about the way Canberra is governed today. Consequently, we have decided to host an innovative and exciting one-day Conference to explore current issues in ACT governance from a wide variety of perspectives. An impressive list of speakers have agreed to address a range of topical ACT issues, including: the ACT-Federal Government relationship; maintaining the quality of ACT schools; the role of the ACT media; Community Health Centres; the role of Community Councils; the Revolve case, and, of course, government accountability. We have asked speakers, wherever possible, to incorporate concrete suggestions to improve the existing situation. The draft program includes such notable contributors as Jack Waterford (Editor-at-large, The Canberra Times), Professor Jenny Stewart (Chair, Woden Valley Community Council), Trevor Cobbold (Chair, Save Our Schools), Jenny Goldie (former president, Sustainable Population Australia), and our own founding president, Ric Hingee. Further speakers are being recruited as I write. An updated program will be distributed just before the Conference. The structure of the Conference is quite straightforward. After a keynote address on the subject of the ACT-Federal Government relationship, the day will be divided into three thematic sessions: Governance; Infrastructure, and Services. During each 90-minute session, three or four speakers will each deliver a 10~15 minute talk, followed by ample opportunity for questions and answers. The day will conclude with a lively general discussion on the way forward. The Conference will be held on Saturday 2 July from 9:20 to 4:00. The venue is Havelock House on Northbourne Avenue. A free lunch and light refreshments will be provided. Ample free parking is available near the venue, numerous bus routes pass the front door, and it is within walking distance of Civic. However, seating is strictly limited and since the Conference is open to members of the general public and media, reservations are strongly recommended. To reserve a seat (for the whole day or just a session) please contact the conference chair by email at:
CLOAKING
. We look forward to hearing from you shortly. Kind regards, Chris Braddick (Vice-President)
|
