A little premature

There has been call for a public meeting with the Chief Minister.  I understand that David Buffett was willing to listen to those interested but that he would have very little to contribute at this stage.  The majority of the  community  understands that it is no longer a question of, if things will change, it is now a question of managing change.  The question of whether there will be  reform or not, has been answered - yes there will be, there is no other way.  Full stop.  The next stage is occurring; that is, a Cwlth officer assessment of our financial position and the passage of the Territories Law Reform Bill through both Houses of Parliament.  Until both of these things happen and our position is reported back to Minister Simon Crean, there is no going forward.  So, to have a public meeting this week is somewhat premature.  Ministers Buffett & Anderson meet Crean on November 25 - wish them well and listen when they return.  If you feel you would like to have input - do so.  Butchers paper or envelopes  welcome!

Matter of public importance

Last Wednesday was an interesting day in the House - that is, the Norfolk Island Parliament.  The Chief Minister David Buffett made an announcement that spells a new chapter for Norfolk.  The local government will now support the passage of the Territories Law Reform Bill in the Federal Parliament and Norfolk will participate in the mainland tax and social security systems.  Participation in federal funding, grants and programs will become 'as of right'.  This move by both governments will ensure that Norfolk Islanders will have a long term future, one where everyone will be treated equally, with other Australian citizens.  The TLR Bill doesn't remove self government, it reinforces our ability to determine our own management but we must lift our game and do better, and we can.  There is much work to be done in sorting out the details and then the finer details. Finance, taxation and economics - what fun!   Immigration, social welfare, land rates and seat belts are points of concern and I will attempt to address those, and others, as we move along.  Ministers will meet in Canberra on November 25 and there should be some detail to report on December 1.