Maurice Hayes (Independent)

I support Senator Brian Hayes in his request for a risk assessment regarding SARS and the Special Olympics. I hope this would also include a safety assessment. When I raised the issue last week, it was largely with the purpose of facilitating the Special Olympics and making sure that points of entry would be sufficiently staffed to enable the Games to take place. It would be a pity if we allowed a scare to develop. We are dealing with a small number of affected countries in south-east Asia. There are positive signs in that people have begun to identify the virus, which may well have peaked, and means of diagnosing it. I hope the Department of Health and Children will work closely with Special Olympics organisers to ensure that fears are dispelled and that people are reassured. The Special Olympics is important for this country and for all the athletes involved and it should go ahead without a hitch.