Maurice Hayes (Independent)

I am sure that a statute drafted by Senator Norris would be infinitely more entertaining and probably a good deal more intelligible than most of the material that comes before us from the parliamentary counsel's office. We should encourage some improvement in the language used in drafting legislation, which has become enormously technical.

I am aware that we are making suggestions for debates. I am not sure if, at this stage, we are bidding for the Leader's attention for the time that might become available this afternoon. That might depend on which Minister is available. I do not have any difficulty with the suggestions that have been made, but it would be particularly appropriate to take up Senator O'Meara's suggestion that we have a debate on disability. The Special Olympics, particularly the opening ceremony, has captured the imagination of the country and it is important that we should build on this.

The profile of disability needs to be raised and the potential and the real contribution that disabled people can, and do, make to life and the economy can be recognised. As Senator Norris said yesterday, it need not be a question of bashing the Government in regard to cuts, etc. We could have a civilised debate about the role of people with disabilities and the support that can be given to them by society.