Kathleen O'Meara (Labour)

I join with Senator Terry in expressing disappointment at the Minister of State's response, particularly in light of the unanimity in the House. The public service plays an important lead role in many areas and we expect it to comply with the highest possible standards across the board. There is an expectation that it would take a lead role in employing people with disabilities. Not enough is being done and section 47 contains far too many outs and backdoors. The term "In so far as practicable" is a great example. One may simply respond that a particular measure is not practicable. Another example is "unless there is good reason to the contrary for not doing so" and there are far too many occurrences of "may" instead of "shall". We are used to that kind of terminology.

I am disappointed because I believe the Minister of State is committed and wants to achieve change. He genuinely believes that matters will progress because of this Bill and I hope he is right. The framework provided for in the legislation is the foundation and it is not sufficiently solid in this case.