Mr. Brennan:

I thank all those Senators who contributed to the debate and the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government, Deputy Roche, for his address. It was, as always, detailed.

Mr. Brennan:

The core challenge facing the Government parties is to ensure local policies are delivered well and consistently. I am pleased to note the Minister's commitment to do all in his power to deliver the water services programme on time and within budget. As with planning issues, this will require the support of members of local authorities. Senator Bannon should note that his party controls half the local councils. I hope the Progressive Democrats policy document, as summarised in the motion, is in tune with the views of some of the Senator's party colleagues who have in recent months raised the issues alluded to in the motion at local council meetings. I ask Senators to support the motion.