Speaker's
Media Release

Statement from the Speaker

Standing Order 30 prohibits people other than Members of Parliament and the Legislative Assembly staff from being on the floor of the Parliamentary chamber.

Members of the public are welcome in the public galleries of the Legislative Assembly.

The parliament attempts to meet the demands of its Members wherever possible. In view of the recent birth of a child to the MP for Forrest Hill, a larger than normal office was allocated to her in Parliament, and an area close to the Chamber was made available for her to feed her baby.

Following the occurrence in the Chamber during the first week of Parliament I have held discussions with all political parties, to consider their views, on whether any changes should be made to Standing Order 30.

The unanimous view of the political parties is that the welfare of the child is the prime consideration. There are 88 Members of Parliament in the Chamber and all their views have to be taken into consideration in reaching a satisfactory outcome.

Bonding of mothers in infants whether bottle fed or breast fed is of significant importance to the development of the child. Many mothers therefore prefer a quiet environment to feed their children, which is why the room is set aside as close as possible to the Chamber for emergency feeding where necessary.

In relation to the Chamber it was the view of the political parties that such matters should be left to the discretion of the Speaker.

I have therefore decided that if necessary, an infant being breastfed can be brought onto the Chamber floor.

I will make a ruling in accordance with this decision when Parliament resumes next week.

I shall continue to work to improve the conditions for young families generally in the Parliamentary Precinct.

Judy Maddigan
Speaker.
12/3/03