PAST ADOPTION PRACTICES

Mr GARDNER (Morialta) (16:49): In the brief time left in the adjournment I wanted to reflect briefly on the apology motion that was concluded at the end of government business this afternoon, and particularly thank the Premier, the Leader of the Opposition, the Minister for Education, the members for Bragg, Reynell, Waite, Florey and Light for the contributions they made.

This is a bipartisan apology that has been made in this house and in the Legislative Council. I note that the New South Wales and Victorian governments, and the Western Australia government that was there before us, will be joining with us in making these apologies to the victims of forced adoption practices that occurred over the 20^th century.

In commenting briefly, the response by many of those at the morning tea after the formal apology was moved—and, indeed, through correspondence before and after the apology—has been overwhelming. Many people were indeed touched. I want to particularly make note of one correspondent who got in touch with me to say that they had found confronting some words that I used in my contribution to that apology. As I did at the time, I want to apologise to them for them for that. I think it was a tremendous opportunity, which made many people feel a great deal better about their own situation—the fact that the state acknowledged that wrong was done to them and their family.

I think it is a salient reminder to all of us to be careful in our use of language. The things we say in this place are recorded for posterity and for all time. I think it does us all credit when we are thoughtful in what we say and careful in the way in which we express ourselves, and I hope that all members will continue to do so.

At 16:50 the house adjourned until Tuesday 18 September 2012 at 11:00.