Legislative Council - Fifty-First Parliament, Third Session (51-3)
2008-11-27 Daily Xml

Contents

WOMEN'S EDUCATION PROGRAM

The Hon. M. PARNELL (15:25): I have a further supplementary question. Does the minister, as the Minister for the Status of Women, support the closure of women's education courses at Murray Bridge and Mount Barker?

The Hon. G.E. GAGO (Minister for State/Local Government Relations, Minister for the Status of Women, Minister for Consumer Affairs, Minister for Government Enterprises, Minister Assisting the Minister for Transport, Infrastructure and Energy) (15:25): The honourable member is going around in circles. I have responded and given my answer to the question. Obviously I am very supportive of all education for women; in fact, I am very supportive of any support provided to women, whether it is in their work or family life, their education, etc.—even self-defence. All those things are useful and helpful, and I support those things that assist women in their daily lives.

However, and as I said in my initial response, these are part of very difficult policy decisions that have to be made. Every public dollar is precious to us, and we have to make sure that we get the best value, in terms of services and support systems, for every single dollar that this government provides right across the community. As I have said, I have already provided an answer to the question.