June2012_Dickson News

Federal Budget
The Federal Budget saw Labor asking to raise the debt limit from $250 billion to $300 billion.  The limit was zero when they came to government only 4 years ago.
The Government’s huge debt undermines its ability to fund the health system and other essential services.  The Government is still borrowing $100 million a day and until the cycle of debt and deficit is arrested, money is spent on interest payments rather than services.
One concerning budget measure is the Government’s promise to close down the Chronic Disease Dental Scheme.  Despite the Government’s promise to reduce public dental waiting lists, it seeks to close the only successful program in this area. The Government has admitted that it totally failed to deliver its proposed Commonwealth Dental Health Program, promised in 2008/09 budget.  Now it plans to negotiate a partnership with the states and territories.  This delay is worrying for people on dental health waiting lists. 
Dickson Crime Forum
On Tuesday, 1 May 2012, I hosted the Dickson Crime Forum with special guest, Michael Keenan, the Shadow Minister for Justice, Customs and Border Protection.  This gave locals an opportunity to voice their concerns about crime.  Mr Keenan highlighted the need to strengthen our borders, including through more cargo inspections to reduce the flow of guns and drugs to local communities.
Senior local police were in attendance and many residents commented on their respect for the difficult job of police and concerns about police being assaulted.  Residents were particularly concerned about light sentencing by courts after police had done the hard work to take criminals off the streets.  Sadly, less than half an hour after the forum at the Strathpine Community Centre, two Pine Rivers detectives were injured locally at Lawnton, when hit by a stolen car during an attempted arrest.  This event served to highlight local crime and the risks police face.
State MPs participated in the forum including; Seath Holswich MP (Pine Rivers), Trevor Ruthenberg MP (Kallangur), Reg Gulley MP (Murrumba) and Dale Shuttleworth MP (Ferny Grove).  I will stand with Campbell Newman and his local state team, in their fight against crime. Tougher sentencing will make a difference.  That difference won’t happen without the appointment of Magistrates and Judges who understand community demands for serious crime to result in seriously tough sentences.
Local Sport
Local sporting clubs and school sport programs play a vital role in building the fitness, resilience and social skills of our children.  I commend the many parents, coaches, teachers and other volunteers who support these opportunities for our children.  Many clubs would also find the going tough without the support of local businesses.  You only have to walk down the main streets of our suburbs and see the vacant commercial premises, to understand that many sectors of the economy are struggling, despite our nation’s overall position. Despite this our local businesses continue to support sporting clubs and charities.  Their commitment to our local community should be rewarded when practical by our purchase decisions.
Red Nose Day – 29 June
Red Nose Day this year reaches the milestone of 25 years. Red Nose Day is the major fundraiser for ‘SIDS and Kids’. Funds raised assist SIDS and Kids to provide valuable community services including nation-wide free bereavement services to families who have experienced the death of a baby or child during pregnancy, birth, infancy and childhood regardless of the cause.
The SIDS and Kids Safe Sleeping Program have saved the lives of an estimated 6,500 Australian babies by working with a wide range of stakeholders.  Further information can be found by visiting www.sidsandkids.org
For more information on Red Nose Day please visit www.rednoseday.com.au