Feb2013_DICKSON NEWS

From your Federal Member for Dickson

PETER DUTTON

 

2013 Election Year 

This coming year is sure to hold both successes and challenges.  With a Federal election looming it is time for decisions and direction to make sure our country heads down a positive path.  

The current Labor Government has shown their inability to perform, particularly in the area of managing our economy and protecting our borders, and that is why 2013 needs to be a year of change.  I wish all residents the very best for the coming year and, as always, if there is anything I can do to assist you please contact my office on 3205 9977. 

Ovarian Cancer Awareness Month 

Each February, Ovarian Cancer Australia runs a National Ovarian Cancer Awareness Month campaign to highlight the symptoms of Ovarian Cancer and to raise vital funds for their organisation.  

Current statistics show that, in Australia, three women are diagnosed with ovarian cancer everyday and nearly 75% of these cases are already in the advanced stages.  To reduce these statistics, Ovarian Cancer Australia will be hosting a range of different activities and events to help raise awareness and show support to those women touched by ovarian cancer and their families.  One of the major events is Teal Ribbon Day, the last Wednesday in February.  On this day Australians are invited to purchase and wear a Teal Ribbon, from Ovarian Cancer Australia or selected Chemmart Pharmacies and Brazilian Butterfly stores.

You may also like to organise an Afternoon ‘Teal’ with colleagues, friends or family, to raise funds and support programs, as well as educating people of the symptoms of ovarian cancer.  If you would like to purchase a teal ribbon, register an event or find out more information on Ovarian Cancer Awareness Month visit www.ovariancancer.net.au or call 1300 660 334. 

Double Jeopardy 

Most Queenslanders remember or know of the case of Deidre Kennedy who was a baby abducted and murdered about 40 years ago; and the subsequent fight for justice which has continued for many years.  Local residents have been very supportive in the past of our campaign to have the Double Jeopardy laws modernised.  Double Jeopardy is an important 800 year old legal principle which prevents an accused being charged more than once for the same crime.  However 800 years ago DNA wasn’t even an acronym and so the law needs to be updated so DNA technology advances can be acted upon.  Former British Labor PM Tony Blair and then NSW Premier Bob Carr both modernised the law making the changes retrospective, meaning they applied to old crimes.  Following our campaign, Anna Bligh made the change but mischievously it was only prospective, and Deidre’s Mum Faye Kennedy and I vowed to continue the fight for the law to be applied retrospectively.  We will be stepping up the campaign this year and will be asking for your continued support. 

Back to school 

As school and university resumes I would like to wish teachers, students and parents all the best for a successful year.  Education is a pivotal area of our community and part of my job allows me the opportunity to visit the fantastic schools within my electorate.  I would like to congratulate the schools in Dickson, their P&C and P&F Committees, Staff, and students on their dedication to education. 

I am looking forward to visiting the local schools in the coming year and I would like to remind everyone that my Bikes for Schools program for Primary Schools and iPods for High Schools program will continue this year.  If you would like information on these programs please contact my office on 3205 9977 or email peter.dutton.mp@aph.gov.au.