❓ Mr. Stephens questions the Minister for Regional Development about the Country Age Pension Fuel Card, seeking details on eligibility, regional definitions, excluded towns, card distribution timing, and safeguards. The Minister avoids direct answers, criticizes the previous government, and challenges the opposition's support for the program.
AnsweredQoN 272Legislative Assembly
QuestionView source ↗
COUNTRY AGE PENSION FUEL CARD
Before I ask my question, I thank you, Mr Speaker, for having in your gallery representatives of the Hedland Youth Leadership Council, who are finalists tomorrow night in the Youth Awards. There is an individual finalist, Ms Thierra Clanton, amongst them. My question to the Minister for Regional Development is in reference to the awarding of a $2.5 million tender to produce the regional fuel cards. (1) When will the minister provide details of who is eligible to receive a payment, how will he define a region for this program and which country towns will be excluded due to residents having access to publicly funded transport? (2) When will seniors receive their fuel cards? (3) What safeguards have been put in place to ensure that use of the fuel cards is restricted only to eligible seniors for the purchase of the fuel? Mr B.J. GRYLLS
Before I ask my question, I thank you, Mr Speaker, for having in your gallery representatives of the Hedland Youth Leadership Council, who are finalists tomorrow night in the Youth Awards. There is an individual finalist, Ms Thierra Clanton, amongst them. My question to the Minister for Regional Development is in reference to the awarding of a $2.5 million tender to produce the regional fuel cards. (1) When will the minister provide details of who is eligible to receive a payment, how will he define a region for this program and which country towns will be excluded due to residents having access to publicly funded transport? (2) When will seniors receive their fuel cards? (3) What safeguards have been put in place to ensure that use of the fuel cards is restricted only to eligible seniors for the purchase of the fuel? Mr B.J. GRYLLS
AnswerView source ↗
I thank the member for Pilbara for the question on a very important issue. (1)-(3) The implementation of this fuel card has led me to discuss with many people how simple it would have been for the previous government, which championed a very large amount of expenditure on the Perth-Mandurah railway. I think we now all see and support the operation of that train service, but how easy would it have been for the previous government to do something for the people who could not access the Mandurah railway? It would have been very simple for the previous government to show some recognition that taxpayer funds — Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Order, members for Mandurah, North West and Albany! Mr B.J. GRYLLS : Taxpayer funds drawn from right across Western Australia funded that railway, and I think it very appropriate that taxpayer funds provide a level of equity to age pensioners who live in regional areas so that they can also access what I would term a degree of public transport; that is, to allow them some money to enable them to travel to access health care services and the other important things they need. I know that there is an incredible amount of interest from members opposite about the country age pension fuel card . Mr E.S. Ripper : Why don’t you answer the question? Mr B.J. GRYLLS : I know I have on the record the member for Albany’s support. He is looking forward to seniors in the Albany electorate getting access to that card. Mr E.S. Ripper : You still have not answered the question. The SPEAKER : Order, Leader of the Opposition! Mr B.J. GRYLLS : I also know that Hon Adele Farina in the other house has given her support to the plan. I couch my response in terms of the fact that every day the Leader of the Opposition stands in this place and says that royalties for regions was unsustainable before the crisis and is unsustainable after the crisis. Mr E.S. Ripper : Answer the question! Answer the question! Mr B.J. GRYLLS : If it is unsustainable, would the Leader of the Opposition match the — Point of Order Mr M. McGOWAN : Mr Speaker, the question specifically asked who is eligible to receive this fuel card, when will seniors receive the fuel card, and what safeguards have been put in place. The minister has spoken for roughly four minutes and has not touched on a single one of those questions. I ask him to answer the question. The SPEAKER : Minister for Regional Development, please continue and make your point. Questions without Notice Resumed Mr B.J. GRYLLS : Thank you, Mr Speaker. Is the Leader of the Opposition prepared to support $20 million a year for a country age pension fuel card? Is the Leader of the Opposition prepared to support a country age pension fuel card? Come on! This is an opportunity to now support the card. I am looking the Leader of the Opposition right in the face: is he happy to support the country age pension fuel card? He is not! Several members interjected. Mr B.J. GRYLLS : The Leader of the Opposition is not prepared to support it! Country Labor members are out there supporting the card — The SPEAKER : Members, I stood earlier today to suggest that members may like to be a little more expedient answering questions because the more questions asked and the more answers provided, the more efficient we are as a Parliament. I urge the Minister for Regional Development to answer the member for Pilbara’s question, and, in doing so, I call the Leader of the Opposition for the first time. Mr B.J. GRYLLS : Thank you, Mr Speaker; I will draw my answer to a close. I find it quite ironic that country members opposite take the time to raise a question about the country age pension fuel card when the Leader of the Opposition is determined to scrap the very plan that will deliver the fuel card. I am very happy with the work done by my department to implement the country age pension fuel card process. A full announcement will be made within the month on eligibility and on how the card will be used, and on what terms it will be available. Members opposite will find that this card will provide much more service, safety and amenity to age pensioners in the country. They should be looking forward to its implementation as it is going to be a great initiative.
My question to the Minister for Regional Development is in reference to the awarding of a $2.5 million tender to produce the regional fuel cards. (1) When will the minister provide details of who is eligible to receive a payment, how will he define a region for this program and which country towns will be excluded due to residents having access to publicly funded transport? (2) When will seniors receive their fuel cards? (3) What safeguards have been put in place to ensure that use of the fuel cards is restricted only to eligible seniors for the purchase of the fuel? Mr B.J. GRYLLS replied: I thank the member for Pilbara for the question on a very important issue. (1)-(3) The implementation of this fuel card has led me to discuss with many people how simple it would have been for the previous government, which championed a very large amount of expenditure on the Perth-Mandurah railway. I think we now all see and support the operation of that train service, but how easy would it have been for the previous government to do something for the people who could not access the Mandurah railway? It would have been very simple for the previous government to show some recognition that taxpayer funds — Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Order, members for Mandurah, North West and Albany! Mr B.J. GRYLLS : Taxpayer funds drawn from right across Western Australia funded that railway, and I think it very appropriate that taxpayer funds provide a level of equity to age pensioners who live in regional areas so that they can also access what I would term a degree of public transport; that is, to allow them some money to enable them to travel to access health care services and the other important things they need. I know that there is an incredible amount of interest from members opposite about the country age pension fuel card . Mr E.S. Ripper : Why don’t you answer the question? Mr B.J. GRYLLS : I know I have on the record the member for Albany’s support. He is looking forward to seniors in the Albany electorate getting access to that card. Mr E.S. Ripper : You still have not answered the question. The SPEAKER : Order, Leader of the Opposition! Mr B.J. GRYLLS : I also know that Hon Adele Farina in the other house has given her support to the plan. I couch my response in terms of the fact that every day the Leader of the Opposition stands in this place and says that royalties for regions was unsustainable before the crisis and is unsustainable after the crisis. Mr E.S. Ripper : Answer the question! Answer the question! Mr B.J. GRYLLS : If it is unsustainable, would the Leader of the Opposition match the — Point of Order Mr M. McGOWAN : Mr Speaker, the question specifically asked who is eligible to receive this fuel card, when will seniors receive the fuel card, and what safeguards have been put in place. The minister has spoken for roughly four minutes and has not touched on a single one of those questions. I ask him to answer the question. The SPEAKER : Minister for Regional Development, please continue and make your point. Questions without Notice Resumed Mr B.J. GRYLLS : Thank you, Mr Speaker. Is the Leader of the Opposition prepared to support $20 million a year for a country age pension fuel card? Is the Leader of the Opposition prepared to support a country age pension fuel card? Come on! This is an opportunity to now support the card. I am looking the Leader of the Opposition right in the face: is he happy to support the country age pension fuel card? He is not! Several members interjected. Mr B.J. GRYLLS : The Leader of the Opposition is not prepared to support it! Country Labor members are out there supporting the card — The SPEAKER : Members, I stood earlier today to suggest that members may like to be a little more expedient answering questions because the more questions asked and the more answers provided, the more efficient we are as a Parliament. I urge the Minister for Regional Development to answer the member for Pilbara’s question, and, in doing so, I call the Leader of the Opposition for the first time. Mr B.J. GRYLLS : Thank you, Mr Speaker; I will draw my answer to a close. I find it quite ironic that country members opposite take the time to raise a question about the country age pension fuel card when the Leader of the Opposition is determined to scrap the very plan that will deliver the fuel card. I am very happy with the work done by my department to implement the country age pension fuel card process. A full announcement will be made within the month on eligibility and on how the card will be used, and on what terms it will be available. Members opposite will find that this card will provide much more service, safety and amenity to age pensioners in the country. They should be looking forward to its implementation as it is going to be a great initiative.
(1) When will the minister provide details of who is eligible to receive a payment, how will he define a region for this program and which country towns will be excluded due to residents having access to publicly funded transport? (2) When will seniors receive their fuel cards? (3) What safeguards have been put in place to ensure that use of the fuel cards is restricted only to eligible seniors for the purchase of the fuel? Mr B.J. GRYLLS replied: I thank the member for Pilbara for the question on a very important issue. (1)-(3) The implementation of this fuel card has led me to discuss with many people how simple it would have been for the previous government, which championed a very large amount of expenditure on the Perth-Mandurah railway. I think we now all see and support the operation of that train service, but how easy would it have been for the previous government to do something for the people who could not access the Mandurah railway? It would have been very simple for the previous government to show some recognition that taxpayer funds — Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Order, members for Mandurah, North West and Albany! Mr B.J. GRYLLS : Taxpayer funds drawn from right across Western Australia funded that railway, and I think it very appropriate that taxpayer funds provide a level of equity to age pensioners who live in regional areas so that they can also access what I would term a degree of public transport; that is, to allow them some money to enable them to travel to access health care services and the other important things they need. I know that there is an incredible amount of interest from members opposite about the country age pension fuel card . Mr E.S. Ripper : Why don’t you answer the question? Mr B.J. GRYLLS : I know I have on the record the member for Albany’s support. He is looking forward to seniors in the Albany electorate getting access to that card. Mr E.S. Ripper : You still have not answered the question. The SPEAKER : Order, Leader of the Opposition! Mr B.J. GRYLLS : I also know that Hon Adele Farina in the other house has given her support to the plan. I couch my response in terms of the fact that every day the Leader of the Opposition stands in this place and says that royalties for regions was unsustainable before the crisis and is unsustainable after the crisis. Mr E.S. Ripper : Answer the question! Answer the question! Mr B.J. GRYLLS : If it is unsustainable, would the Leader of the Opposition match the — Point of Order Mr M. McGOWAN : Mr Speaker, the question specifically asked who is eligible to receive this fuel card, when will seniors receive the fuel card, and what safeguards have been put in place. The minister has spoken for roughly four minutes and has not touched on a single one of those questions. I ask him to answer the question. The SPEAKER : Minister for Regional Development, please continue and make your point. Questions without Notice Resumed Mr B.J. GRYLLS : Thank you, Mr Speaker. Is the Leader of the Opposition prepared to support $20 million a year for a country age pension fuel card? Is the Leader of the Opposition prepared to support a country age pension fuel card? Come on! This is an opportunity to now support the card. I am looking the Leader of the Opposition right in the face: is he happy to support the country age pension fuel card? He is not! Several members interjected. Mr B.J. GRYLLS : The Leader of the Opposition is not prepared to support it! Country Labor members are out there supporting the card — The SPEAKER : Members, I stood earlier today to suggest that members may like to be a little more expedient answering questions because the more questions asked and the more answers provided, the more efficient we are as a Parliament. I urge the Minister for Regional Development to answer the member for Pilbara’s question, and, in doing so, I call the Leader of the Opposition for the first time. Mr B.J. GRYLLS : Thank you, Mr Speaker; I will draw my answer to a close. I find it quite ironic that country members opposite take the time to raise a question about the country age pension fuel card when the Leader of the Opposition is determined to scrap the very plan that will deliver the fuel card. I am very happy with the work done by my department to implement the country age pension fuel card process. A full announcement will be made within the month on eligibility and on how the card will be used, and on what terms it will be available. Members opposite will find that this card will provide much more service, safety and amenity to age pensioners in the country. They should be looking forward to its implementation as it is going to be a great initiative.
(2) When will seniors receive their fuel cards? (3) What safeguards have been put in place to ensure that use of the fuel cards is restricted only to eligible seniors for the purchase of the fuel? Mr B.J. GRYLLS replied: I thank the member for Pilbara for the question on a very important issue. (1)-(3) The implementation of this fuel card has led me to discuss with many people how simple it would have been for the previous government, which championed a very large amount of expenditure on the Perth-Mandurah railway. I think we now all see and support the operation of that train service, but how easy would it have been for the previous government to do something for the people who could not access the Mandurah railway? It would have been very simple for the previous government to show some recognition that taxpayer funds — Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Order, members for Mandurah, North West and Albany! Mr B.J. GRYLLS : Taxpayer funds drawn from right across Western Australia funded that railway, and I think it very appropriate that taxpayer funds provide a level of equity to age pensioners who live in regional areas so that they can also access what I would term a degree of public transport; that is, to allow them some money to enable them to travel to access health care services and the other important things they need. I know that there is an incredible amount of interest from members opposite about the country age pension fuel card . Mr E.S. Ripper : Why don’t you answer the question? Mr B.J. GRYLLS : I know I have on the record the member for Albany’s support. He is looking forward to seniors in the Albany electorate getting access to that card. Mr E.S. Ripper : You still have not answered the question. The SPEAKER : Order, Leader of the Opposition! Mr B.J. GRYLLS : I also know that Hon Adele Farina in the other house has given her support to the plan. I couch my response in terms of the fact that every day the Leader of the Opposition stands in this place and says that royalties for regions was unsustainable before the crisis and is unsustainable after the crisis. Mr E.S. Ripper : Answer the question! Answer the question! Mr B.J. GRYLLS : If it is unsustainable, would the Leader of the Opposition match the — Point of Order Mr M. McGOWAN : Mr Speaker, the question specifically asked who is eligible to receive this fuel card, when will seniors receive the fuel card, and what safeguards have been put in place. The minister has spoken for roughly four minutes and has not touched on a single one of those questions. I ask him to answer the question. The SPEAKER : Minister for Regional Development, please continue and make your point. Questions without Notice Resumed Mr B.J. GRYLLS : Thank you, Mr Speaker. Is the Leader of the Opposition prepared to support $20 million a year for a country age pension fuel card? Is the Leader of the Opposition prepared to support a country age pension fuel card? Come on! This is an opportunity to now support the card. I am looking the Leader of the Opposition right in the face: is he happy to support the country age pension fuel card? He is not! Several members interjected. Mr B.J. GRYLLS : The Leader of the Opposition is not prepared to support it! Country Labor members are out there supporting the card — The SPEAKER : Members, I stood earlier today to suggest that members may like to be a little more expedient answering questions because the more questions asked and the more answers provided, the more efficient we are as a Parliament. I urge the Minister for Regional Development to answer the member for Pilbara’s question, and, in doing so, I call the Leader of the Opposition for the first time. Mr B.J. GRYLLS : Thank you, Mr Speaker; I will draw my answer to a close. I find it quite ironic that country members opposite take the time to raise a question about the country age pension fuel card when the Leader of the Opposition is determined to scrap the very plan that will deliver the fuel card. I am very happy with the work done by my department to implement the country age pension fuel card process. A full announcement will be made within the month on eligibility and on how the card will be used, and on what terms it will be available. Members opposite will find that this card will provide much more service, safety and amenity to age pensioners in the country. They should be looking forward to its implementation as it is going to be a great initiative.
(3) What safeguards have been put in place to ensure that use of the fuel cards is restricted only to eligible seniors for the purchase of the fuel? Mr B.J. GRYLLS replied: I thank the member for Pilbara for the question on a very important issue. (1)-(3) The implementation of this fuel card has led me to discuss with many people how simple it would have been for the previous government, which championed a very large amount of expenditure on the Perth-Mandurah railway. I think we now all see and support the operation of that train service, but how easy would it have been for the previous government to do something for the people who could not access the Mandurah railway? It would have been very simple for the previous government to show some recognition that taxpayer funds — Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Order, members for Mandurah, North West and Albany! Mr B.J. GRYLLS : Taxpayer funds drawn from right across Western Australia funded that railway, and I think it very appropriate that taxpayer funds provide a level of equity to age pensioners who live in regional areas so that they can also access what I would term a degree of public transport; that is, to allow them some money to enable them to travel to access health care services and the other important things they need. I know that there is an incredible amount of interest from members opposite about the country age pension fuel card . Mr E.S. Ripper : Why don’t you answer the question? Mr B.J. GRYLLS : I know I have on the record the member for Albany’s support. He is looking forward to seniors in the Albany electorate getting access to that card. Mr E.S. Ripper : You still have not answered the question. The SPEAKER : Order, Leader of the Opposition! Mr B.J. GRYLLS : I also know that Hon Adele Farina in the other house has given her support to the plan. I couch my response in terms of the fact that every day the Leader of the Opposition stands in this place and says that royalties for regions was unsustainable before the crisis and is unsustainable after the crisis. Mr E.S. Ripper : Answer the question! Answer the question! Mr B.J. GRYLLS : If it is unsustainable, would the Leader of the Opposition match the — Point of Order Mr M. McGOWAN : Mr Speaker, the question specifically asked who is eligible to receive this fuel card, when will seniors receive the fuel card, and what safeguards have been put in place. The minister has spoken for roughly four minutes and has not touched on a single one of those questions. I ask him to answer the question. The SPEAKER : Minister for Regional Development, please continue and make your point. Questions without Notice Resumed Mr B.J. GRYLLS : Thank you, Mr Speaker. Is the Leader of the Opposition prepared to support $20 million a year for a country age pension fuel card? Is the Leader of the Opposition prepared to support a country age pension fuel card? Come on! This is an opportunity to now support the card. I am looking the Leader of the Opposition right in the face: is he happy to support the country age pension fuel card? He is not! Several members interjected. Mr B.J. GRYLLS : The Leader of the Opposition is not prepared to support it! Country Labor members are out there supporting the card — The SPEAKER : Members, I stood earlier today to suggest that members may like to be a little more expedient answering questions because the more questions asked and the more answers provided, the more efficient we are as a Parliament. I urge the Minister for Regional Development to answer the member for Pilbara’s question, and, in doing so, I call the Leader of the Opposition for the first time. Mr B.J. GRYLLS : Thank you, Mr Speaker; I will draw my answer to a close. I find it quite ironic that country members opposite take the time to raise a question about the country age pension fuel card when the Leader of the Opposition is determined to scrap the very plan that will deliver the fuel card. I am very happy with the work done by my department to implement the country age pension fuel card process. A full announcement will be made within the month on eligibility and on how the card will be used, and on what terms it will be available. Members opposite will find that this card will provide much more service, safety and amenity to age pensioners in the country. They should be looking forward to its implementation as it is going to be a great initiative.
Mr B.J. GRYLLS replied: I thank the member for Pilbara for the question on a very important issue. (1)-(3) The implementation of this fuel card has led me to discuss with many people how simple it would have been for the previous government, which championed a very large amount of expenditure on the Perth-Mandurah railway. I think we now all see and support the operation of that train service, but how easy would it have been for the previous government to do something for the people who could not access the Mandurah railway? It would have been very simple for the previous government to show some recognition that taxpayer funds — Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Order, members for Mandurah, North West and Albany! Mr B.J. GRYLLS : Taxpayer funds drawn from right across Western Australia funded that railway, and I think it very appropriate that taxpayer funds provide a level of equity to age pensioners who live in regional areas so that they can also access what I would term a degree of public transport; that is, to allow them some money to enable them to travel to access health care services and the other important things they need. I know that there is an incredible amount of interest from members opposite about the country age pension fuel card . Mr E.S. Ripper : Why don’t you answer the question? Mr B.J. GRYLLS : I know I have on the record the member for Albany’s support. He is looking forward to seniors in the Albany electorate getting access to that card. Mr E.S. Ripper : You still have not answered the question. The SPEAKER : Order, Leader of the Opposition! Mr B.J. GRYLLS : I also know that Hon Adele Farina in the other house has given her support to the plan. I couch my response in terms of the fact that every day the Leader of the Opposition stands in this place and says that royalties for regions was unsustainable before the crisis and is unsustainable after the crisis. Mr E.S. Ripper : Answer the question! Answer the question! Mr B.J. GRYLLS : If it is unsustainable, would the Leader of the Opposition match the — Point of Order Mr M. McGOWAN : Mr Speaker, the question specifically asked who is eligible to receive this fuel card, when will seniors receive the fuel card, and what safeguards have been put in place. The minister has spoken for roughly four minutes and has not touched on a single one of those questions. I ask him to answer the question. The SPEAKER : Minister for Regional Development, please continue and make your point. Questions without Notice Resumed Mr B.J. GRYLLS : Thank you, Mr Speaker. Is the Leader of the Opposition prepared to support $20 million a year for a country age pension fuel card? Is the Leader of the Opposition prepared to support a country age pension fuel card? Come on! This is an opportunity to now support the card. I am looking the Leader of the Opposition right in the face: is he happy to support the country age pension fuel card? He is not! Several members interjected. Mr B.J. GRYLLS : The Leader of the Opposition is not prepared to support it! Country Labor members are out there supporting the card — The SPEAKER : Members, I stood earlier today to suggest that members may like to be a little more expedient answering questions because the more questions asked and the more answers provided, the more efficient we are as a Parliament. I urge the Minister for Regional Development to answer the member for Pilbara’s question, and, in doing so, I call the Leader of the Opposition for the first time. Mr B.J. GRYLLS : Thank you, Mr Speaker; I will draw my answer to a close. I find it quite ironic that country members opposite take the time to raise a question about the country age pension fuel card when the Leader of the Opposition is determined to scrap the very plan that will deliver the fuel card. I am very happy with the work done by my department to implement the country age pension fuel card process. A full announcement will be made within the month on eligibility and on how the card will be used, and on what terms it will be available. Members opposite will find that this card will provide much more service, safety and amenity to age pensioners in the country. They should be looking forward to its implementation as it is going to be a great initiative.
I thank the member for Pilbara for the question on a very important issue. (1)-(3) The implementation of this fuel card has led me to discuss with many people how simple it would have been for the previous government, which championed a very large amount of expenditure on the Perth-Mandurah railway. I think we now all see and support the operation of that train service, but how easy would it have been for the previous government to do something for the people who could not access the Mandurah railway? It would have been very simple for the previous government to show some recognition that taxpayer funds — Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Order, members for Mandurah, North West and Albany! Mr B.J. GRYLLS : Taxpayer funds drawn from right across Western Australia funded that railway, and I think it very appropriate that taxpayer funds provide a level of equity to age pensioners who live in regional areas so that they can also access what I would term a degree of public transport; that is, to allow them some money to enable them to travel to access health care services and the other important things they need. I know that there is an incredible amount of interest from members opposite about the country age pension fuel card . Mr E.S. Ripper : Why don’t you answer the question? Mr B.J. GRYLLS : I know I have on the record the member for Albany’s support. He is looking forward to seniors in the Albany electorate getting access to that card. Mr E.S. Ripper : You still have not answered the question. The SPEAKER : Order, Leader of the Opposition! Mr B.J. GRYLLS : I also know that Hon Adele Farina in the other house has given her support to the plan. I couch my response in terms of the fact that every day the Leader of the Opposition stands in this place and says that royalties for regions was unsustainable before the crisis and is unsustainable after the crisis. Mr E.S. Ripper : Answer the question! Answer the question! Mr B.J. GRYLLS : If it is unsustainable, would the Leader of the Opposition match the — Point of Order Mr M. McGOWAN : Mr Speaker, the question specifically asked who is eligible to receive this fuel card, when will seniors receive the fuel card, and what safeguards have been put in place. The minister has spoken for roughly four minutes and has not touched on a single one of those questions. I ask him to answer the question. The SPEAKER : Minister for Regional Development, please continue and make your point. Questions without Notice Resumed Mr B.J. GRYLLS : Thank you, Mr Speaker. Is the Leader of the Opposition prepared to support $20 million a year for a country age pension fuel card? Is the Leader of the Opposition prepared to support a country age pension fuel card? Come on! This is an opportunity to now support the card. I am looking the Leader of the Opposition right in the face: is he happy to support the country age pension fuel card? He is not! Several members interjected. Mr B.J. GRYLLS : The Leader of the Opposition is not prepared to support it! Country Labor members are out there supporting the card — The SPEAKER : Members, I stood earlier today to suggest that members may like to be a little more expedient answering questions because the more questions asked and the more answers provided, the more efficient we are as a Parliament. I urge the Minister for Regional Development to answer the member for Pilbara’s question, and, in doing so, I call the Leader of the Opposition for the first time. Mr B.J. GRYLLS : Thank you, Mr Speaker; I will draw my answer to a close. I find it quite ironic that country members opposite take the time to raise a question about the country age pension fuel card when the Leader of the Opposition is determined to scrap the very plan that will deliver the fuel card. I am very happy with the work done by my department to implement the country age pension fuel card process. A full announcement will be made within the month on eligibility and on how the card will be used, and on what terms it will be available. Members opposite will find that this card will provide much more service, safety and amenity to age pensioners in the country. They should be looking forward to its implementation as it is going to be a great initiative.
(1)-(3) The implementation of this fuel card has led me to discuss with many people how simple it would have been for the previous government, which championed a very large amount of expenditure on the Perth-Mandurah railway. I think we now all see and support the operation of that train service, but how easy would it have been for the previous government to do something for the people who could not access the Mandurah railway? It would have been very simple for the previous government to show some recognition that taxpayer funds — Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Order, members for Mandurah, North West and Albany! Mr B.J. GRYLLS : Taxpayer funds drawn from right across Western Australia funded that railway, and I think it very appropriate that taxpayer funds provide a level of equity to age pensioners who live in regional areas so that they can also access what I would term a degree of public transport; that is, to allow them some money to enable them to travel to access health care services and the other important things they need. I know that there is an incredible amount of interest from members opposite about the country age pension fuel card . Mr E.S. Ripper : Why don’t you answer the question? Mr B.J. GRYLLS : I know I have on the record the member for Albany’s support. He is looking forward to seniors in the Albany electorate getting access to that card. Mr E.S. Ripper : You still have not answered the question. The SPEAKER : Order, Leader of the Opposition! Mr B.J. GRYLLS : I also know that Hon Adele Farina in the other house has given her support to the plan. I couch my response in terms of the fact that every day the Leader of the Opposition stands in this place and says that royalties for regions was unsustainable before the crisis and is unsustainable after the crisis. Mr E.S. Ripper : Answer the question! Answer the question! Mr B.J. GRYLLS : If it is unsustainable, would the Leader of the Opposition match the — Point of Order Mr M. McGOWAN : Mr Speaker, the question specifically asked who is eligible to receive this fuel card, when will seniors receive the fuel card, and what safeguards have been put in place. The minister has spoken for roughly four minutes and has not touched on a single one of those questions. I ask him to answer the question. The SPEAKER : Minister for Regional Development, please continue and make your point. Questions without Notice Resumed Mr B.J. GRYLLS : Thank you, Mr Speaker. Is the Leader of the Opposition prepared to support $20 million a year for a country age pension fuel card? Is the Leader of the Opposition prepared to support a country age pension fuel card? Come on! This is an opportunity to now support the card. I am looking the Leader of the Opposition right in the face: is he happy to support the country age pension fuel card? He is not! Several members interjected. Mr B.J. GRYLLS : The Leader of the Opposition is not prepared to support it! Country Labor members are out there supporting the card — The SPEAKER : Members, I stood earlier today to suggest that members may like to be a little more expedient answering questions because the more questions asked and the more answers provided, the more efficient we are as a Parliament. I urge the Minister for Regional Development to answer the member for Pilbara’s question, and, in doing so, I call the Leader of the Opposition for the first time. Mr B.J. GRYLLS : Thank you, Mr Speaker; I will draw my answer to a close. I find it quite ironic that country members opposite take the time to raise a question about the country age pension fuel card when the Leader of the Opposition is determined to scrap the very plan that will deliver the fuel card. I am very happy with the work done by my department to implement the country age pension fuel card process. A full announcement will be made within the month on eligibility and on how the card will be used, and on what terms it will be available. Members opposite will find that this card will provide much more service, safety and amenity to age pensioners in the country. They should be looking forward to its implementation as it is going to be a great initiative.
Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Order, members for Mandurah, North West and Albany! Mr B.J. GRYLLS : Taxpayer funds drawn from right across Western Australia funded that railway, and I think it very appropriate that taxpayer funds provide a level of equity to age pensioners who live in regional areas so that they can also access what I would term a degree of public transport; that is, to allow them some money to enable them to travel to access health care services and the other important things they need. I know that there is an incredible amount of interest from members opposite about the country age pension fuel card . Mr E.S. Ripper : Why don’t you answer the question? Mr B.J. GRYLLS : I know I have on the record the member for Albany’s support. He is looking forward to seniors in the Albany electorate getting access to that card. Mr E.S. Ripper : You still have not answered the question. The SPEAKER : Order, Leader of the Opposition! Mr B.J. GRYLLS : I also know that Hon Adele Farina in the other house has given her support to the plan. I couch my response in terms of the fact that every day the Leader of the Opposition stands in this place and says that royalties for regions was unsustainable before the crisis and is unsustainable after the crisis. Mr E.S. Ripper : Answer the question! Answer the question! Mr B.J. GRYLLS : If it is unsustainable, would the Leader of the Opposition match the — Point of Order Mr M. McGOWAN : Mr Speaker, the question specifically asked who is eligible to receive this fuel card, when will seniors receive the fuel card, and what safeguards have been put in place. The minister has spoken for roughly four minutes and has not touched on a single one of those questions. I ask him to answer the question. The SPEAKER : Minister for Regional Development, please continue and make your point. Questions without Notice Resumed Mr B.J. GRYLLS : Thank you, Mr Speaker. Is the Leader of the Opposition prepared to support $20 million a year for a country age pension fuel card? Is the Leader of the Opposition prepared to support a country age pension fuel card? Come on! This is an opportunity to now support the card. I am looking the Leader of the Opposition right in the face: is he happy to support the country age pension fuel card? He is not! Several members interjected. Mr B.J. GRYLLS : The Leader of the Opposition is not prepared to support it! Country Labor members are out there supporting the card — The SPEAKER : Members, I stood earlier today to suggest that members may like to be a little more expedient answering questions because the more questions asked and the more answers provided, the more efficient we are as a Parliament. I urge the Minister for Regional Development to answer the member for Pilbara’s question, and, in doing so, I call the Leader of the Opposition for the first time. Mr B.J. GRYLLS : Thank you, Mr Speaker; I will draw my answer to a close. I find it quite ironic that country members opposite take the time to raise a question about the country age pension fuel card when the Leader of the Opposition is determined to scrap the very plan that will deliver the fuel card. I am very happy with the work done by my department to implement the country age pension fuel card process. A full announcement will be made within the month on eligibility and on how the card will be used, and on what terms it will be available. Members opposite will find that this card will provide much more service, safety and amenity to age pensioners in the country. They should be looking forward to its implementation as it is going to be a great initiative.
The SPEAKER : Order, members for Mandurah, North West and Albany! Mr B.J. GRYLLS : Taxpayer funds drawn from right across Western Australia funded that railway, and I think it very appropriate that taxpayer funds provide a level of equity to age pensioners who live in regional areas so that they can also access what I would term a degree of public transport; that is, to allow them some money to enable them to travel to access health care services and the other important things they need. I know that there is an incredible amount of interest from members opposite about the country age pension fuel card . Mr E.S. Ripper : Why don’t you answer the question? Mr B.J. GRYLLS : I know I have on the record the member for Albany’s support. He is looking forward to seniors in the Albany electorate getting access to that card. Mr E.S. Ripper : You still have not answered the question. The SPEAKER : Order, Leader of the Opposition! Mr B.J. GRYLLS : I also know that Hon Adele Farina in the other house has given her support to the plan. I couch my response in terms of the fact that every day the Leader of the Opposition stands in this place and says that royalties for regions was unsustainable before the crisis and is unsustainable after the crisis. Mr E.S. Ripper : Answer the question! Answer the question! Mr B.J. GRYLLS : If it is unsustainable, would the Leader of the Opposition match the — Point of Order Mr M. McGOWAN : Mr Speaker, the question specifically asked who is eligible to receive this fuel card, when will seniors receive the fuel card, and what safeguards have been put in place. The minister has spoken for roughly four minutes and has not touched on a single one of those questions. I ask him to answer the question. The SPEAKER : Minister for Regional Development, please continue and make your point. Questions without Notice Resumed Mr B.J. GRYLLS : Thank you, Mr Speaker. Is the Leader of the Opposition prepared to support $20 million a year for a country age pension fuel card? Is the Leader of the Opposition prepared to support a country age pension fuel card? Come on! This is an opportunity to now support the card. I am looking the Leader of the Opposition right in the face: is he happy to support the country age pension fuel card? He is not! Several members interjected. Mr B.J. GRYLLS : The Leader of the Opposition is not prepared to support it! Country Labor members are out there supporting the card — The SPEAKER : Members, I stood earlier today to suggest that members may like to be a little more expedient answering questions because the more questions asked and the more answers provided, the more efficient we are as a Parliament. I urge the Minister for Regional Development to answer the member for Pilbara’s question, and, in doing so, I call the Leader of the Opposition for the first time. Mr B.J. GRYLLS : Thank you, Mr Speaker; I will draw my answer to a close. I find it quite ironic that country members opposite take the time to raise a question about the country age pension fuel card when the Leader of the Opposition is determined to scrap the very plan that will deliver the fuel card. I am very happy with the work done by my department to implement the country age pension fuel card process. A full announcement will be made within the month on eligibility and on how the card will be used, and on what terms it will be available. Members opposite will find that this card will provide much more service, safety and amenity to age pensioners in the country. They should be looking forward to its implementation as it is going to be a great initiative.
Mr B.J. GRYLLS : Taxpayer funds drawn from right across Western Australia funded that railway, and I think it very appropriate that taxpayer funds provide a level of equity to age pensioners who live in regional areas so that they can also access what I would term a degree of public transport; that is, to allow them some money to enable them to travel to access health care services and the other important things they need. I know that there is an incredible amount of interest from members opposite about the country age pension fuel card . Mr E.S. Ripper : Why don’t you answer the question? Mr B.J. GRYLLS : I know I have on the record the member for Albany’s support. He is looking forward to seniors in the Albany electorate getting access to that card. Mr E.S. Ripper : You still have not answered the question. The SPEAKER : Order, Leader of the Opposition! Mr B.J. GRYLLS : I also know that Hon Adele Farina in the other house has given her support to the plan. I couch my response in terms of the fact that every day the Leader of the Opposition stands in this place and says that royalties for regions was unsustainable before the crisis and is unsustainable after the crisis. Mr E.S. Ripper : Answer the question! Answer the question! Mr B.J. GRYLLS : If it is unsustainable, would the Leader of the Opposition match the — Point of Order Mr M. McGOWAN : Mr Speaker, the question specifically asked who is eligible to receive this fuel card, when will seniors receive the fuel card, and what safeguards have been put in place. The minister has spoken for roughly four minutes and has not touched on a single one of those questions. I ask him to answer the question. The SPEAKER : Minister for Regional Development, please continue and make your point. Questions without Notice Resumed Mr B.J. GRYLLS : Thank you, Mr Speaker. Is the Leader of the Opposition prepared to support $20 million a year for a country age pension fuel card? Is the Leader of the Opposition prepared to support a country age pension fuel card? Come on! This is an opportunity to now support the card. I am looking the Leader of the Opposition right in the face: is he happy to support the country age pension fuel card? He is not! Several members interjected. Mr B.J. GRYLLS : The Leader of the Opposition is not prepared to support it! Country Labor members are out there supporting the card — The SPEAKER : Members, I stood earlier today to suggest that members may like to be a little more expedient answering questions because the more questions asked and the more answers provided, the more efficient we are as a Parliament. I urge the Minister for Regional Development to answer the member for Pilbara’s question, and, in doing so, I call the Leader of the Opposition for the first time. Mr B.J. GRYLLS : Thank you, Mr Speaker; I will draw my answer to a close. I find it quite ironic that country members opposite take the time to raise a question about the country age pension fuel card when the Leader of the Opposition is determined to scrap the very plan that will deliver the fuel card. I am very happy with the work done by my department to implement the country age pension fuel card process. A full announcement will be made within the month on eligibility and on how the card will be used, and on what terms it will be available. Members opposite will find that this card will provide much more service, safety and amenity to age pensioners in the country. They should be looking forward to its implementation as it is going to be a great initiative.
I know that there is an incredible amount of interest from members opposite about the country age pension fuel card . Mr E.S. Ripper : Why don’t you answer the question? Mr B.J. GRYLLS : I know I have on the record the member for Albany’s support. He is looking forward to seniors in the Albany electorate getting access to that card. Mr E.S. Ripper : You still have not answered the question. The SPEAKER : Order, Leader of the Opposition! Mr B.J. GRYLLS : I also know that Hon Adele Farina in the other house has given her support to the plan. I couch my response in terms of the fact that every day the Leader of the Opposition stands in this place and says that royalties for regions was unsustainable before the crisis and is unsustainable after the crisis. Mr E.S. Ripper : Answer the question! Answer the question! Mr B.J. GRYLLS : If it is unsustainable, would the Leader of the Opposition match the — Point of Order Mr M. McGOWAN : Mr Speaker, the question specifically asked who is eligible to receive this fuel card, when will seniors receive the fuel card, and what safeguards have been put in place. The minister has spoken for roughly four minutes and has not touched on a single one of those questions. I ask him to answer the question. The SPEAKER : Minister for Regional Development, please continue and make your point. Questions without Notice Resumed Mr B.J. GRYLLS : Thank you, Mr Speaker. Is the Leader of the Opposition prepared to support $20 million a year for a country age pension fuel card? Is the Leader of the Opposition prepared to support a country age pension fuel card? Come on! This is an opportunity to now support the card. I am looking the Leader of the Opposition right in the face: is he happy to support the country age pension fuel card? He is not! Several members interjected. Mr B.J. GRYLLS : The Leader of the Opposition is not prepared to support it! Country Labor members are out there supporting the card — The SPEAKER : Members, I stood earlier today to suggest that members may like to be a little more expedient answering questions because the more questions asked and the more answers provided, the more efficient we are as a Parliament. I urge the Minister for Regional Development to answer the member for Pilbara’s question, and, in doing so, I call the Leader of the Opposition for the first time. Mr B.J. GRYLLS : Thank you, Mr Speaker; I will draw my answer to a close. I find it quite ironic that country members opposite take the time to raise a question about the country age pension fuel card when the Leader of the Opposition is determined to scrap the very plan that will deliver the fuel card. I am very happy with the work done by my department to implement the country age pension fuel card process. A full announcement will be made within the month on eligibility and on how the card will be used, and on what terms it will be available. Members opposite will find that this card will provide much more service, safety and amenity to age pensioners in the country. They should be looking forward to its implementation as it is going to be a great initiative.
Mr E.S. Ripper : Why don’t you answer the question? Mr B.J. GRYLLS : I know I have on the record the member for Albany’s support. He is looking forward to seniors in the Albany electorate getting access to that card. Mr E.S. Ripper : You still have not answered the question. The SPEAKER : Order, Leader of the Opposition! Mr B.J. GRYLLS : I also know that Hon Adele Farina in the other house has given her support to the plan. I couch my response in terms of the fact that every day the Leader of the Opposition stands in this place and says that royalties for regions was unsustainable before the crisis and is unsustainable after the crisis. Mr E.S. Ripper : Answer the question! Answer the question! Mr B.J. GRYLLS : If it is unsustainable, would the Leader of the Opposition match the — Point of Order Mr M. McGOWAN : Mr Speaker, the question specifically asked who is eligible to receive this fuel card, when will seniors receive the fuel card, and what safeguards have been put in place. The minister has spoken for roughly four minutes and has not touched on a single one of those questions. I ask him to answer the question. The SPEAKER : Minister for Regional Development, please continue and make your point. Questions without Notice Resumed Mr B.J. GRYLLS : Thank you, Mr Speaker. Is the Leader of the Opposition prepared to support $20 million a year for a country age pension fuel card? Is the Leader of the Opposition prepared to support a country age pension fuel card? Come on! This is an opportunity to now support the card. I am looking the Leader of the Opposition right in the face: is he happy to support the country age pension fuel card? He is not! Several members interjected. Mr B.J. GRYLLS : The Leader of the Opposition is not prepared to support it! Country Labor members are out there supporting the card — The SPEAKER : Members, I stood earlier today to suggest that members may like to be a little more expedient answering questions because the more questions asked and the more answers provided, the more efficient we are as a Parliament. I urge the Minister for Regional Development to answer the member for Pilbara’s question, and, in doing so, I call the Leader of the Opposition for the first time. Mr B.J. GRYLLS : Thank you, Mr Speaker; I will draw my answer to a close. I find it quite ironic that country members opposite take the time to raise a question about the country age pension fuel card when the Leader of the Opposition is determined to scrap the very plan that will deliver the fuel card. I am very happy with the work done by my department to implement the country age pension fuel card process. A full announcement will be made within the month on eligibility and on how the card will be used, and on what terms it will be available. Members opposite will find that this card will provide much more service, safety and amenity to age pensioners in the country. They should be looking forward to its implementation as it is going to be a great initiative.
Mr B.J. GRYLLS : I know I have on the record the member for Albany’s support. He is looking forward to seniors in the Albany electorate getting access to that card. Mr E.S. Ripper : You still have not answered the question. The SPEAKER : Order, Leader of the Opposition! Mr B.J. GRYLLS : I also know that Hon Adele Farina in the other house has given her support to the plan. I couch my response in terms of the fact that every day the Leader of the Opposition stands in this place and says that royalties for regions was unsustainable before the crisis and is unsustainable after the crisis. Mr E.S. Ripper : Answer the question! Answer the question! Mr B.J. GRYLLS : If it is unsustainable, would the Leader of the Opposition match the — Point of Order Mr M. McGOWAN : Mr Speaker, the question specifically asked who is eligible to receive this fuel card, when will seniors receive the fuel card, and what safeguards have been put in place. The minister has spoken for roughly four minutes and has not touched on a single one of those questions. I ask him to answer the question. The SPEAKER : Minister for Regional Development, please continue and make your point. Questions without Notice Resumed Mr B.J. GRYLLS : Thank you, Mr Speaker. Is the Leader of the Opposition prepared to support $20 million a year for a country age pension fuel card? Is the Leader of the Opposition prepared to support a country age pension fuel card? Come on! This is an opportunity to now support the card. I am looking the Leader of the Opposition right in the face: is he happy to support the country age pension fuel card? He is not! Several members interjected. Mr B.J. GRYLLS : The Leader of the Opposition is not prepared to support it! Country Labor members are out there supporting the card — The SPEAKER : Members, I stood earlier today to suggest that members may like to be a little more expedient answering questions because the more questions asked and the more answers provided, the more efficient we are as a Parliament. I urge the Minister for Regional Development to answer the member for Pilbara’s question, and, in doing so, I call the Leader of the Opposition for the first time. Mr B.J. GRYLLS : Thank you, Mr Speaker; I will draw my answer to a close. I find it quite ironic that country members opposite take the time to raise a question about the country age pension fuel card when the Leader of the Opposition is determined to scrap the very plan that will deliver the fuel card. I am very happy with the work done by my department to implement the country age pension fuel card process. A full announcement will be made within the month on eligibility and on how the card will be used, and on what terms it will be available. Members opposite will find that this card will provide much more service, safety and amenity to age pensioners in the country. They should be looking forward to its implementation as it is going to be a great initiative.
Mr E.S. Ripper : You still have not answered the question. The SPEAKER : Order, Leader of the Opposition! Mr B.J. GRYLLS : I also know that Hon Adele Farina in the other house has given her support to the plan. I couch my response in terms of the fact that every day the Leader of the Opposition stands in this place and says that royalties for regions was unsustainable before the crisis and is unsustainable after the crisis. Mr E.S. Ripper : Answer the question! Answer the question! Mr B.J. GRYLLS : If it is unsustainable, would the Leader of the Opposition match the — Point of Order Mr M. McGOWAN : Mr Speaker, the question specifically asked who is eligible to receive this fuel card, when will seniors receive the fuel card, and what safeguards have been put in place. The minister has spoken for roughly four minutes and has not touched on a single one of those questions. I ask him to answer the question. The SPEAKER : Minister for Regional Development, please continue and make your point. Questions without Notice Resumed Mr B.J. GRYLLS : Thank you, Mr Speaker. Is the Leader of the Opposition prepared to support $20 million a year for a country age pension fuel card? Is the Leader of the Opposition prepared to support a country age pension fuel card? Come on! This is an opportunity to now support the card. I am looking the Leader of the Opposition right in the face: is he happy to support the country age pension fuel card? He is not! Several members interjected. Mr B.J. GRYLLS : The Leader of the Opposition is not prepared to support it! Country Labor members are out there supporting the card — The SPEAKER : Members, I stood earlier today to suggest that members may like to be a little more expedient answering questions because the more questions asked and the more answers provided, the more efficient we are as a Parliament. I urge the Minister for Regional Development to answer the member for Pilbara’s question, and, in doing so, I call the Leader of the Opposition for the first time. Mr B.J. GRYLLS : Thank you, Mr Speaker; I will draw my answer to a close. I find it quite ironic that country members opposite take the time to raise a question about the country age pension fuel card when the Leader of the Opposition is determined to scrap the very plan that will deliver the fuel card. I am very happy with the work done by my department to implement the country age pension fuel card process. A full announcement will be made within the month on eligibility and on how the card will be used, and on what terms it will be available. Members opposite will find that this card will provide much more service, safety and amenity to age pensioners in the country. They should be looking forward to its implementation as it is going to be a great initiative.
The SPEAKER : Order, Leader of the Opposition! Mr B.J. GRYLLS : I also know that Hon Adele Farina in the other house has given her support to the plan. I couch my response in terms of the fact that every day the Leader of the Opposition stands in this place and says that royalties for regions was unsustainable before the crisis and is unsustainable after the crisis. Mr E.S. Ripper : Answer the question! Answer the question! Mr B.J. GRYLLS : If it is unsustainable, would the Leader of the Opposition match the — Point of Order Mr M. McGOWAN : Mr Speaker, the question specifically asked who is eligible to receive this fuel card, when will seniors receive the fuel card, and what safeguards have been put in place. The minister has spoken for roughly four minutes and has not touched on a single one of those questions. I ask him to answer the question. The SPEAKER : Minister for Regional Development, please continue and make your point. Questions without Notice Resumed Mr B.J. GRYLLS : Thank you, Mr Speaker. Is the Leader of the Opposition prepared to support $20 million a year for a country age pension fuel card? Is the Leader of the Opposition prepared to support a country age pension fuel card? Come on! This is an opportunity to now support the card. I am looking the Leader of the Opposition right in the face: is he happy to support the country age pension fuel card? He is not! Several members interjected. Mr B.J. GRYLLS : The Leader of the Opposition is not prepared to support it! Country Labor members are out there supporting the card — The SPEAKER : Members, I stood earlier today to suggest that members may like to be a little more expedient answering questions because the more questions asked and the more answers provided, the more efficient we are as a Parliament. I urge the Minister for Regional Development to answer the member for Pilbara’s question, and, in doing so, I call the Leader of the Opposition for the first time. Mr B.J. GRYLLS : Thank you, Mr Speaker; I will draw my answer to a close. I find it quite ironic that country members opposite take the time to raise a question about the country age pension fuel card when the Leader of the Opposition is determined to scrap the very plan that will deliver the fuel card. I am very happy with the work done by my department to implement the country age pension fuel card process. A full announcement will be made within the month on eligibility and on how the card will be used, and on what terms it will be available. Members opposite will find that this card will provide much more service, safety and amenity to age pensioners in the country. They should be looking forward to its implementation as it is going to be a great initiative.
Mr B.J. GRYLLS : I also know that Hon Adele Farina in the other house has given her support to the plan. I couch my response in terms of the fact that every day the Leader of the Opposition stands in this place and says that royalties for regions was unsustainable before the crisis and is unsustainable after the crisis. Mr E.S. Ripper : Answer the question! Answer the question! Mr B.J. GRYLLS : If it is unsustainable, would the Leader of the Opposition match the — Point of Order Mr M. McGOWAN : Mr Speaker, the question specifically asked who is eligible to receive this fuel card, when will seniors receive the fuel card, and what safeguards have been put in place. The minister has spoken for roughly four minutes and has not touched on a single one of those questions. I ask him to answer the question. The SPEAKER : Minister for Regional Development, please continue and make your point. Questions without Notice Resumed Mr B.J. GRYLLS : Thank you, Mr Speaker. Is the Leader of the Opposition prepared to support $20 million a year for a country age pension fuel card? Is the Leader of the Opposition prepared to support a country age pension fuel card? Come on! This is an opportunity to now support the card. I am looking the Leader of the Opposition right in the face: is he happy to support the country age pension fuel card? He is not! Several members interjected. Mr B.J. GRYLLS : The Leader of the Opposition is not prepared to support it! Country Labor members are out there supporting the card — The SPEAKER : Members, I stood earlier today to suggest that members may like to be a little more expedient answering questions because the more questions asked and the more answers provided, the more efficient we are as a Parliament. I urge the Minister for Regional Development to answer the member for Pilbara’s question, and, in doing so, I call the Leader of the Opposition for the first time. Mr B.J. GRYLLS : Thank you, Mr Speaker; I will draw my answer to a close. I find it quite ironic that country members opposite take the time to raise a question about the country age pension fuel card when the Leader of the Opposition is determined to scrap the very plan that will deliver the fuel card. I am very happy with the work done by my department to implement the country age pension fuel card process. A full announcement will be made within the month on eligibility and on how the card will be used, and on what terms it will be available. Members opposite will find that this card will provide much more service, safety and amenity to age pensioners in the country. They should be looking forward to its implementation as it is going to be a great initiative.
I couch my response in terms of the fact that every day the Leader of the Opposition stands in this place and says that royalties for regions was unsustainable before the crisis and is unsustainable after the crisis. Mr E.S. Ripper : Answer the question! Answer the question! Mr B.J. GRYLLS : If it is unsustainable, would the Leader of the Opposition match the — Point of Order Mr M. McGOWAN : Mr Speaker, the question specifically asked who is eligible to receive this fuel card, when will seniors receive the fuel card, and what safeguards have been put in place. The minister has spoken for roughly four minutes and has not touched on a single one of those questions. I ask him to answer the question. The SPEAKER : Minister for Regional Development, please continue and make your point. Questions without Notice Resumed Mr B.J. GRYLLS : Thank you, Mr Speaker. Is the Leader of the Opposition prepared to support $20 million a year for a country age pension fuel card? Is the Leader of the Opposition prepared to support a country age pension fuel card? Come on! This is an opportunity to now support the card. I am looking the Leader of the Opposition right in the face: is he happy to support the country age pension fuel card? He is not! Several members interjected. Mr B.J. GRYLLS : The Leader of the Opposition is not prepared to support it! Country Labor members are out there supporting the card — The SPEAKER : Members, I stood earlier today to suggest that members may like to be a little more expedient answering questions because the more questions asked and the more answers provided, the more efficient we are as a Parliament. I urge the Minister for Regional Development to answer the member for Pilbara’s question, and, in doing so, I call the Leader of the Opposition for the first time. Mr B.J. GRYLLS : Thank you, Mr Speaker; I will draw my answer to a close. I find it quite ironic that country members opposite take the time to raise a question about the country age pension fuel card when the Leader of the Opposition is determined to scrap the very plan that will deliver the fuel card. I am very happy with the work done by my department to implement the country age pension fuel card process. A full announcement will be made within the month on eligibility and on how the card will be used, and on what terms it will be available. Members opposite will find that this card will provide much more service, safety and amenity to age pensioners in the country. They should be looking forward to its implementation as it is going to be a great initiative.
Mr E.S. Ripper : Answer the question! Answer the question! Mr B.J. GRYLLS : If it is unsustainable, would the Leader of the Opposition match the — Point of Order Mr M. McGOWAN : Mr Speaker, the question specifically asked who is eligible to receive this fuel card, when will seniors receive the fuel card, and what safeguards have been put in place. The minister has spoken for roughly four minutes and has not touched on a single one of those questions. I ask him to answer the question. The SPEAKER : Minister for Regional Development, please continue and make your point. Questions without Notice Resumed Mr B.J. GRYLLS : Thank you, Mr Speaker. Is the Leader of the Opposition prepared to support $20 million a year for a country age pension fuel card? Is the Leader of the Opposition prepared to support a country age pension fuel card? Come on! This is an opportunity to now support the card. I am looking the Leader of the Opposition right in the face: is he happy to support the country age pension fuel card? He is not! Several members interjected. Mr B.J. GRYLLS : The Leader of the Opposition is not prepared to support it! Country Labor members are out there supporting the card — The SPEAKER : Members, I stood earlier today to suggest that members may like to be a little more expedient answering questions because the more questions asked and the more answers provided, the more efficient we are as a Parliament. I urge the Minister for Regional Development to answer the member for Pilbara’s question, and, in doing so, I call the Leader of the Opposition for the first time. Mr B.J. GRYLLS : Thank you, Mr Speaker; I will draw my answer to a close. I find it quite ironic that country members opposite take the time to raise a question about the country age pension fuel card when the Leader of the Opposition is determined to scrap the very plan that will deliver the fuel card. I am very happy with the work done by my department to implement the country age pension fuel card process. A full announcement will be made within the month on eligibility and on how the card will be used, and on what terms it will be available. Members opposite will find that this card will provide much more service, safety and amenity to age pensioners in the country. They should be looking forward to its implementation as it is going to be a great initiative.
Mr B.J. GRYLLS : If it is unsustainable, would the Leader of the Opposition match the — Point of Order Mr M. McGOWAN : Mr Speaker, the question specifically asked who is eligible to receive this fuel card, when will seniors receive the fuel card, and what safeguards have been put in place. The minister has spoken for roughly four minutes and has not touched on a single one of those questions. I ask him to answer the question. The SPEAKER : Minister for Regional Development, please continue and make your point. Questions without Notice Resumed Mr B.J. GRYLLS : Thank you, Mr Speaker. Is the Leader of the Opposition prepared to support $20 million a year for a country age pension fuel card? Is the Leader of the Opposition prepared to support a country age pension fuel card? Come on! This is an opportunity to now support the card. I am looking the Leader of the Opposition right in the face: is he happy to support the country age pension fuel card? He is not! Several members interjected. Mr B.J. GRYLLS : The Leader of the Opposition is not prepared to support it! Country Labor members are out there supporting the card — The SPEAKER : Members, I stood earlier today to suggest that members may like to be a little more expedient answering questions because the more questions asked and the more answers provided, the more efficient we are as a Parliament. I urge the Minister for Regional Development to answer the member for Pilbara’s question, and, in doing so, I call the Leader of the Opposition for the first time. Mr B.J. GRYLLS : Thank you, Mr Speaker; I will draw my answer to a close. I find it quite ironic that country members opposite take the time to raise a question about the country age pension fuel card when the Leader of the Opposition is determined to scrap the very plan that will deliver the fuel card. I am very happy with the work done by my department to implement the country age pension fuel card process. A full announcement will be made within the month on eligibility and on how the card will be used, and on what terms it will be available. Members opposite will find that this card will provide much more service, safety and amenity to age pensioners in the country. They should be looking forward to its implementation as it is going to be a great initiative.
The SPEAKER : Minister for Regional Development, please continue and make your point. Questions without Notice Resumed Mr B.J. GRYLLS : Thank you, Mr Speaker. Is the Leader of the Opposition prepared to support $20 million a year for a country age pension fuel card? Is the Leader of the Opposition prepared to support a country age pension fuel card? Come on! This is an opportunity to now support the card. I am looking the Leader of the Opposition right in the face: is he happy to support the country age pension fuel card? He is not! Several members interjected. Mr B.J. GRYLLS : The Leader of the Opposition is not prepared to support it! Country Labor members are out there supporting the card — The SPEAKER : Members, I stood earlier today to suggest that members may like to be a little more expedient answering questions because the more questions asked and the more answers provided, the more efficient we are as a Parliament. I urge the Minister for Regional Development to answer the member for Pilbara’s question, and, in doing so, I call the Leader of the Opposition for the first time. Mr B.J. GRYLLS : Thank you, Mr Speaker; I will draw my answer to a close. I find it quite ironic that country members opposite take the time to raise a question about the country age pension fuel card when the Leader of the Opposition is determined to scrap the very plan that will deliver the fuel card. I am very happy with the work done by my department to implement the country age pension fuel card process. A full announcement will be made within the month on eligibility and on how the card will be used, and on what terms it will be available. Members opposite will find that this card will provide much more service, safety and amenity to age pensioners in the country. They should be looking forward to its implementation as it is going to be a great initiative.
Is the Leader of the Opposition prepared to support $20 million a year for a country age pension fuel card? Is the Leader of the Opposition prepared to support a country age pension fuel card? Come on! This is an opportunity to now support the card. I am looking the Leader of the Opposition right in the face: is he happy to support the country age pension fuel card? He is not! Several members interjected. Mr B.J. GRYLLS : The Leader of the Opposition is not prepared to support it! Country Labor members are out there supporting the card — The SPEAKER : Members, I stood earlier today to suggest that members may like to be a little more expedient answering questions because the more questions asked and the more answers provided, the more efficient we are as a Parliament. I urge the Minister for Regional Development to answer the member for Pilbara’s question, and, in doing so, I call the Leader of the Opposition for the first time. Mr B.J. GRYLLS : Thank you, Mr Speaker; I will draw my answer to a close. I find it quite ironic that country members opposite take the time to raise a question about the country age pension fuel card when the Leader of the Opposition is determined to scrap the very plan that will deliver the fuel card. I am very happy with the work done by my department to implement the country age pension fuel card process. A full announcement will be made within the month on eligibility and on how the card will be used, and on what terms it will be available. Members opposite will find that this card will provide much more service, safety and amenity to age pensioners in the country. They should be looking forward to its implementation as it is going to be a great initiative.
Several members interjected. Mr B.J. GRYLLS : The Leader of the Opposition is not prepared to support it! Country Labor members are out there supporting the card — The SPEAKER : Members, I stood earlier today to suggest that members may like to be a little more expedient answering questions because the more questions asked and the more answers provided, the more efficient we are as a Parliament. I urge the Minister for Regional Development to answer the member for Pilbara’s question, and, in doing so, I call the Leader of the Opposition for the first time. Mr B.J. GRYLLS : Thank you, Mr Speaker; I will draw my answer to a close. I find it quite ironic that country members opposite take the time to raise a question about the country age pension fuel card when the Leader of the Opposition is determined to scrap the very plan that will deliver the fuel card. I am very happy with the work done by my department to implement the country age pension fuel card process. A full announcement will be made within the month on eligibility and on how the card will be used, and on what terms it will be available. Members opposite will find that this card will provide much more service, safety and amenity to age pensioners in the country. They should be looking forward to its implementation as it is going to be a great initiative.
Mr B.J. GRYLLS : The Leader of the Opposition is not prepared to support it! Country Labor members are out there supporting the card — The SPEAKER : Members, I stood earlier today to suggest that members may like to be a little more expedient answering questions because the more questions asked and the more answers provided, the more efficient we are as a Parliament. I urge the Minister for Regional Development to answer the member for Pilbara’s question, and, in doing so, I call the Leader of the Opposition for the first time. Mr B.J. GRYLLS : Thank you, Mr Speaker; I will draw my answer to a close. I find it quite ironic that country members opposite take the time to raise a question about the country age pension fuel card when the Leader of the Opposition is determined to scrap the very plan that will deliver the fuel card. I am very happy with the work done by my department to implement the country age pension fuel card process. A full announcement will be made within the month on eligibility and on how the card will be used, and on what terms it will be available. Members opposite will find that this card will provide much more service, safety and amenity to age pensioners in the country. They should be looking forward to its implementation as it is going to be a great initiative.
The SPEAKER : Members, I stood earlier today to suggest that members may like to be a little more expedient answering questions because the more questions asked and the more answers provided, the more efficient we are as a Parliament. I urge the Minister for Regional Development to answer the member for Pilbara’s question, and, in doing so, I call the Leader of the Opposition for the first time. Mr B.J. GRYLLS : Thank you, Mr Speaker; I will draw my answer to a close. I find it quite ironic that country members opposite take the time to raise a question about the country age pension fuel card when the Leader of the Opposition is determined to scrap the very plan that will deliver the fuel card. I am very happy with the work done by my department to implement the country age pension fuel card process. A full announcement will be made within the month on eligibility and on how the card will be used, and on what terms it will be available. Members opposite will find that this card will provide much more service, safety and amenity to age pensioners in the country. They should be looking forward to its implementation as it is going to be a great initiative.
Mr B.J. GRYLLS : Thank you, Mr Speaker; I will draw my answer to a close. I find it quite ironic that country members opposite take the time to raise a question about the country age pension fuel card when the Leader of the Opposition is determined to scrap the very plan that will deliver the fuel card. I am very happy with the work done by my department to implement the country age pension fuel card process. A full announcement will be made within the month on eligibility and on how the card will be used, and on what terms it will be available. Members opposite will find that this card will provide much more service, safety and amenity to age pensioners in the country. They should be looking forward to its implementation as it is going to be a great initiative.
I find it quite ironic that country members opposite take the time to raise a question about the country age pension fuel card when the Leader of the Opposition is determined to scrap the very plan that will deliver the fuel card. I am very happy with the work done by my department to implement the country age pension fuel card process. A full announcement will be made within the month on eligibility and on how the card will be used, and on what terms it will be available. Members opposite will find that this card will provide much more service, safety and amenity to age pensioners in the country. They should be looking forward to its implementation as it is going to be a great initiative.
My question to the Minister for Regional Development is in reference to the awarding of a $2.5 million tender to produce the regional fuel cards. (1) When will the minister provide details of who is eligible to receive a payment, how will he define a region for this program and which country towns will be excluded due to residents having access to publicly funded transport? (2) When will seniors receive their fuel cards? (3) What safeguards have been put in place to ensure that use of the fuel cards is restricted only to eligible seniors for the purchase of the fuel? Mr B.J. GRYLLS replied: I thank the member for Pilbara for the question on a very important issue. (1)-(3) The implementation of this fuel card has led me to discuss with many people how simple it would have been for the previous government, which championed a very large amount of expenditure on the Perth-Mandurah railway. I think we now all see and support the operation of that train service, but how easy would it have been for the previous government to do something for the people who could not access the Mandurah railway? It would have been very simple for the previous government to show some recognition that taxpayer funds — Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Order, members for Mandurah, North West and Albany! Mr B.J. GRYLLS : Taxpayer funds drawn from right across Western Australia funded that railway, and I think it very appropriate that taxpayer funds provide a level of equity to age pensioners who live in regional areas so that they can also access what I would term a degree of public transport; that is, to allow them some money to enable them to travel to access health care services and the other important things they need. I know that there is an incredible amount of interest from members opposite about the country age pension fuel card . Mr E.S. Ripper : Why don’t you answer the question? Mr B.J. GRYLLS : I know I have on the record the member for Albany’s support. He is looking forward to seniors in the Albany electorate getting access to that card. Mr E.S. Ripper : You still have not answered the question. The SPEAKER : Order, Leader of the Opposition! Mr B.J. GRYLLS : I also know that Hon Adele Farina in the other house has given her support to the plan. I couch my response in terms of the fact that every day the Leader of the Opposition stands in this place and says that royalties for regions was unsustainable before the crisis and is unsustainable after the crisis. Mr E.S. Ripper : Answer the question! Answer the question! Mr B.J. GRYLLS : If it is unsustainable, would the Leader of the Opposition match the — Point of Order Mr M. McGOWAN : Mr Speaker, the question specifically asked who is eligible to receive this fuel card, when will seniors receive the fuel card, and what safeguards have been put in place. The minister has spoken for roughly four minutes and has not touched on a single one of those questions. I ask him to answer the question. The SPEAKER : Minister for Regional Development, please continue and make your point. Questions without Notice Resumed Mr B.J. GRYLLS : Thank you, Mr Speaker. Is the Leader of the Opposition prepared to support $20 million a year for a country age pension fuel card? Is the Leader of the Opposition prepared to support a country age pension fuel card? Come on! This is an opportunity to now support the card. I am looking the Leader of the Opposition right in the face: is he happy to support the country age pension fuel card? He is not! Several members interjected. Mr B.J. GRYLLS : The Leader of the Opposition is not prepared to support it! Country Labor members are out there supporting the card — The SPEAKER : Members, I stood earlier today to suggest that members may like to be a little more expedient answering questions because the more questions asked and the more answers provided, the more efficient we are as a Parliament. I urge the Minister for Regional Development to answer the member for Pilbara’s question, and, in doing so, I call the Leader of the Opposition for the first time. Mr B.J. GRYLLS : Thank you, Mr Speaker; I will draw my answer to a close. I find it quite ironic that country members opposite take the time to raise a question about the country age pension fuel card when the Leader of the Opposition is determined to scrap the very plan that will deliver the fuel card. I am very happy with the work done by my department to implement the country age pension fuel card process. A full announcement will be made within the month on eligibility and on how the card will be used, and on what terms it will be available. Members opposite will find that this card will provide much more service, safety and amenity to age pensioners in the country. They should be looking forward to its implementation as it is going to be a great initiative.
(1) When will the minister provide details of who is eligible to receive a payment, how will he define a region for this program and which country towns will be excluded due to residents having access to publicly funded transport? (2) When will seniors receive their fuel cards? (3) What safeguards have been put in place to ensure that use of the fuel cards is restricted only to eligible seniors for the purchase of the fuel? Mr B.J. GRYLLS replied: I thank the member for Pilbara for the question on a very important issue. (1)-(3) The implementation of this fuel card has led me to discuss with many people how simple it would have been for the previous government, which championed a very large amount of expenditure on the Perth-Mandurah railway. I think we now all see and support the operation of that train service, but how easy would it have been for the previous government to do something for the people who could not access the Mandurah railway? It would have been very simple for the previous government to show some recognition that taxpayer funds — Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Order, members for Mandurah, North West and Albany! Mr B.J. GRYLLS : Taxpayer funds drawn from right across Western Australia funded that railway, and I think it very appropriate that taxpayer funds provide a level of equity to age pensioners who live in regional areas so that they can also access what I would term a degree of public transport; that is, to allow them some money to enable them to travel to access health care services and the other important things they need. I know that there is an incredible amount of interest from members opposite about the country age pension fuel card . Mr E.S. Ripper : Why don’t you answer the question? Mr B.J. GRYLLS : I know I have on the record the member for Albany’s support. He is looking forward to seniors in the Albany electorate getting access to that card. Mr E.S. Ripper : You still have not answered the question. The SPEAKER : Order, Leader of the Opposition! Mr B.J. GRYLLS : I also know that Hon Adele Farina in the other house has given her support to the plan. I couch my response in terms of the fact that every day the Leader of the Opposition stands in this place and says that royalties for regions was unsustainable before the crisis and is unsustainable after the crisis. Mr E.S. Ripper : Answer the question! Answer the question! Mr B.J. GRYLLS : If it is unsustainable, would the Leader of the Opposition match the — Point of Order Mr M. McGOWAN : Mr Speaker, the question specifically asked who is eligible to receive this fuel card, when will seniors receive the fuel card, and what safeguards have been put in place. The minister has spoken for roughly four minutes and has not touched on a single one of those questions. I ask him to answer the question. The SPEAKER : Minister for Regional Development, please continue and make your point. Questions without Notice Resumed Mr B.J. GRYLLS : Thank you, Mr Speaker. Is the Leader of the Opposition prepared to support $20 million a year for a country age pension fuel card? Is the Leader of the Opposition prepared to support a country age pension fuel card? Come on! This is an opportunity to now support the card. I am looking the Leader of the Opposition right in the face: is he happy to support the country age pension fuel card? He is not! Several members interjected. Mr B.J. GRYLLS : The Leader of the Opposition is not prepared to support it! Country Labor members are out there supporting the card — The SPEAKER : Members, I stood earlier today to suggest that members may like to be a little more expedient answering questions because the more questions asked and the more answers provided, the more efficient we are as a Parliament. I urge the Minister for Regional Development to answer the member for Pilbara’s question, and, in doing so, I call the Leader of the Opposition for the first time. Mr B.J. GRYLLS : Thank you, Mr Speaker; I will draw my answer to a close. I find it quite ironic that country members opposite take the time to raise a question about the country age pension fuel card when the Leader of the Opposition is determined to scrap the very plan that will deliver the fuel card. I am very happy with the work done by my department to implement the country age pension fuel card process. A full announcement will be made within the month on eligibility and on how the card will be used, and on what terms it will be available. Members opposite will find that this card will provide much more service, safety and amenity to age pensioners in the country. They should be looking forward to its implementation as it is going to be a great initiative.
(2) When will seniors receive their fuel cards? (3) What safeguards have been put in place to ensure that use of the fuel cards is restricted only to eligible seniors for the purchase of the fuel? Mr B.J. GRYLLS replied: I thank the member for Pilbara for the question on a very important issue. (1)-(3) The implementation of this fuel card has led me to discuss with many people how simple it would have been for the previous government, which championed a very large amount of expenditure on the Perth-Mandurah railway. I think we now all see and support the operation of that train service, but how easy would it have been for the previous government to do something for the people who could not access the Mandurah railway? It would have been very simple for the previous government to show some recognition that taxpayer funds — Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Order, members for Mandurah, North West and Albany! Mr B.J. GRYLLS : Taxpayer funds drawn from right across Western Australia funded that railway, and I think it very appropriate that taxpayer funds provide a level of equity to age pensioners who live in regional areas so that they can also access what I would term a degree of public transport; that is, to allow them some money to enable them to travel to access health care services and the other important things they need. I know that there is an incredible amount of interest from members opposite about the country age pension fuel card . Mr E.S. Ripper : Why don’t you answer the question? Mr B.J. GRYLLS : I know I have on the record the member for Albany’s support. He is looking forward to seniors in the Albany electorate getting access to that card. Mr E.S. Ripper : You still have not answered the question. The SPEAKER : Order, Leader of the Opposition! Mr B.J. GRYLLS : I also know that Hon Adele Farina in the other house has given her support to the plan. I couch my response in terms of the fact that every day the Leader of the Opposition stands in this place and says that royalties for regions was unsustainable before the crisis and is unsustainable after the crisis. Mr E.S. Ripper : Answer the question! Answer the question! Mr B.J. GRYLLS : If it is unsustainable, would the Leader of the Opposition match the — Point of Order Mr M. McGOWAN : Mr Speaker, the question specifically asked who is eligible to receive this fuel card, when will seniors receive the fuel card, and what safeguards have been put in place. The minister has spoken for roughly four minutes and has not touched on a single one of those questions. I ask him to answer the question. The SPEAKER : Minister for Regional Development, please continue and make your point. Questions without Notice Resumed Mr B.J. GRYLLS : Thank you, Mr Speaker. Is the Leader of the Opposition prepared to support $20 million a year for a country age pension fuel card? Is the Leader of the Opposition prepared to support a country age pension fuel card? Come on! This is an opportunity to now support the card. I am looking the Leader of the Opposition right in the face: is he happy to support the country age pension fuel card? He is not! Several members interjected. Mr B.J. GRYLLS : The Leader of the Opposition is not prepared to support it! Country Labor members are out there supporting the card — The SPEAKER : Members, I stood earlier today to suggest that members may like to be a little more expedient answering questions because the more questions asked and the more answers provided, the more efficient we are as a Parliament. I urge the Minister for Regional Development to answer the member for Pilbara’s question, and, in doing so, I call the Leader of the Opposition for the first time. Mr B.J. GRYLLS : Thank you, Mr Speaker; I will draw my answer to a close. I find it quite ironic that country members opposite take the time to raise a question about the country age pension fuel card when the Leader of the Opposition is determined to scrap the very plan that will deliver the fuel card. I am very happy with the work done by my department to implement the country age pension fuel card process. A full announcement will be made within the month on eligibility and on how the card will be used, and on what terms it will be available. Members opposite will find that this card will provide much more service, safety and amenity to age pensioners in the country. They should be looking forward to its implementation as it is going to be a great initiative.
(3) What safeguards have been put in place to ensure that use of the fuel cards is restricted only to eligible seniors for the purchase of the fuel? Mr B.J. GRYLLS replied: I thank the member for Pilbara for the question on a very important issue. (1)-(3) The implementation of this fuel card has led me to discuss with many people how simple it would have been for the previous government, which championed a very large amount of expenditure on the Perth-Mandurah railway. I think we now all see and support the operation of that train service, but how easy would it have been for the previous government to do something for the people who could not access the Mandurah railway? It would have been very simple for the previous government to show some recognition that taxpayer funds — Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Order, members for Mandurah, North West and Albany! Mr B.J. GRYLLS : Taxpayer funds drawn from right across Western Australia funded that railway, and I think it very appropriate that taxpayer funds provide a level of equity to age pensioners who live in regional areas so that they can also access what I would term a degree of public transport; that is, to allow them some money to enable them to travel to access health care services and the other important things they need. I know that there is an incredible amount of interest from members opposite about the country age pension fuel card . Mr E.S. Ripper : Why don’t you answer the question? Mr B.J. GRYLLS : I know I have on the record the member for Albany’s support. He is looking forward to seniors in the Albany electorate getting access to that card. Mr E.S. Ripper : You still have not answered the question. The SPEAKER : Order, Leader of the Opposition! Mr B.J. GRYLLS : I also know that Hon Adele Farina in the other house has given her support to the plan. I couch my response in terms of the fact that every day the Leader of the Opposition stands in this place and says that royalties for regions was unsustainable before the crisis and is unsustainable after the crisis. Mr E.S. Ripper : Answer the question! Answer the question! Mr B.J. GRYLLS : If it is unsustainable, would the Leader of the Opposition match the — Point of Order Mr M. McGOWAN : Mr Speaker, the question specifically asked who is eligible to receive this fuel card, when will seniors receive the fuel card, and what safeguards have been put in place. The minister has spoken for roughly four minutes and has not touched on a single one of those questions. I ask him to answer the question. The SPEAKER : Minister for Regional Development, please continue and make your point. Questions without Notice Resumed Mr B.J. GRYLLS : Thank you, Mr Speaker. Is the Leader of the Opposition prepared to support $20 million a year for a country age pension fuel card? Is the Leader of the Opposition prepared to support a country age pension fuel card? Come on! This is an opportunity to now support the card. I am looking the Leader of the Opposition right in the face: is he happy to support the country age pension fuel card? He is not! Several members interjected. Mr B.J. GRYLLS : The Leader of the Opposition is not prepared to support it! Country Labor members are out there supporting the card — The SPEAKER : Members, I stood earlier today to suggest that members may like to be a little more expedient answering questions because the more questions asked and the more answers provided, the more efficient we are as a Parliament. I urge the Minister for Regional Development to answer the member for Pilbara’s question, and, in doing so, I call the Leader of the Opposition for the first time. Mr B.J. GRYLLS : Thank you, Mr Speaker; I will draw my answer to a close. I find it quite ironic that country members opposite take the time to raise a question about the country age pension fuel card when the Leader of the Opposition is determined to scrap the very plan that will deliver the fuel card. I am very happy with the work done by my department to implement the country age pension fuel card process. A full announcement will be made within the month on eligibility and on how the card will be used, and on what terms it will be available. Members opposite will find that this card will provide much more service, safety and amenity to age pensioners in the country. They should be looking forward to its implementation as it is going to be a great initiative.
Mr B.J. GRYLLS replied: I thank the member for Pilbara for the question on a very important issue. (1)-(3) The implementation of this fuel card has led me to discuss with many people how simple it would have been for the previous government, which championed a very large amount of expenditure on the Perth-Mandurah railway. I think we now all see and support the operation of that train service, but how easy would it have been for the previous government to do something for the people who could not access the Mandurah railway? It would have been very simple for the previous government to show some recognition that taxpayer funds — Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Order, members for Mandurah, North West and Albany! Mr B.J. GRYLLS : Taxpayer funds drawn from right across Western Australia funded that railway, and I think it very appropriate that taxpayer funds provide a level of equity to age pensioners who live in regional areas so that they can also access what I would term a degree of public transport; that is, to allow them some money to enable them to travel to access health care services and the other important things they need. I know that there is an incredible amount of interest from members opposite about the country age pension fuel card . Mr E.S. Ripper : Why don’t you answer the question? Mr B.J. GRYLLS : I know I have on the record the member for Albany’s support. He is looking forward to seniors in the Albany electorate getting access to that card. Mr E.S. Ripper : You still have not answered the question. The SPEAKER : Order, Leader of the Opposition! Mr B.J. GRYLLS : I also know that Hon Adele Farina in the other house has given her support to the plan. I couch my response in terms of the fact that every day the Leader of the Opposition stands in this place and says that royalties for regions was unsustainable before the crisis and is unsustainable after the crisis. Mr E.S. Ripper : Answer the question! Answer the question! Mr B.J. GRYLLS : If it is unsustainable, would the Leader of the Opposition match the — Point of Order Mr M. McGOWAN : Mr Speaker, the question specifically asked who is eligible to receive this fuel card, when will seniors receive the fuel card, and what safeguards have been put in place. The minister has spoken for roughly four minutes and has not touched on a single one of those questions. I ask him to answer the question. The SPEAKER : Minister for Regional Development, please continue and make your point. Questions without Notice Resumed Mr B.J. GRYLLS : Thank you, Mr Speaker. Is the Leader of the Opposition prepared to support $20 million a year for a country age pension fuel card? Is the Leader of the Opposition prepared to support a country age pension fuel card? Come on! This is an opportunity to now support the card. I am looking the Leader of the Opposition right in the face: is he happy to support the country age pension fuel card? He is not! Several members interjected. Mr B.J. GRYLLS : The Leader of the Opposition is not prepared to support it! Country Labor members are out there supporting the card — The SPEAKER : Members, I stood earlier today to suggest that members may like to be a little more expedient answering questions because the more questions asked and the more answers provided, the more efficient we are as a Parliament. I urge the Minister for Regional Development to answer the member for Pilbara’s question, and, in doing so, I call the Leader of the Opposition for the first time. Mr B.J. GRYLLS : Thank you, Mr Speaker; I will draw my answer to a close. I find it quite ironic that country members opposite take the time to raise a question about the country age pension fuel card when the Leader of the Opposition is determined to scrap the very plan that will deliver the fuel card. I am very happy with the work done by my department to implement the country age pension fuel card process. A full announcement will be made within the month on eligibility and on how the card will be used, and on what terms it will be available. Members opposite will find that this card will provide much more service, safety and amenity to age pensioners in the country. They should be looking forward to its implementation as it is going to be a great initiative.
I thank the member for Pilbara for the question on a very important issue. (1)-(3) The implementation of this fuel card has led me to discuss with many people how simple it would have been for the previous government, which championed a very large amount of expenditure on the Perth-Mandurah railway. I think we now all see and support the operation of that train service, but how easy would it have been for the previous government to do something for the people who could not access the Mandurah railway? It would have been very simple for the previous government to show some recognition that taxpayer funds — Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Order, members for Mandurah, North West and Albany! Mr B.J. GRYLLS : Taxpayer funds drawn from right across Western Australia funded that railway, and I think it very appropriate that taxpayer funds provide a level of equity to age pensioners who live in regional areas so that they can also access what I would term a degree of public transport; that is, to allow them some money to enable them to travel to access health care services and the other important things they need. I know that there is an incredible amount of interest from members opposite about the country age pension fuel card . Mr E.S. Ripper : Why don’t you answer the question? Mr B.J. GRYLLS : I know I have on the record the member for Albany’s support. He is looking forward to seniors in the Albany electorate getting access to that card. Mr E.S. Ripper : You still have not answered the question. The SPEAKER : Order, Leader of the Opposition! Mr B.J. GRYLLS : I also know that Hon Adele Farina in the other house has given her support to the plan. I couch my response in terms of the fact that every day the Leader of the Opposition stands in this place and says that royalties for regions was unsustainable before the crisis and is unsustainable after the crisis. Mr E.S. Ripper : Answer the question! Answer the question! Mr B.J. GRYLLS : If it is unsustainable, would the Leader of the Opposition match the — Point of Order Mr M. McGOWAN : Mr Speaker, the question specifically asked who is eligible to receive this fuel card, when will seniors receive the fuel card, and what safeguards have been put in place. The minister has spoken for roughly four minutes and has not touched on a single one of those questions. I ask him to answer the question. The SPEAKER : Minister for Regional Development, please continue and make your point. Questions without Notice Resumed Mr B.J. GRYLLS : Thank you, Mr Speaker. Is the Leader of the Opposition prepared to support $20 million a year for a country age pension fuel card? Is the Leader of the Opposition prepared to support a country age pension fuel card? Come on! This is an opportunity to now support the card. I am looking the Leader of the Opposition right in the face: is he happy to support the country age pension fuel card? He is not! Several members interjected. Mr B.J. GRYLLS : The Leader of the Opposition is not prepared to support it! Country Labor members are out there supporting the card — The SPEAKER : Members, I stood earlier today to suggest that members may like to be a little more expedient answering questions because the more questions asked and the more answers provided, the more efficient we are as a Parliament. I urge the Minister for Regional Development to answer the member for Pilbara’s question, and, in doing so, I call the Leader of the Opposition for the first time. Mr B.J. GRYLLS : Thank you, Mr Speaker; I will draw my answer to a close. I find it quite ironic that country members opposite take the time to raise a question about the country age pension fuel card when the Leader of the Opposition is determined to scrap the very plan that will deliver the fuel card. I am very happy with the work done by my department to implement the country age pension fuel card process. A full announcement will be made within the month on eligibility and on how the card will be used, and on what terms it will be available. Members opposite will find that this card will provide much more service, safety and amenity to age pensioners in the country. They should be looking forward to its implementation as it is going to be a great initiative.
(1)-(3) The implementation of this fuel card has led me to discuss with many people how simple it would have been for the previous government, which championed a very large amount of expenditure on the Perth-Mandurah railway. I think we now all see and support the operation of that train service, but how easy would it have been for the previous government to do something for the people who could not access the Mandurah railway? It would have been very simple for the previous government to show some recognition that taxpayer funds — Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Order, members for Mandurah, North West and Albany! Mr B.J. GRYLLS : Taxpayer funds drawn from right across Western Australia funded that railway, and I think it very appropriate that taxpayer funds provide a level of equity to age pensioners who live in regional areas so that they can also access what I would term a degree of public transport; that is, to allow them some money to enable them to travel to access health care services and the other important things they need. I know that there is an incredible amount of interest from members opposite about the country age pension fuel card . Mr E.S. Ripper : Why don’t you answer the question? Mr B.J. GRYLLS : I know I have on the record the member for Albany’s support. He is looking forward to seniors in the Albany electorate getting access to that card. Mr E.S. Ripper : You still have not answered the question. The SPEAKER : Order, Leader of the Opposition! Mr B.J. GRYLLS : I also know that Hon Adele Farina in the other house has given her support to the plan. I couch my response in terms of the fact that every day the Leader of the Opposition stands in this place and says that royalties for regions was unsustainable before the crisis and is unsustainable after the crisis. Mr E.S. Ripper : Answer the question! Answer the question! Mr B.J. GRYLLS : If it is unsustainable, would the Leader of the Opposition match the — Point of Order Mr M. McGOWAN : Mr Speaker, the question specifically asked who is eligible to receive this fuel card, when will seniors receive the fuel card, and what safeguards have been put in place. The minister has spoken for roughly four minutes and has not touched on a single one of those questions. I ask him to answer the question. The SPEAKER : Minister for Regional Development, please continue and make your point. Questions without Notice Resumed Mr B.J. GRYLLS : Thank you, Mr Speaker. Is the Leader of the Opposition prepared to support $20 million a year for a country age pension fuel card? Is the Leader of the Opposition prepared to support a country age pension fuel card? Come on! This is an opportunity to now support the card. I am looking the Leader of the Opposition right in the face: is he happy to support the country age pension fuel card? He is not! Several members interjected. Mr B.J. GRYLLS : The Leader of the Opposition is not prepared to support it! Country Labor members are out there supporting the card — The SPEAKER : Members, I stood earlier today to suggest that members may like to be a little more expedient answering questions because the more questions asked and the more answers provided, the more efficient we are as a Parliament. I urge the Minister for Regional Development to answer the member for Pilbara’s question, and, in doing so, I call the Leader of the Opposition for the first time. Mr B.J. GRYLLS : Thank you, Mr Speaker; I will draw my answer to a close. I find it quite ironic that country members opposite take the time to raise a question about the country age pension fuel card when the Leader of the Opposition is determined to scrap the very plan that will deliver the fuel card. I am very happy with the work done by my department to implement the country age pension fuel card process. A full announcement will be made within the month on eligibility and on how the card will be used, and on what terms it will be available. Members opposite will find that this card will provide much more service, safety and amenity to age pensioners in the country. They should be looking forward to its implementation as it is going to be a great initiative.
Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Order, members for Mandurah, North West and Albany! Mr B.J. GRYLLS : Taxpayer funds drawn from right across Western Australia funded that railway, and I think it very appropriate that taxpayer funds provide a level of equity to age pensioners who live in regional areas so that they can also access what I would term a degree of public transport; that is, to allow them some money to enable them to travel to access health care services and the other important things they need. I know that there is an incredible amount of interest from members opposite about the country age pension fuel card . Mr E.S. Ripper : Why don’t you answer the question? Mr B.J. GRYLLS : I know I have on the record the member for Albany’s support. He is looking forward to seniors in the Albany electorate getting access to that card. Mr E.S. Ripper : You still have not answered the question. The SPEAKER : Order, Leader of the Opposition! Mr B.J. GRYLLS : I also know that Hon Adele Farina in the other house has given her support to the plan. I couch my response in terms of the fact that every day the Leader of the Opposition stands in this place and says that royalties for regions was unsustainable before the crisis and is unsustainable after the crisis. Mr E.S. Ripper : Answer the question! Answer the question! Mr B.J. GRYLLS : If it is unsustainable, would the Leader of the Opposition match the — Point of Order Mr M. McGOWAN : Mr Speaker, the question specifically asked who is eligible to receive this fuel card, when will seniors receive the fuel card, and what safeguards have been put in place. The minister has spoken for roughly four minutes and has not touched on a single one of those questions. I ask him to answer the question. The SPEAKER : Minister for Regional Development, please continue and make your point. Questions without Notice Resumed Mr B.J. GRYLLS : Thank you, Mr Speaker. Is the Leader of the Opposition prepared to support $20 million a year for a country age pension fuel card? Is the Leader of the Opposition prepared to support a country age pension fuel card? Come on! This is an opportunity to now support the card. I am looking the Leader of the Opposition right in the face: is he happy to support the country age pension fuel card? He is not! Several members interjected. Mr B.J. GRYLLS : The Leader of the Opposition is not prepared to support it! Country Labor members are out there supporting the card — The SPEAKER : Members, I stood earlier today to suggest that members may like to be a little more expedient answering questions because the more questions asked and the more answers provided, the more efficient we are as a Parliament. I urge the Minister for Regional Development to answer the member for Pilbara’s question, and, in doing so, I call the Leader of the Opposition for the first time. Mr B.J. GRYLLS : Thank you, Mr Speaker; I will draw my answer to a close. I find it quite ironic that country members opposite take the time to raise a question about the country age pension fuel card when the Leader of the Opposition is determined to scrap the very plan that will deliver the fuel card. I am very happy with the work done by my department to implement the country age pension fuel card process. A full announcement will be made within the month on eligibility and on how the card will be used, and on what terms it will be available. Members opposite will find that this card will provide much more service, safety and amenity to age pensioners in the country. They should be looking forward to its implementation as it is going to be a great initiative.
The SPEAKER : Order, members for Mandurah, North West and Albany! Mr B.J. GRYLLS : Taxpayer funds drawn from right across Western Australia funded that railway, and I think it very appropriate that taxpayer funds provide a level of equity to age pensioners who live in regional areas so that they can also access what I would term a degree of public transport; that is, to allow them some money to enable them to travel to access health care services and the other important things they need. I know that there is an incredible amount of interest from members opposite about the country age pension fuel card . Mr E.S. Ripper : Why don’t you answer the question? Mr B.J. GRYLLS : I know I have on the record the member for Albany’s support. He is looking forward to seniors in the Albany electorate getting access to that card. Mr E.S. Ripper : You still have not answered the question. The SPEAKER : Order, Leader of the Opposition! Mr B.J. GRYLLS : I also know that Hon Adele Farina in the other house has given her support to the plan. I couch my response in terms of the fact that every day the Leader of the Opposition stands in this place and says that royalties for regions was unsustainable before the crisis and is unsustainable after the crisis. Mr E.S. Ripper : Answer the question! Answer the question! Mr B.J. GRYLLS : If it is unsustainable, would the Leader of the Opposition match the — Point of Order Mr M. McGOWAN : Mr Speaker, the question specifically asked who is eligible to receive this fuel card, when will seniors receive the fuel card, and what safeguards have been put in place. The minister has spoken for roughly four minutes and has not touched on a single one of those questions. I ask him to answer the question. The SPEAKER : Minister for Regional Development, please continue and make your point. Questions without Notice Resumed Mr B.J. GRYLLS : Thank you, Mr Speaker. Is the Leader of the Opposition prepared to support $20 million a year for a country age pension fuel card? Is the Leader of the Opposition prepared to support a country age pension fuel card? Come on! This is an opportunity to now support the card. I am looking the Leader of the Opposition right in the face: is he happy to support the country age pension fuel card? He is not! Several members interjected. Mr B.J. GRYLLS : The Leader of the Opposition is not prepared to support it! Country Labor members are out there supporting the card — The SPEAKER : Members, I stood earlier today to suggest that members may like to be a little more expedient answering questions because the more questions asked and the more answers provided, the more efficient we are as a Parliament. I urge the Minister for Regional Development to answer the member for Pilbara’s question, and, in doing so, I call the Leader of the Opposition for the first time. Mr B.J. GRYLLS : Thank you, Mr Speaker; I will draw my answer to a close. I find it quite ironic that country members opposite take the time to raise a question about the country age pension fuel card when the Leader of the Opposition is determined to scrap the very plan that will deliver the fuel card. I am very happy with the work done by my department to implement the country age pension fuel card process. A full announcement will be made within the month on eligibility and on how the card will be used, and on what terms it will be available. Members opposite will find that this card will provide much more service, safety and amenity to age pensioners in the country. They should be looking forward to its implementation as it is going to be a great initiative.
Mr B.J. GRYLLS : Taxpayer funds drawn from right across Western Australia funded that railway, and I think it very appropriate that taxpayer funds provide a level of equity to age pensioners who live in regional areas so that they can also access what I would term a degree of public transport; that is, to allow them some money to enable them to travel to access health care services and the other important things they need. I know that there is an incredible amount of interest from members opposite about the country age pension fuel card . Mr E.S. Ripper : Why don’t you answer the question? Mr B.J. GRYLLS : I know I have on the record the member for Albany’s support. He is looking forward to seniors in the Albany electorate getting access to that card. Mr E.S. Ripper : You still have not answered the question. The SPEAKER : Order, Leader of the Opposition! Mr B.J. GRYLLS : I also know that Hon Adele Farina in the other house has given her support to the plan. I couch my response in terms of the fact that every day the Leader of the Opposition stands in this place and says that royalties for regions was unsustainable before the crisis and is unsustainable after the crisis. Mr E.S. Ripper : Answer the question! Answer the question! Mr B.J. GRYLLS : If it is unsustainable, would the Leader of the Opposition match the — Point of Order Mr M. McGOWAN : Mr Speaker, the question specifically asked who is eligible to receive this fuel card, when will seniors receive the fuel card, and what safeguards have been put in place. The minister has spoken for roughly four minutes and has not touched on a single one of those questions. I ask him to answer the question. The SPEAKER : Minister for Regional Development, please continue and make your point. Questions without Notice Resumed Mr B.J. GRYLLS : Thank you, Mr Speaker. Is the Leader of the Opposition prepared to support $20 million a year for a country age pension fuel card? Is the Leader of the Opposition prepared to support a country age pension fuel card? Come on! This is an opportunity to now support the card. I am looking the Leader of the Opposition right in the face: is he happy to support the country age pension fuel card? He is not! Several members interjected. Mr B.J. GRYLLS : The Leader of the Opposition is not prepared to support it! Country Labor members are out there supporting the card — The SPEAKER : Members, I stood earlier today to suggest that members may like to be a little more expedient answering questions because the more questions asked and the more answers provided, the more efficient we are as a Parliament. I urge the Minister for Regional Development to answer the member for Pilbara’s question, and, in doing so, I call the Leader of the Opposition for the first time. Mr B.J. GRYLLS : Thank you, Mr Speaker; I will draw my answer to a close. I find it quite ironic that country members opposite take the time to raise a question about the country age pension fuel card when the Leader of the Opposition is determined to scrap the very plan that will deliver the fuel card. I am very happy with the work done by my department to implement the country age pension fuel card process. A full announcement will be made within the month on eligibility and on how the card will be used, and on what terms it will be available. Members opposite will find that this card will provide much more service, safety and amenity to age pensioners in the country. They should be looking forward to its implementation as it is going to be a great initiative.
I know that there is an incredible amount of interest from members opposite about the country age pension fuel card . Mr E.S. Ripper : Why don’t you answer the question? Mr B.J. GRYLLS : I know I have on the record the member for Albany’s support. He is looking forward to seniors in the Albany electorate getting access to that card. Mr E.S. Ripper : You still have not answered the question. The SPEAKER : Order, Leader of the Opposition! Mr B.J. GRYLLS : I also know that Hon Adele Farina in the other house has given her support to the plan. I couch my response in terms of the fact that every day the Leader of the Opposition stands in this place and says that royalties for regions was unsustainable before the crisis and is unsustainable after the crisis. Mr E.S. Ripper : Answer the question! Answer the question! Mr B.J. GRYLLS : If it is unsustainable, would the Leader of the Opposition match the — Point of Order Mr M. McGOWAN : Mr Speaker, the question specifically asked who is eligible to receive this fuel card, when will seniors receive the fuel card, and what safeguards have been put in place. The minister has spoken for roughly four minutes and has not touched on a single one of those questions. I ask him to answer the question. The SPEAKER : Minister for Regional Development, please continue and make your point. Questions without Notice Resumed Mr B.J. GRYLLS : Thank you, Mr Speaker. Is the Leader of the Opposition prepared to support $20 million a year for a country age pension fuel card? Is the Leader of the Opposition prepared to support a country age pension fuel card? Come on! This is an opportunity to now support the card. I am looking the Leader of the Opposition right in the face: is he happy to support the country age pension fuel card? He is not! Several members interjected. Mr B.J. GRYLLS : The Leader of the Opposition is not prepared to support it! Country Labor members are out there supporting the card — The SPEAKER : Members, I stood earlier today to suggest that members may like to be a little more expedient answering questions because the more questions asked and the more answers provided, the more efficient we are as a Parliament. I urge the Minister for Regional Development to answer the member for Pilbara’s question, and, in doing so, I call the Leader of the Opposition for the first time. Mr B.J. GRYLLS : Thank you, Mr Speaker; I will draw my answer to a close. I find it quite ironic that country members opposite take the time to raise a question about the country age pension fuel card when the Leader of the Opposition is determined to scrap the very plan that will deliver the fuel card. I am very happy with the work done by my department to implement the country age pension fuel card process. A full announcement will be made within the month on eligibility and on how the card will be used, and on what terms it will be available. Members opposite will find that this card will provide much more service, safety and amenity to age pensioners in the country. They should be looking forward to its implementation as it is going to be a great initiative.
Mr E.S. Ripper : Why don’t you answer the question? Mr B.J. GRYLLS : I know I have on the record the member for Albany’s support. He is looking forward to seniors in the Albany electorate getting access to that card. Mr E.S. Ripper : You still have not answered the question. The SPEAKER : Order, Leader of the Opposition! Mr B.J. GRYLLS : I also know that Hon Adele Farina in the other house has given her support to the plan. I couch my response in terms of the fact that every day the Leader of the Opposition stands in this place and says that royalties for regions was unsustainable before the crisis and is unsustainable after the crisis. Mr E.S. Ripper : Answer the question! Answer the question! Mr B.J. GRYLLS : If it is unsustainable, would the Leader of the Opposition match the — Point of Order Mr M. McGOWAN : Mr Speaker, the question specifically asked who is eligible to receive this fuel card, when will seniors receive the fuel card, and what safeguards have been put in place. The minister has spoken for roughly four minutes and has not touched on a single one of those questions. I ask him to answer the question. The SPEAKER : Minister for Regional Development, please continue and make your point. Questions without Notice Resumed Mr B.J. GRYLLS : Thank you, Mr Speaker. Is the Leader of the Opposition prepared to support $20 million a year for a country age pension fuel card? Is the Leader of the Opposition prepared to support a country age pension fuel card? Come on! This is an opportunity to now support the card. I am looking the Leader of the Opposition right in the face: is he happy to support the country age pension fuel card? He is not! Several members interjected. Mr B.J. GRYLLS : The Leader of the Opposition is not prepared to support it! Country Labor members are out there supporting the card — The SPEAKER : Members, I stood earlier today to suggest that members may like to be a little more expedient answering questions because the more questions asked and the more answers provided, the more efficient we are as a Parliament. I urge the Minister for Regional Development to answer the member for Pilbara’s question, and, in doing so, I call the Leader of the Opposition for the first time. Mr B.J. GRYLLS : Thank you, Mr Speaker; I will draw my answer to a close. I find it quite ironic that country members opposite take the time to raise a question about the country age pension fuel card when the Leader of the Opposition is determined to scrap the very plan that will deliver the fuel card. I am very happy with the work done by my department to implement the country age pension fuel card process. A full announcement will be made within the month on eligibility and on how the card will be used, and on what terms it will be available. Members opposite will find that this card will provide much more service, safety and amenity to age pensioners in the country. They should be looking forward to its implementation as it is going to be a great initiative.
Mr B.J. GRYLLS : I know I have on the record the member for Albany’s support. He is looking forward to seniors in the Albany electorate getting access to that card. Mr E.S. Ripper : You still have not answered the question. The SPEAKER : Order, Leader of the Opposition! Mr B.J. GRYLLS : I also know that Hon Adele Farina in the other house has given her support to the plan. I couch my response in terms of the fact that every day the Leader of the Opposition stands in this place and says that royalties for regions was unsustainable before the crisis and is unsustainable after the crisis. Mr E.S. Ripper : Answer the question! Answer the question! Mr B.J. GRYLLS : If it is unsustainable, would the Leader of the Opposition match the — Point of Order Mr M. McGOWAN : Mr Speaker, the question specifically asked who is eligible to receive this fuel card, when will seniors receive the fuel card, and what safeguards have been put in place. The minister has spoken for roughly four minutes and has not touched on a single one of those questions. I ask him to answer the question. The SPEAKER : Minister for Regional Development, please continue and make your point. Questions without Notice Resumed Mr B.J. GRYLLS : Thank you, Mr Speaker. Is the Leader of the Opposition prepared to support $20 million a year for a country age pension fuel card? Is the Leader of the Opposition prepared to support a country age pension fuel card? Come on! This is an opportunity to now support the card. I am looking the Leader of the Opposition right in the face: is he happy to support the country age pension fuel card? He is not! Several members interjected. Mr B.J. GRYLLS : The Leader of the Opposition is not prepared to support it! Country Labor members are out there supporting the card — The SPEAKER : Members, I stood earlier today to suggest that members may like to be a little more expedient answering questions because the more questions asked and the more answers provided, the more efficient we are as a Parliament. I urge the Minister for Regional Development to answer the member for Pilbara’s question, and, in doing so, I call the Leader of the Opposition for the first time. Mr B.J. GRYLLS : Thank you, Mr Speaker; I will draw my answer to a close. I find it quite ironic that country members opposite take the time to raise a question about the country age pension fuel card when the Leader of the Opposition is determined to scrap the very plan that will deliver the fuel card. I am very happy with the work done by my department to implement the country age pension fuel card process. A full announcement will be made within the month on eligibility and on how the card will be used, and on what terms it will be available. Members opposite will find that this card will provide much more service, safety and amenity to age pensioners in the country. They should be looking forward to its implementation as it is going to be a great initiative.
Mr E.S. Ripper : You still have not answered the question. The SPEAKER : Order, Leader of the Opposition! Mr B.J. GRYLLS : I also know that Hon Adele Farina in the other house has given her support to the plan. I couch my response in terms of the fact that every day the Leader of the Opposition stands in this place and says that royalties for regions was unsustainable before the crisis and is unsustainable after the crisis. Mr E.S. Ripper : Answer the question! Answer the question! Mr B.J. GRYLLS : If it is unsustainable, would the Leader of the Opposition match the — Point of Order Mr M. McGOWAN : Mr Speaker, the question specifically asked who is eligible to receive this fuel card, when will seniors receive the fuel card, and what safeguards have been put in place. The minister has spoken for roughly four minutes and has not touched on a single one of those questions. I ask him to answer the question. The SPEAKER : Minister for Regional Development, please continue and make your point. Questions without Notice Resumed Mr B.J. GRYLLS : Thank you, Mr Speaker. Is the Leader of the Opposition prepared to support $20 million a year for a country age pension fuel card? Is the Leader of the Opposition prepared to support a country age pension fuel card? Come on! This is an opportunity to now support the card. I am looking the Leader of the Opposition right in the face: is he happy to support the country age pension fuel card? He is not! Several members interjected. Mr B.J. GRYLLS : The Leader of the Opposition is not prepared to support it! Country Labor members are out there supporting the card — The SPEAKER : Members, I stood earlier today to suggest that members may like to be a little more expedient answering questions because the more questions asked and the more answers provided, the more efficient we are as a Parliament. I urge the Minister for Regional Development to answer the member for Pilbara’s question, and, in doing so, I call the Leader of the Opposition for the first time. Mr B.J. GRYLLS : Thank you, Mr Speaker; I will draw my answer to a close. I find it quite ironic that country members opposite take the time to raise a question about the country age pension fuel card when the Leader of the Opposition is determined to scrap the very plan that will deliver the fuel card. I am very happy with the work done by my department to implement the country age pension fuel card process. A full announcement will be made within the month on eligibility and on how the card will be used, and on what terms it will be available. Members opposite will find that this card will provide much more service, safety and amenity to age pensioners in the country. They should be looking forward to its implementation as it is going to be a great initiative.
The SPEAKER : Order, Leader of the Opposition! Mr B.J. GRYLLS : I also know that Hon Adele Farina in the other house has given her support to the plan. I couch my response in terms of the fact that every day the Leader of the Opposition stands in this place and says that royalties for regions was unsustainable before the crisis and is unsustainable after the crisis. Mr E.S. Ripper : Answer the question! Answer the question! Mr B.J. GRYLLS : If it is unsustainable, would the Leader of the Opposition match the — Point of Order Mr M. McGOWAN : Mr Speaker, the question specifically asked who is eligible to receive this fuel card, when will seniors receive the fuel card, and what safeguards have been put in place. The minister has spoken for roughly four minutes and has not touched on a single one of those questions. I ask him to answer the question. The SPEAKER : Minister for Regional Development, please continue and make your point. Questions without Notice Resumed Mr B.J. GRYLLS : Thank you, Mr Speaker. Is the Leader of the Opposition prepared to support $20 million a year for a country age pension fuel card? Is the Leader of the Opposition prepared to support a country age pension fuel card? Come on! This is an opportunity to now support the card. I am looking the Leader of the Opposition right in the face: is he happy to support the country age pension fuel card? He is not! Several members interjected. Mr B.J. GRYLLS : The Leader of the Opposition is not prepared to support it! Country Labor members are out there supporting the card — The SPEAKER : Members, I stood earlier today to suggest that members may like to be a little more expedient answering questions because the more questions asked and the more answers provided, the more efficient we are as a Parliament. I urge the Minister for Regional Development to answer the member for Pilbara’s question, and, in doing so, I call the Leader of the Opposition for the first time. Mr B.J. GRYLLS : Thank you, Mr Speaker; I will draw my answer to a close. I find it quite ironic that country members opposite take the time to raise a question about the country age pension fuel card when the Leader of the Opposition is determined to scrap the very plan that will deliver the fuel card. I am very happy with the work done by my department to implement the country age pension fuel card process. A full announcement will be made within the month on eligibility and on how the card will be used, and on what terms it will be available. Members opposite will find that this card will provide much more service, safety and amenity to age pensioners in the country. They should be looking forward to its implementation as it is going to be a great initiative.
Mr B.J. GRYLLS : I also know that Hon Adele Farina in the other house has given her support to the plan. I couch my response in terms of the fact that every day the Leader of the Opposition stands in this place and says that royalties for regions was unsustainable before the crisis and is unsustainable after the crisis. Mr E.S. Ripper : Answer the question! Answer the question! Mr B.J. GRYLLS : If it is unsustainable, would the Leader of the Opposition match the — Point of Order Mr M. McGOWAN : Mr Speaker, the question specifically asked who is eligible to receive this fuel card, when will seniors receive the fuel card, and what safeguards have been put in place. The minister has spoken for roughly four minutes and has not touched on a single one of those questions. I ask him to answer the question. The SPEAKER : Minister for Regional Development, please continue and make your point. Questions without Notice Resumed Mr B.J. GRYLLS : Thank you, Mr Speaker. Is the Leader of the Opposition prepared to support $20 million a year for a country age pension fuel card? Is the Leader of the Opposition prepared to support a country age pension fuel card? Come on! This is an opportunity to now support the card. I am looking the Leader of the Opposition right in the face: is he happy to support the country age pension fuel card? He is not! Several members interjected. Mr B.J. GRYLLS : The Leader of the Opposition is not prepared to support it! Country Labor members are out there supporting the card — The SPEAKER : Members, I stood earlier today to suggest that members may like to be a little more expedient answering questions because the more questions asked and the more answers provided, the more efficient we are as a Parliament. I urge the Minister for Regional Development to answer the member for Pilbara’s question, and, in doing so, I call the Leader of the Opposition for the first time. Mr B.J. GRYLLS : Thank you, Mr Speaker; I will draw my answer to a close. I find it quite ironic that country members opposite take the time to raise a question about the country age pension fuel card when the Leader of the Opposition is determined to scrap the very plan that will deliver the fuel card. I am very happy with the work done by my department to implement the country age pension fuel card process. A full announcement will be made within the month on eligibility and on how the card will be used, and on what terms it will be available. Members opposite will find that this card will provide much more service, safety and amenity to age pensioners in the country. They should be looking forward to its implementation as it is going to be a great initiative.
I couch my response in terms of the fact that every day the Leader of the Opposition stands in this place and says that royalties for regions was unsustainable before the crisis and is unsustainable after the crisis. Mr E.S. Ripper : Answer the question! Answer the question! Mr B.J. GRYLLS : If it is unsustainable, would the Leader of the Opposition match the — Point of Order Mr M. McGOWAN : Mr Speaker, the question specifically asked who is eligible to receive this fuel card, when will seniors receive the fuel card, and what safeguards have been put in place. The minister has spoken for roughly four minutes and has not touched on a single one of those questions. I ask him to answer the question. The SPEAKER : Minister for Regional Development, please continue and make your point. Questions without Notice Resumed Mr B.J. GRYLLS : Thank you, Mr Speaker. Is the Leader of the Opposition prepared to support $20 million a year for a country age pension fuel card? Is the Leader of the Opposition prepared to support a country age pension fuel card? Come on! This is an opportunity to now support the card. I am looking the Leader of the Opposition right in the face: is he happy to support the country age pension fuel card? He is not! Several members interjected. Mr B.J. GRYLLS : The Leader of the Opposition is not prepared to support it! Country Labor members are out there supporting the card — The SPEAKER : Members, I stood earlier today to suggest that members may like to be a little more expedient answering questions because the more questions asked and the more answers provided, the more efficient we are as a Parliament. I urge the Minister for Regional Development to answer the member for Pilbara’s question, and, in doing so, I call the Leader of the Opposition for the first time. Mr B.J. GRYLLS : Thank you, Mr Speaker; I will draw my answer to a close. I find it quite ironic that country members opposite take the time to raise a question about the country age pension fuel card when the Leader of the Opposition is determined to scrap the very plan that will deliver the fuel card. I am very happy with the work done by my department to implement the country age pension fuel card process. A full announcement will be made within the month on eligibility and on how the card will be used, and on what terms it will be available. Members opposite will find that this card will provide much more service, safety and amenity to age pensioners in the country. They should be looking forward to its implementation as it is going to be a great initiative.
Mr E.S. Ripper : Answer the question! Answer the question! Mr B.J. GRYLLS : If it is unsustainable, would the Leader of the Opposition match the — Point of Order Mr M. McGOWAN : Mr Speaker, the question specifically asked who is eligible to receive this fuel card, when will seniors receive the fuel card, and what safeguards have been put in place. The minister has spoken for roughly four minutes and has not touched on a single one of those questions. I ask him to answer the question. The SPEAKER : Minister for Regional Development, please continue and make your point. Questions without Notice Resumed Mr B.J. GRYLLS : Thank you, Mr Speaker. Is the Leader of the Opposition prepared to support $20 million a year for a country age pension fuel card? Is the Leader of the Opposition prepared to support a country age pension fuel card? Come on! This is an opportunity to now support the card. I am looking the Leader of the Opposition right in the face: is he happy to support the country age pension fuel card? He is not! Several members interjected. Mr B.J. GRYLLS : The Leader of the Opposition is not prepared to support it! Country Labor members are out there supporting the card — The SPEAKER : Members, I stood earlier today to suggest that members may like to be a little more expedient answering questions because the more questions asked and the more answers provided, the more efficient we are as a Parliament. I urge the Minister for Regional Development to answer the member for Pilbara’s question, and, in doing so, I call the Leader of the Opposition for the first time. Mr B.J. GRYLLS : Thank you, Mr Speaker; I will draw my answer to a close. I find it quite ironic that country members opposite take the time to raise a question about the country age pension fuel card when the Leader of the Opposition is determined to scrap the very plan that will deliver the fuel card. I am very happy with the work done by my department to implement the country age pension fuel card process. A full announcement will be made within the month on eligibility and on how the card will be used, and on what terms it will be available. Members opposite will find that this card will provide much more service, safety and amenity to age pensioners in the country. They should be looking forward to its implementation as it is going to be a great initiative.
Mr B.J. GRYLLS : If it is unsustainable, would the Leader of the Opposition match the — Point of Order Mr M. McGOWAN : Mr Speaker, the question specifically asked who is eligible to receive this fuel card, when will seniors receive the fuel card, and what safeguards have been put in place. The minister has spoken for roughly four minutes and has not touched on a single one of those questions. I ask him to answer the question. The SPEAKER : Minister for Regional Development, please continue and make your point. Questions without Notice Resumed Mr B.J. GRYLLS : Thank you, Mr Speaker. Is the Leader of the Opposition prepared to support $20 million a year for a country age pension fuel card? Is the Leader of the Opposition prepared to support a country age pension fuel card? Come on! This is an opportunity to now support the card. I am looking the Leader of the Opposition right in the face: is he happy to support the country age pension fuel card? He is not! Several members interjected. Mr B.J. GRYLLS : The Leader of the Opposition is not prepared to support it! Country Labor members are out there supporting the card — The SPEAKER : Members, I stood earlier today to suggest that members may like to be a little more expedient answering questions because the more questions asked and the more answers provided, the more efficient we are as a Parliament. I urge the Minister for Regional Development to answer the member for Pilbara’s question, and, in doing so, I call the Leader of the Opposition for the first time. Mr B.J. GRYLLS : Thank you, Mr Speaker; I will draw my answer to a close. I find it quite ironic that country members opposite take the time to raise a question about the country age pension fuel card when the Leader of the Opposition is determined to scrap the very plan that will deliver the fuel card. I am very happy with the work done by my department to implement the country age pension fuel card process. A full announcement will be made within the month on eligibility and on how the card will be used, and on what terms it will be available. Members opposite will find that this card will provide much more service, safety and amenity to age pensioners in the country. They should be looking forward to its implementation as it is going to be a great initiative.
The SPEAKER : Minister for Regional Development, please continue and make your point. Questions without Notice Resumed Mr B.J. GRYLLS : Thank you, Mr Speaker. Is the Leader of the Opposition prepared to support $20 million a year for a country age pension fuel card? Is the Leader of the Opposition prepared to support a country age pension fuel card? Come on! This is an opportunity to now support the card. I am looking the Leader of the Opposition right in the face: is he happy to support the country age pension fuel card? He is not! Several members interjected. Mr B.J. GRYLLS : The Leader of the Opposition is not prepared to support it! Country Labor members are out there supporting the card — The SPEAKER : Members, I stood earlier today to suggest that members may like to be a little more expedient answering questions because the more questions asked and the more answers provided, the more efficient we are as a Parliament. I urge the Minister for Regional Development to answer the member for Pilbara’s question, and, in doing so, I call the Leader of the Opposition for the first time. Mr B.J. GRYLLS : Thank you, Mr Speaker; I will draw my answer to a close. I find it quite ironic that country members opposite take the time to raise a question about the country age pension fuel card when the Leader of the Opposition is determined to scrap the very plan that will deliver the fuel card. I am very happy with the work done by my department to implement the country age pension fuel card process. A full announcement will be made within the month on eligibility and on how the card will be used, and on what terms it will be available. Members opposite will find that this card will provide much more service, safety and amenity to age pensioners in the country. They should be looking forward to its implementation as it is going to be a great initiative.
Is the Leader of the Opposition prepared to support $20 million a year for a country age pension fuel card? Is the Leader of the Opposition prepared to support a country age pension fuel card? Come on! This is an opportunity to now support the card. I am looking the Leader of the Opposition right in the face: is he happy to support the country age pension fuel card? He is not! Several members interjected. Mr B.J. GRYLLS : The Leader of the Opposition is not prepared to support it! Country Labor members are out there supporting the card — The SPEAKER : Members, I stood earlier today to suggest that members may like to be a little more expedient answering questions because the more questions asked and the more answers provided, the more efficient we are as a Parliament. I urge the Minister for Regional Development to answer the member for Pilbara’s question, and, in doing so, I call the Leader of the Opposition for the first time. Mr B.J. GRYLLS : Thank you, Mr Speaker; I will draw my answer to a close. I find it quite ironic that country members opposite take the time to raise a question about the country age pension fuel card when the Leader of the Opposition is determined to scrap the very plan that will deliver the fuel card. I am very happy with the work done by my department to implement the country age pension fuel card process. A full announcement will be made within the month on eligibility and on how the card will be used, and on what terms it will be available. Members opposite will find that this card will provide much more service, safety and amenity to age pensioners in the country. They should be looking forward to its implementation as it is going to be a great initiative.
Several members interjected. Mr B.J. GRYLLS : The Leader of the Opposition is not prepared to support it! Country Labor members are out there supporting the card — The SPEAKER : Members, I stood earlier today to suggest that members may like to be a little more expedient answering questions because the more questions asked and the more answers provided, the more efficient we are as a Parliament. I urge the Minister for Regional Development to answer the member for Pilbara’s question, and, in doing so, I call the Leader of the Opposition for the first time. Mr B.J. GRYLLS : Thank you, Mr Speaker; I will draw my answer to a close. I find it quite ironic that country members opposite take the time to raise a question about the country age pension fuel card when the Leader of the Opposition is determined to scrap the very plan that will deliver the fuel card. I am very happy with the work done by my department to implement the country age pension fuel card process. A full announcement will be made within the month on eligibility and on how the card will be used, and on what terms it will be available. Members opposite will find that this card will provide much more service, safety and amenity to age pensioners in the country. They should be looking forward to its implementation as it is going to be a great initiative.
Mr B.J. GRYLLS : The Leader of the Opposition is not prepared to support it! Country Labor members are out there supporting the card — The SPEAKER : Members, I stood earlier today to suggest that members may like to be a little more expedient answering questions because the more questions asked and the more answers provided, the more efficient we are as a Parliament. I urge the Minister for Regional Development to answer the member for Pilbara’s question, and, in doing so, I call the Leader of the Opposition for the first time. Mr B.J. GRYLLS : Thank you, Mr Speaker; I will draw my answer to a close. I find it quite ironic that country members opposite take the time to raise a question about the country age pension fuel card when the Leader of the Opposition is determined to scrap the very plan that will deliver the fuel card. I am very happy with the work done by my department to implement the country age pension fuel card process. A full announcement will be made within the month on eligibility and on how the card will be used, and on what terms it will be available. Members opposite will find that this card will provide much more service, safety and amenity to age pensioners in the country. They should be looking forward to its implementation as it is going to be a great initiative.
The SPEAKER : Members, I stood earlier today to suggest that members may like to be a little more expedient answering questions because the more questions asked and the more answers provided, the more efficient we are as a Parliament. I urge the Minister for Regional Development to answer the member for Pilbara’s question, and, in doing so, I call the Leader of the Opposition for the first time. Mr B.J. GRYLLS : Thank you, Mr Speaker; I will draw my answer to a close. I find it quite ironic that country members opposite take the time to raise a question about the country age pension fuel card when the Leader of the Opposition is determined to scrap the very plan that will deliver the fuel card. I am very happy with the work done by my department to implement the country age pension fuel card process. A full announcement will be made within the month on eligibility and on how the card will be used, and on what terms it will be available. Members opposite will find that this card will provide much more service, safety and amenity to age pensioners in the country. They should be looking forward to its implementation as it is going to be a great initiative.
Mr B.J. GRYLLS : Thank you, Mr Speaker; I will draw my answer to a close. I find it quite ironic that country members opposite take the time to raise a question about the country age pension fuel card when the Leader of the Opposition is determined to scrap the very plan that will deliver the fuel card. I am very happy with the work done by my department to implement the country age pension fuel card process. A full announcement will be made within the month on eligibility and on how the card will be used, and on what terms it will be available. Members opposite will find that this card will provide much more service, safety and amenity to age pensioners in the country. They should be looking forward to its implementation as it is going to be a great initiative.
I find it quite ironic that country members opposite take the time to raise a question about the country age pension fuel card when the Leader of the Opposition is determined to scrap the very plan that will deliver the fuel card. I am very happy with the work done by my department to implement the country age pension fuel card process. A full announcement will be made within the month on eligibility and on how the card will be used, and on what terms it will be available. Members opposite will find that this card will provide much more service, safety and amenity to age pensioners in the country. They should be looking forward to its implementation as it is going to be a great initiative.
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