A Week 'Not Enough' for a Say on Royal Commission

The ABC News
November 20, 2012

http://www.abc.net.au/news/2012-11-20/more-time-needed-to-consider-commision27s-terms-of-reference/4381064?section=nsw

There are calls for more time for victims to consider the terms of reference for the Federal Government's Royal Commission in child sexual abuse.

The Premier Barry O'Farrell says it is disappointing there is only a one week public consultation period over the terms of reference for the Federal Government's Royal Commission into child sex abuse.

The Greens say the public has not been given enough time to have a say about the terms of reference for the Commonwealth's Royal Commission into child sex abuse.

Stakeholders will have seven days to make submissions about what issues they think should be investigated by the Commission and how different governments should work together to share information.

But NSW Greens MP David Shoebridge says a week is not enough time for victims groups to give considered responses.

"The Government promised to consult with victims groups about the terms of reference and that's good," he said.

"But one week, given these victims groups are already being swamped with new assistance claims, is really insufficient for them to come to terms with it," Mr Shoebridge said.

"We're better off spending a bit of time so we don't spend three years asking the wrong question."

The Premier has reiterated the State's commitment to the Royal Commission but says more time should have been given to the consultation.

"Look I'm happy that there's been discussions between the Federal Attorney General and the State Attorney General and I understand that's happened across Australia but it is disappointing that it could only be a one week public comment period and that's why I encourage people to go online, check the discussion paper and make their comments known."