Senator must know his place

[costargh]

I agree with this article irrespective of the content of the stimulus package.

Senator must know his place
    * Michelle Grattan
    * February 13, 2009

THE idea that the $42 billion stimulus has been rejected on the vote of one independent senator on a single — albeit vitally important — unrelated issue is bizarre.

It is true, as Nick Xenophon says, that the Opposition provided all the rest of the "no" votes. And for that it will be judged harshly by many, including probably a majority in the business community.

But the immediate practical question is about Xenophon.

His concerns about the Murray-Darling are commendable. But to stymie this package when Australia is heading towards, if not into, recession, on the grounds that he can't get adequate money brought forward for the river system is both irresponsible and politically self-indulgent.

Many people and, if we believe the experts, the whole economy, will be hurt if the package doesn't go through quickly.

Is Xenophon willing to continue to push aside the advice of experts and the pleas of the business community for his own issue?

With today's sitting of the Senate, he has another chance. Overnight negotiations were trying to clinch a deal.

The Senate has an important role as a check and a balance. Legislation is usually better when a government doesn't control it.

Small parties and independents can play a significant role and add to the texture of our democracy. But frankly, they also need to know their place — which is not to hold up $42 billion during a crisis.

[Eriny]

Totally. Even though I think that the Senate is important and ought to do their 'checks and balances' job properly, it is absurd that someone who only got in due to the weird Senate preferential conditions has so much power.

Moral of the story: number every single one of the Senate candidates, don't rely on party politics by only checking one box at the top. Apparently only about 5% of voters or less actually do this (I did it last time I voted without knowing the implications it would have and I don't intend on doing it again).

[brendan]

are ppl for democracy or what?