Senate debates

Thursday, 26 June 2014

Parliamentary Office Holders

President

3:03 pm

Photo of Eric AbetzEric Abetz (Tasmania, Liberal Party, Minister for Employment) Share this | | Hansard source

Mr President, before asking that further questions be placed on notice, can I thank you on behalf of the whole chamber for presiding over exactly 300 question times, as of today. Thank you for your service. I ask that further questions be placed on notice.

Photo of Penny WongPenny Wong (SA, Australian Labor Party, Leader of the Opposition in the Senate) Share this | | Hansard source

Can I add my thanks on behalf of the opposition, Mr President, for your term as President and for presiding over a great many question times. I know that there are times where we on this side—perhaps even me—have tested your patience—

Government Senators:

Government senators interjecting

Photo of Penny WongPenny Wong (SA, Australian Labor Party, Leader of the Opposition in the Senate) Share this | | Hansard source

I know it is hard to believe! Mr President, we thank you for the way in which you have sought to exercise authority and the dignity with which you have conducted yourself. Thank you very much, Mr President.

3:04 pm

Photo of Nigel ScullionNigel Scullion (NT, Country Liberal Party, Minister for Indigenous Affairs) Share this | | Hansard source

Mr President, could I add my acknowledgement of your fine work in this place. Law makers always talk about the rule of law, and I think you have to apply it in one of the most difficult environments. Congratulations and good luck in the future.

Photo of John HoggJohn Hogg (President) Share this | | Hansard source

Thank you, everyone.

Photo of John HoggJohn Hogg (President) Share this | | Hansard source

Senator Siewert—I did recognise you, Senator Siewert. You have not had a change of hairstyle for a while.

Photo of Rachel SiewertRachel Siewert (WA, Australian Greens) Share this | | Hansard source

Thank you, Mr President. I would like to add the Greens good wishes and thank you for the work you have done in the chamber. I do not know if I am going to have to keep reporting to the President every time I get a haircut—

Photo of John HoggJohn Hogg (President) Share this | | Hansard source

That's not my problem!

Photo of Rachel SiewertRachel Siewert (WA, Australian Greens) Share this | | Hansard source

I will have to check with Senator Parry about that one!