Relief as Labor takes power

Re-elected Page MP Janelle Saffin has spent two long weeks awaiting a decision from the Independent MPs, and on Tuesday, it became a decision worth waiting for.

“I felt relieved,” Ms Saffin said. “We have a stable minority government and it’s quite exciting… We’re so used to the two-party system, a majority government, so this is something quite different. I’m also excited about the parliamentary reforms and that we might have more free-flowing debate on major issues.”

She said was looking forward to some robust debate within the new government.

“I like the idea that we’re going to have a debate about the war in Afghanistan, that is something I had put forward to federal Labor,” she said. “I had said there is a growing feeling in the community about the war in Afghanistan and people wanted to know more about it, and a debate on the floor of parliament means they’ll get to know more about what’s going on. In saying that, I’m mindful of our troops who are there and for whom I have enormous respect. Quite a few mums have come to me about that issue.”

Ms Saffin said she also looked forward to discussing managed investment schemes and the impacts on rural communities, issues to do with agriculture and survival, and the national broadband network roll-out.

Ms Saffin said she already knows Independent MPs Rob Oakeshott and Tony Windsor from her time in NSW Parliament.

“I enjoy a good working relationship with them and we have lots in common,” she said.

So, is there any chance Ms Saffin will become the next speaker?

“You’ll have to ring Julia and ask her,” she laughed.