'A wasted six-year opportunity'
By Jim McIlroy
BRISBANE — "Whichever way the final result goes, the Goss Labor government has wasted a priceless six-year opportunity for major reform in Queensland", Democratic Socialist candidate for Brisbane Central Zanny Begg commented on July 16.
Begg had gained around 3.5% in her seat, at close of counting on election night, with 9% going to the Greens' Richard Neilsen and around 2% to the marijuana law reform (HEMP) candidate, Guy McGhie.
"By its arrogance and refusal to listen to the voice of the people, the ALP government may have lost 'the unlosable election,'" she said.
"The government's ruthless insistence on proceeding with its plans to bulldoze the South-East Tollway against overwhelming community opposition may have cost it this election.
"However, it is clear that the tollway plan is now dead in the water, whoever wins in the end", Begg said.
"It should also be clear that if Labor's contempt for the people and its refusal to tackle the big questions of social reform, such as abortion law repeal, have led to defeat, then the Queensland people face a harsh time under the Coalition.
"No-one should be fooled by the softer line adopted by the Coalition in recent times. The brutal record of the Kennett and Court governments in Victoria and WA show us what to expect.
"Both the union and environment movements will have to be extremely vigilant, and prepare their members for a bitter struggle."