Senator HILL (Minister for the Environment)(3.55 p.m.) —by leave—Mr Deputy President—

Senator Carr —We are not going to debate this, are we?

Senator HILL —No. The problem, Senator, is that in some ways, by seeking to make a statement to justify her vote, Senator Margetts has not only introduced a debate but unfortunately somewhat tainted the resolution that will pass. I want to make it clear that from the government's perspective the motion should be strongly supported. I commend Senator Cooney for bringing it. It is wrong, I believe, to in any way colour the order with the misbehaviour of a few. I think that today is an occasion to recognise the enormous work that the order and the spirit of its founder have done for the benefit of—speaking of Australia only—hundreds of thousands of children over the years and to recognise it with appreciation.

As a non-Catholic, I did not know perhaps as much as I should have about Edmund Rice until I attended a very large mass last Friday in Adelaide as part of the beatification ceremonies. Clearly, he was a man who dedicated his life to those who were poor, to those who were uneducated, and set an example that has been followed by many after him, in terms of helping and supporting young people throughout the world with education, accommodation and in other ways to help give them a good start in the world.

In supporting this motion, I say on behalf of the government that we clearly do express our appreciation for the dedication of the Christian Brothers in Australia. We look forward to the good works that the Christian Brothers will continue to do for the benefit of those who are not so well off in our community in the years ahead.

The DEPUTY PRESIDENT —There being no objection to formality, I call Senator Cooney.