Source : Perth Now news
Tributes to a much-loved MP who is now a double amputee have been exploited for political gain, the Greens leader claims.
Usual proceedings in the House of Representatives – other than Question Time – were suspended on Monday as politicians paid their respects to critically injured MP Helen Haines
The 65-year-old, who lost both legs after being allegedly rammed repeatedly by a four-wheel-drive, has been described by colleagues as gentle, selfless, and someone who gets things done.
But Greens leader David Shoebridge said the speech by Opposition Leader Angus Taylor politicised the incident for his own gain.
Mr Taylor was second to speak after the prime minister. He began by referencing the “horrendous (alleged) attack”, Dr Haines’ family, and her recovery.
He went on to say it was time to “reflect on democracy” and denounced any causal link between the alleged attack and robust political debate.
“The government has been absolutely right to call out far-right extremism, but all extremism must be called out,” he said.
Mr Taylor then said Australians had been made to feel “guilt and shame” about the nation’s history, and referenced the defacing of war memorials as a consequence.
Dr Haines’ husband Phil, who travelled from his wife’s Melbourne hospital bedside to be in the public gallery, watched as the speech was given.
Mr Taylor was “trying to craft a narrative out of the tragedy”, Senator Shoebridge said in a press conference.
He said putting a political lens on a continuing investigation was, “deeply, deeply inappropriate and unfortunate”.
Independent MP Zali Staggll said all MPs had a responsibility for their words and actions in public debate
“I did not feel that Angus Taylor read the room when it comes to the lesson that Helen would like us all to learn,” she told reporters.
“We can disagree respectfully, but words matter and have an impact.”
Senator Shoebridge said the alleged attack on Dr Haines should instead be viewed as gendered.
“The violence against Helen was just another incident, a tragic additional incident of male violence against another woman in this country,” he said.
Roughly one in three women have experienced violence since the age of 15, the Australian Bureau of Statistics reports. “This is an unacceptable reality. We must continue working across the parliament together to prevent violence and ensure every woman can live and work without fearing for their safety,” Attorney-General Michelle Rowland told the chamber. “Helen’s work in this place has delivered meaningful outcomes.”
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