Veterans

The reason the RSL is so passionate is that the Cenotaph was chosen as a site for its prominence. The hill where the Cenotaph now stands was the last thing of the city that departing World War I soldiers would see from their ships. That's why the sightlines are so important, including sightlines to the water, and that's why they're protected in the planning scheme. You, I know, minister, have been long aware of this. Did you ever advise the Premier of the unsuitability of Mac Point for the stadium before, during or after it was chosen by the AFL as the only site upon which to consider a stadium, despite at the time having numerous options?

Minister, I do acknowledge your ongoing strong support for veterans.  I also acknowledge that you must be in a spot of bother in some ways because you are part of a government that plans a stadium which will significantly impact on the historic cultural heritage and the values of the cenotaph.  How do you respond to statements by Chief Executive Officer John Hardy from the RSL when he says that the RSL has been disrespected and misled at every turn by government in relation to the stadium.