Tasmanian Democratic Labor Party responds to our question list

You can view our question list for all candidates here.

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#1 on the ticket for the Democratic Labor Party in Tasmania, Mishka Gora, responded :

“Answers to your questions as requested.

Mishka Gora
Lead Senate Candidate (Tasmania)
Democratic Labor Party

www.dlp.org.au

What are your thoughts on asylum seekers?

I advocate an approach that balances compassion and fairness. The DLP has a 2-for-1 policy that would see queue-jumpers (a.k.a. boat people) returned to an existing UNHCR refugee camp, and in exchange for each one Australia would take two already-processed refugees from the front of the queue, concentrating on family units where possible. This would reduce the number of genuine refugees waiting in refugee camps, ensure asylum seekers are processed fairly in a safe and secure UN-run environment, and create a disincentive that would hamper or even stop people-smuggling.

What are your thoughts on public transport?

Public transport is a vital part of our infrastructure and has an obvious role to play in reducing congestion and pollution and improving the way we get around in our cities. DLP policy is for public transport to be free where possible.

What are your thoughts on renewable energy?

I support efforts to find ways of using renewable energy that are economically viable.

Do you support or oppose the introduction of the R18+ rating classification for video games?

Support.

Do you support or oppose the proposed internet filter?

I support it in theory but with qualifications. I have concerns about the feasibility of it and the impact it might have on civil liberties. I would need far greater detail than is currently available to take a firm stance on this issue.

Do you support or oppose gay marriage?

I believe marriage is between a man and a woman by definition and resist any attempt to change that definition.

What are your thoughts on abortion?

I think unborn children should have the same rights as children outside of the womb. I do not believe anyone has the right to deprive a child of its life just because it’s too small and vulnerable to have a say in the matter, and I therefore consider abortion morally wrong.

Do you support or oppose the legalisation of voluntary euthanasia?

Oppose.

What are your thoughts on stem cells research?

I am strongly in favour of the use of adult stem cell technology which has been shown to be medically successful. The DLP opposes embryonic stem cell research as the manipulation of embryos without regard to the fact that they are a human life.

What are your thoughts on education?

I think it’s important that parents can choose how to educate their children, which is why I support the option of independent schools. Nevertheless, I also think there has to be a basic standard that all children meet. I support the reintroduction of phonics to teach children how to read, and I would personally like to see the introduction of character-building electives that involve children in the community, such as visiting the elderly in nursing homes, groups such as scouts and cadets, and first aid training.

What are your thoughts on campaign finance disclosure?

The DLP believes in full financial disclosure, especially of non-individuals and overseas concerns.

What are your thoughts on climate change?

I think there is insufficient evidence that any climate conditions we are experiencing are the consequence of human activity. We have made great leaps and bounds in reducing pollution since the Industrial Revolution and I wholeheartedly support continued efforts to ensure that we continue to make progress and nurture the environment of which we are custodians. However, this has to be done sensibly and rationally and should not involve drastic measures of dubious efficacy.

What are your thoughts on water?

The DLP believes there are many ways that we can overcome our water problem. One obvious one is the construction of dams. We haven’t constructed a major dam in over 25 years, so the water supply we have is naturally being stretched beyond its limits. It’s true that dams do not make it rain…. but they do catch it in areas where it does rain before it flows out to sea.

Do you support or oppose standing order 50?

Support.

Are there any local issues you are trying to highlight with your campaign?

We will be issuing a media release about ethanol production in Tasmania later in our campaign.

Though group voting tickets have not been submitted yet, do you have an idea on where your preferences will be going?
Our preferences have not been determined wholly on party lines but on the merits of individual candidates and their ability to represent the Tasmanian people. They will be available to the public shortly via the AEC.”