Disruptive and unnecessary is how Cassy O’Connor has described the 4pm afternoon tea breaks enjoyed by members of the Legislative Council.
“Afternoon tea in this place does not pass the pub test,” the Member for Hobart said during the Upper House’s first sitting day on Tuesday.
“A number of times we’ve been in the middle of an important debate, debating legislation or a motion that’s come before this place and the bell goes ding at four o’clock and everyone ups and offs for half an hour of afternoon tea.”
“I appreciate why this afternoon tea provision has been inserted into the Sessional Orders because it’s a very hard day at work when both houses are sitting.”
“But that’s what we’re paid to do. I object personally and on behalf of the Greens to the whole idea of a special afternoon tea break for the council.”
Legislative Council President Craig Farrell defended the practice, noting that the breaks are not exclusive to members but also benefit staff who support chamber operations.
“We have a fairly small staff in this chamber and many of them work through the day,” he said.
“They don’t get to have a point in this debate but we must remember that they’re also members of this chamber.”
The criticism found limited support among other members, with Independent member for Mersey Mike Gaffney being the only other parliamentarian to back O’Connor’s position.
Following the discussion, the Legislative Council voted to continue its afternoon tea tradition.
