It's that time of the year again, time to hang up the decorations, Christmas stocking and Mistletoe. This is the time of the year I fondly think of a cooler country, where I was born, that is England, and memories of snow and plum pudding!

I was reminded even more recently when I launched a DVD, Canberra 555, a joint project of the ACT Government's Community Partnership Program, the Migrant resources Centre, the Heritage Library and the Multicultural Arts Officer. The DVD tells the story of several migrants that came here in 1955 from England, Austria, the Netherlands, Poland and Italy, through there own words. I found many of the things they said resonated with my own experience of arriving in Australia in the 50's as a child. The DVD will be used in schools to help our young people understand the history of our multicultural city through the stories of ordinary people.

I also had the pleasure lately of presenting certificates to several graduates of the Work experience support Program. The program that allows participants from many different culturally and linguistic backgrounds to become more job-ready by providing them with the ability to enhance their skills and gain more confidence, as well as developing valuable networks within the workforce, through on and off the job training and work experience.This Program has equipped hundreds of migrants who have decided to make Canberra their home and work place since it started.

Thursday 30th November I went up in a cherry picker to put the star on top of the Christmas Tree in Civic Square. Christmas in the city will see many free events and entertainment for families, so let us hope that many people will come in to town to join in. Many of our cities businesses and our media have joined ActewAGL and the ACT Government to support the celebrations.

Of course another event that took place on the 30th November was the national rallies, right across Australia, to protest, yet again, against the Federal Government's unjust IR laws. I joined many of my colleagues at Manuka Oval and was reminded that for some who have suffered under the legislation already Christmas will not necessarily be a happy one.

I have been joining my local Community Fire Unit in Hawker for regular training sessions. These volunteers, like many hundreds of others around Canberra are ensuring that they help us protect our urban fringe against another bushfire event by preparing to defend the homes in their streets. Let your neighbours know where you are over the holiday period and be aware of anyone in your street that may need additional assistance in the event of an emergency. Don't forget to have your emergency plans in place for the holiday season you can obtain useful information about being prepared on The website of the A.C.T. Emergency Services Agency.

There is one sitting week to go, and during that week I intend to move a motion to call upon the Federal Government to review the Self Government ACT that is used by the Commonwealth to overturn our legislation and prevent the people of the ACT being able to have laws passed on your behalf, which is your democratic right.

As usual you will see me at my Mobile Offices during December however I will be taking a break during January and will recommence in February. You may of course still contact me during January by email or phone.

Thank you to everybody who has contacted me during 2006. I do trust you all have a safe and joyous Festive and holiday season and are able to catch up with family or friends. All the best for 2007!

Mary.
Mary Porter AM MLA
Member for Ginninderra