Member for Davidson, Jonathan O'Dea has hosted the leaders of 14 local Primary Schools on a tour of the NSW Parliament, which has allowed the students to experience where state laws are passed.
"The introduction to Parliament House and the workings of Parliament comes at an important time in the state's history as we prepare for the election of the 55th Parliament on 26 March next year," Mr O'Dea said.
"In the Legislative Assembly (Lower House) the students were given a briefing on how the chamber is elected, how it works, how Question Time operates and how laws are made. They were able to sit where key players sit, including the Speaker, Premier, Opposition Leader, Clerk of the Parliament and Sergeant at Arms.
"The students were also shown the gilded mace, which is ushered in by the Sergeant at Arms to indicate that the House is sitting and that members must obey Standing Orders, while enjoying a parliamentary privilege that enables them to say anything in the Chamber without fear of prosecution," Mr O'Dea said.
"In the Legislative Council (Upper House) the students heard how the chamber was originally a prefabricated church, which was shipped from Scotland in packing cases in 1856. The vice-regal chair was built in Tamworth from a 300 year old tree and has been used by 26 Governors and members of the Royal family.
"The Queen used the chair in 1956 and at the Opening of Parliament in 1992. Prince Charles also opened Parliament in 1974," he said.
At the end of the tour Mr O'Dea hosted the students for afternoon tea and issued them with 'Certificates of Achievement' as leaders in their respective schools.
"I trust the visit is not only a memorable occasion for the students but also provides the young leaders of tomorrow with an understanding and appreciation for our democratic system of government, as well as some of the freedoms and responsibilities that accompany it," Mr O'Dea concluded.
