THE HON BILL SHORTEN MP

LEADER OF THE OPPOSITION

MEMBER FOR MARIBYRNONG

 

MEDIA RELEASE

RETIREMENT OF SENATOR BOB CARR

Today, I want to thank Senator Bob Carr for his service as Foreign Minister and his tremendous contribution to the Australian Labor Party.

There are few people who have dedicated such time and commitment to public life and the labour movement as Bob Carr.

Joining the ALP more than 40 years ago as a 15-year-old student, he has served both State and Federal Parliaments with exceptional distinction.

Senator Carr’s list of achievements in public life are extraordinary.

During his time as Foreign Minister in the Labor Government, Australia was elected to the United Nations Security Council.

Senator Carr was also instrumental in building closer ties with China and more recently, played an important role in responding to the ongoing conflict in Syria.

Senator Carr was the longest continuously serving Premier in New South Wales history - serving in the position for ten years - before retiring from NSW politics in 2005.  During that time, he implemented the findings of the Wood Royal Commission, invested hugely in state infrastructure, developed leading drug reforms and led the government that oversaw the staging of the hugely successful Sydney 2000 Olympics.

He also worked as a journalist and is a prolific writer, avid reader and aficionado of American political history.

Indeed, Senator Carr’s contribution to public life could be best described by Abraham Lincoln -

These men ask for just the same thing, fairness, and fairness only. This, so far as in my power, they, and all others, shall have.

Senator Carr leaves Federal Parliament with our thanks and the best wishes of the Australian Labor Party for him and his wife Helena.

 

WEDNESDAY, 23 OCTOBER 2013

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