How do you feel to be here today?
Well it’s an opportunity to be a part of something and also an opportunity to learn from all the participants, who come from a very very wide field of expertise.
How do you ensure that something solid and productive comes out of this summit?
You can’t ensure that, the only thing you can do is judge the process by the outcome. If the outcome is negative or almost non-existent then the participants have let the process down. If the outcome is positive and reflects the thinking and desires within the community, and inspires a bit of thinking and desires, the process will have been proven to be very effective.
Would you say that there’s a feeling of inspiration around here at the moment?
I’d prefer to answer that in two days time. (laughs)
Have any of the ideas, that are already being thrown around, caught your eye?
I’d prefer not to get into the specifics this early on, except that I am extremely impressed by the way ordinary people and ordinary organisations, who are directly represented here, have wanted to be part of the process. And I hope that those who are a part of it pay proper regard to those who aren’t here.
One of the ideas that has been raised is that of Australia becoming a republic. What are your thoughts on that topic being thrown around again?
Well because of my past life, I need to tread very carefully in expressing any views on that. When the time comes I will probably express my opinion but for now I am just listening and learning.
Sir, are there enough ordinary people here?
There never will be enough ordinary people, will there? Because in this sort of process, if you’re calling on expertise, its very difficult to get the precise balance. I think they have tried to do that here but again, that’s something that will probably be better judged by the outcome.
Thank you for your time.
Thank you.
