Page: 1393
Mr GEORGE SOURIS: My question is directed to the Minister for Gaming and Racing. When did the Minister first become aware that the Chief Steward of Racing New South Wales had been taping and is continuing to tape conversations illegally? Will they Minister institute an independent judicial inquiry into the matter?
Mr GRANT McBRIDE: I am well aware of the allegations made against Racing New South Wales Chief Steward, Ray Murrihy, on the Nine Network Sunday program last Sunday. The responsible and appropriate action here is to ensure that Racing New South Wales is investigating, or has investigated, these allegations. Furthermore, I refer any allegations of this nature to both Racing New South Wales and to the Independent Commission against Corruption for investigation. It is, therefore, inappropriate for me to comment any further on that issue. But I would like to reflect on the fact that the honourable member for Upper Hunter asked a question of me. Why? Because he has finally asked a question of me on a policy matter. Since his appointment as shadow Minister for Gaming and Racing in April 2003, the honourable member for Upper Hunter has asked me only two questions without notice about policy in my portfolio.
Mr SPEAKER: Order! I call the Leader of the Opposition to order.
Mr George Souris: Point of order: If the Minister is so desperate for a question, he could start by answering this one: When precisely did he know—
Mr SPEAKER: Order! There is no point of order. The honourable member for Upper Hunter will resume his seat. The Minister for Gaming and Racing has the call.
Mr GRANT McBRIDE: Today, with his third question in his fourth year as shadow Minister, he almost lifted his average to one policy question per year. Perhaps I am being a bit unfair. The absent shadow Minister for Gaming and Racing does have another shadow portfolio.
Mr SPEAKER: Order! There is too much audible conversation in the Chamber.
Mr GRANT McBRIDE: Let me look at his record as shadow Minister for Sport and Recreation. How many questions has he asked about that portfolio? The answer is zip—over a year as the shadow Minister and he has not asked a single question. Perhaps he has been busy writing policies for The Nationals? Not according to The Nationals web site. I clicked on State Policies this morning and there is nothing there from George, absolutely zip. He has no policy. No questions, no policy and, clearly, no interest!
Mr SPEAKER: Order! The honourable member for Upper Hunter will come to order.
Mr GRANT McBRIDE: He has no interest whatever in the success of some of the most important industries in New South Wales, be they clubs, pubs, racing or tourism. He has no interest in the thousands of people employed in those industries.
Mr SPEAKER: Order! I call the honourable member for Lismore to order for the second time.
Mr GRANT McBRIDE: I thank the honourable member for Upper Hunter for his question.