Questions and Answers No. 160, Wednesday 30 November 2005

1
LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS
Wednesday 30 November 2005





1
LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS
Wednesday 30 November 2005




6025








PARLIAMENT OF NEW SOUTH WALES
LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY

2003-05

FIRST SESSION OF THE FIFTY-THIRD PARLIAMENT

___________


QUESTIONS
AND
ANSWERS

No. 160

WEDNESDAY 30 NOVEMBER 2005


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(The Questions and Answers Paper is published for each sitting day and will contain, by number and title, all unanswered questions, together with questions to which answers have been received on the previous sitting day and any new questions. Consequently the full text of any question will be printed only twice: when notice is given; and, when answered.)








S¹

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Q. & A. No. 150 (Including Question Nos 4753 to 4799)	17 November 2005
Q. & A. No. 151 (Including Question Nos 4800 to 4822)	22 November 2005
Q. & A. No. 152 (Including Question Nos 4823 to 4845)	23 November 2005
Q. & A. No. 153 (Including Question Nos 4846 to 4886)	24 November 2005
Q. & A. No. 154 (Including Question Nos 4887 to 4937)	13 December 2005
Q. & A. No. 155 (Including Question Nos 4938 to 4978)	14 December 2005
Q. & A. No. 156 (Including Question Nos 4979 to 5045)	15 December 2005
Q. & A. No. 157 (Including Question Nos 5046 to 5078)	20 December 2005
Q. & A. No. 158 (Including Question Nos 5079 to 5107)	21 December 2005
Q. & A. No. 159 (Including Question Nos 5108 to 5151)	22 December 2005
Q. & A. No. 160 (Including Question Nos 5152 to 5183)	3 January 2006

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Notice of Question given on the date shown


18 OCTOBER 2005

(Paper No. 151)

*4802 WATER HARVESTING—Mr Pringle to Minister for Police, and Minister for Utilities—

(1) What are the Government’s plans for water harvesting, particularly in coastal areas?
(2) What plans does the Minister have for improving the linkages between water storages and rivers in the Newcastle – Sydney Wollongong areas?

Answer—

(1) and (2) These questions fall within the Portfolio responsibilities of the Minister for Natural Resources.

*4803 LAND ACQUISITION BUDGET AND PLANS—Mr Pringle to Minister for Planning, Minister for Redfern Waterloo, Minister for Science and Medical Research, and Minister Assisting the Minister for Health (Cancer)—

(1) What funds does the Department have as at 30 June 2005 to 1 October 2005 to acquire land for public purposes in the Sydney – Newcastle – Wollongong areas?
(2) Can you list what areas/lands are marked by the Department of Planning for acquisition over the next five years?
(3) What are the liabilities of the Department for lands acquisition?
(4) Can you list how many landowners are waiting for the Department of Planning to acquire their land in the Sydney – Newcastle – Wollongong areas?

Answer—

(1) The Department of Planning acquires land for regional open space in the Sydney Metropolitan area. The 2005-06 Acquisition budget is $35M.
(2) The acquisitions for regional open space are identified in Councils’ local environment plans. The main area of open space corridors currently being acquired is the Western Sydney Parklands from Blacktown to Liverpool.
In addition, the Department is involved in the rail corridor acquisitions in the South West release area at Leppington and in the North West in the Balmoral Road Release Area and at Kellyville/Rouse Hill.
(3) and (4) The Department is constantly reviewing the demand for regional open space for the Sydney Metropolitan area. In this regard, the Department is currently negotiating with 16 land owners.

*4804 COMMERCIAL SKI BOATS—Mr J.H. Turner to Minister for Roads, representing the Minister for Ports and Waterways—

(1) Did the General Manager of the Commercial Vessel and Asset Management write to people operating water ski schools to inform them that from 1 September 2005 all vehicles would have to comply with the Commercial Vessels Act?
(2) If so, did the General Manager of the Commercial Vessel and Asset Management or any other person from the Waterways Authority confirm to any person or persons associated with the water ski business that there would not be any more exemptions and that commercial ski boats would be required to be in survey from 1 September 2005?
(3) Did the Waterways Authority receive any representations for extensions for exemptions past the 1 September 2005 for compliance with the Commercial Vessel Act?
(4) If so, what was the response to such requests?
(5) How many requests have been granted?
(6) When were they granted?
(7) If any requests were not granted as against those that were granted, why weren’t they granted?

Answer—

I am advised:
Water ski schools were informed by NSW Maritime that all vessels would have comply with the Commercial Vessels Act 1979 from 1 September 2005.
On 13 September 2005, 6 ski schools were granted exemptions to extend from 1 September 2005 to 1 July 2006.

*4805 SAMUEL GILBERT PUBLIC SCHOOL—Mr Richardson to Minister for Education and Training—

(1) Does the Government have any plans to sell off part of the Samuel Gilbert Public School site in Castle Hill?
(2) If so, how much land does the Government intend to sell?
(3) How much does it expect to realize from the sale?
(4) Will the Government apply part of the sale price to building a security fence around the school?
(5) If so, how much do you anticipate the fence will cost to erect?
(6) Will the land be sold to a developer?
(7) What environmental studies, if any has the Government carried out into this land?
(8) Is the Minister aware that there are threatened plant species on the subject land?

Answer—

(1) to (6) There is no current plan to dispose of any part of this site.
(7) to (8) No environmental studies have been undertaken relating to the land. The Minister and the Department of Education and Training are not aware of any threatened plant species on the subject land.

*4806 PACIFIC HIGHWAY UPGRADE—Mr Page to Minister for Roads—

In relation to the Ewingsdale Tintenbar upgrade of the Pacific Highway:
(1) How much money was spent for the original study done by ARUP?
(2) How much money was spent for the ‘desktop’ study to examine the prospect of expanding the study corridor?
(3) How much money was spent for the study on the expanded corridor?
(4) Were any of these studies (ie original, desktop and expanded) ever subject to a tender process?
(5) Given ARUP were awarded the consultancy for the original study, and then did the desktop study to see whether an expanded study should occur (which ARUP also did), is there an actual or perceived conflict of interest in ARUPs role if there was no tender process in relation to work on the expanded corridor?
(6) If your answer to (5) is no, what is the explanation?

Answer—

I am advised:
(1) The Roads and Traffic Authority engaged the professional services contractor Arup Pty Ltd to undertake planning on the Tintenbar to Ewingsdale section of the highway for a price of $2,725,746 plus Goods and Services Tax (GST).
(2) The cost of the variation to the contract was $140,000.
(3) The study of the expanded corridor for the Tintenbar to Ewingsdale upgrade is still ongoing. The final cost of the study on the expanded corridor cannot therefore be advised at this time.
(4) The original study was awarded to Arup Pty Ltd following a competitive tender process. The desktop study and expanded study area are variations to the original contract and utilise the provisions in the original contract for change in scope of work. The same competitive rates which formed part of the original contract are being used to negotiate the valuation for this extra work.
(5) The Roads and Traffic Authority considers there is no conflict of interest, as Arup was not involved in the decision to expand the study area. The Roads and Traffic Authority made the decision after considering a variety of community and stakeholder views which were expressed about the original study area and the outcomes from the desktop review by Arup Pty Ltd.
(6) See (5) above.

*4807 COUNTRYLINK OFFICE—Mr Kerr to Deputy Premier, Minister for Transport, and Minister for State Development—

Will the booking office of Countrylink in Cronulla be closed, and if so, when?

Answer—

I am advised:
CountryLink is still in discussions with staff and unions in regards to new arrangements under the reform package.
The reforms will not result in forced redundancies at CountryLink.

*4809 CARINGBAH TRAINS—Mr Kerr to Deputy Premier, Minister for Transport, and Minister for State Development—

Since the introduction of the new metropolitan rail timetable what have been the on-time running figures for trains arriving and departing from Caringbah railway station?

Answer—

I am advised:
There was no new timetable introduced on the Illawarra Line on September 4, 2005.

*4810 HILL END—Mr Richardson to Minister for Tourism and Sport and Recreation, Minister for Women, and Minister Assisting the Minister for State Development—

(1) How many people visited the Hill End historic site in each of the following years:
(a) 1995
(b) 2000
(c) 2003
(d) 2004?
(2) How much money did the Government spend on promoting the Hill End historic site as a visitor destination in each of the following years:
(a) 1995
(b) 2000
(c) 2003
(d) 2004?
(3) Where has Hill End promotion occurred? Has it primarily taken place in the city, the country or interstate?


(4) What proportion of visitors come from:
(a) Sydney?
(b) New South Wales Central West?
(c) Interstate?
(d) Overseas?

Answer—

(1) The Hill End historic site is managed by NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service (NPWS). Requests for visitor information should be directed to the Department of Environment and Conservation.
(2) Tourism New South Wales (TNSW) promotes Hill End as part of the Central NSW region. The Central NSW region has received tourism funding of over $3.7 million since 1995/1996.
Tourism New South Wales also facilitates media visits to Central NSW through the Visiting Journalists program. In 2004/2005, this program generated coverage of Central NSW in national and travel media to the value of $5.3 million.
Promotion of Hill End forms part of Tourism New South Wales’ $4 million regional advertising strategy. It was mentioned in collateral such as maps and brochures and in the TV commercial script. This strategy has benefited destinations throughout the region including Hill End.
Hill End is also featured in two car touring routes, Explorers Way and Classic Country Drives, that have received funding of some $690,000 since 2000/2001.
(3) Through TNSW, significant promotion for Hill End is undertaken through the web site, www.visitnsw.com.au. This site is accessed extensively throughout Australia and internationally. NPWS also promotes Hill End on its website, www.npws.nsw.gov.au and through consumer brochures.
The “Heart of Country” component of TNSW $4 million regional advertising Strategy that comprises Hill End largely targeted potential visitors from Sydney, regional New South Wales and Victoria.
(4) Requests for visitor information should be directed to the Department of Environment and Conservation.

*4812 CORRESPONDENCE—MR D. NASH—Mr Merton to Minister for Roads—

With respect to representations made by me on 21 July 2005 to the previous Minister on behalf of Mr D. Nash, regarding the suspension of his driver’s licence, when can I expect a final response?

Answer—

I am advised that a reply was sent on 12 October 2005.

*4813 NATIVE VEGETATION ACT 2003—Mr Piccoli to Minister for Regional Development, Minister for the Illawarra, and Minister for Small Business, representing the Minister for Natural Resources, Minister for Primary Industries, and Minister for Mineral Resources—

(1) Is it the Minister’s intention that the Native Vegetation Act 2003 should terminate the “right of existing use” in the management of private property, this right having previously been protected by the Environmental Planning and Assessment Act 1979?
(2) With reference to the Native Vegetation Act 2003, the previous Minister’s intention was that the regulation of native forest management on private lands would not diminish the volume of timber available to be harvested and sold. Is that still your intention?




(3) (a) In the first half of 2004 did a working group of stakeholders and departmental representatives prepare a “Private Native Forest Code of Practice” to serve as the regulation for private native forest management under the Native Vegetation Act 2003?
(b) Since that working group has not met to further the drafting of that code since May 2004, who has drafted the regulation that you say is soon to be released?
(c) Given the final drafting of the Private Native Forestry Code of Practice has occurred without reference to the forest owners who were part of the working group, on what basis is it expected that it will achieve forest owner acceptance and cooperation, particularly given that the 1997 Act was abandoned due to lack of landholder acceptance?
(4) Will there be public consultation before the final draft of the Private Native Forest Code of Practice becomes the regulation?
(5) Does the Minister intend to employ qualified foresters to administer the new regulation for private native forestry under the Native Vegetation Act 2003?
(6) Will there be adequate staff available to ensure applications for consent are not subject to bureaucratic delay?
(7) Is it still the Government’s intention that if a landholder prepares a Property Vegetation Plan (PVP) in which it is agreed to comply with the Private Native Forestry Code of Practice, consent to practice silviculture and harvest forest products will be automatic on the designated areas?

Answer—

I am advised by the Minister for Natural Resources, Minister for Primary Industries and Minister for Mineral Resources of the following response:
(1) The Native Vegetation Act 2003 will not affect the existing use rights created by the Environmental Planning and Assessment Act 1979.
(2) There is no intention to arbitrarily reduce sustainable timber yields. The intention is to foster sound silvicultural practices and environmental protections for soil, water and wildlife, that will secure timber supplies into the future.
(3) (a) Yes.
(b) The group was unable to reach consensus on a code for private native forestry. Development of the draft code has been continued by the Department of Natural Resources (formerly DIPNR), and Department of Environment and Conservation.
(c) The draft code remains substantially as developed by the working group referred to in question 3 (a). It is proposed to refer the draft code back to the PNF Working Group prior to its public exhibition.
(4) Yes.
(5) The Department of Natural Resources already has qualified foresters on staff.
(6) Staff resources will be dedicated as required.
(7) A PVP for private native forestry will be allowed provided it complies with the code.

*4814 MOWAMBA AQUEDUCT—Mr Piccoli to Minister for Regional Development, Minister for the Illawarra, and Minister for Small Business, representing the Minister for Natural Resources, Minister for Primary Industries, and Minister for Mineral Resources—

Is there any plan to recommission the Mowamba Aqueduct?

Answer—

Under the Snowy Corporatisation Agreements, Snowy Hydro is required to recommence diversions of the Mowamba River to Lake Jindabyne after three years. The nearly complete realignment of the Mowamba Aqueduct has cost $2.5 million.




*4816 CAROONA COAL EXPLORATION AREA—Mr Souris to Minister for Regional Development, Minister for the Illawarra, and Minister for Small Business, representing the Minister for Natural Resources, Minister for Primary Industries, and Minister for Mineral Resources—

With respect to the Caroona coal exploration area:
(1) What is the current status of the determination of an exploration licence?
(2) Has there been a strategic study of mineral resources, water resources and other natural resources in the area?
(3) Has there been a socio-economic study of the agricultural and minerals industries in the area?
(4) Will you defer consideration and determination of the exploration licence tender until strategic studies covering natural resources, the long-term impacts of mining in the Caroona area, socio-economic impacts of mineral development, environmental impacts of mining, and cumulative impacts of mining following this and any other mining developments?
(5) Will the NSW Government guarantee the integrity of ground water resources should this and other future coal mines be approved and developed?

Answer—

(1) In August 2005, Expressions of Interest were invited by the former Minister for Mineral Resources for the awarding of an exploration licence in respect of the Caroona coal exploration area. Expressions of Interest will close on 12 December 2005. These will be subjected to a detailed evaluation process approved by an independent probity auditor.
(2) No.
(3) No.
(4) No. All of these issues would need to be thoroughly assessed and addressed by the successful applicant during the exploration licence period should a future development application be made for a proposed mine development in the area.
(5) The integrity of ground water resources in the area is a critical issue that would need to be comprehensively assessed and addressed before the Government would approve any proposed mine development in the area.

*4817 PACIFIC HIGHWAY STREET LIGHTS—Mrs Hopwood to Minister for Roads—

How often are street lights along the Pacific Highway through the suburbs of Wahroonga, Waitara, Hornsby, Asquith, Mt Colah, Mt Kuring-gai, Berowra, Cowan and Brooklyn checked for bulbs and general maintenance?

Answer—

Energy Australia is responsible for maintaining the existing street lighting on the nominated sections of the Pacific Highway. Hornsby Shire Council is responsible for the installation of the new street lighting on these sections of the Highway.

*4819 MOUNT ERRINGTON—Mrs Hopwood to Minister for Planning, Minister for Redfern Waterloo, Minister for Science and Medical Research, and Minister Assisting the Minister for Health (Cancer)—

When will the decision be made and announced regarding the minimum block size for land in the Mount Errington heritage area?





Answer—

The Department of Planning will report to me before the end of the year regarding whether or not I should make this plan. I will make a decision regarding the draft plan after I have considered the Department’s recommendation.

*4821 FUNDING FOR DISABILITY SERVICES—Mr Aplin to Deputy Premier, Minister for Transport, and Minister for State Development, representing the Special Minister of State, Minister for Commerce, Minister for Industrial Relations, Minister for Ageing, Minister for Disability Services, Assistant Treasurer and Vice President of the Executive Council—

(1) What was the total 2004-05 funded services (grants) expenditure in the Western Region for:
(a) Albury;
(b) Dubbo:
(c) Orange;
(d) Wagga Wagga?
(2) How did this allocation of funds relate to demand in each of the cities?
(3) What are the reasons for significant differences in funding allocation between areas of similar populations?
(4) Which were the top five funded services in Albury?

Answer—

(1) Albury: $4,921,677
Dubbo: $13,094,140
Orange: $4,970,650
Wagga Wagga: $18,467,771
(2) Historically, funding was provided through a submission-based model.
In recent years however, the Department of Ageing, Disability and Home Care has utilised a Population Group Planning model for the allocation of available growth funds. This model ensures funding allocations are made on an eligible target population group basis and therefore, a more equitable distribution of growth funding across the State.
(3) Differences in funding allocations between areas of similar populations occur when non-government organisations receive funding for regional services covering large geographic areas, which is the case for Dubbo and Wagga Wagga.
(4) Mercy Centre Lavington - $2,341,786
Age Concern Albury/Wodonga - $664,677
Friends of Woodstock - $536,335
Ministry of Transport - $381,126
Kalparrin Inc. - $378,290

*4822 GUADALUPE HOUSE—ALBURY—Mr Aplin to Deputy Premier, Minister for Transport, and Minister for State Development, representing the Special Minister of State, Minister for Commerce, Minister for Industrial Relations, Minister for Ageing, Minister for Disability Services, Assistant Treasurer and Vice President of the Executive Council—

(1) What services does the Department of Disability, Ageing and Home Care provide to the intellectually disabled residents of Guadalupe House in Thurgoona?
(2) What role is proposed for the Mercy Centre in providing services to the residents of Guadalupe House?
(3) When might any service contract be introduced?
(4) Are you aware of the current condition of the buildings forming Guadalupe House and do they constitute an adequate and safe environment for the disabled residents?

Answer—

(1) The Department of Ageing, Disability and Home Care provides case management services for clients of Guadalupe House. In addition, each year the Department provides funds of $43,680 for personal care, up to $59,800 for day activity services (Active Linking Initiative) and up to $34,065 to assist residents to access medical services.
(2) Guadalupe House is a licensed Boarding House and as such is managed by the License Holder. The Mercy Centre has been involved in preliminary discussions to explore the possibility of providing management support to the Licensee. This arrangement will be a matter for the Licensee.
(3) Guadalupe House is subject to licensing by the Department of Ageing, Disability and Home Care. The Department currently contracts the Home Care Service, Southern House With No Steps, and the Greater Southern Area Health Service to provide personal care, the Active Linking Initiative and medical transport services respectively. There are no plans to introduce additional services or service contracts at this time.
(4) The buildings comprising Guadalupe House are subject to inspection in accordance with licensing requirements. The service is regularly monitored by the Department of Ageing, Disability and Home Care and has been assessed as meeting licensing standards. The last visits were conducted on 26 July 2005 and 5 October 2005. The buildings have also been inspected by fire authorities and requirements have been met in that regard.

19 OCTOBER 2005

(Paper No. 152)

*4825 RAILWAY LAND SALE—Mr Kerr to Deputy Premier, Minister for Transport, and Minister for State Development—

Are there any plans to sell any railway land in the Sutherland Shire?

Answer—

I am advised:
There are currently no plans to sell any railway land in the Sutherland Shire.

*4826 FRIENDS OF WOODSTOCK DISABILITY SERVICES—Mr Aplin to Deputy Premier, Minister for Transport, and Minister for State Development, representing the Special Minister of State, Minister for Commerce, Minister for Industrial Relations, Minister for Ageing, Minister for Disability Services, Assistant Treasurer and Vice President of the Executive Council—

(1) What funding allocation is currently made to Friends of Woodstock Disability Services Inc. to assist with rental or maintenance of premises in Lavington?
(2) In view of the intention of NSW Health to sell the Woodstock site what assistance will be given to Disability Services Inc. to relocate?
(3) When new premises are located for the non-profit service what funding will be allocated to rental, maintenance and security?

Answer—

(1) The Department of Ageing, Disability and Home Care provides grant funding totaling $536,335 to the friends of Woodstock Disability Services through the Home and Community Care and Disability Services programs. These funds are provided as a contribution towards service delivery. The Department does not prescribe the specific allocation for rental and maintenance costs, however there is an expectation that funded organisations will meet operational costs from grant allocations or other sources.
(2) Should the Friends of Woodstock Disability Services be required to relocate, the Department of Ageing, Disability and Home Care will provide assistance to identify suitable alternative premises.
(3) The service’s overhead costs, including those costs associated with rental, maintenance and security would be met from the organisation’s administration budget. The specific dissection of the administration budget is not stipulated by the Department and is a decision for the Management Committee of the Friends of Woodstock.

*4828 OFFICE UPGRADES—Mr Aplin to Deputy Premier, Minister for Transport, and Minister for State Development, representing the Special Minister of State, Minister for Commerce, Minister for Industrial Relations, Minister for Ageing, Minister for Disability Services, Assistant Treasurer and Vice President of the Executive Council—

In relation to the Department of Ageing Disability and Home Care offices:
(1) What plans exist for an upgrading of the cramped and poorly appointed offices shared with the Department of Community Services in Albury?
(2) When will office refurbishment be undertaken to assist staff in better servicing clients?

Answer—

(1) The Department of Ageing, Disability and Home Care has been advised that the Department of Community Services have plans to vacate the current shared office in Albury and are currently searching for an appropriate property.
(2) The co-location of all Department of Ageing, Disability and Home Care’s Albury staff to refurbished office accommodation in Albury is included on the 2006-07 Office Accommodation program. A market search will be conducted in early 2006 to ascertain whether the existing shared premises or alternative accommodation would better suit the accommodation requirements of the Department of Ageing, Disability and Home Care.

*4832 ON-TIME TRAIN FIGURES—Mr Roberts to Deputy Premier, Minister for Transport, and Minister for State Development—

Since the introduction of the new metropolitan rail timetable, what have been the on-time running figures for trains arriving and departing from St Leonards and Artarmon stations?

Answer—

CityRail on-time running figures are provided on the CityRail website on a line-by-line basis.
93% of North Shore line services ran on time in October 2005 compared to 52% in October 2004.

*4838 TRAFFIC FLOWS—Mrs Hopwood to Minister for Roads—

What are the traffic flows (averaged for the days of the week over the past year) over the 24-hour period for the intersection of Pacific Highway, Yirra Road and the rail bridge overpass at Mount Colah?

Answer—

I am advised that vehicle counts taken from the loop detectors at the intersection, for the week Monday 15 November 2005 to Sunday 21 November 2005 (inclusive) are as follows:
Northern Approach (southbound traffic) on Pacific Highway approaching the intersection is 12,689 vehicles/day.
Southern Approach (northbound traffic) on Pacific Hwy approaching the intersection is 8,910 vehicles/day.
Eastern Approach (westbound traffic) on rail bridge approaching the intersection is 4,797 vehicles/day.
Western Approach (eastbound traffic) on Yirra Road approaching the intersection is 1,226 vehicles/day.
The figures above have been seasonally adjusted.

*4839 GRAFFITI REPORTS—Mrs Hopwood to Minister for Local Government—

(1) How many reports of graffiti have been made in the Hornsby Local Government Area for 2004 and 2005 to date?
(2) How many graffiti episodes occurred on Energy Australia property?
(3) What is the average time taken for council to remove the graffiti?

Answer—

I provide the following details in response to your question:
This information is not collected or held by the Department of Local Government. The Honourable Member might contact the Council of the Shire of Hornsby directly to ascertain whether it holds the information and to seek its view and approach to graffiti in the local area.
The Government recognises that graffiti is an increasing problem with various complex causes and is committed to the reduction of graffiti through the Graffiti Solutions Program administered through the Crime Prevention Division of the Attorney General’s Department.
The Department of Local Government works closely with other government agencies to deliver a range of initiatives to reduce graffiti. The Local Government Act 1993 was amended in 2002 to allow councils, at their expense, to remove graffiti on private property without the consent of the owner or occupier if the graffiti is visible and accessible from a public place. However, this is at the discretion of each council.
Notwithstanding this, a significant number of councils have responded to local concerns about graffiti in their communities by developing and implementing graffiti plans and/or initiatives. Council strategies to prevent or control graffiti cover a range of areas such as removal, policing, community and youth projects, community arts, urban design and construction, and business/private sector initiatives.

*4841 HEALTH SERVICES AMALGAMATION—Mr Stoner to Minister for Education and Training, representing the Minister for Health—

In relation to the amalgamation of the North Coast and Mid North Coast Area Health Services:
Why has the NCAHS Advisory Board not yet been appointed?
Have any applicants been interviewed for the advisory board?
Why is the management/staff structure still not in place?
Where are the final reports and recommendations from the various task forces?
How much wages funding has been transferred from administration to clinical services?
When did such transfer take place?
What has been the effect on elective surgery waiting lists?

Answer—

The North Coast Area Health Service Area Health Advisory Council was appointed on
28 September 2005 and I am advised the new management structure is being progressively put in place in consultation with staff and Industrial Associations.
I am advised that four of the five Taskforces set up as part to the transition to the North Coast Area Health Service have produced reports. Following final approval the reports will be made available to the public.
I am advised that the fifth Taskforce was not intended to produce a report. Its outputs have been the foundations of the new North Coast Area Health Service.
I am advised that consequent to the amalgamation, as part of the 2005/06 budget process, $1.5 million has been formally transferred from administration to clinical service delivery.
Details of public hospital waiting hospital lists are publicly available.

*4842 TRAFFIC BRIDGES—Mr Stoner to Minister for Roads—

In relation to the Macksville and Kempsey traffic bridges on the Pacific Highway:
(1) When was maintenance of these bridges undertaken in 2005?
(2) What was the nature of the maintenance undertaken?
(3) What has been the impact of the introduction of B-Doubles on the Pacific Highway on these bridges?
(4) What are the Government’s plans to upgrade these bridges?

Answer—

(1) I am advised that general maintenance work was undertaken on both Macksville and Kempsey Bridges in May, June and September this year.
(2) The work was part of a regular maintenance program.
(3) The Roads and Traffic Authority is carrying out structural assessments of the bridges to assess the impact of traffic on the structures. Restricted access vehicles, such as B-Doubles, are allowed over the bridges with the RTA regularly monitoring these structures.
(4) The Roads and Traffic Authority is currently investigating further improvements to both Macksville and Kempsey Bridges.

*4843 JUVENILE CRIME—Mr Stoner to Minister for Police, and Minister for Utilities—

What are you doing about out-of-control juvenile crime at South Kempsey, including four break and enter offences at Kempsey Golf Club between 6 and 11 October 2005?

Answer—

NSW Police has advised me:
In response to recent problems in South Kempsey, police resources are currently deployed to the area each shift, providing a combination of high profile policing, intelligence gathering and covert deployment targeting suspected offenders.
This policing response has resulted in the identification of a number of juvenile repeat offenders in the area. Police have recently arrested and charged fifteen offenders in South Kempsey, with a total of over 100 charges laid during October 2005 alone. Arrests include those of repeat offenders in relation to the break and enter offences at South Kempsey Golf Club mentioned by the Honourable Member.

*4845 ROADS FUNDING UPPER HUNTER—Mr Souris to Minister for Roads—

What roads projects, and of what value, are contained in the non-specific allocations for general road maintenance, improvements, road safety and reconstruction of roads or replacement of bridges in respect of the electorate of Upper Hunter?

Answer—

I am advised that the non-specific projects for the Upper Hunter Electorate are as follows:
? Network Development $88,000.
? Infrastructure Maintenance $34,724,410.
? Road Safety $707,481.
? Traffic and Transport $463,620.




20 OCTOBER 2005

(Paper No. 153)

*4846 SHELLHARBOUR COUNCIL—Mr J.H. Turner to Minister for Local Government—
(1) Doe s Shellharbour Council operate a committee system of Local Government?
(2) If so, what are the various committees of Council?
(3) If so, which councillors are appointed to such committees?
(4) If so, are there any councillors who are who are not on any committee of Council?
(5) If so, who are those councillors?
(6) If so, why are those councillors not on any committee of Council?
(7) Is it the duty of Councils to fairly and equitably represent the community?
(8) If so, how is that fairness and equity represented at Shellharbour Council if some councillors are not represented on any committee of Council?

Answer—

I provide the following details in response to your questions:
(1) Shellharbour City Council does operate a committee system of local government.
(2) According to the Minutes of the Extraordinary Meeting of Shellharbour City Council held on Tuesday 20 September 2005, the various committees are:
Council Standing Committees - Staff Committee.
Council Advisory Committees - Australia Day/Special Promotions Committee; Shellharbour Aboriginal Advisory Committee; Disabilities Services Advisory Committee; Shellharbour Links Advisory Committee; Economic Development Advisory Committee.
Miscellaneous Council Committees - Internal - Workplace Consultative Committee.
Miscellaneous Council Committees – External - Shellharbour Traffic Committee/Council Development Advisory Committee; Elliot Lake – Little Lake Floodplain Management Committee; Elliot Lake Estuary Management Committee; Horsley Creek Floodplain Risk Management Committee.
Working Parties - Foreshores Working Party; Bicycle Liaison Working Party; Strategic Development of Sport & Recreation in Shellharbour Working Party; Swimming Pool/Beaches Working Party; Illawarra Regional Airport Operations Working Party; Illawarra Regional Airport Management Advisory Committee; Waste Minimisation and Recycling Working Party; Environmental Technical Working Party; Strategic Planning Working Party; Shellharbour City Stadium Working Party; Donations Working Party; Library Planning Working Party.
Outside Committees and Organisations – Tourism Shellharbour; Illawarra Bushfire Committee; Shellharbour Rural Fire Service Liaison Committee – Service Level Agreement; Illawarra Community Housing Trust; Albion Park Rail Public Schools Facilities Committee; Illawarra Regional Information Services (IRIS); Southern Councils Group (SCG); Shellharbour City Sports Assistance Fund; Healthy Cities Illawarra Management Committee; Shellharbour Community Safety Team; Estuary Management Study – Minnamurra River Joint Working Party; Nuclear Free Zone Secretariat; Illawarra District Noxious Weeds Authority; Mt Terry Primary School Neighbourhood Centre Management Committee; Country Public Libraries of NSW; Lake Illawarra Floodplain Management Committee; Lake Illawarra Management Plan Adviso Outside Committees and Organisations – Tourism Shellharbour; Illawarra Bushfire Committee; Shellharbour Rural Fire Service Liaison Committee – Service Level Agreement; Illawarra Community Housing Trust; Albion Park Rail Public Schools Facilities Committee; Illawarra Regional Information Services (IRIS); Southern Councils Group (SCG); Shellharbour City Sports Assistance Fund; Healthy Cities Illawarra Management Committee; Shellharbour Community Safety Team; Estuary Management Study – Minnamurra River Joint Working Party; Nuclear Free Zone Secretariat; Illawarra District Noxious Weeds Authority; Mt Terry Primary School Neighbourhood Centre Management Committee; Country Public Libraries of NSW; Lake Illawarra Floodplain Management Committee; Lake Illawarra Management Plan Advisory Committee; International Council of Local Environmental Initiatives (ICLEI)–Water Campaign; International Council of Local Environmental Initiatives (ICLEI)–Cities For Climate Protection Program; Local Government & Shires Association Children & Families Reference Group; Wollongong Conservatorium of Music; Dunmore Lakes Sand Quarry Stage 1 Community Consultative Committee; Dunmore Quarry Community Consultative Committee; Local Government & Shires Association Ageing and Disability Reference Group; Local Government & Shires Association Social Issues Reference Group.
Ministerial Appointments – Trustees of Killalea State Park; Lake Illawarra Authority; Illawarra Area Assistance Scheme – Regional Advisory Committee.
(3) Shellharbour City Council resolved at its meeting of 20 September 2005 that the method of election of councillors to committees and outside organisations would be by ‘show of hands’.
Councillors Hamilton, Greig, Hawker, Jeffreys, Briggs, Leedham, Hore, Bird and Gillett were all elected to council committees and working parties. Councillor Rose was also elected to three committees, pending his acceptance of nomination to the positions.
(4) Three councillors were not elected to committees.
(5) The three councillors not elected to a committee are Councillors Mifsud, Bailey and Stewart.
(6) The minutes of the extraordinary meeting held on 20 September 2005 record that the three councillors not elected to any committee all asked to be excused from the meeting prior to the conclusion of the election process. Councillor Rose also asked to be excused from the meeting during the committee election process.
(7) Yes, it is the duty of a council to fairly and equitably represent its community. Councillors have an obligation to consider issues consistently, promptly and fairly. This involves dealing with matters in accordance with established procedures, in a non-discriminatory manner.
(8) Shellharbour City Council conducts a nomination and election process for councillors to fulfil roles on various committees. It is the individual responsibility of each councillor to participate in this process, which would appear to be open and transparent, ie., via show of hands.

*4848 DRIVER LICENCE CANCELLATION/SUSPENSION—Mr Amery to Minister for Roads—

(1) How many persons have had their drivers licence cancelled or suspended in New South Wales in the 12 month period ending the 30 June 2005?
(2) How many persons lost their licence for:
(a) Non payment of a penalty for traffic offences?
(b) Non payment of penalty for other offences?
(3) In which of the top ten postcode areas do these persons who have lost their licence reside?

Answer—

I am advised:
(1) 190,008
(2) and (3) With the exception of people under the age of 18, the State Debt Recovery Office (SDRO) may direct the Roads and Traffic Authority (RTA) to suspend the driver licence of a fine defaulter irrespective of whether a fine relates to a traffic or non-traffic matter. Consequently, when the RTA receives such a direction from the SDRO, it is not provided with details of the offence(s) and, therefore, this information is not available to the RTA.

*4849 POWER SUPPLY UPGRADE—Mr Amery to Minister for Education and Training—

(1) Is the Government undertaking a program to upgrade the electricity power supply to older schools built before the use of such items as airconditioners and computers?
(2) In the 12 month period ending 30 June 2005, how many schools across the State had their power supply upgraded?
(3) How many of these schools are situated in the Mount Druitt area?
(4) What is the name of the schools in the Mount Druitt electorate that have had this work carried out?
(5) What schools in the Mount Druitt area are planned to have this upgrade work carried out in the next twelve months?

Answer—

(1) The Department of Education and Training manages issues relating to electrical services by allocating funding for electrical upgrading of schools, on a priority needs basis, as a part of the Capital Works Program.
(2) As part of the 2004/2005 Minor Capital Works Program, 18 electrical upgrade projects were approved for schools across NSW.
(3) Two of these schools are situated in the Mount Druitt electorate.
(4) These are Dawson Public School and Rooty Hill High School.
(5) As part of the recently announced 2005/06 Minor Capital Works Program, 32 electrical upgrade projects have been approved at schools across NSW. This includes one project at Hebersham Public School in the Mount Druitt electorate.

*4850 STUDENT NUMBERS—PERFORMING ARTS HIGH SCHOOL—Mr Amery to Minister for Education and Training—

(1) In the past twelve months how many students have applied to be enrolled in a Performing Arts High School?
(2) How many of these students were accepted?
(3) What is the location of the closest Performing Arts High School to the Mount Druitt electorate?

Answer—

(1) There are four performing arts high schools in NSW. In the past twelve months there were 1,333 performing arts applications across all four schools.
(2) 608 students were accepted for performing arts enrolment.
(3) The closest performing arts high school to the Mount Druitt electorate would be either Campbelltown Performing Arts High School or Newtown High School of the Performing Arts.

*4851 APPRENTICESHIP AND TRAINEESHIP NUMBERS—Mr Amery to Minister for Education and Training—

(1) Does the New South Wales Department of Education and Training administer the apprenticeship and traineeships in this State?
(2) Which section of the Department is responsible for this administration?
(3) How many apprenticeships and traineeships were commenced in the 12 month period ending 30 June 2005?
(4) How many of these came from the Mount Druitt electorate?

Answer—

(1) Yes.
(2) The Apprenticeships and Traineeships Directorate in State Training Services.
(3) 74,989 apprenticeships and traineeships were approved in the 12 month period ending 30 June 2005.
(4) A total of 741 apprentices and trainees commenced employment in the Mount Druitt electorate in the 12 months ending 30 June 2005.

*4852 STOCK TAGGING—Mr Mr Maguire to Minister for Regional Development, Minister for the Illawarra, and Minister for Small Business, representing the Minister for Natural Resources, Minister for Primary Industries, and Minister for Mineral Resources—

(1) Why can’t NLIS tagged livestock be identified before point of sale, rather than post sale and up to three weeks later?
(2) How many livestock head have been identified as stolen since the introduction of NLIS Systems?
(3) Why does it take up to three weeks to identify stolen stock?
(4) Is it possible to identify stock pre sale?
(5) Is the system adaptable?
(6) What influenced the decision to identify stock post sale?

Answer—

(1) Under the National Livestock Identification System (NLIS) in NSW cattle are required to be identified with a radio frequency identification (RFID) tag before they move from a property. The property details are uploaded to the NLIS database when the tags are ordered from the supplier. Stock remain identified by that tag for life.
(2) Currently there are nine NSW tags that have been registered as stolen on the NLIS database.
(3) Stock with NLIS tags can be identified virtually immediately.
(4) Yes, see (1).
(5) The system is rigorous but makes allowance for a range of specific farming practices.
(6) No decision has been taken to identify stock post sale.

*4853 PORT JACKSON HOUSING COMPANY—Ms Moore to Minister for Minister for Housing, and Minister Assisting the Minister for Health (Mental Health)—

With respect to the Port Jackson Housing Company:
(1) How many accommodation places for people with complex support needs are currently provided in the Bligh electorate and inner city?
(2) Which organisations are managing these places?
(3) How many places will be provided in the 2005/2006 financial year?
(4) What premises have been allocated for this purpose?
(5) When will this program be evaluated?

Answer—

(1) 51.
(2) St George Community Housing Cooperative Ltd.
(3) 91.
(4) A mix of shared housing, bedsitter and one-bedroom units.
(5) June 2006.

*4854 INEBRIATES ACT REVIEW—Ms Moore to Deputy Premier, Minister for Transport, and Minister for State Development, representing the Special Minister of State, Minister for Commerce, Minister for Industrial Relations, Minister for Ageing, Minister for Disability Services, Assistant Treasurer and Vice President of the Executive Council—

When will the Government respond to the Report of the Legislative Council Social Issues Committee’s Inquiry into the Inebriates Act 1912, given that the response was due in February 2005 and the Government tabled letters in March, April and June, stating that the response will be provided as soon as practicable?

Answer—

The question, which the Honourable Member has asked, as explained in an earlier response, does not apply under the portfolio of Special Minister of State and should be directed to the Minister for Health.

*4855 NATIONAL ANTI-POVERTY PLAN—Ms Moore to Premier, Treasurer, and Minister for Citizenship—

(1) With respect to the Australian Council of Social Service’s call for a National Anti-Poverty Plan to help the two million Australians living in poverty:
(a) What does the data show about rates of poverty increasing or decreasing?
(b) Will the NSW Government call on the Commonwealth Government to develop a National Anti-Poverty Plan, in conjunction with State and Territory Governments?
(2) Will the NSW Government advocate with the Commonwealth for:
(a) Raising lower income security payments to the pension level?
(b) Additional employment help for long term unemployed people?
(c) Maintaining the minimum wages of working Australians?
(d) Increasing access to affordable housing and rent assistance?
(e) Expanding public dental care, childcare, disability services, and respite care?

Answer—

(1) (a) There is no internationally accepted definition of poverty, and there are a wide variety of tools for its measurement. If poverty is defined according to the conventional approach of half the Australian median income, then the proportion of Australians currently living in poverty is 8%, a proportion which has changed little over the last decade.
(b) NSW would require more detailed information on the scope and content of a National Anti Poverty Plan before any commitment could be made.
(2) (a) and (b) The NSW Government continues to advocate for improved services for Australians who rely on Commonwealth income and unemployment support.
(c) The NSW Government believes that all workers are entitled to a decent living wage, and vigorously opposes the Federal Government’s ongoing assault on the living standards and conditions of working Australians.
(d) The NSW Government is playing a leading role in the development of the National Framework on Affordable Housing, and has long argued that a uniform rate of Commonwealth Rent Assistance has little impact in high rent areas like Sydney, and some other centres in NSW.
(e) The NSW Government strongly supports the reinstatement of the Commonwealth Dental Health Program, and supports a national approach to future oral health planning.
The NSW Government continues to advocate with the Commonwealth Government on the affordability and accessibility of child care.
The NSW Government would welcome any additional support and resources from the Commonwealth Government for disability services, and respite services for older people, people with a disability, and their carers.

*4857 WATER CORPORATION LAND—Mrs Hopwood to Minister for Police, and Minister for Utilities—

What are the plans for the Sydney Water Corporation land located at Westleigh, adjacent to Quartersessions Road? Will all or part of it be sold?

Answer—

The land is presently being retained for existing operational and future infrastructure planning purposes. The status of the land will be reviewed as circumstances change.

*4858 LOCUM DOCTORS—Mrs Hopwood to Minister for Education and Training, representing the Minister for Health—

(1) How many locum doctors are there at Hornsby Hospital? What is the total number of doctors working in any capacity at this hospital?
(2) How many agency nurses are working at Hornsby Hospital? What is the total number of nurses working in any capacity?

Answer—

The Minister for Health advises me:
(1) and (2) I am advised by the NSW Department of Health that locum doctors and agency nurses are utilised by NSW Health on a needs basis. Locum doctors and agency nurses are utilised at Hornsby Hospital to ensure continuity of service provision during periods of staff absences or pending recruitment action to fill vacancies and where appropriate staff from NSW Health are unavailable.

*4860 STATION UPGRADES—Mr Kerr to Deputy Premier, Minister for Transport, and Minister for State Development—

What plans are there to upgrade Caringbah, Woolooware and Cronulla railway stations?

Answer—

I am advised:
Caringbah and Cronulla Stations have previously received Easy Access upgrades at a cost of approximately $3.5 million.
There will be further changes to Woolooware and Cronulla Railway Stations as part of the Cronulla Line Duplication, one of the 15 projects in the Rail Clearways Plan.

*4861 OFFENCE CHARGES—Mr Amery to Attorney General, Minister for the Environment, and Minister for the Arts—

(1) As the Minister for Police has advised that the following question should be directed to the Bureau of Crime Statistics and Research, can you advise what is the total of persons who have been charged with any offence at the Mount Druitt Police Station from the 1st January 2005 to the 31st August 2005?
(2) How many of the above were from drug related crimes?

Answer—

(1) Between 1 January 2005 and 30 June 2005 police in the Mt Druitt Local Area Command initiated criminal proceedings against 2,212 people excluding driving offences. At the present time, data is not available beyond June 2005.
(2) During this period police initiated criminal proceedings against 219 people for drug related offences.

*4862 AGEING CARERS—Mr Pringle to Deputy Premier, Minister for Transport, and Minister for State Development, representing the Special Minister of State, Minister for Commerce, Minister for Industrial Relations, Minister for Ageing, Minister for Disability Services, Assistant Treasurer and Vice President of the Executive Council—

(1) What is the Government doing about the unmet needs of people with intellectual disability and their ageing carers especially as the people with the intellectual disability are themselves ageing and their parents are sometimes 80 plus?
(2) What arrangements are planned for accommodation beds for people with a disability whose carers are no longer able to look after them due to illness, age or death?

Answer—

(1) In September 2005, the NSW Government announced $48 million for respite for older carers under a joint initiative with the Commonwealth. This additional funding to be available over the next three years, will provide 1,000 additional respite places.
(2) The Department provides a range of services to assist people with disabilities to remain at home including; respite, day programs, therapy, cases management and personal care. The New South Wales Government is seeking to expand the range of options available for people with disabilities no longer able to live at home.



*4863 POST-SCHOOL PROGRAMS—Mr Pringle to Deputy Premier, Minister for Transport, and Minister for State Development, representing the Special Minister of State, Minister for Commerce, Minister for Industrial Relations, Minister for Ageing, Minister for Disability Services, Assistant Treasurer and Vice President of the Executive Council—

What action is the Minister taking to rectify the identified anomaly in funding levels for the post-school programs Transition to Work (TTW) and Community Participation (CP)?

Answer—

The two post school programs, Transition to Work and Community Participation, have different objectives and outcomes and the funding levels reflect these differences.
The Community Participation Program provides school leavers with disability and moderate to high support needs with opportunities for continued learning, life skill development and maintenance, and participation in the community. The program is designed for school leavers who require an alternative to full-time paid employment, vocational education and training or higher education.
The aims of the Transition to Work program are to help young people with disability develop prevocational skills and work readiness and acquire the work and social skills and confidence to enable them to make the transition to employment, vocational education and training or higher education. As this program has a different aim a flat funding level is provided for each participant in Transition to Work.
In this financial year, $74 million has been allocated for Post School Programs. This has increased from $62 million in 2004-05.

*4864 FLOOD FREE EVACUATION ROAD—Mr Pringle to Minister for Roads—

(1) When does the Minister currently expect construction of the Windsor Flood Free Evacuation Road to commence?
(2) When is it expected to be completed?

Answer—

(1) 2006.
(2) 2007.

*4865 OLD NORTHERN ROAD—Mr Pringle to Minister for Roads—

Noting the extensive use of Old Northern Road by trucks and the concerns of local residents, will the Minister investigate the provision of at least one overtaking lane between Dural and Wisemans Ferry?

Answer—

I am advised:
The Roads and Traffic Authority (RTA) and Baulkham Hills Shire Council are upgrading this section of Old Northern Road with Section 94 funds paid by the Maroota Sand Quarries. Under the current Section 94 5-year program the RTA is implementing a consistent road lane width of 3.4 metres (one lane each way from its current width of 2.7 metres) together with a 1.1 metre shoulder on both sides of Old Northern Road from Maroota to Glenorie. An overtaking lane on Old Northern Road remains an option for the future.





*4866 SAFETY TRAFFIC FLOWS—M2 TUNNEL—Mr Pringle to Deputy Premier, Minister for Transport, and Minister for State Development—

Will the Minister, in conjunction with the operators of the M2, investigate ways to improve traffic flows and safety for motorists travelling in an easterly direction and exiting the M2 tunnel at North Epping, particularly during the morning peak?

Answer—

I am advised:
This matter falls within the administration of the Minister for Roads and should be referred accordingly.

*4867 SECURITY FENCING—Mr Pringle to Minister for Education and Training—

Noting the concerns of parents, when does the Minister anticipate erecting security fencing at Windsor Public School to ensure the safety of students?

Answer—

The provision of a security fence in a school depends on the level of risk that is assessed. Due to the findings of the School Security Unit’s risk assessment, Windsor Public School has not been recommended for a security fence at this time.
The school has a back to base alarm system which is monitored by the School Security Unit and security guard patrols are provided to the school out of hours.

*4868 NORTH COAST STRATEGIC PLAN—Mr Hartcher to Minister for Planning, Minister for Redfern Waterloo, Minister for Science and Medical Research, and Minister Assisting the Minister for Health (Cancer)—

(1) Is his department preparing a far north coast strategic plan?
(2) If so, (a) when is the plan due to be made public? (b) How many officers from his department are working on the preparation of the plan?
(3) What other coastal areas are to have their own strategic plans and when are these plans due to be finalised?

Answer—

(1) The North Coast Office of the Department of Planning is currently preparing a Far North Coast Strategy.
(2) (a) It is proposed to issue a Draft Regional Strategy for public comment in early 2006.
(b) Four
(3) Other Regional Strategies proposed along the NSW Coast are Lower Hunter (draft currently on exhibition), South Coast, (draft early 2006), Central Coast, (draft early 2006), Illawarra (draft mid 2006), Mid North Coast (draft mid to late 2006).

*4869 PRIME AGRICULTURAL LAND—Mr Hartcher to Minister for Planning, Minister for Redfern Waterloo, Minister for Science and Medical Research, and Minister Assisting the Minister for Health (Cancer)—

(1) What action is taken to protect “prime agricultural land” on the far north coast of New South Wales and under what zoning or planning instrument?
(2) How much land is protected as “prime agricultural land”?
(3) What plans does his department have to allow rezoning of “prime agricultural land” on the far north coast of New South Wales?

Answer—

(1) Most local environmental plans include an agricultural protection zone which sets out permissible land uses and minimum subdivision sizes for land classed as ‘prime agricultural land’ with the basic objective of protecting the productive potential of the land.
Protection of important agricultural land has been further strengthened in 2005 with a Ministerial Direction under Section 117 of the Environmental Planning and Assessment Act. The Direction is called No. 14 – Farmland of State and Regional Significance on the NSW Far North Coast. The Direction refers to maps prepared by the former Department of Infrastructure Planning and Natural Resources (DIPNR) in partnership with the Department of Primary Industries (formerly NSW Agriculture). The maps identify agricultural land classed as state or regionally significant, as identified through a rigorous two-year process which included consultation with rural communities.
The objectives of the Direction are:
(a) To ensure that the best agricultural land will be available for current and future generations to grow food and fibre;
(b) To provide more certainty on the status of the best agricultural land, thereby assisting councils with their local strategic settlement planning;
(c) To reduce land use conflict arising between agricultural use and non-agricultural use of farmland as caused by urban encroachment into farming areas.
(2) 206,026 hectares on the Far North Coast are identified in the Section 117 Direction as regionally significant farmland, and 12,934 hectares are identified as state significant.
(3) The Councils of Tweed, Lismore, Ballina, Byron, Kyogle and Richmond Valley are required to comply with the Direction when preparing local environmental plans. It restricts urban or rural residential rezoning of identified significant farmland.

*4870 WATER PRICING —Mr Stoner to Minister for Police, and Minister for Utilities—

What is your policy regarding the water pricing policies of local councils?

Answer—

In May 2004, the Department of Energy, Utilities and Sustainability issued the Guidelines for the Best-Practice Management of Water Supply and Sewerage for local water utilities (LWUs). As set out in these guidelines, LWUs should:
? Abolish all water allowances and introduce full pay-for-use pricing;
? Achieve full cost-recovery;
? Aim to raise at least 75% of residential revenue through usage charges;
? Encourage water conservation by charging high water consuming residential customers a step-price increase (“excess water charge”) of at least 50% above the base usage charge for all incremental usage above a specified threshold. This threshold should not exceed 450kL/annum.
? Aim to raise at least 50% of non-residential revenue through usage charges;
? Set access charges which reflect a customer’s potential peak load on the system.
These policies ensure NSW complies with CoAG, National Water Initiative and National Competition Policy requirements and promote water co nservation in NSW by properly valuing water as a valuable and scarce resource.

*4871 BUILDERS LICENCING REVIEW—Mr Stoner to Minister for Western Sydney, Minister for Fair Trading, and Minister Assisting the Minister for Commerce—

When will you acknowledge receipt of a submission to the Building Licencing Review from Mr P. Worthing at 1 Ronald Lalor Place, East Kempsey?
Answer—

I am advised that the Builders Licensing Review do not have a record of receiving Mr Worthing’s original submission.
I am further advised that a copy of Mr Worthing’s submission was recently supplied to the review and that this will be acknowledged in due course.

*4872 WATER ALLOCATION—Mr Piccoli to Minister for Regional Development, Minister for the Illawarra, and Minister for Small Business, representing the Minister for Natural Resources, Minister for Primary Industries, and Minister for Mineral Resources—

(1) How much general security and high security water allocation does the Department of Primary Industries (DPI) Trangie Agriculture Research Station have?
(2) What does DPI do with this allocation?
(3) Does it use the water for the irrigation? Does it sell the water for irrigation?
(4) Does it sell the water on temporary water market?
(5) Has it sold any water permanently?

Answer—

(1) None.
(2) Not applicable.
(3) Not applicable.
(4) Not applicable.
(5) Not applicable.

*4873 NORTH WEST LINE LINK—Mr Merton to Minister for Planning, Minister for Redfern Waterloo, Minister for Science and Medical Research, and Minister Assisting the Minister for Health (Cancer)—

(1) Has the route for the North West Rail Link been determined?
(2) If so when will work commence on the project?
(3) What is the proposed completion date?

Answer—

(1) The current route from Cheltenham to Rouse Hill via Castle Hill is the proposed alignment based on considerable investigations. Should an alternative emerge during the environmental assessment stage that minimises environmental impacts or brings about other benefits, then it is possible that the alignment could change.
(2) The Government’s announcement on 9 June 2005 stated that construction of the North West Rail Link from Cheltenham to Rouse Hill via Castle Hill would commence in 2012. Corridor preservation is the highest priority for the project and has commenced.
(3) 2017 (to Rouse Hill).

*4874 LAND SALE—Mr Roberts to Minister for Roads—

Are there any plans to sell any Roads and Traffic Authority land or property in the Lane Cove, Ryde or Parramatta electorates?

Answer—

The Roads and Traffic Authority land or property in the Lane Cove and Ryde electorates is scheduled for disposal in the 05-06 sales program.


*4875 RAILWAY LAND SALE—Mr Roberts to Deputy Premier, Minister for Transport, and Minister for State Development—

Are there any plans to sell any railway land in the electorates of Lane Cove, Ryde and Parramatta?

Answer—

I am advised:
RailCorp owns land adjacent to West Ryde Station that has been deemed appropriate for sale.

*4876 PEZZUTTI REPORT—Ms Berejiklian to Minister for Education and Training, representing the Minister for Health—

(1) How many of the recommendations of the Pezzutti Report (Mental Health Services in NSW – December 2002) has the Government adopted?
(2) Which ones has it adopted?
(3) Which ones does it intend to adopt and by when?


Answer—

The Minister for Health advises me:
(1) to (3) Answers to these questions can be found in the Government’s Response to the recommendations of the Pezzutti Report (Mental Health Services in NSW – December 2002), published in December 2003.
The Mental Health Implementation Taskforce was formed to monitor the implementation of the Government Response to the Report. I am advised that the Taskforce, chaired by Dr Brian Pezzutti, has expressed satisfaction with the implementation process.

*4877 CASEWORKER NUMBERS—Ms Berejiklian to Minister for Education and Training, representing the Minister for Health—

What is the breakdown of the number of community-based mental health caseworkers by Area Health Service and by location?

Answer—

The Minister for Health advises me:
I am advised that NSW Health does not employ ‘caseworkers’ but an equivalent concept is ‘Direct Care Clinical’ full time equivalent staff. Data regarding the number of Direct Care Clinical staff employed by NSW Health is due to be published shortly.

*4878 RIGHT WAY TURN—Ms Berejiklian to Minister for Roads—

In relation to community concern about the lack of a right-turn green arrow at the traffic lights at Edinburgh Road and Eastern Valley Way at Castlecrag:
(1) Is the Minister prepared to consider the right-turn arrow?
(2) If so, when will a decision be made?





Answer—

(1) and (2) I am advised that the RTA has installed signage to alert motorists turning right from Edinburgh Road into the Eastern Valley Way to proceed north, to watch for pedestrians crossing the Eastern Valley Way.

*4879 STAFF INVESTIGATION—Mr Hazzard to Minister for Education and Training—

(1) What number of Department of Education and Training staff have been investigated in relation to the use of internet pornography in each of the last three years?
(2) What action has been taken against employees found to have used internet pornography in each of the last three years?
(3) What position did each employee hold?

Answer—

(1) In the past three years a total of nine cases have been proven, as follows:
2003 4
2004 3
2005 to date 2 to date
(2) The Department has taken strong and appropriate action against staff in proven cases, including terminating employment, demotion and salary reduction.
(3) Positions held included clerical/administrative, general assistant, teacher, and senior education officer and executive teaching positions.

*4880 ABORIGINAL COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT—LIGHTNING RIDGE —Mr Hazzard to Minister for Aboriginal Affairs, and Minister Assisting the Premier on Citizenship—

How much money from the Aboriginal Community Development Program (ACDP) has been applied to the 65 emergency works on houses in Lightning Ridge?

Answer—

$85,000.00.

*4881 ABORIGINAL COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT—COLLARENEBRI—Mr Hazzard to Minister for Aboriginal Affairs, and Minister Assisting the Premier on Citizenship—

How much money of the Aboriginal Community Development Program (ACDP) has been applied to the 39 emergency works on houses in Collarenebri?

Answer—

$95,000.00.

*4882 WATER AND SEWERAGE FUNDING—Mr Hazzard to Minister for Aboriginal Affairs, and Minister Assisting the Premier on Citizenship—

How much money of the Aboriginal Community Development Program (ACDP) has been applied to the water and sewerage works at:
(1) Brewarrina
(2) Kempsey
(3) Moree?

Answer—

(1) $161,000.00.
(2) $22,000.00.
(3) 212,000.00.

*4883 WATER AND SEWERAGE FUNDING—Mr Hazzard to Minister for Aboriginal Affairs, and Minister Assisting the Premier on Citizenship—

How much money of the Aboriginal Community Development Program (ACDP) has been applied to the water and sewerage works at:
(1) Condobolin
(2) Moree
(3) Tingha?

Answer—

$36,000.00
$212,000.00.
$430,000.00.

*4884 HOUSING FUNDING—Mr Hazzard to Minister for Aboriginal Affairs, and Minister Assisting the Premier on Citizenship—

How much money of the Aboriginal Community Development Program (ACDP) has been applied to building new houses in:
(1) Armidale
(2) Bourke
(3) Brewarrina
(4) Coonamble
(5) Wilcannia?

Answer—

Total $2,400,654.00.
($2,213,077.00 new, $187,577.00 new replacement)
Total $1,648,3000.00
($1,198,300.00 new, $450,000.00 new replacement)
Total $3,386,440.00
($3,210,011.00 new, $176,429.00 new replacement)
Total $3,065,791.00.)
Total $5,061,966.00.

*4885 HOUSE REFURBISHMENT—Mr Hazzard to Minister for Aboriginal Affairs, and Minister Assisting the Premier on Citizenship—

How much money of the Aboriginal Community Development Program (ACDP) has been applied to the 64 house refurbishments in Brewarrina?

Answer—

$4.02 m.



*4886 TRUST FUND REPAYMENT SCHEME—Mr Hazzard to Minister for Deputy Premier, Minister for Transport, and Minister for State Development, representing the Special Minister of State, Minister for Commerce, Minister for Industrial Relations, Minister for Ageing, Minister for Disability Services, Assistant Treasurer and Vice President of the Executive Council—

(1) How much has been paid out to Aboriginal people through the Aboriginal Trust Fund Repayment (ATFR) Scheme?
(2) How many Aborigines have been repaid their stolen wages since 2001?

Answer—

(1) and (2) It was less than 12 months ago, on the 15 December 2004 that the NSW Government announced it would establish an Aboriginal Trust Fund Repayment Scheme (ATFRS) to repay monies held in trust for Aboriginal people to rightful claimants (including descendants) at fair value in today’s currency.
The NSW Scheme is unique in that it is evidence based, and that it will repay what is owed indexed to current dollar value. It will also repay money owed to the descendants of Aboriginal people who are now deceased but who had money put into Trust Accounts and was never repaid.
There have been a number of complex legal issues for the Scheme to deal with to ensure a solid administrative framework is in place before payments can commence.
The new indigenous ATFRS Panel comprising Mr Aden Ridgeway, Mrs Robynne Quiggin and Mr Sam Jeffries has met on a number of occasions since its establishment and has commenced its work in considering claims.
It was only on the 26 October that NSW finally ensured that elderly Indigenous Peoples and their descendants who received payments by the NSW Aboriginal Trust Fund Repayment Scheme will not be forced to pay income tax, following a ruling by the Australian Tax Office.
The Iemma Government has welcomed the decision, which comes after months of negotiation. Despite these complexities claim forms are being processed and it is expected that the first repayments will be made in late November 2006.
The Government has funded the ATFR Scheme for five years, and where it is found that money is owed it will be repaid. These repayments will not be capped – what is owed will be repaid and will be repaid in present-day dollar terms.

8 NOVEMBER 2005

(Paper No. 154)

4887 WINDSOR STATION CARPARK—Mr Pringle to Deputy Premier, Minister for Transport, and Minister for State Development—


4888 SEWERAGE PROGRAM—Mr Pringle to Minister for Police, and Minister for Utilities—


4889 LAND TAX—Mr Pringle to Premier, Treasurer, and Minister for Citizenship—


4890 XPT DELAYS—Mr Armstrong to Deputy Premier, Minister for Transport, and Minister for State Development—


4891 CARRIAGE T4215—Mr O'Farrell to Deputy Premier, Minister for Transport, and Minister for State Development—

4892 BUS INDICATORS—Mr O'Farrell to Deputy Premier, Minister for Transport, and Minister for State Development—


4893 AIRCONDITIONED TRAINS—Mr O'Farrell to Deputy Premier, Minister for Transport, and Minister for State Development—


4894 PATIENT CLAIMS—Mr Stoner to Minister for Education and Training, representing the Minister for Health—


4895 MENTAL HEALTH PATIENT REFERRAL—Mr Stoner to Minister for Education and Training, representing the Minister for Health—


4896 CHATSWOOD STATION UPGRADE—Ms Berejiklian to Deputy Premier, Minister for Transport, and Minister for State Development—


4897 CHATSWOOD HIGH SCHOOL—Ms Berejiklian to Minister for Education and Training—


4898 RESIDENTIAL TOWERS PROPOSAL—CHATSWOOD—Ms Berejiklian to Minister for Planning, Minister for Redfern Waterloo, Minister for Science and Medical Research, and Minister Assisting the Minister for Health (Cancer)—


4899 MUDGEE RAIL LINE—Mr Souris to Deputy Premier, Minister for Transport, and Minister for State Development—


4900 NEW HOSPITAL PROPOSAL—Mr Constance to Minister for Education and Training, representing the Minister for Health—


4901 BEGA ROAD WORKS—Mr Constance to Minister for Roads—


4902 FIREWEED—Mr Constance to Minister for Regional Development, Minister for the Illawarra, and Minister for Small Business, representing the Minister for Natural Resources, Minister for Primary Industries, and Minister for Mineral Resources—


4903 ENTRANCE ROAD UPGRADE—Mr Hartcher to Minister for Roads—


4904 LEGAL AID—Mr Hartcher to Attorney General, Minister for the Environment, and Minister for the Arts—


4905 COMMERCIAL VESSELS—Mr Oakeshott to Minister for Roads, representing the Minister Ports and Waterways—

4906 WATER USAGE—Mr Oakeshott to Minister for Local Government—


4907 COMMUTER FERRIES—Mr Oakeshott to Minister for Local Government—


4908 EXTRA WATER CHARGES—Mrs Hopwood to Minister for Housing, and Minister Assisting the Minister for Health (Mental Health)—


4909 000 TIME RESPONSE—Mrs Hopwood to Minister for Education and Training, representing the Minister for Health—


4910 NIGHT RIDER BUS—Mrs Hopwood to Deputy Premier, Minister for Transport, and Minister for State Development—


4911 NURSES AT ROYAL NORTH SHORE HOSPITAL—Mrs Hopwood to Minister for Education and Training, representing the Minister for Health—


4912 NURSES—MANLY HOSPITAL—Mrs Skinner to Minister for Education and Training, representing the Minister for Health—


4913 NURSES—MONA VALE HOSPITAL—Mrs Skinner to Minister for Education and Training, representing the Minister for Health—


*4914 OFFENCE CHARGE NUMBERS—CRONULLA—Mr Kerr to Attorney General, Minister for the Environment, and Minister for the Arts—

(1) What is the total number of persons who have been charged with any offence at the Cronulla police station from the 1st January 2005 to the 30th of October 2005?
(2) How many of the above were from drug related crimes?

Answer—

(1) Between 1 January 2005 and 30 June 2005 police in the Miranda Local Area Command initiated criminal proceedings against 817 people, excluding driving offences. At the present time, data is not available beyond June 2005.
(2) During this period police initiated criminal proceedings against 73 of these people for drug related offences.

4915 EXPRESSIONS OF INTEREST—Mr Kerr to Minister for Police, and Minister for Utilities—


4916 RAILWAY LAND SALE—Mr Kerr to Deputy Premier, Minister for Transport, and Minister for State Development—


4917 MOREE BY-PASS—Mr Slack-Smith to Minister for Roads—

4918 FATALITIES STATISTICS—PACIFIC HIGHWAY—Mr J.H. Turner to Minister for Roads—


4919 SPECIAL RATE VARIATION—Mr J.H. Turner to Minister for Local Government—


4920 OFF HIGHWAY ACCESS—Mr J.H. Turner to Minister for Roads—


4921 BUSHFIRE SAFETY PRECAUTIONS—Mr Richardson to Attorney General, Minister for the Environment, and Minister for the Arts—


4922 RAINFOREST CLASSIFICATION—Mr Richardson to Minister for Regional Development, Minister for the Illawarra, and Minister for Small Business, representing the Minister for Natural Resources, Minister for Primary Industries, and Minister for Mineral Resources—


4923 BREASTSCREEN NSW—Mr Hazzard to Minister for Education and Training, representing the Minister for Health—


4924 BREASTSCREEN NSW—MONA VALE OFFICE—Mr Hazzard to Minister for Education and Training, representing the Minister for Health—


4925 BREASTSCREEN NSW—MANLY OFFICE—Mr Hazzard to Minister for Education and Training, representing the Minister for Health—


4926 AIR CONDITIONING—KEMPSEY DISTRICT—Mr Stoner to Minister for Education and Training, representing the Minister for Health—


4927 HUME BRIDGE—HOPEFIELD ROAD—Mr Aplin to Minister for Roads—


4928 LOCUST CONTROL—Mr Aplin to Minister for Regional Development, Minister for the Illawarra, and Minister for Small Business, representing the Minister for Natural Resources, Minister for Primary Industries, and Minister for Mineral Resources—


4929 COUNTRYLINK STAFF NUMBERS—WAGGA WAGGA—Mr Maguire to Deputy Premier, Minister for Transport, and Minister for State Development—


4930 IO AND IM CLASSES—Ms Seaton to Minister for Education and Training—


4931 CLINICAL SERVICES PLAN—Ms Seaton to Minister for Education and Training, representing the Minister for Health—



4932 CHILDREN’S REFUGE NUMBERS—Mr Merton to Minister for Community Services, and Minister for Youth—


4933 STATE TRANSIT OFFICERS—Mr Merton to Deputy Premier, Minister for Transport, and Minister for State Development—


4934 MENTAL HEALTH TREATMENT—Mr Merton to Minister for Education and Training, representing the Minister for Health—


4935 CHILDREN’S REFUGES—LANE COVE ELECTORATE—Mr Roberts to Minister for Community Services, and Minister for Youth—


*4936 OFFENCE CHARGE NUMBERS—CHATSWOOD—Mr Roberts to Attorney General, Minister for the Environment, and Minister for the Arts—

(1) How many persons have been charged with any offence in the Chatswood Police Station from the 1st of July 2005 to the 31st of August 2005?
(2) How many were from drug related crime?

Answer—

Recorded crime statistics for July and August 2005 are not yet available from the Bureau of Crime Statistics and Research.

*4937 OFFENCE CHARGE NUMBERS GLADESVILLE—Mr Roberts to Attorney General, Minister for the Environment, and Minister for the Arts—

(1) How many persons have been charged with any offence at the Gladesville Police Station from the 1st of July 2005 to the 31st of August 2005?
(2) How many were from drug related crime?

Answer—

Recorded crime statistics for July and August 2005 are not yet available from the Bureau of Crime Statistics and Research.

9 NOVEMBER 2005

(Paper No. 155)


4938 TIDAL FLOWS—Mr O'Farrell to Minister for Roads—


4939 WARRINGAH FREEWAY—Mr O'Farrell to Minister for Roads—


4940 TWIN CREEK LEAK—Mr O'Farrell to Minister for Police, and Minister for Utilities—


4941 POSITION NUMBERS—Mr Stoner to Minister for Regional Development, Minister for the Illawarra, and Minister for Small Business, representing the Minister for Natural Resources, Minister for Primary Industries, and Minister for Mineral Resources—


4942 PROPOSED IT SYSTEM—Mr Stoner to Minister for Regional Development, Minister for the Illawarra, and Minister for Small Business, representing the Minister for Natural Resources, Minister for Primary Industries, and Minister for Mineral Resources—


4943 SPECIAL EDUCATION INITIATIVES 2005-2007—Mr Stoner to Minister for Education and Training—


4944 NORTH EDEN TIMBERS—Mr Constance to Minister for Regional Development, Minister for the Illawarra, and Minister for Small Business, representing the Minister for Natural Resources, Minister for Primary Industries, and Minister for Mineral Resources—


4945 SELECTION PANEL DETAILS—Mr Constance to Minister for Police, and Minister for Utilities—


4946 MENTAL HEALTH FACILITIES—Mr Roberts to Minister for Education and Training, representing the Minister for Health—


4947 BUS TRANSITWAY—Mr Merton to Minister for Roads—


4948 PUBLIC RIGHT OF WAY—Mr Oakeshott to Attorney General, Minister for the Environment, and Minister for the Arts, representing the Minister for Justice, Minister for Juvenile Justice, Minister for Emergency Services, Minister for Lands, and Minister for Rural Affairs—


4949 STAMP DUTY INSURANCE—Mr Oakeshott to Premier, Treasurer, and Minister for Citizenship—


4950 POLICE COMMUNITY YOUTH CLUB—Mr Torbay to Minister for Police, and Minister for Utilities—


4951 MARULAN HEAVY VEHICLE CHECKING STATION—Ms Hodgkinson to Minister for Roads—


4952 DEMOUNTABLE CLASSROOMS—BONGONGO PUBLIC SCHOOL—Ms Hodgkinson to Minister for Education and Training—


4953 DELAYED CORRESPONDENCE—Ms Hodgkinson to Minister for Education and Training, representing the Minister for Health—




4954 OVINE JOHNES DISEASE—Ms Hodgkinson to Minister for Regional Development, Minister for the Illawarra, and Minister for Small Business, representing the Minister for Natural Resources, Minister for Primary Industries, and Minister for Mineral Resources—


4955 GUNDAROO BRIDGE—Ms Hodgkinson to Minister for Roads—


4957 TRAFFIC INFRINGEMENT WITHDRAWALS—Mrs Hopwood to Minister for Local Government—


4958 COURT CHALLENGES—Mrs Hopwood to Minister for Local Government—


4959 COUNTRYLINK OFFICE—CRONULLA—Mr Kerr to Deputy Premier, Minister for Transport, and Minister for State Development—


4960 DESALINATION PLANT COST—Mr Kerr to Minister for Police, and Minister for Utilities—


4961 DESALINATION PILOT PLANTS—Mr Kerr to Minister for Police, and Minister for Utilities—


4962 LOCUM DOCTORS—Mr Aplin to Minister for Education and Training, representing the Minister for Health—


4963 MENTAL HEALTH SUPPORT SERVICES—Mr Aplin to Minister for Education and Training, representing the Minister for Health—


4964 BROGO DAM COSTS—Mr Constance to Minister for Police, and Minister for Utilities—


4965 POLICE STATION PLANS—Mr Maguire to Minister for Police, and Minister for Utilities—


4966 REPORTED ACCIDENTS—BURNS BAY ROAD—Mr Roberts to Minister for Roads—


4967 BREASTSCREEN NSW—Mr Roberts to Minister for Education and Training, representing the Minister for Health—


4968 WOMEN'S REFUGE—BAULKHAM HILLS—Mr Merton to Minister for Community Services, and Minister for Youth—


4969 BREASTSCREEN NSW—Mr Merton to Minister for Education and Training, representing the Minister for Health—



4970 NURSE NUMBERS—NEPEAN HOSPITAL—Mrs Skinner to Minister for Education and Training, representing the Minister for Health—


4971 NURSE NUMBERS—QUEANBEYAN HOSPITAL—Mrs Skinner to Minister for Education and Training, representing the Minister for Health—


4972 NURSE NUMBERS—ST GEORGE HOSPITAL—Mrs Skinner to Minister for Education and Training, representing the Minister for Health—


4973 DEPARTMENT OF GAMING HARNESS RACING—Mr Souris to Minister for Gaming and Racing, and Minister for the Central Coast—


4974 BLUE MOUNTAINS CITY COUNCIL—Mr J.H. Turner to Minister for Local Government—


4975 PAEDIATRIC OCCUPATIONAL THERAPIST—Mr J.H. Turner to Minister for Education and Training, representing the Minister for Health—


4976 DEVELOPMENT APPLICATION—Mr J.H. Turner to Minister for Planning, Minister for Redfern Waterloo, Minister for Science and Medical Research, and Minister Assisting the Minister for Health (Cancer)—


4977 MEDICAL ASSISTANCE—Mr Hartcher to Minister for Education and Training, representing the Minister for Health—


4978 RAILWAY INCIDENTS/ARRESTS—Mr Hartcher to Deputy Premier, Minister for Transport, and Minister for State Development—

10 NOVEMBER 2005

(Paper No. 156)

4979 REPORTED ACCIDENTS—RIVER ROAD—Mr Roberts to Minister for Roads—


4980 REPORTED ACCIDENTS—BRIDGE STREET—Mr Roberts to Minister for Roads—


4981 POLICE CALL OUTS—KEMPSEY—Mr Stoner to Minister for Police, and Minister for Utilities—


4982 VALLA BEACH ROAD/PACIFIC HIGHWAY—Mr Stoner to Minister for Roads—


4983 CROSS CITY TUNNEL—Mr Stoner to Premier, Treasurer, and Minister for Citizenship—


4984 WORKCOVER CASE NUMBER 20108617/04/2—Mr Oakeshott to Deputy Premier, Minister for Transport, and Minister for State Development, representing the Special Minister of State, Minister for Commerce, Minister for Industrial Relations, Minister for Ageing, Minister for Disability Services, Assistant Treasurer and Vice President of the Executive Council—


4985 DISTRICT OFFICE OF AGRICULTURE—TAREE—Mr Oakeshott to Minister for Regional Development, Minister for the Illawarra, and Minister for Small Business, representing the Minister for Natural Resources, Minister for Primary Industries, and Minister for Mineral Resources—


4986 CARDIAC CATHETERISATION LABORATORY—Mr Oakeshott to Minister for Education and Training, representing the Minister for Health—


4987 INCREASED TRAFFIC VOLUMES—Mr O'Farrell to Minister for Roads—


4988 PORT OPERATIONS MANAGER—Mr O'Farrell to Minister for Roads, representing the Minister Ports and Waterways—


4989 INCREASED TRAFFIC VOLUMES—Mr O'Farrell to Minister for Roads—


4990 NURSE NUMBERS—HORNSBY HOSPITAL—Mrs Hopwood to Minister for Education and Training, representing the Minister for Health—


4991 MENTAL HEALTH UNIT—HORNSBY—Mrs Hopwood to Minister for Education and Training, representing the Minister for Health—


*4992 FEEDER FISH—Mrs Hopwood to Attorney General, Minister for the Environment, and Minister for the Arts—

(1) Is it true that ‘feeder fish’ are now absent from the Hawkesbury River?
(2) What is the reason for this?
(3) What measures are being undertaken to correct this problem?

Answer—

I am advised that this is a matter for the Hon Ian Macdonald MLC, Minister for Natural Resources, Minister for Primary Industries and Minister for Mineral Resources.

4993 HOSPITAL FUNDING—Mr Constance to Premier, Treasurer, and Minister for Citizenship—


4994 FIREWEED—Mr Constance to Minister for Regional Development, Minister for the Illawarra, and Minister for Small Business, representing the Minister for Natural Resources, Minister for Primary Industries, and Minister for Mineral Resources—



4995 REGIONAL DISTRIBUTION CENTRE STRATEGY—Ms Hodgkinson to Minister for Regional Development, Minister for the Illawarra, and Minister for Small Business—


4996 TUMUT HOSPITAL REDEVELOPMENT—Ms Hodgkinson to Minister for Education and Training, representing the Minister for Health—


4997 STAFF RECRUITMENT—Ms Hodgkinson to Minister for Roads—


4998 KOSCIUSZKO NATIONAL PARK—Mr Richardson to Attorney General, Minister for the Environment, and Minister for the Arts—


4999 JUSTICE OF THE PEACE REQUIREMENTS—Mr Amery to Attorney General, Minister for the Environment, and Minister for the Arts—


5000 PART TIME PAYMENTS—Mr Amery to Premier, Treasurer, and Minister for Citizenship—


5001 M4 MOTORWAY USAGE—Mr Amery to Minister for Roads—


5002 OVERSEAS TEACHING QUALIFICATIONS—Mr Amery to Minister for Education and Training—


5003 LAND PURCHASE—Mr Amery to Deputy Premier, Minister for Transport, and Minister for State Development—


5004 PENALTY NOTICE PAYMENTS—Mr Amery to Premier, Treasurer, and Minister for Citizenship—


5005 ASSISTED REPRODUCTIVE TECHNOLOGY—Mrs Skinner to Minister for Education and Training, representing the Minister for Health—


5006 ACUTE PSYCHIATRIC BEDS—Mrs Skinner to Minister for Education and Training, representing the Minister for Health—


5007 JACARANDA PROJECT—Mrs Skinner to Minister for Education and Training, representing the Minister for Health—


5008 NOXIOUS WEEDS—Ms Seaton to Minister for Regional Development, Minister for the Illawarra, and Minister for Small Business, representing the Minister for Natural Resources, Minister for Primary Industries, and Minister for Mineral Resources—


5009 WOMBEYAN CAVES ROAD—Ms Seaton to Minister for Roads—

5010 PHOTO CARD ACT—Mr J.H. Turner to Minister for Roads—


5011 WOOTTON BY-PASS—Mr J.H. Turner to Minister for Roads—


5012 CORRESPONDENCE—Mr J.H. Turner to Minister for Western Sydney, Minister for Fair Trading, and Minister Assisting the Minister for Commerce—


5013 PRE-SCHOOL EDUCATION—Mr Aplin to Minister for Education and Training—


5014 FLASHING LIGHTS INSTALLATION—Mr Pringle to Minister for Roads—


5015 HAWKESBURY LOCAL AREA COMMAND—Mr Pringle to Minister for Police, and Minister for Utilities—


5016 POLICE SECONDMENT—Mr Pringle to Minister for Police, and Minister for Utilities—


5017 POLICE CARS—Mr Pringle to Minister for Police, and Minister for Utilities—


5018 NORTH-WEST RAIL LINE —Mr Pringle to Minister for Planning, Minister for Redfern Waterloo, Minister for Science and Medical Research, and Minister Assisting the Minister for Health (Cancer)—


5019 SCHOOL SET DOWN/PICK UP—Mr Pringle to Minister for Education and Training—


5020 LEFT HAND TURN LANE—Ms Berejiklian to Minister for Roads—


5021 TUNNEL FILTRATION—Ms Berejiklian to Minister for Roads—


5022 EASTERN VALLEY WAY—Ms Berejiklian to Minister for Roads—


5023 YOUTH SUICIDE—Ms Berejiklian to Minister for Education and Training, representing the Minister for Health—

5024 FORENSIC HOSPITAL—Ms Berejiklian to Minister for Education and Training, representing the Minister for Health—


5025 CHATSWOOD COMMUNITY MENTAL HEALTH CENTRE—Ms Berejiklian to Minister for Education and Training, representing the Minister for Health—



5026 PARKING INFRINGEMENTS—Mr Roberts to Premier, Treasurer, and Minister for Citizenship—


5027 INFRINGEMENT NOTICES—Mr Merton to Deputy Premier, Minister for Transport, and Minister for State Development—


5028 WATER LEAKS—Mr Merton to Minister for Police, and Minister for Utilities—


5029 OLD NORTHERN ROAD—Mr Merton to Minister for Police, and Minister for Utilities—


5030 BREASTSCREEN NSW—Mr Kerr to Minister for Education and Training, representing the Minister for Health—


5031 COMMUNITY HEALTH CENTRE—Mr Kerr to Minister for Education and Training, representing the Minister for Health—


5032 COUNCIL RATES—Mr Hazzard to Minister for Local Government—


5033 S94 CONTRIBUTIONS—Mr Hazzard to Minister for Roads—


5034 ROADS AUDIT—Mr Hazzard to Minister for Roads—


5035 SPIT BRIDGE WIDENING—Mr Hazzard to Minister for Roads—


5036 SEWERAGE SCHEME—Ms Seaton to Minister for Police, and Minister for Utilities—


5037 PLANNING INSTRUMENTS—Ms Seaton to Minister for Planning, Minister for Redfern Waterloo, Minister for Science and Medical Research, and Minister Assisting the Minister for Health (Cancer)—


5038 HOME-BASED MENTAL HEALTH TREATMENT—Ms Moore to Minister for Education and Training, representing the Minister for Health—


5039 SMART RECOVERY GROUPS—Ms Moore to Minister for Education and Training, representing the Minister for Health—


5040 UNDIAGNOSED DIABETES MELLITUS—Ms Moore to Minister for Education and Training, representing the Minister for Health—




5041 "TCARD" INTEGRATED TICKETING—Ms Moore to Deputy Premier, Minister for Transport, and Minister for State Development—


5042 HOUSING AND SUPPORTED ACCOMMODATION INITIATIVE—Ms Moore to Minister for Housing, and Minister Assisting the Minister for Health (Mental Health)—


5043 SPECIAL EDUCATION CLASSES—Ms Moore to Minister for Education and Training—


5044 ANTI-HOMOPHOBIA PROGRAMS—Ms Moore to Minister for Education and Training—


5045 CORRESPONDENCE—Mr Constance to Minister for Housing, and Minister Assisting the Minister for Health (Mental Health)—


15 NOVEMBER 2005

(Paper No. 157)

5046 WATER LEAKS—Mr Roberts to Minister for Police, and Minister for Utilities—


5047 RECORDED INCIDENTS—Mr Roberts to Deputy Premier, Minister for Transport, and Minister for State Development—


5048 CREMORNE COMMUNITY HEALTH SERVICE—Mrs Skinner to Minister for Education and Training, representing the Minister for Health—


5049 NEEDLE EXCHANGE—Mrs Skinner to Minister for Education and Training, representing the Minister for Health—


5050 TAKE-HOME METHADONE—Mrs Skinner to Minister for Education and Training, representing the Minister for Health—


5051 NORTH-WEST RAIL LINK ROUTE—Mr Pringle to Deputy Premier, Minister for Transport, and Minister for State Development—


5052 ACT HEALTH SYSTEM—Mr Constance to Minister for Education and Training, representing the Minister for Health—


5053 FORSTERS BAY BOATSHED—Mr Constance to Attorney General, Minister for the Environment, and Minister for the Arts, representing the Minister for Justice, Minister for Juvenile Justice, Minister for Emergency Services, Minister for Lands, and Minister for Rural Affairs—


5054 PRINCES HIGHWAY—Mr Constance to Minister for Roads—


5055 HARBOUR BRIDGE TOLL—Mr Stoner to Premier, Treasurer, and Minister for Citizenship—


5056 KEMPSEY POLICE STATION—Mr Stoner to Minister for Police, and Minister for Utilities—


5057 CHILD PORNOGRAPHY IMAGES—Mr Stoner to Attorney General, Minister for the Environment, and Minister for the Arts—


5058 TRAFFIC ACCIDENT STATISTICS—Ms Hodgkinson to Minister for Roads—


5059 BREAST SCREENING—SOUTH EAST REGION—Ms Hodgkinson to Minister for Planning, Minister for Redfern Waterloo, Minister for Science and Medical Research, and Minister Assisting the Minister for Health (Cancer)—


5060 OBSTETRICIAN VISITING MEDICAL OFFICERS—Ms Hodgkinson to Minister for Education and Training, representing the Minister for Health—


5061 KU-RING-GAI NATIONAL PARK—Mr O'Farrell to Attorney General, Minister for the Environment, and Minister for the Arts—


5062 TICKET SALES—Mr O'Farrell to Deputy Premier, Minister for Transport, and Minister for State Development—


5063 SCHOOL MAINTENANCE —Mr O'Farrell to Minister for Education and Training—


5064 DESALINATION CONSORTIUMS—Mr Kerr to Premier, Treasurer, and Minister for Citizenship—


5065 CARINGBAH LAND—Mr Kerr to Minister for Education and Training—


5066 KURNELL STUDY—Mr Kerr to Minister for Planning, Minister for Redfern Waterloo, Minister for Science and Medical Research, and Minister Assisting the Minister for Health (Cancer)—


5067 CONSUMER TRADER & TENANCY TRIBUNAL MATTER —Mr J.H. Turner to Minister for Western Sydney, Minister for Fair Trading, and Minister Assisting the Minister for Commerce—


5068 CREDITOR PAYMENTS—Mr Aplin to Minister for Education and Training, representing the Minister for Health—


5069 NOXIOUS WEEDS—Mr Aplin to Minister for Regional Development, Minister for the Illawarra, and Minister for Small Business, representing the Minister for Natural Resources, Minister for Primary Industries, and Minister for Mineral Resources—


5070 MENTAL HEALTH CRISIS TEAM—Mrs Hopwood to Minister for Education and Training, representing the Minister for Health—


5071 NEW LINE ROAD—Mrs Hopwood to Minister for Roads—


5072 STATION STAFFING—Mrs Hopwood to Deputy Premier, Minister for Transport, and Minister for State Development—


5073 SAFETY HOUSE SCHEMES—Mr Merton to Minister for Police, and Minister for Utilities—


5074 WINDSOR ROAD UPGRADE—Mr Merton to Minister for Roads—


5075 SCHOOL ZONES—Mr Merton to Minister for Roads—


5076 EPPING ROAD—Mr Roberts to Minister for Roads—


5077 CHATSWOOD STATION LIFTS—Ms Berejiklian to Deputy Premier, Minister for Transport, and Minister for State Development—


5078 NORTH SHORE LOCAL AREA COMMAND—Ms Berejiklian to Minister for Police, and Minister for Utilities—


16 NOVEMBER 2005

(Paper No. 158)

5079 STAFFING—QUEANBEYAN FIRE STATION—Ms Hodgkinson to Attorney General, Minister for the Environment, and Minister for the Arts, representing the Minister for Justice, Minister for Juvenile Justice, Minister for Emergency Services, Minister for Lands, and Minister for Rural Affairs—


5080 COUNTRY TOWNS WATER SUPPLY AND SEWERAGE PROGRAM—Ms Hodgkinson to Minister for Police, and Minister for Utilities—


5081 ULTRASOUND SERVICES—GOULBURN BASE HOSPITAL—Ms Hodgkinson to Minister for Education and Training, representing the Minister for Health—



5082 FARMERS KITCHEN REST STOP—Mr Stoner to Minister for Roads—


5083 SYDNEY CATCHMENT AUTHORITY—Mr Stoner to Attorney General, Minister for the Environment, and Minister for the Arts—


5084 DESALINATION COST—Mr Stoner to Minister for Police, and Minister for Utilities—


5085 SAFETY HOUSE—Mr Kerr to Minister for Police, and Minister for Utilities—


5086 SCHOOL ZONES—Mr Kerr to Minister for Roads—


5087 LINE DUPLICATION—Mr Kerr to Deputy Premier, Minister for Transport, and Minister for State Development—


5088 DENTAL WAITING LIST—Mr Constance to Minister for Education and Training, representing the Minister for Health—


5089 HOLIDAY RENTING—Mr Constance to Minister for Planning, Minister for Redfern Waterloo, Minister for Science and Medical Research, and Minister Assisting the Minister for Health (Cancer)—


5090 INDEPENDENT DISABILITY ADVOCATE—Mr Constance to Deputy Premier, Minister for Transport, and Minister for State Development, representing the Special Minister of State, Minister for Commerce, Minister for Industrial Relations, Minister for Ageing, Minister for Disability Services, Assistant Treasurer and Vice President of the Executive Council—


5091 NURSE NUMBERS—TWEED HOSPITAL—Mrs Skinner to Minister for Education and Training, representing the Minister for Health—


5092 NURSE NUMBERS—BLUE MOUNTAINS—Mrs Skinner to Minister for Education and Training, representing the Minister for Health—


5093 INTENSIVE CARE UNIT—ARMIDALE HOSPITAL—Mrs Skinner to Minister for Education and Training, representing the Minister for Health—


5094 VALENCIA STREET SERVICES—Mr Roberts to Deputy Premier, Minister for Transport, and Minister for State Development—


5095 HUNTLEYS POINT SERVICES—Mr Roberts to Deputy Premier, Minister for Transport, and Minister for State Development—


5096 STUDENT NUMBERS—LANE COVE ELECTORATE—Mr Roberts to Minister for Education and Training—


5097 RICHMOND VALLEY COUNCIL—Mr George to Premier, Treasurer, and Minister for Citizenship—


5098 BELMONT GOLF COURSE—Mr Crittenden to Attorney General, Minister for the Environment, and Minister for the Arts, representing the Minister for Justice, Minister for Juvenile Justice, Minister for Emergency Services, Minister for Lands, and Minister for Rural Affairs—


5099 NATIVE VEGETATION ACT—Ms Moore to Minister for Regional Development, Minister for the Illawarra, and Minister for Small Business, representing the Minister for Natural Resources, Minister for Primary Industries, and Minister for Mineral Resources—


5100 COMPANION ANIMALS ACT—Ms Moore to Minister for Tourism and Sport and Recreation, Minister for Women, and Minister Assisting the Minister for State Development—


5101 LAND CLEARING—Mr Barr to Minister for Regional Development, Minister for the Illawarra, and Minister for Small Business, representing the Minister for Natural Resources, Minister for Primary Industries, and Minister for Mineral Resources—


5102 SHOPFRONT POLICE STATIONS—Mrs Hopwood to Minister for Police, and Minister for Utilities—


5103 BEROWRA CLEARWAYS PROJECTS—Mrs Hopwood to Deputy Premier, Minister for Transport, and Minister for State Development—


5104 OMDUDSMEN—Mrs Hopwood to Premier, Treasurer, and Minister for Citizenship—


5105 GRAFFITI CHARGES—Mr Merton to Attorney General, Minister for the Environment, and Minister for the Arts—


5106 GRAFFITI DAMAGE—Mr Merton to Attorney General, Minister for the Environment, and Minister for the Arts—


5107 STUDENT NUMBERS—BAULKHAM HILLS—Mr Merton to Minister for Education and Training—









17 NOVEMBER 2005

(Paper No. 159)

5108 CROWN ROAD CLOSURE—Mr Stoner to Attorney General, Minister for the Environment, and Minister for the Arts, representing the Minister for Justice, Minister for Juvenile Justice, Minister for Emergency Services, Minister for Lands, and Minister for Rural Affairs—


5109 MURDER INVESTIGATIONS—Mr Stoner to Minister for Police, and Minister for Utilities—


5110 SYDNEY TO BRISBANE XPT TIMETABLE—Mr Stoner to Deputy Premier, Minister for Transport, and Minister for State Development—


5111 SYDNEY REGIONAL ENVIRONMENTAL PLAN 17—Mr Kerr to Minister for Planning, Minister for Redfern Waterloo, Minister for Science and Medical Research, and Minister Assisting the Minister for Health (Cancer)—


5112 COMMUNITY UPDATES—Mr Kerr to Minister for Police, and Minister for Utilities—


5113 PILOT PLANT TRIAL—Mr Kerr to Minister for Police, and Minister for Utilities—


5114 MORUYA HIGH SCHOOL—Mr Constance to Minister for Education and Training—


5115 DEPARTMENTAL REVIEW—Mr Constance to Minister for Community Services, and Minister for Youth—


5116 MOBILE BLOOD BANK—Mr Constance to Minister for Education and Training, representing the Minister for Health—


5117 GRAFFITI CHARGES—Mr Roberts to Attorney General, Minister for the Environment, and Minister for the Arts—


5118 GRAFFITI DAMAGE—Mr Roberts to Attorney General, Minister for the Environment, and Minister for the Arts—


5119 GREATER SOUTHERN AREA HEALTH SERVICE—Ms Hodgkinson to Minister for Education and Training, representing the Minister for Health—


5120 ABORIGINAL EDUCATION PILOT PROGRAM—Ms Hodgkinson to Minister for Education and Training—


5121 GUDAIR VACCINE—Ms Hodgkinson to Minister for Education and Training, representing the Minister for Health—


5122 SCHOOL ZONES—Mr Roberts to Premier, Treasurer, and Minister for Citizenship—


5123 SCHOOL ZONES—Mr Merton to Premier, Treasurer, and Minister for Citizenship—


5124 HARBOUR TUNNEL SPEEDING—Mr Merton to Premier, Treasurer, and Minister for Citizenship—


5125 DEMERIT POINTS—Mr Merton to Minister for Roads—


5126 HORNSBY CRIME—Mrs Hopwood to Attorney General, Minister for the Environment, and Minister for the Arts—


5127 KU-RING-GAI LOCAL AREA COMMAND—Mrs Hopwood to Minister for Police, and Minister for Utilities—


5128 HORNSBY HOSPITAL—Mrs Hopwood to Minister for Education and Training, representing the Minister for Health—


5129 READYMIX DISTRIBUTION CENTRE—Mr Amery to Minister for Planning, Minister for Redfern Waterloo, Minister for Science and Medical Research, and Minister Assisting the Minister for Health (Cancer)—


5130 GRAFFITI SPRAY DAMAGE—Mr Amery to Attorney General, Minister for the Environment, and Minister for the Arts—


5131 M7 MOTORWAY—Mr Amery to Minister for Roads—


5132 READYMIX CENTRE—Mr Amery to Attorney General, Minister for the Environment, and Minister for the Arts—


5133 HOME CARE—Mr J.H. Turner to Deputy Premier, Minister for Transport, and Minister for State Development, representing the Special Minister of State, Minister for Commerce, Minister for Industrial Relations, Minister for Ageing, Minister for Disability Services, Assistant Treasurer and Vice President of the Executive Council—


5134 BUILDING LICENCE—Mr J.H. Turner to Minister for Western Sydney, Minister for Fair Trading, and Minister Assisting the Minister for Commerce—


5135 HOSPITAL CREDITORS—Mr Souris to Minister for Education and Training, representing the Minister for Health—


5136 PROPOSED DESALINATION PLANT—Ms Seaton to Minister for Police, and Minister for Utilities—


5137 POLICE SICK LEAVE—Mr Hartcher to Minister for Police, and Minister for Utilities—


5138 POLICE STRENGTH—Mr Hartcher to Minister for Police, and Minister for Utilities—


5139 SCHOOL ZONE LIGHTS—Mr Pringle to Minister for Roads—


5140 STREETBEAT PROJECT—Mr Pringle to Attorney General, Minister for the Environment, and Minister for the Arts—


5141 GROSE VIEW PUBLIC SCHOOL—Mr Pringle to Minister for Education and Training—


5142 HAWKESBURY RIGHT CONNECTION COALITION—Mr Pringle to Minister for Community Services, and Minister for Youth—


5143 CHILD PROTECTION REPORTS—Mr Hazzard to Minister for Community Services, and Minister for Youth—


5144 MANLY CASEWORKERS—Mr Hazzard to Minister for Community Services, and Minister for Youth—


5145 OUT OF HOME CARE—Mr Hazzard to Minister for Community Services, and Minister for Youth—


5146 MANLY CSC RELOCATION—Mr Hazzard to Minister for Community Services, and Minister for Youth—


5147 GOVERNMENT SCHOOLS—Mr Hazzard to Minister for Education and Training—


5148 REDUCTION IN PROGRAM FUNDING—Mr Hazzard to Minister for Education and Training—


5149 SPECIAL EDUCATION—Mr Hazzard to Minister for Education and Training—


5150 VOCATIONAL EDUCATION FUNDING—Mr Hazzard to Minister for Education and Training—


5151 DEPARTMENTAL AIRCONDITIONING—Mr Hazzard to Minister for Education and Training—


29 NOVEMBER 2005

(Paper No. 160)

5152 MID NORTH COAST LOCAL AREA COMMANDER—Mr Stoner to Minister for Police, and Minister for Utilities—

What is the timeframe for the appointment and commencement of duty of the new Mid North Coast Local Area Commander?


5153 BOATMAN'S COTTAGES—Mr Stoner to Attorney General, Minister for the Environment, and Minister for the Arts, representing the Minister for Justice, Minister for Juvenile Justice, Minister for Emergency Services, Minister for Lands, and Minister for Rural Affairs—

In relation to the Boatman’s cottages located on crown land at South West Rocks:
(1) Are these cottages heritage listed?
(2) Is the land on which the cottages are located heritage listed?
(3) If not, is it possible for said land to be heritage listed?
(4) Are these properties liable for land tax?
(5) Given the community – leased use of these properties, will you approve minimum rent levels for the use of this crown land?


5154 LANE COVE TUNNEL PROJECT—Mr Stoner to Minister for Roads—

In relation to traffic arrangements associated with the Lane Cove Tunnel project:
(1) Are you aware that the Director General of Planning Reports (November 2002) forecast traffic problems and amenity issues at Artarmon, including a 58% increase in traffic on Reserve Road, due in part to the lack of an exit ramp from the tunnel for eastbound traffic accessing the Pacific Highway?
(2) Has the Roads and Traffic Authority and the tunnel developer considered such an exit ramp in view of the issues identified by the Department of Planning, Lane Cove Council and the community?
(3) If so, why has there been no provision for such an exit ramp?
(4) If not, why not?
(5) What effect, if any, does the recent collapse of one of the properties in the vicinity of the proposed exit ramp have upon its consideration?


5155 T2 LANES OFFENCES—Mr Roberts to Premier, Treasurer, and Minister for Citizenship—

How many individuals have been issued with infringement notices for travelling illegally in the T2 lane along Epping Road at Lane Cove, for the periods 2000 – 2004 inclusive?


5156 STAFF SUSPENSION/LEAVE—Mr Constance to Minister for Community Services, and Minister for Youth—

Has any member of staff at the Bega Department of Community Services office been suspended or taken leave for any period as a result of a review or court proceedings involving any case during 2005?

5157 BREASTSCREENING—Mr Constance to Minister for Education and Training, representing the Minister for Health—

(1) What breast screening services have closed in the Bega electorate and where, and for what reason?
(2) Will the Government arrange for the service to be reopened in Narooma?


5158 CITYRAIL FARE REVENUE—Ms Seaton to Deputy Premier, Minister for Transport, and Minister for State Development—

(1) What was the gross fare revenue received by CityRail in the latest available year?
(2) What were the costs to CityRail of collecting and accounting this revenue?


5159 POLICE NUMBERS—LACHLAN LOCAL AREA COMMAND—Mr Armstrong to Minister for Police, and Minister for Utilities—

(1) At full strength how many police officers are employed in the Lachlan Local Area Command?
(2) How many officers are currently employed in the Lachlan Area Command?
(3) How many of those officers are available for active duty?
(4) Are there vacant positions at the one-man police stations located at:
(a) Bogan Gate
(b) Tullibigeal?


5160 POLICE NUMBERS—COOTAMUNDRA LOCAL AREA COMMAND—Mr Armstrong to Minister for Police, and Minister for Utilities—

(1) At full strength how many police officers are employed in the Cootamundra Local Area Command?
(2) How many officers are currently employed in the Cootamundra Area Command?
(3) How many of those officers are available for active duty?
(4) Are there vacant positions at the one-man police stations located at:
(a) Quandialla
(b) Caragabal
(c) Wallendbeen
(d) Stockinbingal
(e) Bethungra?
(5) If there are vacancies, can the Minister indicate when they will be filled?


5161 POLICE NUMBERS—GRIFFITH LOCAL AREA COMMAND—Mr Armstrong to Minister for Police, and Minister for Utilities—

(1) At full strength how many police officers are employed in the Griffith Local Area Command?
(2) How many officers are currently employed in the Griffith Area Command?
(3) How many of those officers are available for active duty?
(4) Are there vacant positions at the one-man police stations located at:
(a) Tallimba
(b) Ungarie
(c) Weethalle
(d) Barmedman?
(5) If there are vacancies, can the Minister indicate when they will be filled?


5162 ROCK EISTEDDFOD CHALLENGE—Mr George to Minister for Education and Training, representing the Minister for Health—

(1) Is the Minister aware that the NSW Health Department has withdrawn its $150,000 sponsorship for the 2006 Rock Eisteddfod Challenge?
(2) If not, why not?
(3) Is the Minister also aware that participants in this competition have been shown, through world leading research conducted by the University of Sydney, to be less likely to smoke, binge drink or take other drugs?
(4) How will the Minister address the concerns of those who fear that the 26 year old competition will fail financially because of the proposed withdrawal of State Government funding?


5163 NEW LINE ROAD—Mrs Hopwood to Minister for Roads—

(1) What is the condition of the road at the roundabout in New Line Road at Shepherd’s Drive Cherrybrook?
(2) What is being done to improve this?


5164 HORNSBY MALL—Mrs Hopwood to Minister for Police, and Minister for Utilities—

What was the outcome of a fight (involving a baby) in Hornsby Mall between 2.30 – 3.15 pm on Friday 21 October where police intervention was called for?


5165 HUNTER LANE HORNSBY—Mrs Hopwood to Minister for Police, and Minister for Utilities—

What police actions are being undertaken in relation to drug deals in Hunter Lane, Hornsby?


5166 CHATSWOOD RAILWAY STATION—Ms Berejiklian to Deputy Premier, Minister for Transport, and Minister for State Development—

What is the time line for completion of major milestones in relation to the Chatswood Railway Station?


5167 SURGICAL DELAYS—Ms Berejiklian to Minister for Education and Training, representing the Minister for Health—

(1) What is the average wait for patients needing a peritonectomy in NSW?
(2) How many people are currently waiting for this surgery?
(3) Does the State Government have a specific program to prevent deaths of people suffering peritoneal mesothelioma awaiting this vital surgery?


5168 KURNELL DESALINATION PLANT—Mr Kerr to Minister for Police, and Minister for Utilities—

What is the cost of the radio advertising campaign for the Kurnell desalination plant?





5169 KURNELL SITE CONSULTATION—Mr Kerr to Minister for Police, and Minister for Utilities—

(1) Did Sydney Water admit at a meeting on 22 August 2005 at Sutherland Council to discuss the desalination plant that only a desktop assessment of aboriginal cultural and heritage values was undertaken of the site of the Kurnell desalination plant?
(2) What consultation took place with the Dharawal Elders Group, the original landholders of the site before the proposal was announced?


5170 GREENHOUSE GAS EMISSIONS—Mr Kerr to Minister for Police, and Minister for Utilities—

Why does Sydney Water state in Metropolitan Water Plan Seawater Desalination Fact Sheet 4 that it is committed to offsetting only 50% of greenhouse gas emissions from the Kurnell desalination plant instead of the full 100%?


5171 CAREEL BAY INFESTATION—Mr Richardson to Minister for Regional Development, Minister for the Illawarra, and Minister for Small Business, representing the Minister for Natural Resources, Minister for Primary Industries, and Minister for Mineral Resources—

(1) When was caulerpa taxifolia first discovered in Careel Bay, Pittwater?
(2) What measures have been taken since then to control and/or eradicate the plant?
(3) How much money has been spent on tackling the problem in Careel Bay?
(4) What area of Pittwater is infested with the plant?
(5) Has it spread into the Hawkesbury River and, if so, where to; when was this infestation first noted; and what measures is the Government taking to eliminate the infestation?


5172 JOHN WILLIAMS CENTRE—Mr Tink to Deputy Premier, Minister for Transport, and Minister for State Development, representing the Special Minister of State, Minister for Commerce, Minister for Industrial Relations, Minister for Ageing, Minister for Disability Services, Assistant Treasurer and Vice President of the Executive Council—

(1) How much money was realised from the sale of the John Williams respite care centre in Wahroonga?
(2) What promises were made by the New South Wales Government concerning the use of money realised by the sale of the centre?
(3) Where is the money from the sale of the centre now being held?
(4) How much of that money has been spent and on what?
(5) What plans are there now for the expenditure of any amount remaining from the sale of the centre and over what time frame?


5173 POLICE RADIO—Mr Souris to Minister for Police, and Minister for Utilities—

(1) With what system, band, frequency and equipment are police vehicles fitted in rural areas?
(2) Are there black spots for police radio coverage in rural areas?
(3) Do these black spots pose operational inefficiency, lack of co-ordination with back-up resources and occupational health and safety problems?
(4) What is being done to overcome these black spots?
(5) What is being done to overcome frequent black spots in police radio coverage in the Mudgee Local Area Command in places such as Wollar, Gulgong, Bylong etc?


5174 TRUCK SPEEDING —Mr Souris to Minister for Police, and Minister for Utilities—

(1) Is the Minister aware of the practice whereby long distance trucks, equipped with high frequency radio and/or CDMA mobile telephone, are able to warn other truck drivers of the presence of highway patrol policing?
(2) What is your knowledge about the extent of this practice?
(3) What measures are you contemplating or implementing that would either outlaw this practice or provide police with the ability to overcome the problem?


5175 RETIREMENT VILLAGE BUDGETS—Mr J.H. Turner to Minister for Western Sydney, Minister for Fair Trading, and Minister Assisting the Minister for Commerce—

(1) Is it correct accounting procedure, in the preparation of retirement village budgets, to include the following items:
(a) Owners contribution to maintenance?
(b) Owners contribution to council rates?
(2) If not, what remedy do the residents of retirement homes have in regard to such matters?
(3) Are there any other remedies available other than an application to the Consumer Trader and Tenancy Tribunal?
(4) If so, what are those remedies?


5176 GLENGARRIE AND CAROOL ROADS—Mr J.H. Turner to Minister for Local Government—

(1) Have the administrators of Tweed Shire Council received requests for interviews from people wanting the Glengarrie Road and Carool Road upgraded?
(2) If so, have administrators met with those people?
(3) If not, why not?
(4) If not, will they meet with those people?
(5) If not, why not?
(6)(6) If they haven’t met to date but will meet with those people, when will they meet with those people?
(7) Do the administrators have any plans to upgrade Glengarrie Road and Carool Road?
(8) If so, what are those plans?
(9) If so, when will they be put into place?
(10) Is it a policy of the Tweed Council administrators or any previous council that ratepayers who live adjacent to unsealed roads must contribute to the cost, either partly or fully, to have such roads upgraded or sealed?
(11) If so, what provision of the Local Government Act or any regulation, provides for this policy?


5177 STATEWIDE PROGRAM CHARGES—Mr J.H. Turner to Attorney General, Minister for the Environment, and Minister for the Arts, representing the Minister for Justice, Minister for Juvenile Justice, Minister for Emergency Services, Minister for Lands, and Minister for Rural Affairs—

(1) What are the total Statewide Program charges for the Rural Fire Service?
(2) What do these charges specifically refer to?
(3) How are they apportioned between council areas?
(4) With respect to the 33% increase in the Statewide Program charges for Greater Taree City Council in the 2004-05 financial year and the further 21.5% increase in the 2005-06 financial year over the last year, why have there been such increases in charges to the Greater Taree City Council?
(5) What is the number of personnel to which the charge might be applied in the 2001-02, 2002-03, 2003-04, 2004-05, and 2005-06 financial years?
(6) If there has been an increase in personnel in those periods, why has there been an increase?
(7) If there has not been an increase of personnel, what has caused the increase in the Statewide Program charges?


5178 ALBURY COURTHOUSE—Mr Aplin to Attorney General, Minister for the Environment, and Minister for the Arts—

(1) Given that you advised the Member for Albury in June 2004 that $150,000 had been allocated to upgrade Albury Courthouse for disabled access and that completion was expected in March 2005, why have no works been undertaken?
(2) When will the facilities upgrade commence?


5179 CROSS BORDER HEALTH AGREEMENT—Mr Aplin to Minister for Education and Training, representing the Minister for Health—

(1) Did the Auditor-General’s Report to Parliament 2005 (Volume Four) note that the Department of Health has expressed concerns over arrangements contained in the Cross Border Health Agreement?
(2) Given that this agreement became effective following signing by the then Minister (the Hon. M. Iemma) in July 2003, why were these concerns not addressed at the outset or in the two and a half years since?
(3) Does the expression of these concerns represent a reversal of commitment to the Cross Border Health Agreement?
(4) Will you seek to increase administrative and financial input to Health Albury Wodonga to ensure its success?


5180 TALLOWA DAM—Ms Seaton to Attorney General, Minister for the Environment, and Minister for the Arts—

Regarding the comments made by the Minister at the community meeting on 28 November 2005 regarding the Government’s plans to raise Tallowa Dam wall:
(1) Does the Minister for Utilities endorse your comments?
(2) What assurances did the Minister seek or receive from the Minister for Utilities regarding the likelihood that raising the dam wall will be stopped?
(3) Why did the Minister fail to rule out the raising of the Tallowa Dam wall?
(4) What adverse environmental consequences does the Minister believe might or will occur if the Tallowa Dam wall is raised?


5181 CAMDEN LOCAL AREA COMMAND—Ms Seaton to Minister for Police, and Minister for Utilities—

For the period 30 November 2004 to 30 November 2005:
(1) On how many occasions have Camden Local Area Command (LAC) Police transported individuals to or from mental health facilities in:
(a) Goulburn;
(b) Sydney;
(c) other places?
(2) On how many occasions and for what purposes have Camden LAC Police transported prisoners to or from:
(a) Goulburn goal;
(b) other goals?
(3) On how many occasions have Camden LAC Police transported juveniles in custody to or from:
(a) juvenile detention facilities;
(b) court appearances?
(4) How many hours in total have Camden LAC Police been involved in transporting individuals, prisoners or juveniles in such circumstances during the period?


5182 COMPETENCY TESTS—Mr O'Farrell to Minister for Education and Training—

(1) Have students in certain trade courses, like Explosive Power Tool, at South Western Sydney Institute been required to re-sit competency tests following NSW WorkCover’s identification that assessors who undertook the original assessments were not accredited?
(2) What is the maximum number of students being asked to re-sit the tests?
(3) Are students being charged $120 for the second test?
(4) Why are students paying for a failure of the Institute to employ properly accredited assessors?


5183 RE-TEST OF TRADE STUDENTS—Mr O'Farrell to Deputy Premier, Minister for Transport, and Minister for State Development, representing the Special Minister of State, Minister for Commerce, Minister for Industrial Relations, Minister for Ageing, Minister for Disability Services, Assistant Treasurer and Vice President of the Executive Council—

(1) Has WorkCover required South Western Sydney Institute to re-test the competency of trade students following the discovery that assessors who undertook the original assessments were not accredited?
(2) How many assessors have WorkCover identified as not being accredited?
(3) Are other centres besides South Western Sydney Institute affected? If so, which ones?









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Authorised by the Parliament of New South Wales