Questions and Answers No. 26, Tuesday 27 August 2002

287

PARLIAMENT OF NSW

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No. 26
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LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL

QUESTIONS

AND

ANSWERS

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THIRD SESSION OF THE FIFTY-SECOND PARLIAMENT
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TUESDAY 27 AUGUST 2002

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

Notice given on date shown

Publication of Questions	Answer to be lodged by
Q&A No. 26 (Including Question Nos 236 to 259)	1 October 2002

4 JUNE 2002

(Paper No. 14)

*161 ABORIGINAL AFFAIRS—ABORIGINAL REMAINS AT SANDON POINT—Mr Ryan asked the Special Minister of State, Minister for Industrial Relations, Assistant Treasurer, Minister Assisting the Premier on Public Sector Management, and Minister Assisting the Premier for the Central Coast representing the Deputy Premier, Minister for Planning, Minister for Aboriginal Affairs, and Minister for Housing—
(1) Were Aboriginal remains, including the remnants of a 6,000-year-old burial of a Kuradji (clever) man, once discovered on land previously owned by Sydney Water at Sandon Point?
(2) Were these remains and the remains of other Aboriginal graves ever removed and re-buried at another site?
(3) What action has been taken to investigate claims concerning the removal of Aboriginal remains from land at Sandon Point?
(4) What were the findings of the Sandon Point Aboriginal Place Investigation Report of June 2001?
(5) Does the Sandon Point Aboriginal Place Investigation Report of June 2001 recommend that the Minister take immediate action to place an Interim Protection Order on Sandon Point as an area of natural, scientific and cultural significance?

Answer—

The Deputy Premier, Minister for Planning, Minister for Aboriginal Affairs, and Minister for Housing has provided the following response:

(1) to (5) This question should be addressed to the Minister for the Environment, the Hon Bob Debus MP.

*162 ENVIRONMENT—ENVIRONMENTAL WASTE TECHNOLOGIES AT PORT STEPHENS—Mr Richard Jones asked the Minister for Juvenile Justice, Minister Assisting the Premier on Youth, and Minister Assisting the Minister for the Environment representing the Minister for the Environment, Minister for Emergency Services, and Minister Assisting the Premier on the Arts—

(1) Has the Environmental Waste Technologies co-composting facility at Port Stephens successfully removed 65-80% of waste from going to landfill?

(2) Has Port Stephens Council closed its conventional landfills?

(3) When will the success of Environmental Waste Technologies at Port Stephens be duplicated in Sydney and other major cities in NSW?

Answer—

(1) Yes. After 3 years of operation of the Bedminister Co-composting waste facility, Port Stephens Shire Council reports an 80% plus reduction in waste going to landfill.

(2) Yes. However, an inert waste landfill is located at the Bedminister site.

(3) The Government’s policy settings are designed to encourage the uptake of alternative waste management technologies that would result in beneficial resource recovery in an ecologically sustainable manner, in Sydney and across all of NSW. There are a number of alternative waste management technologies being trialled in NSW.

*163 COMMUNITY SERVICES—JOHN JACOB BRADY/COROWA—Mr Richard Jones asked the Minister for Juvenile Justice, Minister Assisting the Premier on Youth, and Minister Assisting the Minister for the Environment representing the Minister for Community Services, Minister for Ageing, Minister for Disability Services, and Minister for Women—

(1) (a) Was Dominique Brady detained against her will at Richmond Clinic?

(b) If so, why?

(2) (a) Did the Department of Community Services remove John Jacob Brady/Corowa from his father, Robert Corowa, after John was taken to hospital for a check-up for possible ingestion of a heraperidol 5mg tablet?

(b) If so, why was he removed?

(3) (a) Did the hospital staff notify the Department of Community Services every time John Jacob Brady/Corowa was taken to outpatients, even for slight problems?

(b) If so, why?

(4) (a) Did the hospital staff inform the parents of such notifications?

(b) If not, why not?

(5) (a) Is such reporting standard procedure?

(b) If not, why was it done in this case and what is being done to rectify the situation?

(6) (a) Did the Department of Community Services contact the immediate or extended family of John Jacob Brady/Corowa before removing him from his father?

(b) If not, why not?

(7) (a) Has the Department of Community Services ever provided John Jacob Brady/Corowa’s family with any assistance, financial or otherwise, with his care?

(b) If not, why not?

(8) (a) Has the Department of Community Services ever provided, or offered to provide, relief carers for John Jacob Brady/Corowa’s family?

(b) If not, why not?

(9) (a) Are there any government assistance programs that John Jacob Brady/Corowa’s family could be eligible for in relation to providing care for him?

(d) If not, why not?

(10) (a) What effect has the removal of John Jacob Brady/Corowa from his parents’ care had on him and has that been assessed?

(11) What, if anything, is being done by the Department of Community Services to help John Jacob Brady/Corowa and his family to deal with the emotional and mental stress and anguish caused by his removal?

(12) (a) Was the action of removal of John Jacob Brady/Corowa the only time that the Department of Community Services contacted his family?

(b) If so, why?

(13) (a) In the indigenous community if parents are having difficulties with caring for a child, does the extended family usually step in and take over the care?

(b) If so, why didn’t the Department of Community Services arrange such care?

(14) Will the Minister instigate a full and comprehensive review of the department’s handling of this matter and other dealings with children of the Bundjalung Nation from Grafton to Tweed?

(15) Will the Minister also ensure that the Department of Community Services is required to arrange extended family care rather than the removal of children from the Bundjalung and all other indigenous nations?

Answer—

(1) The Department for Health is the appropriate agency to respond to this question.

(2) (a) Yes.

(b) The child's father failed to protect the child by not acting on the Care plan sanctioned by Lismore Children's Court.

(3) The Department of Community Services does not have access to the child's record of hospitalisations. The Department for Health is the appropriate agency to respond to this question.

(4) The Department for Health is the appropriate agency to respond to this question.

(5) The Department for Health is the appropriate agency to respond to this question.

(6) (a) Yes. As requested by the child's father, the paternal grandmother of the child was contacted.

(b) Not applicable.

(7) (a) Yes. The family has been provided with financial assistance and referrals to appropriate agencies.

(b) Not applicable.

(8) The family has not requested relief care. However, the father has previously been advised to contact DoCS should he require crisis and/or temporary care for his child.

(9) The Department has arranged for the family member who has temporary care responsibility for the child, to receive a non-parental care allowance. DoCS has also provided the current carer with information relating to placement support, and it will continue to provide support and assistance to the child's carer. The family has also been informed about temporary care, respite care and of the Placement Principles concerning Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children.

(10) (a) A placement assessment report was carried out by a fee for service psychologist on 26 May 2002. It was recommended that the child be placed in the care of a member of his father's family.

(b) and (c) The Department has arranged for the child to be assessed by a Paediatric Assessment Team through Tweed Heads Community Health Services.

(11) At a meeting convened after the child was taken into care, the Department attempted to explain the measures required to safeguard the child; however, these attempts were unsuccessful, and the father was unwilling to discuss these issues.

(12) (a) No. During the period from June 2000 to April 2002, the Department has had several contacts with the family, including visits to the home.

(b) Not applicable.

(13) (a) The Department encourages all communities to become involved in self-determination and responsibility for their children. The placement of this child was made in accordance with the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Placement Principles. The child was placed with a member of his father's family.

(b) Not applicable.

(14) No.

(15) This child has been placed in extended family care.

the Children and Young Persons (Care and Protection) Act 1998

The Far North Coast is part of the Department's Yareka Project, which is piloting consultation mechanisms under the new Legislation. In short, there are proactive measures in place to develop more robust consultation processes.

*164 TRANSPORT—RAIL SYSTEM IN THE CBD—Mr Richard Jones asked the Minister for Mineral Resources, and Minister for Fisheries representing the Minister for Transport, and Minister for Roads—

(1) Will Sydney’s rail system require major expansion by the middle of the next decade due to the Central Business District (CBD) lines running at capacity?

(2) If so, what plans, if any, are there for new lines to be developed through the CBD?

Answer—

State Rail, the Rail Infrastructure Corporation and Transport NSW routinely assess the operations and capacity of the CityRail network including the CBD.

*165 TRANSPORT—TRANSITWAY FROM PARRAMATTA TO MUNGERIE PARK—Mr Richard Jones asked the Minister for Mineral Resources, and Minister for Fisheries representing the Minister for Transport, and Minister for Roads—

(1) Has any consideration been given to the planned Transitway from Parramatta to Mungerie Park in the proposed widening of Windsor Road?

(b) If not, why not?

(2) How many additional people per hour will be moved by the widened road?

(3) Could all of those people be carried by one 8-carriage train?

Answer—

Consideration has been given to the design of the Transitway in the process of upgrading Windsor Road. Detailed information regarding the Parramatta to Mungerie Park Transitway is contained on the T-Ways website, www.tway.NSW.gov.au

*166 TRANSPORT—ACTION FOR TRANSPORT 2010—Mr Richard Jones asked the Minister for Mineral Resources, and Minister for Fisheries representing the Minister for Transport, and Minister for Roads—

Are the railways proposed in Action for Transport 2010, such as the full Parramatta rail link and the new line from Epping to Castle Hill and eventually Mungerie Park, still being considered?

(b) If so, where exactly are the proposals up to and what timeframe has been set for them?

Answer—

Planning approval has been received for the Parramatta Rail Link, with the Epping to Chatswood section to be completed in 2008 and the full project to be completed in 2010.

Details concerning the new line from Epping to Castle Hill, and eventually Mungerie Park, are included in the report titled North West Rail Link Overview Report, which is available on Transport NSW’s website www.transport.NSW.gov.au/nwrl.

*167 AGRICULTURE—MICROCHIPPED PETS—Mr Richard Jones asked the Special Minister of State, Minister for Industrial Relations, Assistant Treasurer, Minister Assisting the Premier on Public Sector Management, and Minister Assisting the Premier for the Central Coast representing the Minister for Agriculture, and Minister for Corrective Services—

(1) Of 800 dogs rescued from pounds by an animal rescuer, did 40 have microchips?

(2) Does this mean that 5% of all dogs being destroyed have microchips?

(3) Do owners go to the expense of microchipping their pets in order that they may be returned to the owner and not destroyed?

(4) Will the Minister ensure that all ownership details of microchipped pets are available to all council rangers who wish to discover the owners of pets?

(5) Will the Minister do his utmost to ensure that all microchipped pets are returned to their owners and do whatever is necessary to ensure this happens?

Answer—

The Minister for Local Government, Minister for Regional Development and Minister for Rural Affairs has provided the following response:

(1) to (3) No evidence has been brought to me or my Department on this matter.

Section 63 of the Companion Animals Act 1998 provides that:

…the person in charge of the pound is to give notice of the seizure of the animal to the person who appears (from the best endeavours of the person in charge to establish who the owner is) to be the owner of the animal.

Section 11 of the Act requires the owner of an identified companion animal to notify the Register of certain changes and events, including any change of owner or change of address or contact details for the owner.

Regrettably, a proportion of pet owners fail to notify changes in contact details or ownership to the Register. As a result there are a number of animals who are microchipped for whom, despite councils’ “best endeavours” an owner cannot be located. That is why we are encouraging owners to ensure they provide details of change of address to their council. A postcard-style change of address form will be distributed to councils soon.

(4) Under the provisions of the Companion Animals Act 1998, all authorised users of the NSW Companion Animals Register have 24 hour, 7 day a week access to the Register.

While vets treating injured stray animals do not have direct access to the Register, the Department of Local Government provides the Pet Line service, which operates 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Vets may contact the Pet Line with the animal’s microchip number and the Pet Line service will contact the owner on the vet’s behalf, in accordance with privacy legislation.

(5) As detailed above, the Companion Animals Act 1998 requires council pounds to make “best endeavours” to notify the owner of an animal which is seized and taken to the pound. In some instances, despite council being able to notify the owner, the owner does not claim the animal within the required 14 day holding period. In other instances the owner has not notified the Register of changes of contact details or ownership of the animal, and a notice cannot be served.

…it is the duty of the council to consider whether there is an alternative action to that of destroying a seized animal and (if practicable) to adopt any such alternative.

For example, in Wagga Wagga, city council rangers have been targeting reducing euthanasia rates resulting in 200 fewer dogs being euthanased in 2000/2001 compared to 1998.

*168 ATTORNEY GENERAL—VICTIMS COMPENSATION TRIBUNAL—Mr Richard Jones asked the Treasurer, Minister for State Development, and Vice-President of the Executive Council representing the Attorney General—

How much was paid by the Victims Compensation Tribunal in the years from 1990 to 2000 inclusive for victims of sexual assault?

Answer—

The Attorney-General has advised that:

Over the ten year period represented by the financial years 1990/91 to 2000/01, the Victims Compensation Tribunal awarded statutory compensation to victims totalling $803.86 million. Victims Services advises that it does not keep figures on compensation awarded to victims according to separate categories of crime.

*169 ENVIRONMENT—ZOONOTIC PATHOGENS—Mr Richard Jones asked the Minister for Juvenile Justice, Minister Assisting the Premier on Youth, and Minister Assisting the Minister for the Environment representing the Minister for the Environment, Minister for Emergency Services, and Minister Assisting the Premier on the Arts—

(1) Are large numbers of people in the United States falling ill with salmonella as a result of handling pet lizards?

(2) Has the huge increase in salmonella been specifically linked to the increased sale of lizards?

(3) Do up to 92% of snakes and up to 77% of lizards carry zoonotic pathogens such as Edwardsiella tarda, salmonella and sparganosis?

(4) Will the Minister ensure that there is no trade permitted in Australian lizards and snakes because of the health risks involved?

Answer—

(1) I am advised that reports on the Internet and in the press suggest that there has been considerable interest in recent months in the United States in reptile-associated zoonoses such as salmonella infections.
(2) Much of the interest generated on the topic appears to have been generated by ill-informed media reports linking infections to reptiles.
(3) I have insufficient information on the incidence of zoonotic pathogens in reptiles to make a reasonable comparison with pathogens carried by other animals.

In 1997 in Australia (the latest year for which complete figures are available) there were far more cases of confirmed zoonotic disease from domestic animals and their food by-products than from reptile sources.

(4) Trade in lizards and reptiles can be undertaken by licensed pet keepers, but commercial trade through pet shops is not permitted. I do not propose to alter current policy.

It is recommended, however, that infants and immuno-compromised persons should have no direct or indirect contact with such pets.

*170 ENVIRONMENT—WOODLAWN WASTE FACILITY—Mr Breen asked the Minister for Juvenile Justice, Minister Assisting the Premier on Youth, and Minister Assisting the Minister for the Environment representing the Minister for the Environment, Minister for Emergency Services, and Minister Assisting the Premier on the Arts—

(1) (a) Is Collex fulfilling its contractual obligations to Resource NSW with respect to the Woodlawn waste facility?

(b) If not, why not?

(2) What steps does the Minister plan to take in response to Collex’s failure to fulfil its contractual obligations?

Answer—

(1) (a) and (b) The approval for the Woodlawn waste facility is independent of any contractual arrangement with Resource NSW.

(2) The rights and liabilities of all Waste Boards (including the Northern Sydney Waste Board) transferred to Resource NSW on 8 October 2001. During the passage of the legislation, all parties understood that this would include the contract previously established between Northern Sydney Waste Board and Collex.

The Premier’s Department has commenced a whole-of-government process that will treat the interests of all parties fairly.

*171 ENVIRONMENT—WOLLONGONG SWERF—Ms Rhiannon asked the Minister for Juvenile Justice, Minister Assisting the Premier on Youth, and Minister Assisting the Minister for the Environment representing the Minister for the Environment, Minister for Emergency Services, and Minister Assisting the Premier on the Arts—

(1) (a) Have stack emissions from the Brightstar Solid Waste to Energy Recycling Facility (SWERF) in Wollongong been monitored either continuously or in part during the period from initial commission to the present time?
(b) If so:

(i) Have all results obtained been reported to the Environment Protection Authority?

(ii) Have any of the results breached acceptable health or environmental criteria?

(d) (i) Will the Minister include with the aNSWer to this question all air monitoring results to date relating to the Wollongong SWERF, accompanied by all relevant documentation?
(ii) If not, why not?

(2) (a) Is the Minister confident that the levels of emission from the Wollongong SWERF pose no risk to human health?

(b) If so, on what does the Minister base his confidence?

(3) (a) Has the Wollongong SWERF ever operated at 100% capacity since it was commissioned?

(b) If not, what is the maximum capacity that the SWERF has been operated at?

(a) Yes, where monitoring is required to be undertaken under its Environment Protection Licence.

(i) Yes. The Company has reported to the EPA and local community that during the trial operating period some stack emissions exceeded the EPA licence standards for sulfur oxides and arsenic. The company has implemented systems to prevent a recurrence.
(ii) See 1 (a).
(b) (i) There are several volumes of monitoring data that have been submitted under the EPA’s licensing requirements. All air quality monitoring information required to be provided under an environment protection licence is available from the Environment Protection Authority in accordance with section 320 of the Protection of the Environment Operations Act 1997.

(2) (a) The EPA’s licence conditions reflect contemporary health goals and as such compliance with the licence conditions would be expected to prevent adverse health or environmental impacts.

(b) See 2 (a).

(3) (a) Not to my knowledge.

*172 HEALTH—BATHURST BASE HOSPITAL—Ms Rhiannon asked the Treasurer, Minister for State Development, and Vice-President of the Executive Council representing the Minister for Health—

(1) (a) On how many occasions has the Children’s Ward at Bathurst Base Hospital been closed during 2002?

(b) What is the reason for closure on each occasion that the ward was closed?

(2) (a) On how many occasions was the Bathurst Base Hospital operating theatre closed in:

(i) 1999,
(ii) 2000,
(iii) 2001, and
(iv) 2002?

(b) On each occasion that it was closed:

(i) What was the explanation for the closure?
(ii) Who authorised the closure?

(3) How many patients were sent to Orange as a result of closures to the Bathurst Base Hospital operating theatre over the period from 1999 to the present?

(4) (a) Does the Mid-West Area Health Service have any plans to close any wards at Bathurst Base Hospital at any future time?

(b) If so, can the Minister provide an explanation for each planned closure?

Answer—

I have been advised by the Hon Craig Knowles MP, Minister for Health, that the answers to the Honourable Member’s questions are:

(1) (a) and (b) The ward is closed on occasions when there are no paediatric patients in the hospital or when it is more appropriate for paediatric patients to be cared for in areas closer to the main parts of the hospital.

(2) and (3) Operating theatres are never closed.

(4) (a) No.

(4) (b) Not applicable.

*173 PLANNING—COASTAL SEPP—Ms Rhiannon asked the Special Minister of State, Minister for Industrial Relations, Assistant Treasurer, Minister Assisting the Premier on Public Sector Management, and Minister Assisting the Premier for the Central Coast representing the Deputy Premier, Minister for Planning, Minister for Aboriginal Affairs, and Minister for Housing—

(1) (a) Did the Minister, in an answer to a Question on Notice on 9 April, indicate that the proposed SEPP covering coastal development would be released for public comment in April of this year?

(b) If so, why is this proposed SEPP yet to be released?

(2) When was this SEPP first announced by the Minister?

(3) What explanation can the Minister give for the inordinate delay between announcement and action?

Answer—

The Deputy Premier, Minister for Planning, Minister for Aboriginal Affairs, and Minister for Housing has provided the following response:

(1) (a) I indicated that it was anticipated the SEPP would be released in April 2002.

(b) Firstly, because of extensive consultation with key stakeholders. Second, because associated amendments to the SEPP arising from suggestions made during these consultations took longer than originally anticipated.

(2) 26th of June 2001. The SEPP is part of the Coastal Protection Package, an $11.7m investment in protecting our coastline.

(3) Consultation was undertaken with all NSW coastal councils, key government agencies and environmental and other community groups prior to the SEPP being drafted. Consultation prior to the drafting of the SEPP was considered fundamentally important. Following the drafting of the SEPP, another round of consultations occurred. This resulted in a further draft of the SEPP being prepared based on detailed analysis and consideration of the outcomes of that consultation. The State Government is committed to meaningful consultation.

*174 TREASURY—TREASURY MANAGED FUND—Dr Pezzutti asked the Treasurer, Minister for State Development, and Vice-President of the Executive Council—

(1) Does the Treasury Managed Fund comply with APRA prudential requirements?

(2) What liability does the Treasury Managed Fund have in relation to the full range of insurances it provides on behalf of the Government?

(3) How many incident reports has the Treasury Managed Fund received relating to VMO provision of health care to public patients in public hospitals since taking over liability for their medical indemnity insurance?

(4) Given that liability for old unclaimed medical negligence cases is the major concern in current insurance discussions can you advise whether the Treasury Managed Fund has allocated sufficient reserves to cover such claims which may not be fully known for the next 21 years?

(5) If this liability is not held against the Treasury Managed Fund, which portfolios will have to forfeit funds to cover it?

(6) Will he fully disclose the financial position of the Treasury Managed Fund in this year’s budget?

(7) Why did the Treasury Managed Fund show a deficit of $303 million last financial year and what is the situation now, given the fund is providing increased cover for medical indemnity insurance?

Answer—

(1) The Treasury Managed Fund is not required to comply with the prudential requirements set out by the Australia Prudential Regulation Authority.

(2) The Treasury Managed Fund is forecast to be fully provisioned as at 30 June 2002 with current outstanding claims of $2,745 million, fully matched by equivalent financial assets.
(3) The Treasury Managed Fund has received 273 incident reports relating to the provision of health care by visiting medical officers to public patients in public hospitals.
(4) The Treasury Managed Fund has allocated sufficient reserves.
(5) Not applicable.
(6) The financial position of the Treasury Managed Fund (Insurance Ministerial Corporation) has been disclosed in this year’s budget. In particular refer to Budget Paper 3, page 20-73, which discloses an estimated Fund net surplus of $275.5 million as at 30 June 2003.
(7) The Treasury Managed Fund showed an actual retained deficit in 2000/2001 of $368.9 million and a forecast surplus of $153.2 million in 2001/2002. The deficit in 2000/2001 was largely because of premium shortfalls experienced in more recent years because of increases in the costs of public liability claims.

5 JUNE 2002

(Paper No. 15)

*175 FISHERIES—GREY NURSE SHARK—Mr Corbett asked the Minister for Mineral Resources, and Minister for Fisheries—
(1) Does the grey nurse shark face its greatest threat from live and dead bait fishing on the bottom of its habitat?
(2) (a) If so, will the Minister declare all 13 identified habitats as no fishing zones as recommended by the Grey Nurse Shark Recovery Team?

(b) If not, why not?

Answer—

(1) The greatest threat to Grey Nurse Sharks historically has been spear fishing and commercial harvesting. These practices have been banned. Of the six reported shark deaths in recent times, three were from commercial set lines that are proposed to be banned in critical habitat areas, two were from illegal spear fishing and one was from angling.

(2) No decisions will be made until all submissions received, as part of the community consultation process, have been carefully considered.

*176 EDUCATION—PESTICIDES IN SCHOOLS—Mr Corbett asked the Minister for Police representing the Minister for Education and Training—

(1) What steps are being taken to:

(b) notify staff and parents of the proposed application of any pesticides?

(2) (a) Have there been circumstances where the application of a pesticide had to be carried out in an urgent manner?

(c) What steps are taken in such instances, where an urgent application of pesticide is required, to ensure that the application of the pesticide does not compromise the health of the staff and students of a school?

Answer—

(1) (a) Principals are requested to minimise the use of pesticide on Department of Education and Training Sites.

(b) Contractors or the Department of Public Works and Services are required to provide the school principal with at least 14 days' notice of intention to use pesticides. This arrangement ensures that school staff and those using school facilities are aware of the proposal well in advance of the work being carried out.

(2) (a) The Properties Directorate of the Department of Education and Training is not aware of there being circumstances where the application of pesticides has been carried out in an urgent manner.

(c) The Department has stringent conditions, which specify the types of chemicals that may be used by schools and the times of application.

6 JUNE 2002

(Paper No. 16)

*177 HEALTH—CHILDREN DIAGNOSED WITH AUTISM—Mr Corbett asked the Treasurer, Minister for State Development, and Vice-President of the Executive Council representing the Minister for Health—

(1) (a) Has there been a significant increase in the number of children diagnosed with autism over the last 5 years?

(b) If so, what are the possible reasons for the increase?

(2) (a) Will the Government lobby the Federal Health Minister to establish a National Autism Diagnosis Register?

(b) If not, why not?

Answer—

I have been advised by the Hon Craig Knowles MP, Minister for Health, that the answers to the Honourable Member’s questions are:

(1) (a) and (b) There is no precise data available on the number of children diagnosed with autism over the last five years in NSW or Australia.

(2) (a) No

(b) The purpose of establishing a National Autism Diagnosis Register is unclear. If the purpose is to ascertain all cases of autism in the population then legislation would need to be introduced in all states and territories to mandate reporting cases of autism to the Register. The possible benefits to the community have not yet been demonstrated to outweigh the loss of personal privacy. It the purpose of the Register is to facilitate research, then participation in the Register would be voluntary. In this scenario, the benefits of a national register to promote research into autism over other mechanisms to promote research into autism would need to be demonstrated.

*178 HEALTH—LINK BETWEEN NON-HODGKIN’S LYMPHOMA AND GLYPHOSATE—Mr Richard Jones asked the Treasurer, Minister for State Development, and Vice-President of the Executive Council representing the Minister for Health—
(1) Is the Minister for Health aware of a recent Swedish study by eminent oncologists which shows that there are clear links between the herbicide glyphosate and an increase in non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma?
(2) Will the Minister for Health make the Minister for Agriculture aware of the risks of this commonly used herbicide?

(3) What is the Department of Health doing to investigate the risks of glyphosate?

Answer—

I have been advised by the Hon Craig Knowles MP, Minister for Health, that the answer to the Honourable Member’s question is:

(1) to (3) A Swedish study published by Hardell and Eriksson in 1999 provides no evidence that glyphosate is implicated with an increase of non-Hodgkin lymphoma. A recent international review of glyphosate toxicity published in the Journal of Regulatory Toxicology and Pharmacology (April 2000) confirmed low acute and chronic toxicity, no evidence of carcinogenicity, no impacts on reproductive health and no impacts on foetal development. Under present and expected conditions of use, glyphosate does not pose a health risk to humans.

*179 EDUCATION—WESTERN SYDNEY INSTITUTE OF TAFE—Mrs Forsythe asked the Minister for Police representing the Minister for Education and Training—

(a) Were courses in Goat and Chicken Production proposed to be introduced to the Richmond College of the Western Sydney Institute of TAFE in 2002?

Answer—

(b) (i) Yes.

(iii) No.

(iv) Projected demand in the Western Sydney region for programs in sustainable agriculture practices was identified through a number of industry sources and through published research.

*180 EDUCATION—BUNINYONG PUBLIC SCHOOL—Mrs Forsythe asked the Minister for Police representing the Minister for Education and Training—

(1) From 5 May to 28 May 2002, were nine classes not held at Buninyong Public School?

(2) What is being done to address the lack of casual teachers in NSW?

Answer—

(1) and (2) On 9 May 2002, I answered a question without notice in the Legislative Assembly relating to the Casual Teachers Plan. I refer the Honorable Member to page 1977 of the Legislative Assembly Hansard.

*181 EDUCATION—RIVERSTONE HIGH SCHOOL—Mrs Forsythe asked the Minister for Police representing the Minister for Education and Training—

(1) On 9 May and 10 May 2002, were 20 classes not held at Riverstone High School due to the unavailability of casual teachers?

(2) What is being done to address the lack of casual teachers in NSW?

Answer—

(1) and (2) On 9 May 2002, I answered a question without notice in the Legislative Assembly relating to the Casual Teachers Plan. I refer the Honorable Member to page 1977 of the Legislative Assembly Hansard.

*182 EDUCATION—BATEMANS BAY HIGH SCHOOL—Mrs Forsythe asked the Minister for Police representing the Minister for Education and Training—

(1) In the week of 15 May 2002 to 22 May 2002, were 27 classes not held at Batemans Bay High School due to the unavailability of casual teachers?

*183 EDUCATION—CANLEY HEIGHTS PUBLIC SCHOOL—Mrs Forsythe asked the Minister for Police representing the Minister for Education and Training—

(1) On 18 March 2002, were two classes not held at Canley Heights Public School?

*184 EDUCATION—SHELLEY PUBLIC SCHOOL—Mrs Forsythe asked the Minister for Police representing the Minister for Education and Training—

(1) On 24 May 2002, was one class not held at Shelley Public School?

*185 EDUCATION—SARAH REDFERN PUBLIC SCHOOL—Mrs Forsythe asked the Minister for Police representing the Minister for Education and Training—

(1) On 14 May 2002, were two classes not held at Sarah Redfern Public School?

*186 EDUCATION—INGLEBURN HIGH SCHOOL—Mrs Forsythe asked the Minister for Police representing the Minister for Education and Training—

(1) On 20 May 2002, were six classes not held at Ingleburn High School?

*187 EDUCATION—DAWSON PUBLIC SCHOOL—Mrs Forsythe asked the Minister for Police representing the Minister for Education and Training—

(1) Were the three classes not held at Dawson Public School on 27 May 2000, not held for the same reasons as the class not held on 20 May 2002?

*188 EDUCATION—PRAIRIEVALE PUBLIC SCHOOL—Mrs Forsythe asked the Minister for Police representing the Minister for Education and Training—

(1) From 28 May to 5 June 2002, were seven classes not held at Prairievale Public School?

(2) What is being done to address the lack of casual teachers in NSW?

Answer—

*189 ENVIRONMENT—KANGAROOS—Mr Richard Jones asked the Minister for Juvenile Justice, Minister Assisting the Premier on Youth, and Minister Assisting the Minister for the Environment representing the Minister for the Environment, Minister for Emergency Services, and Minister Assisting the Premier on the Arts—

(1) (a) Why does the Minister support models used in the management of kangaroos which are based on the numerical and functional response of red kangaroos to variation in pasture biomass with rainfall that is based on populations of over 80 per square km, which is well in excess of the highest estimates for any management block in NSW?

(b) What alternative models are considered in kangaroo management?

(2) What baseline populations are used to test the impact of the kangaroo industry on natural ecological processes, demography and life-history patterns?

(3) Why does the protocol for the killing of kangaroos fail to insist upon the dispatch of immature ex-pouch joeys, which are left to die from starvation and/or predation and/or hypothermia and/or psychic depravation?

(4) Why does the protocol for the killing of kangaroos allow the ante-mortem inspection of kangaroos to be carried out by unqualified shooters instead of qualified inspectors?

(5) What were the reasons given to him by the Federal Environment Minister Dr David Kemp for the approval of the NSW Kangaroo Management Program when 80% of public submissions opposed it?

(6) (a) Why are there no independent wildlife conservation biologists who promote alternative non-lethal, non-consumptive usage of kangaroos, and who are members of the “Scientific Committee on Wildlife Use”?

(b) Why have only pro-kangaroo industry scientists been chosen?

(c) Why do they ignore the $6 billion tourism industry and, instead, promote the $200 million per annum kangaroo industry which needs to be heavily subsidized to be viable, by up to $500,000 per year (according to the KIAA)?

(d) Why do they ignore the fact that the kangaroo is the second most recognised symbol in the world and that tourists want to see kangaroos alive, not dead?

(7) How can the NSW Management Plan be sustained when the author of the “Commercial Harvesting of Kangaroos in Australia”, which describes kangaroos as pests at least 40 times, has made contradictory statements in his scientific evidence which now concludes kangaroos are not a competitive grazing threat to cattle and sheep?

(8) (a) Do shooters have to report the number of in-pouch joeys killed each year and the number of ex-pouch but dependent joeys that escape when their mother is killed?

(b) If so, how?

(9) (a) How many females and how many male kangaroos were killed in 2001?

(b) How does this value compare to historical records from the kangaroo management programs?

(c) How does this value compare to natural mortality in one or more reference populations that are protected from harvesting ?

(10) (a) What is the average annual recruitment rate of kangaroos in red, eastern grey and western grey populations in NSW?

(b) How does this value compare to historical records from the kangaroo management programs?

(11) Why is the Code of Practice for Killing Kangaroos not linked to the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act (POCTAA) in order to make it legally enforceable?

(12) Why, considering the non-competitive impact of kangaroos on sheep and cattle, is the kangaroo industry allowed to continue?

(13) Is the Minister aware that Dr Steve McLeod released new findings on 11 February 2002 that commercially harvesting more male than female kangaroos may not result in large reductions in kangaroo populations? (“Male Bias in Kangaroo Culls Missing the Mark” NSW Agriculture.)

(14) How can the red kangaroo kill quota be justified when scientific studies at the UNSW recently revealed that red kangaroo populations grow by only 6-8% in optimal times making the current quota of 21% three times the growth rate?

(15) Are inexperienced, new kangaroo shooters more likely to shoot the wrong (too small) kangaroos?

(16) Is the Minister aware that at the November 2001 South Australian Kangaroo Management Meeting questions were raised about the small size of kangaroos being killed?

(17) (a) How many inspectors are there to police the kangaroo shooters?

(b) How many inspections were carried out in each State during 2001?

(18) (a) How many kangaroo carcasses have been inspected to check if cleanly head shot?

(b) In what areas did these inspections occur?

(19) (a) By what processes is the Precautionary Principle implemented to preserve and ensure natural selection bio-diversity?

(b) What is the basis of their natural conservation strategy?

(20) Does the Minister accept that the commercial killing of kangaroos in Australia is having a serious effect on eco-tourism?

(21) Will the Minister investigate rangelands tourism as an alternative to commercial killing?

(a) If so, when?

(b) If not, why not?

(22) (a) How frequent are the RSPCA’s inspections?

(b) Is this adequate?

Answer—

(1) (a) While there are a variety of models that have been developed for kangaroo populations, the National Parks and Wildlife Service is unaware of any model that was developed on data where kangaroo densities were over 80 per square km.
(b) Some models are currently being assessed in a research project that is a collaboration between conservation agencies from NSW, Queensland, South Australia and researchers from the University of Queensland.
(c) Models are constantly being assessed against kangaroo population data. Kangaroo populations are essentially behaving in a manner that the models describe. Models continue to be developed and refined.
(2) There are kangaroo populations on reserves and elsewhere that do not have commercial shooters operating. In some cases it has been over 30 years since kangaroos were shot commercially. In addition there is long-term data on the dynamics of kangaroo populations in areas where commercial shooters do not operate and areas where commercial shooters do operate.
(3) The Code of Practice for the Humane Shooting of Kangaroos was developed nationally and has been adopted as the national standard by all States. It is anticipated that a report on the Code of Practice will be available from the Commonwealth before the end of 2002.
(4) Health and hygiene issues are the responsibility of Safe Food Production NSW.
(5) The Federal Minister for the Environment approved the NSW Kangaroo Management Program 2002-2006 on 13 December 2001. It was noted the review process included extensive public consultation and that the management program sets out the mechanism for providing information to the public and soliciting community input into matters relating to the program.
(6) The Federal Minister for the Environment convened the Scientific Committee on (a-d) Wildlife Use.
(7) The document Commercial Harvesting of Kangaroos in Australia identifies that there is a debate about competition between kangaroos and domestic stock. Any recent publications are evidence that this debate continues.
(8) No. Licensed shooters must report the species, sex and weight of every (a-c) kangaroo taken.
(9) (a) 302,387 females and 854,199 males were taken in 2001.
(b) The proportion of males in the commercial take is similar to previous years.
(c) Mortality depends on seasonal conditions, during drought kangaroo mortality has been recorded with a male bias.
(10) (a) Kangaroo populations increase with good seasonal conditions so the recruitment rate is generally high. Kangaroo populations decrease with poor seasonal conditions and at these times the recruitment rate is low. There is no evidence of a long-term trend in kangaroo populations.

(b and c) It is comparable to the past and with populations where there is no commercial take.

(11) Through licence conditions every kangaroo must be taken in accordance with the Code of Practice for the Humane Shooting of Kangaroos and it is therefore legally enforceable.
(12) While there is continued debate regarding the issue of competition between kangaroo and domestic stock, it is generally agreed that competition is most likely during periods of drought when resources are scarce.
(13) Yes.
(14) Models are constantly being assessed against kangaroo population data. Kangaroo populations are essentially behaving in a manner that the models describe and therefore the current quotas are ecologically sustainable.
(15) No.
(16) No.
(17) (a) There are over 40 NPWS officers involved either full-time or part-time.

(b) Approximately 436 inspections were conducted in NSW during 2001.

(18) (a) Approximately 4500 carcasses were inspected during 2001.
(b) Throughout all areas of NSW where kangaroos are taken commercially, approximately the western 75% of the state.
(c) NPWS officers and officers of Safe Food Production NSW.
(19) (a) Through our detailed biological knowledge of kangaroos and the data on kangaroo population trends since the 1980s.
(b) Kangaroo populations remain widespread and abundant in NSW and their dynamics are similar on and off reserve.
(20) No.
(21) (a) and (b) No. National Parks provide a strong contribution to tourism across western NSW and the benefits flow to the community. In addition National Parks are one of the key attractions for ‘2002 – The Year of the Outback’.

(22) (a) and (b) The RSPCA is an independent organisation and the frequency of inspections is unknown.

11 JUNE 2002

(Paper No. 17)

*190 ROADS—DIESEL EMISSION—Mr Corbett asked the Minister for Mineral Resources, and Minister for Fisheries representing the Minister for Transport, and Minister for Roads—

(1) Is the recommended Occupational Health and Safety limit for 8-hour exposure to “Diesel exhaust, particulate (<1 micron)” 50 micrograms/m3?

(2) (a) Have diesel emission particle levels inside the M5 East tunnel been measured at up to 1,000 micrograms/m3 during heavy traffic periods (i.e. peak hour)?

(b) If so:

(i) What risks are faced by persons using the tunnel during peak traffic flow periods more than once per day?
(ii) What steps will you take to reduce the emission particle levels?

Answer—

(1) The M5 East project was designed and is now being operated in accordance with the 150 Conditions of Approval imposed by the Minister for Planning after consultation with other agencies.

These conditions did not include an Occupational Health and Safety Exposure Standard for Diesel Particles. Further inquiries regarding occupational health and safety standards should be addressed to the Minister for Industrial Relations.

(2) There are no measurements of diesel emission particle levels in the M5 East Freeway Tunnel a this was not required by the Conditions of Approval for the project.

(a) (i) and (ii) Particle levels are not directly measured within the M5 East tunnels but are measured at ambient monitoring stations surrounding the ventilation stack in accordance with the Conditions of Approval for the project.

Currently, visibility is measured within the tunnel using a series of visibility sensors. These monitors record any factors that influence visibility and are not directly correlated to particle levels. Although small particles (those less than PM2.5) are commonly the cause of reduced visibility, results of in-tunnel monitoring are reported as a coefficient of light scattering and not as a level of particulate matter.

*191 ROADS—M5 EAST TUNNEL PARTICLE EMISSIONS—Mr Corbett asked the Minister for Mineral Resources, and Minister for Fisheries representing the Minister for Transport, and Minister for Roads—

(1) Prior to the opening of the M5 East tunnel, did the RTA predict particle emissions from the tunnel to be a maximum of 26 kg per day?

(2) (a) Has in-stack monitoring revealed up to 40 kg of particle emissions per day?

(b) If so:

(i) What is the explanation for the increase?
(ii) What steps will the Minister take to reduce these particle emissions?

Answer—

(1) and (2) Prior to the opening of the M5 East Freeway, daily emissions of particles were estimated to be up to a maximum of 52.8kg, as presented in the working papers for the 25 metre and 35 metre stack designs.

This monitoring has shown that daily PM10 emissions are within the range of the predicted emissions and are in the order of 40kg per day on the typical weekday. These monitoring results do not indicate any increase in emission levels over and above those predicted.

12 JUNE 2002

(Paper No. 18)

*192 HEALTH—MENTAL HEALTH PATIENTS AT ROZELLE HOSPITAL—Dr Pezzutti asked the Treasurer, Minister for State Development, and Vice-President of the Executive Council representing the Minister for Health—

(1) Was a fine of more than $100,000 imposed on Central Sydney Area Health Service in regard to an assault on a nurse by a mentally ill patient at Rozelle Hospital?

(2) In relation to that case, did the judge comment that he could not understand why patients at Rozelle were not moved to Concord Hospital?

(3) What was the cause of the failure to move mentally ill patients from the inadequate facility at Rozelle to more appropriate accommodation at Concord, as suggested by Central Sydney Area Health Service?

Answer—

I have been advised by the Hon Craig Knowles MP, Minister for Health, that the answers to the Honourable Member’s questions are:

(1) Yes.

(2) No.

(3) Planning is underway to relocate mental health services to new purpose built facilities at Concord Hospital.

*193 FISHERIES—ILLEGAL TRADE OF AUSTRALIAN ABALONE—Revd Mr Nile asked the Minister for Mineral Resources, and Minister for Fisheries—

(1) Did the Australian Institute of Criminology Report No. 225, issued in April 2002, report on the illegal market of Australian abalone?

(2) (a) Is there pressure on the Australian abalone fishery to meet ongoing international demand?

(b) Is this demand being fully met through the legitimate trade of abalone?

(3) What is the size and value of the illegal “black” market in NSW?

(4) What action is the Department of Fisheries taking to track the illegal trade of abalone and to disrupt this criminal activity?

Answer—

(1) Yes.

(2) to (3) The established export market for Australian abalone is being serviced by abalone legally harvested from NSW, Victoria, South Australian, Tasmanian and southern Western Australian waters, but demand exceeds supply.

(4) NSW Fisheries plays a lead role in deterring and prosecuting illegal abalone trade. A number of successful prosecutions have taken place against individuals engaged in black marketing of abalone.

*194 POLICE—INCIDENT AT GOULBURN CORRECTIONAL CENTRE—Mr Ryan asked the Minister for Police—

(1) (a) Did former Superintendent C. Kelaher, Governor of the Goulburn Correctional Centre, conduct a meeting with Detective M. Packham of the Goulburn Police Station on Monday 14 April 1997?

(b) If so, were the following allegations reported:

(i) That a Senior Prison Officer (SPO) by the name of Schofield was assaulted by another SPO by the name of Hendricks whilst they were on duty at the Goulburn Correctional Centre on 1 December 1996?
(ii) That SPO Hendricks suffered a broken nose, a left cheek injury and a chipped tooth as a result of the assault?
(iii) That SPO Hendricks submitted a false GIO Employees Compensation Claim in which he made the false declaration that he had received his injuries when “he slipped while throwing up in the toilet”?
(iv) That officers from the GIO carried out investigations into the claim between January 1997 and February 1997 which concluded that the claim was fraudulent?
(v) That SPO Hendricks was subsequently permitted to withdraw the allegedly fraudulent workers compensation claim?
(vi) That SPO Hendricks had recorded a number of telephone conversations with SPO Schofield in an attempt to discover the purpose behind the assault?

(2) Did Detective M. Packham carry out any investigations into these allegations?

(3) Did Detective Packham advise Mr David Mainwaring, Custodial Staff Liaison Officer of the Department of Corrective Services on 16 June 1997, that the matters raised should be investigated initially by the Department of Corrective Services and then depending on the outcome of those inquiries the papers might be forwarded to the NSW Police Service for action if required?

(4) Were any papers forwarded to the NSW Police Service from the Department of Corrective Services in regard to these matters after 16 June 1997?

(5) (a) Did the NSW Police Service carry out an independent investigation into these serious matters?

(b) If not, why not?

Answer—

(1) to (5) I am advised this matter was investigated internally by the Department of Corrective Services but was not formally reported to NSW Police.

A check of COPS reveals no formal report to NSW Police.

I have forwarded these questions to the Commissioner’s office for their assessment.

13 JUNE 2002

(Paper No. 19)

Nil Questions.

18 JUNE 2002

(Paper No. 20)

19 JUNE 2002

(Paper No. 21)

20 JUNE 2002

(Paper No. 22)

25 JUNE 2002

(Paper No. 23)

*195 POLICE—DISABILITY AWARENESS AND SKILLS-BASED TRAINING—Dr Chesterfield-Evans asked the Minister for Police—

(1) What funds were allocated for disability awareness and skills-based training for Police Service staff in 2001-02?

(2) What funds are allocated for disability awareness and skills-based training for Police Service staff in 2002-03?

(3) (a) What arrangements are in place for disability awareness and skills-related training for Police Service staff?

(b) What is proposed in this regard for 2002-03?

(4) (a) What resources were expended in implementing strategies contained in the department’s Disability Action Plan in 2001-02?

(b) What were these strategies?

(d) What resources are allocated in this regard for 2002-03?

(5) How many people with a disability does the Police Service of NSW employ?

Answer—

I am advised:

(1) to (2) Disability awareness and skills based training falls within the Education Services budget and it is not possible to cost disability training related expenses.

(3) (a) NSW Police awareness training includes:
§ the “Policing Vulnerable Populations” (as part of the Diploma of Policing Practice) which involves issues such as intellectual disability, mental illness and the frail or aged.
§ a specific master lecture deals with communication skills when dealing with a mental illness.
§ a video has been developed by NSW Police emphasizing best practice in dealing with people with dementia.
§ Custody officers also have specific training in dealing with the safe management of people with a variety of disabilities.
§ Investigation courses also emphasise the requirements of people with intellectual disabilities and mental illness.

NSW Police has a Disability Action Plan 2000-2002 which acknowledges the rights of people with disabilities to access NSW Police services, and the rights of staff to work in an environment free of harrassment.

(3) (b) In addition to the above, existing course materials will be reviewed and articles will continue to appear in the Police Weekly, The Policing Issues and Practice Journal, Police TV and the intranet. Material relating to disability and discrimination is also being prepared for use in the assessment process for promotional positions.

(4) (a) and (b) All strategies are detailed in the Disability Action Plan. Resources were expended on a variety of things including:
§ Appointment of a Disability Coordinator
§ Resourcing the Steering Committee to implement and develop strategies from the Plan
§ Approximately $18M in refurbishment/modification of existing police stations.
§ Employment of a full time lecturer in “Policing Vulnerable Populations.”

(c) NSW Police has met its obligations to clients and staff under State and Federal disability and anti-discrimination legislation, and also in promoting positive community attitudes.

(5) I am advised 316 staff currently identify themselves as having some form of disability. NSW Police is currently reviewing its Disability Employment Strategy and is committed to increasing employment of people with a disability.

*196 LOCAL GOVERNMENT—COMPANION ANIMALS ACT—Mr Richard Jones asked the Minister for Mineral Resources, and Minister for Fisheries representing the Minister for Local Government, Minister for Regional Development, and Minister for Rural Affairs—

What action has been taken since the Department of Local Government was requested to amend the Companion Animals Act for the control of cats, to ensure that all cats are restricted to the owner’s property at night and that a program of cat desexing is vigorously pursued?

Answer—

I provide the following details in response to your questions:

Last year I wrote to the cross bench members and opposition spokesman inviting submissions on problems encountered with the operation of the legislation and issues associated with companion animals. I referred all submissions received to the Companion Animals Advisory Board (CAAB) for consideration and advice and understand that the CAAB also consulted with a range of stakeholders.

The recommendations of the CAAB for any legislative amendments will be fully considered during the 5 Year Review of the Companion Animals Act, due to be held during 2003.

*197 LOCAL GOVERNMENT—FINANCIAL IMPACT STATEMENT—Mr Richard Jones asked the Minister for Mineral Resources, and Minister for Fisheries representing the Minister for Local Government, Minister for Regional Development, and Minister for Rural Affairs—

In relation to the undertaking by the Minister to report on all legislation that may have a financial impact on local government to ensure that Cabinet has the best possible understanding of the financial implications of government policy on councils:

(1) Which recent legislation has the Department of Local Government reported on?

(2) (a) Did the Department of Local Government prepare a report on the Rural Fires and Environmental Assessment Legislation Amendment Bill 2002?

(3) (a) Did the Minister inform the Minister for Planning that issuing all certificates within 7 days was unreasonable?

(b) If not, why not?

(d) If so, why?

(e) Does the Rural Fire Service consider that it cannot issue these certificates on behalf of council?

(4) Does the Minister consider that the Rural Fire Service should do this work under the Service Level Agreement?

(5) (a) Are Department of Local Government financial impact assessment reports provided to all Members of Parliament so that they may have due regard in the consideration of Bills?

(b) If not, why not?

Answer—

I provide the following details in response to your questions:

(1) As per my undertaking on November 6, 2001, the Department of Local Government reports on any proposed legislation, before Cabinet, that may have a financial impact on local councils.

(2) (a) The Department of Local Government provided advice on the proposed Bill.

(b) The advice is Cabinet in Confidence.

(3) (a) to (c) See (2) (b) above.

(e) This is a matter for the Rural Fire Service.

(4) See (3) (e) above.

(5) (a) to (b) The Department of Local Government reports are provided on legislation before Cabinet. The advice is Cabinet in Confidence.

*198 LOCAL GOVERNMENT—COUNTRY TOWNS WATER SUPPLY AND SEWERAGE PROGRAM—Mr Richard Jones asked the Minister for Mineral Resources, and Minister for Fisheries representing the Minister for Local Government, Minister for Regional Development, and Minister for Rural Affairs—

(1) In view of the original agreement in 1994 between Local and State Governments for $85.5 million to be contributed by each party each year for 10 years in order to overcome the water and sewerage backlog in regional NSW (the Country Towns Water Supply and Sewerage Program), and in view of the fact that in the second and subsequent years the State Government’s contribution has fallen short of the agreed amount, how does the State Government propose to ensure that the objectives of the program are met by its completion in 2004-05?

(2) If, on the completion of the 10-year program, water and sewerage backlog projects remain to be completed, what measures does the State Government plan to put in place to ensure adequate funds are available as part of the ongoing local/State partnership to ensure that community expectations for modern water and sewerage services, protection of public health, and a clean environment, are met?

(3) Given that the cost of implementing the strategies contained within the catchment blueprints to achieve enhanced natural resource management (NRM) in NSW far exceed the funds available from existing local, State and Commonwealth Government NRM programs, what strategies will the State Government put in place to ensure that additional funding is made available to satisfy the community expectations which have been created by the preparation and exhibition of the blueprints?

Answer—

I provide the following details in response to your questions:

(1) The Country Towns Water Supply and Sewerage Program is administered by the Minister for Land and Water Conservation and Minister for Fair Trading. Questions relating to specific to program administration matters may be better directed to the responsible Minister.

(2) Local councils have primary responsibility for the management of water supply and sewage on behalf of communities in regional areas of NSW and consequently local councils have primary responsibility for planning for and meeting community water service needs and expectations. The State Government provides assistance to local councils in many ways including through the Country Towns Water Supply and Sewerage Program, the Urban Stormwater Pollution Program and the Septic Safe Program as well as through provision of management guidelines and technical assistance.

(3) The Catchment Blueprint process is administered by the Minister for Land and Water Conservation and Minister for Fair Trading. Issues relating to the administration of the Catchment Blueprint process may be better directed to the responsible Minister. I am aware that local councils throughout NSW have participated in the development of Catchment Management Blueprints and that new environmental management services are being developed by councils to help meet the Blueprint targets.

*199 LOCAL GOVERNMENT—COMPANION ANIMALS—Mr Richard Jones asked the Minister for Mineral Resources, and Minister for Fisheries representing the Minister for Local Government, Minister for Regional Development, and Minister for Rural Affairs—

(1) (a) Due to the high number of pets that are being abandoned and put down in NSW (largely as a result of owners not desexing their pets) will the Minister introduce a compulsory desexing policy?

(b) If not, why not?

(2) (a) What is the total number each of cats and dogs put to death for 2001-02 under the Companion Animals Act?

(b) If there is no record of the total number of cats and dogs put to death for 2001-02, why hasn’t the Minister implemented a process to ensure that this information is available in order to assess the impact of this legislation?

(3) (a) How many people in NSW currently own a companion animal?

(b) How does this compare with the number of people in NSW who owned a companion animal 10 years ago?

(4) (a) Are there currently any programs available to ensure that low-income earners and people on pensions are not denied the benefits of owning a companion animal?

(b) If not, why not?

(5) (a) Will the Government commit to each of the following:

(b) If not, why not

Answer—

I provide the following details in response to your questions:

(1) (a) No.

(2) (a) This information is not available for 2001-2002. For 2000-2001, a survey of council pounds indicated that there were a total of 26,856 dogs and 8,644 cats euthanased.

(b) The Department of Local Government is currently developing strategies to ensure that councils keep more accurate pound records.

(3) (a) The number of people in NSW who currently own a companion animal is not known. As at 25 June 2002, there were a total of 664,174 cats and dogs recorded on the NSW Companion Animals Register.

(b) There is no data available indicating the number of people in NSW who owned a companion animal 10 years ago.

(4) (a) There are a number of measures available:
· There is a discounted lifetime registration fee for pensioners who own desexed animals ($15 compared to $35 for the general fee),
· Many local councils also hold microchipping days, where animals may be microchipped at subsidised rates,
· Councils have the ability under section 95 of the Companion Animals Act 1998 to allow low income earners to pay off fees and charges or to reduce or waive fees and charges for pensioners,
· Many vets have discount desexing schemes for pensioners and animal welfare organisations offer subsidised desexing, and
· A number of local councils are working co-operatively with their vets and animal welfare organisations to ensure that animal ownership is affordable. For example, Penrith City Council is working with an animal welfare organisation to provide a pick-up and delivery service for pensioners to have their animals desexed prior to lifetime registration.

(b) See answer to (4) (a) above.

(5) (a) (i) No. See answer to (4) (a) above.

(iii) No. The Companion Animals Act does not regulate these issues. Allowing companion animals (other than assistance animals) on public transport is a matter for the Minister for Transport and Roads. Allowing companion animals in rental accommodation and in retirement villages is a matter for the Minister for Fair Trading.

(b) See answers to (5) (a) (ii) and (5) (a) (iii) above.

*200 REGIONAL DEVELOPMENT—SUSTAINABLE WILDLIFE TOURISM—Mr Richard Jones asked the Minister for Mineral Resources, and Minister for Fisheries representing the Minister for Local Government, Minister for Regional Development, and Minister for Rural Affairs—

(1) (a) Are there any incentives to encourage the development of sustainable wildlife tourism in regional and rural NSW?

(b) If not, why not?

(2) (a) Given that the wildlife and eco-tourism industries are worth at least $6 billion annually, will the Minister implement the necessary infrastructure to develop sustainable wildlife tourism, which will not only provide jobs, but also restore health to the bush and enhance NSW’ environmental reputation?

(b) If not, why not?

Answer—

(1) All businesses in NSW are eligible to access the business programs provided through the Department of State and Regional Development.

(2) The Government, through its various agencies cooperates closely with all interested parties, especially private sector investors, to help develop business opportunities throughout regional NSW.

*201 REGIONAL DEVELOPMENT—HEMP INDUSTRY—Mr Richard Jones asked the Minister for Mineral Resources, and Minister for Fisheries representing the Minister for Local Government, Minister for Regional Development, and Minister for Rural Affairs—

(1) Given that the tourism industry would benefit through visitors being able to see how hemp plants are grown and materials are produced, what is being done to promote the production of hemp for clothing and paper in regional and rural NSW?

(2) If nothing is being done, why?

Answer—

NSW does not have legislation to permit the commercial growing of industrial hemp.

26 JUNE 2002

(Paper No. 24)

*202 PREMIER—AUSTEEL SITE NEAR NEWCASTLE—Ms Rhiannon asked the Treasurer, Minister for State Development, and Vice-President of the Executive Council representing the Premier, Minister for the Arts, and Minister for Citizenship—

(1) With regard to the proposed Tomago industrial estate and the Austeel site near Newcastle, which materials transport options is the government still investigating?

(2) (a) Have consultants been engaged to assess these options?

(b) If so, which options have consultants been engaged to assess?

(3) (a) Has the government commissioned a consultant to model two options involving the dredging of the north arm of the Hunter River?

(ii) What is the largest class of ship that the modelling is designed to accommodate?

(iii) Does one of the two options involve a lifting span on Stockton Bridge?

(iv) Does one of the two options involve the removal of Stockton Bridge?

(v) What alternate transport route has been identified to compensate for the possible removal of Stockton Bridge?

(4) (a) Has the government reached an agreement with Austeel for Austeel to lease any government- owned facilities?

(b) If so, which facilities?

(5) Has the government reached an agreement with Austeel for Austeel to lease any privately-owned facilities which have previously received public funding?

Answer—

The Premier of NSW has provided the following response:

The NSW Government has for some time been working with Austeel to facilitate the development of a steel mill in the Hunter Valley. The Austeel project would deliver a $2.8 billion steel mill which will produce some 3.8 million tonnes of steel products and directly employ 1,500 people.

With regard to the materials transport options for the project, several options were examined by independent experts. These options included the Hunter River South Arm option and the development of the North Arm navigation channel. The latter is no longer under consideration.

The Government has acquired part of the Tomago Buffer land for the Austeel steel mill.

*203 ABORIGINAL AFFAIRS—SANDON POINT—Ms Rhiannon asked the Special Minister of State, Minister for Industrial Relations, Assistant Treasurer, Minister Assisting the Premier on Public Sector Management, and Minister Assisting the Premier for the Central Coast representing the Deputy Premier, Minister for Planning, Minister for Aboriginal Affairs, and Minister for Housing—

(1) Was the Minister aware that when government-owned land at Sandon Point (near Bulli) was sold to Stockland Ltd in 1999, the site contained significant Aboriginal burial sites?

(2) (a) Were Aboriginal people consulted by the Department of Aboriginal Affairs prior to the finalisation of the sale of the site?

(b) If so, what form did this consultation take?

(3) (a) Was the agreement of any Aboriginal people or organisations obtained for the sale of the site?

(4) (a) Are local Aboriginal authorities satisfied with the way in which the sale of the site was conducted?

(b) If not, why not?

(5) If local Aboriginal authorities are not satisfied with the process of the sale of the site, what measures has the Minister proposed, or will propose, to rectify this situation?

(6) Have any native title or other land claims been made on the site?

(7) Was the Minister aware of the status of any native title or other land claims at the time of the sale of the land?

(8) Has the Minister referred the details of the land sale to the Native Title Tribunal?

(9) (a) Were any measures put in place to safeguard the Kuradji burial site prior to the sale of the land?

(10) What further action will be taken to liaise with indigenous authorities regarding the Kuradji burial site?

Answer—

The Deputy Premier, Minister for Planning, Minister for Aboriginal Affairs, and Minister for Housing has provided the following response:

(1) to (10) The contract of sale between Sydney Water Corporation and Stockland Ltd contained special conditions requiring Stockland Ltd to comply with the requirements of the National Parks and Wildlife Service in respect of Aboriginal remains on the site.

Stockland Ltd has agreed to enter into a Conservation Agreement with the National Parks and Wildlife Service to protect significant Aboriginal values contained within the Sandon Point area. Under the agreement a Plan of Management for the area is currently being prepared in consultation with the Aboriginal community. This will allow Aboriginal people to retain significant involvement in management and conservation at Sandon Point, ensuring the long-term sustainability of the area’s cultural heritage values.

*204 ENVIRONMENT—SANDON POINT—Ms Rhiannon asked the Minister for Juvenile Justice, Minister Assisting the Premier on Youth, and Minister Assisting the Minister for the Environment representing the Minister for the Environment, Minister for Emergency Services, and Minister Assisting the Premier on the Arts—

(1) Was the Minister aware that when government-owned land at Sandon Point (near Bulli) was sold to Stockland Ltd in 1999, the site contained significant Aboriginal burial sites?

(2) (a) Were Aboriginal people consulted by the National Parks and Wildlife Service prior to the finalisation of the sale of the site?

(b) If so, what form did this consultation take?

(3) (a) Was the agreement of any Aboriginal people or organisations obtained for the sale of the site?

(4) (a) Are local Aboriginal authorities satisfied with the way in which the sale of the site was conducted?

(b) If not, why not?

(5) If local Aboriginal authorities are not satisfied with the process of the sale of the site, what measures has the Minister proposed, or will propose, to rectify this situation?

(6) Have any native title or other land claims been made on the site?

(7) Was the Minister aware of the status of any native title or other land claims at the time of the sale of the land?

(8) Has the Minister referred the details of the land sale to the Native Title Tribunal?

(9) (a) Were any measures put in place to safeguard the Kuradji burial site prior to the sale of the land?

(10) What further action will be taken to liaise with indigenous authorities regarding the Kuradji burial site?

Answer—

(1) to (10) The contract of sale between Sydney Water Corporation and Stockland Ltd contained special conditions requiring Stockland Ltd to comply with the requirements of the National Parks and Wildlife Service in respect of Aboriginal remains on the site.

No native title or other land claims have been made on the site.

*205 LAND AND WATER CONSERVATION—SANDON POINT—Ms Rhiannon asked the Special Minister of State, Minister for Industrial Relations, Assistant Treasurer, Minister Assisting the Premier on Public Sector Management, and Minister Assisting the Premier for the Central Coast representing the Minister for Land and Water Conservation, and Minister for Fair Trading—

(1) In 1999, was the then Minister aware that when government-owned land at Sandon Point (near Bulli) was sold to Stockland Ltd, the site contained significant Aboriginal burial sites?

(2) (a) Were Aboriginal people consulted by the Department of Land and Water Conservation prior to the finalisation of the sale of the site?

(b) If so, what form did this consultation take?

(3) (a) Was the agreement of any Aboriginal people or organisations obtained for the sale of the site?

(4) (a) Are local Aboriginal authorities satisfied with the way in which the sale of the site was conducted?

(b) If not, why not?

(5) If local Aboriginal authorities are not satisfied with the process of the sale of the site, what measures has the Minister proposed, or will propose, to rectify this situation?

(6) Have any native title or other land claims been made on the site?

(7) Was the Minister aware of the status of any native title or other land claims at the time of the sale of the land?

(8) Has the Minister referred the details of the land sale to the Native Title Tribunal?

(9) (a) Were any measures put in place to safeguard the Kuradji burial site prior to the sale of the land?

(10) What further action will be taken to liaise with indigenous authorities regarding the Kuradji burial site?

Answer—

The Minister for Land and Water Conservation and Minister for Fair Trading has provided the following response:

No native title or other land claims have been made on the site.

*206 SYDNEY WATER—SANDON POINT—Ms Rhiannon asked the Minister for Juvenile Justice, Minister Assisting the Premier on Youth, and Minister Assisting the Minister for the Environment representing the Minister for Information Technology, Minister for Energy, Minister for Forestry, and Minister for Western Sydney—

(1) Was the Minister aware that when Sydney Water-owned land at Sandon Point (near Bulli) was sold to Stockland Ltd in 1999, the site contained significant Aboriginal burial sites?

(2) (a) Were Aboriginal people consulted by Sydney Water prior to the finalisation of the sale of the site?

(b) If so, what form did this consultation take?

(3) (a) Was the agreement of any Aboriginal people or organisations obtained for the sale of the site?

(4) (a) Are local Aboriginal authorities satisfied with the way in which the sale of the site was conducted?

(b) If not, why not?

(5) If local Aboriginal authorities are not satisfied with the process of the sale of the site, what measures has the Minister proposed, or will propose, to rectify this situation?

(6) Have any native title or other land claims been made on the site?

(7) Was the Minister aware of the status of any native title or other land claims at the time of the sale of the land?

(8) Has the Minister referred the details of the land sale to the Native Title Tribunal?

(9) (a) Were any measures put in place to safeguard the Kuradji burial site prior to the sale of the land?

No native title or other land claims have been made on the site.

27 JUNE 2002

(Paper No. 25)

*207 ENERGY—NATURAL GAS—Mr Gay asked the Minister for Juvenile Justice, Minister Assisting the Premier on Youth, and Minister Assisting the Minister for the Environment representing the Minister for Information Technology, Minister for Energy, Minister for Forestry, and Minister for Western Sydney—

(1) Will a perceived lack of support by the Queensland Government for the Papua New Guinea gas project jeopardise the availability of low cost gas reserves in NSW?

(2) Will a lack of access to the Papua New Guinea gas project see wellhead gas prices throughout Eastern Australia rise by around 30%?

(3) Would such a price rise place in doubt the future development of gas-fired generation plants, such as that proposed for the former Tallawarra Power Station at Lake Illawarra?

(4) Could the potential loss of future gas-fired generation developments have a major impact on the need for new generation peaking capacity as identified in the Statement of System Opportunities released on 21 June 2002?

(5) (a) Has any work been done on price forecasting for natural gas sourced from the Moomba gas fields and from Longford if the Papua New Guinea gas project does not proceed?

Answer—

(1) The Papua New Guinea gas project consortium, led by Exxonmobil, recently decided to proceed with initial engineering work and commented positively about negotiations with potential gas buyers. I am aware there are other gas development projects such as the Timor Sea Project currently under consideration.

It should be noted that the recently completed Eastern Gas Pipeline significantly enhances natural gas supply security and reliability with gas now being sourced from both the Cooper Basin and the Gippsland Basin. The Eastern Gas Pipeline currently has the capacity to transport about 60 petajoules of gas annually from the Gippsland Basin in Victoria to NSW and, with added compression facilities, the pipeline’s annual capacity can be increased to 110 petajoules. This is sufficient to meet the State’s entire current natural gas demand.

(2) and (3) I am not aware of any credible forecasts that suggest gas price increases of this magnitude. Gas prices in Eastern Australia are affected by a number of factors including:
§ The level of competition between existing producing gas fields such as the Cooper Basin and Gippsland Basin;
§ Prices of substitute fuels such as fuel oil and coal; and
§ The delivered price of natural gas sourced from other gas fields.

(4) In publishing the NSW Statement of System Opportunities, the Government is not advocating any particular technology or fuel type to meet the State’s power needs. This is a matter for market participants and potential new entrants in the market to resolve for themselves, consistent with the approaches that are likely to be commercially viable for the proponent.

It should also be noted that the Government has announced its intention to introduce penalties for electricity retailers who fail to meet greenhouse targets. This policy will encourage the installation of renewable energy and other low greenhouse emission generators, as well as supporting energy efficiency activities.

(5) (a) The Ministry of Energy and Utilities monitors gas supply and security in Eastern Australia. The Ministry does not undertake price forecasting for natural gas. Wholesale gas is sold on a contract basis and prices are commercial – in – confidence.
(b) Refer to (a).
(c) Energy supply and security are issues that are currently being examined as part of the Energy Market Review under the auspices of the Ministerial Council of Energy. I understand that ABARE has been engaged to undertake an assessment of national energy trends, including analysis at a jurisdictional level.

*208 MINERAL RESOURCES—COAL BED METHANE EXTRACTION—Mr Gay asked the Minister for Mineral Resources, and Minister for Fisheries—

(1) What support has the NSW Government offered to private sector companies who are seeking to develop coal bed methane extraction industries in NSW?

(2) How does this support compare with that of the Queensland Government to such projects?

(3) What is the estimated growth in coal bed methane extraction projects in NSW over the next 5 years?

Answer—

(1) To encourage coalbed methane production in NSW, the Government provides a royalty exemption for the first five years of commercial production. In the sixth year of production royalty payable is 6%, rising by 1% each year up to 10% of “well-head value” in the tenth and subsequent years.

(2) NSW is an attractive State to invest in.

(3) A number of companies are currently exploring for coalbed methane in NSW. Growth in coalbed methane production will depend on the results of these exploration programs. On 25 July 2002 development consent was granted for a $20 million pilot proposal to produce coal bed methane gas near Camden.

*209 POLICE—GAY GAMES—Revd Mr Nile asked the Minister for Police—

(1) Did NSW Police provide police services for the recent Homosexual and Lesbian Mardi Gras Parade at no cost to the parade organisers?

(2) Will NSW Police provide services for the up-coming Gay Games opening and closing ceremonies at Aussie Stadium on 2 and 9 November at no cost to the organisers?

(3) How will NSW Police fund the provision of police services provided for the Gay Games?

(4) How will the cost of these services impact on NSW Police resources and the Minister’s stated intention to add more officers to NSW Police?

Answer—

I am advised:

(1) Yes.

(2) to (4) I am advised policing requirements and user pays charges for both ceremonies are yet to be determined.

*210 TRANSPORT—SMOKING BANS ON RAIL PLATFORMS AND WALKWAYS—Revd Mr Nile asked the Minister for Mineral Resources, and Minister for Fisheries representing the Minister for Transport, and Minister for Roads—

(1) Has smoking under all covered rail platforms and walkways been banned by NSW regulations for a number of years?

(2) Does the NSW Smoke-Free Environment Act 2000 include bans on smoking in enclosed premises but does not call for the enforcement of bylaws restricting smoking under all covered areas?

(3) Has the Minister consciously reintroduced smoking into previously banned areas or has this been a mistake in legislation?

(4) Will the Minister take steps to put up signs clearly defining penalty warnings on all platforms regarding smoking in both enclosed and covered platforms?

(5) Will the Department of Transport enforce these smoke-free laws and not just depend on the authority of the Smoke-Free Environment Act, which calls for enforcement by the Department of Health?

Answer—

I refer the Honourable Member to my answers to Questions16 and 66 asked earlier this year.

*211 TRANSPORT—HIRE CAR INDUSTRY—Revd Mr Nile asked the Minister for Mineral Resources, and Minister for Fisheries representing the Minister for Transport, and Minister for Roads—

(1) Have legislative changes to the hire car industry resulted in no hire car plates being sold since September 2001?

(2) Have these changes resulted in owners of hire car plates seeing their investment fall from a general value of $150,000 to virtually nothing?

(3) What action is the Government taking to address the growing concern within this industry where owners have lost much of their superannuation?

(4) Will the Government consider the introduction of a buyback scheme similar to those used to buy out commercial fishers?

Answer—

(1) There were 3 sales of Hire Car licenses in the period September 2001 to May 2002. For the same period in the previous year (September 2000 to May 2001), there were 2 sales.

(2) The average sale price for hire cars prior to September 2001 in the Sydney Metropolitan area was around $130,000. Recent sale prices have been between $128,000 - $130,000.

(3) The Government has established the independent Hardship Assessment Panel, providing all operators and stakeholders with a forum in which to provide evidence of the impact of the regulatory changes on their investment. The information gathered in Panel hearings will form the basis of a report from the Director General of Transport NSW to the Minister, recommending action to address the concerns raised.

(4) Options for a buyback of licences have been proposed. An assessment of the merit and feasibility of these options is likely to be a part of the report of the Independent Review.

*212 ROADS—BANGOR BYPASS—Revd Mr Nile asked the Minister for Mineral Resources, and Minister for Fisheries representing the Minister for Transport, and Minister for Roads—

(1) Did the Minister promise residents of Bangor and Menai that the east-west section of the Bangor bypass motorway would be moved to the middle of the corridor and away from the back fences of family homes?

(2) Will sections of the roadway be only 6.5 metres from property lines rather than the promised 20 metres?

(3) Has the Roads and Traffic Authority gone back on its undertaking to consult with the community prior to finalising the plan?

(4) What action is the Minister taking to address residents’ concerns that the Bangor bypass will be situated in the middle of the corridor and away from property lines as promised and to consult with residents on the project?

Answer—

With regard to the details of the Bypass’ location along the centre of the corridor, I refer the Honourable Member to my public statement of July 3 2002.

I can also advise that the Roads and Traffic Authority has displayed the modified plan for public viewing and the Preferred Activity Report and a brochure showing all of the modifications will be distributed to the local community.

*213 PLANNING—LAKE COWAL GOLDMINE—Mr Cohen asked the Special Minister of State, Minister for Industrial Relations, Assistant Treasurer, Minister Assisting the Premier on Public Sector Management, and Minister Assisting the Premier for the Central Coast representing the Deputy Premier, Minister for Planning, Minister for Aboriginal Affairs, and Minister for Housing—

Given that the Lake Cowal Gold Mine has been approved by the State Government:

(1) How many tonnes of cyanide will the mining operation be expected to use during the operating life of the mine?

(2) How will this cyanide be transported to the mine site and what precautions will be taken to ensure its safe transport and storage at the mine?

(3) What notification will be given to the local government authorities and emergency services organisations through whose areas or communities the cyanide will be transported?

(4) How much diesel fuel will the mining operation expect to use during its operational life and the major categories of use, for instance service vehicles, digging equipment and conveyor systems?

(5) (a) What other potentially dangerous or toxic chemicals will be utilised during the production of gold at the mine?

(d) If the Minister does not have this information, why not, if a thorough assessment was made of the proposal?

Answer—

The Deputy Premier, Minister for Planning, Minister for Aboriginal Affairs, and Minister for Housing has provided the following response:

(1) I understand that on average, approximately 6,090 tonnes per annum of cyanide will be used over the proposed 13 year ore processing period.

(2) Cyanide will be transported to the mine site by road in accordance with appropriate State regulations, including the “Australian Code for the Transport of dangerous Goods by Road and Rail”.

In relation to on-site storage of cyanide, the development consent conditions include requirements for the mine Company to prepare a Safety Management System Study to the satisfaction of the Director-General of the Department of Planning prior to the commissioning of the site. The Study will address all on-site operations involving hazardous materials including the storage of cyanide.

The Environmental Impact Statement prepared in support of the Development Application also indicates that cyanide will be stored under cover away from any acids and oxidising agents.

(3) The requirement for a Pre-Commissioning Study for “Transport of Hazardous Materials” under the development consent conditions (referred to in the answer to question 2) includes requirements for the mine Company to liaise with organisations such as the fire brigades, District Emergency management Co-ordinator (and Committee), Local Emergency Management Committee(s) and State Emergency Services. These studies will be made publicly available.

(4) Diesel fuel deliveries were estimated to be of the order of 15 Million litres per year. Over the 8 year period of extraction, equipment would consist of:
· a 350 tonne and a 200 tonne hydraulic excavator;
· from two to six 180 tonne trucks;
· two to three 135 tonne trucks;
· a 992D front-end loader;
· two tracked dozers;
· a wheel dozer;
· a 70,000 litre water tanker; and
· two to three drills.

(5) (a) A full list of these materials is available in Appendix L of the Environmental Impact Statement (EIS). The materials include ammonium nitrate, SIBX (sodium isobutyl xanthate – a sulphide collector), Magnafloc 155 (a flocculant in thickeners), a range of acids (hydrochloric acid (for acid washing), sulfamic acid (to assist in electrolysis) and sulphuric acid (for cyanide destruction)), hydrogen peroxide (for cyanide destruction); quick lime (for pH control) and sodium hydroxide (for neutralising in acid stripping).

(b) The approximate quantities of these substances per annum are:
· 7,500 tonnes of ammonium nitrate;
· 522 tonnes of sodium isobutyl xanthate;
· Less than 60 tonnes of Magnafloc 155;
· 702 tonnes of hydrochloric acid; 0.12 tonnes of sulfamic acid and 12,600 tonnes of sulphuric acid;
· 2,100 tonnes of hydrogen peroxide;
· 56,700 tonnes of quick lime; and
· 248 tonnes of sodium hydroxide.

Storage of hazardous materials is the same as described in the response to the second question.

(d) A response to these questions is provided above.

*214 TREASURY—LAKE COWAL GOLDMINE—Mr Cohen asked the Treasurer, Minister for State Development, and Vice-President of the Executive Council—

(1) What NSW taxes or other government revenue, including mining royalties, local government rates and payroll tax, are expected from the Lake Cowal gold mine which has been approved by the NSW Government?

(2) (a) Will the Treasurer provide an estimate of federal taxes or revenue expected from the mine, including income tax and GST?

(b) What part of this revenue will be returned to the State Government as federal payments or grants?

Answer—

(1) Unknown. No estimates have been prepared by Treasury.

(2) (a) No. No estimates have been prepared by Treasury.

(b) With respect to GST revenue, the Government expects to receive GST Revenue Grants in 2002-03 that represent approximately 80 cents for every dollar of GST paid by NSW taxpayers.

*215 ATTORNEY GENERAL—DOMESTIC VIOLENCE—Mr Corbett asked the Treasurer, Minister for State Development, and Vice-President of the Executive Council representing the Attorney General—

(1) What areas of NSW have the highest incidence of domestic violence?

(2) What proportion of reported incidences of domestic violence are made by:

(b) female victims?

(3) What prevents victims of repeated domestic violence from leaving the abusive relationship?

Answer—

The Attorney General of NSW, the Hon. Bob Debus MP, has provided the following response:

(1) The NSW Bureau of Crime Statistics and Research has collated data from NSW Police on domestic violence related assault. These data show that the areas of the State with the highest recorded rates of domestic violence related assaults are the Far West Statistical Division, the North Western Statistical Division, the Blacktown Statistical Sub-Division and the Murrumbidgee Statistical Division. Assaults not reported to Police are not considered in these statistics.

(2) The NSW Bureau of Crime Statistics and Research do not record the characteristics of people who report domestic violence related assaults.

(3) The reasons why victims of domestic violence do not leave abusive relationships are many and varied, and are well reported in published research.

**216 COMMUNITY SERVICES—DOMESTIC VIOLENCE—Mr Corbett asked the Minister for Juvenile Justice, Minister Assisting the Premier on Youth, and Minister Assisting the Minister for the Environment representing the Minister for Community Services, Minister for Ageing, Minister for Disability Services, and Minister for Women—

In general terms:

(1) What impact does domestic violence have on children?

(2) What proportion of time is spent by DoCS officers in dealing with the impact of domestic violence on children?

Answer—

(1) It is well recognised that domestic violence can have adverse physical and psychological effects on children. These effects vary according to a range of factors, such as the severity and frequency of violence, and the age and developmental stage of the child. Other important factors that will impact on the child's experience are the quality of their relationship with the non-offending parent, and the existence of support outside the family.

(2) In approximately 25% of reports received by the Department of Community Services (DoCS), domestic violence was the primary reported issue (DoCS Client System Annual Statistical Extract 2000/2001). Domestic violence may also be reported as a secondary risk issue.

Section 23 (d) of the Children and Young Persons (Care and Protection) Act 1998 specifically identifies domestic violence that places a child or young person at risk of "serious physical or psychological harm" as a category of harm for the purpose of reporting. All reports to DoCS are subject to a risk assessment, and caseworkers receive training to assist them in this task.

DoCS has recently revised its core domestic violence training to ensure that caseworkers have the latest information about working with children and families experiencing domestic violence.

DoCS is also in the progress of revising its domestic violence policy to reflect the latest research findings about the effects of domestic violence on children and young people. The development of the revised policy has included input from a range of specialist domestic violence and child protection agencies.

*217 POLICE—DOMESTIC VIOLENCE—Mr Corbett asked the Minister for Police—

(1) How serious is the impact of domestic violence on the capacity of the NSW police force to satisfactorily perform its role?

(2) What proportion of police time is spent in responding to incidents of:

(b) car accidents?

Answer—

I am advised:

(1) The NSW Police policy on domestic violence states:

“The NSW Police force has a strong commitment and a clear responsibility to develop and implement strategies for detecting, investigating and preventing domestic violence.”

NSW Police has done considerable work over the past few years to enhance its response to domestic violence, including:

· Appointment of 148 Domestic Violence Liaison Officers (DVLOs) based in each Local Area Command;
· Delivery of intensive training to front-line officers and DVLOs;
· Review of the NSW Police Domestic Violence Policy and Standard Operating Procedures; and
· Hosting of a DVLO Forum in August 2002, to share information and update on new legislation, research and best practice.

(2) NSW Police does not record total time spent on responding to these incidents. The police time spent depends on a number of factors, such as the seriousness of the incident and the degree of danger, the welfare of victims, time spent taking witness statements, and so on.

*218 PLANNING—ECOVILLAGES—Mr Corbett asked the Special Minister of State, Minister for Industrial Relations, Assistant Treasurer, Minister Assisting the Premier on Public Sector Management, and Minister Assisting the Premier for the Central Coast representing the Deputy Premier, Minister for Planning, Minister for Aboriginal Affairs, and Minister for Housing—

(1) Is the Minister aware of the publication of the newsletter of the Global Ecovillage Network (Oceania/Asia) Inc., entitled “Ecovillage News”?

(2) Were concerns raised in the newsletter on page 3, Issue 22, April 2002, about a brochure published by the Department of Planning that suggests residential developments on land outside villages and towns may not be desirable and should be avoided?

(3) What is the title of this brochure?

(4) Will the view expressed by the Department of Planning in this brochure prevent the development of future ecovillages in NSW, such as those in Queensland at Crystal Waters, near Maleny and Kookaburra Village at Gin Gin?

Answer—

The Deputy Premier, Minister for Planning, Minister for Aboriginal Affairs, and Minister for Housing has provided the following response:

(1) Yes.

(2) Yes.

(3) ‘Benefiting your community by planning for rural residential development’.

(4) No. The brochure deals with conventional rural residential development (separate houses on large lots) and was prepared for inland councils in NSW (councils west of the Great Divide). Ecovillages will need special assessment and rezoning in NSW as they do in Queensland.

*219 EMERGENCY SERVICES—WARNERVALE FIRE STATION—Mr Gallacher asked the Minister for Juvenile Justice, Minister Assisting the Premier on Youth, and Minister Assisting the Minister for the Environment representing the Minister for the Environment, Minister for Emergency Services, and Minister Assisting the Premier on the Arts—

In relation to the Warnervale Fire Station:

(1) What is the present situation in regards to the location of the future Warnervale Fire Station?

(2) Why was a quiet residential street amongst family homes initially selected for the location of this fire station when there are numerous other locations available to the Fire Brigade in the same locality away from residential homes?

(3) Why was the location of the fire station and the timing of construction of this building not made in co-operation and consultation with the local community?

(4) Is the Fire Brigade going to accept the recommendation of Wyong Shire Council and the local community not to build on the proposed Minnesota Road site and instead move the building to a more appropriate site on Sparks Road?

(5) What, if any, financial and timing constraints are a factor in the decision of the Fire Brigade to elect to construct the fire station in a quite residential street when numerous other alternatives are available?

(6) Why is the present location of the Bush Fire Brigade in Arizona Road not a suitable site to accommodate the future Fire Brigade building and services?

(7) Why does the Bush Fire Brigade complex need to be duplicated so close to the present site?

(8) Was the Bush Fire Brigade site not recommended because of alleged internal friction between the Fire Brigade and the Bush Fire Brigade?

(9) What actions, if any, did you take to influence the decision of the Fire Brigade on where to build the future Warnervale Fire Station?

Answer—

(1) The NSW Fire Brigades has acquired a site at Lot 911 Minnesota Rd for the Warnervale Fire Station.

(2) Minnesota Road is an arterial link between Sparks and Warnervale Roads. Council has advised that Minnesota Road is expected to fit into the highest classification of streets in the area, which is a “distributor” road. A “distributor” road is expected to have traffic in excess of 3,000 vehicles movements a day. No other suitable sites were available.

(3) The Brigades fully cooperated and consulted with Council before acquiring the Minnesota Road site. Council confirmed that the proposal to build a fire station was permissible within the zoning for the area and was compatible with planning for the area. It is Council’s prerogative to consult with the community on the proposal.

(4) There is currently no appropriate site available on Sparks Road. The site now suggested by Wyong Council is in private ownership and would need to be subdivided and an access road constructed for a suitable site to exist. The owners have indicated no plans for development of the block in the time frame planned for the construction of the proposed fire station.

(5) The search for a site for the Warnervale Fire Station commenced in 1999 and was part of the Brigades strategic planning for the Wyong area to ensure that adequate fire protection is available in this rapidly developing area by 2002. Despite lengthy negotiations with Council and private vendors no other suitable alternative site in the target area was available.

(6) To place the Warnervale Fire Station on the Rural Fire Service station site on Arizona Road would create a gap in the fire protection coverage between it and the Wyong Fire Station. It would also overlap the service from the Doyalson and Toukley Fire Stations.

(7) The two fire services, though complementing each other, have quite different core capabilities and responsibilities. The NSW Rural Fire Service is primarily responsible for rural fire fighting and the NSW Fire Brigades is primarily responsible for structural fire fighting in the urban environment and for dealing with hazardous materials incidents, anywhere in the state.

The proposed Warnervale Fire Station will form part of a network of strategically located fire stations providing the highly specialised response and prevention services of the NSW Fire Brigades to the urban areas of the Wyong Shire Council’s area.

(8) No.

(9) None.

*220 INDUSTRIAL RELATIONS—INDUSTRIAL COMPLIANCE—Mr Gallacher asked the Special Minister of State, Minister for Industrial Relations, Assistant Treasurer, Minister Assisting the Premier on Public Sector Management, and Minister Assisting the Premier for the Central Coast—

(1) (a) Are Department of Industrial Relations (DIR) staff tasked with “Industrial Compliance” duties responsible for investigating alleged breaches of sections 209 (2), 210(1) (b) and (1)(c) and 211 (1) of the Industrial Relations Act 1996?

(2) Please provide full details of the following:

(b) How many were subsequently investigated?

Answer—

(1) (a) Department of Industrial Relations (DIR) staff tasked with “Industrial Compliance” duties are not responsible for investigating alleged breaches of sections 209 (2), 210 (1) (b) and (1) (c) and 211 ( of the Industrial Relations Act 1996.

(c) The powers of ‘industrial compliance’ staff are conferred by section 385 (1) of the Industrial Relations Act 1996. The actions open to such individuals are conferred by section 385 (2) of the Act.

(2) (a) None. As stated in answer to Question 1(b), as provided by section 213, the NSW Industrial Relations Commission may, by order, enforce the provisions of sections 209 (2), 210 (1) (b) and (1) (c) and 211 (1) of the Industrial Relations Act 1996.

*221 PLANNING—BEROWRA WATERS MARINA—Ms Rhiannon asked the Special Minister of State, Minister for Industrial Relations, Assistant Treasurer, Minister Assisting the Premier on Public Sector Management, and Minister Assisting the Premier for the Central Coast representing the Deputy Premier, Minister for Planning, Minister for Aboriginal Affairs, and Minister for Housing—

(1) Is the Minister proposing to alter conditions of consent for a development at Berowra Waters Marina, approved by the Minister, even though the approval is the subject of an appeal by community members in the Land and Environment Court?

(2) Is there strong community concern and opposition to this decision?

(3) What will the impact of the development approval be on parking and traffic problems in the local area?

(4) Does the Minister consider this area to be environmentally sensitive?

(5) Why does the development consent include remote parking at Berrilee, a rural suburb 2 kilometres from the Berowra Waters development?

(6) Was remote parking at Berrilee recommended in the Plan of Management which was implemented to control traffic and parking problems at the direction of the Minister for Land and Water Conservation?

(7) If the development consent does include remote parking in contradiction to the Management Plan, why did the Minister ignore the plan?

(8) (a) Did the Minister’s actions in approving the development contravene the Environmental Planning and Assessment Act?

(b) If so, why?

The Deputy Premier, Minister for Planning, Minister for Aboriginal Affairs, and Minister for Housing has provided the following response:

(1) No.

(2) N/A (See answer to 1).

(3) Neutral.

(4) Yes.

(5) This was a recommendation of the Berowra Waters Plan of Management.

(6) See the answer to question 5 (above).

(7) The development consent seeks to implement the parking strategy in the Plan of Management. This is why the Minister granted a deferred commencement approval to development application for the remote car park at Berrilee.

(8) (a) No.

*222 ENVIRONMENT—GREAT WESTERN HIGHWAY—Ms Rhiannon asked the Minister for Juvenile Justice, Minister Assisting the Premier on Youth, and Minister Assisting the Minister for the Environment representing the Minister for the Environment, Minister for Emergency Services, and Minister Assisting the Premier on the Arts—

(1) Did the Minister make a statement in Parliament in 1998 that he was opposed to the National Party’s proposal for a “superhighway” through the villages of the Blue Mountains?

(2) (a) Does the Minister now support the demolition of historic Lawson village centre as apart of the widening of the Great Western Highway?

(b) If so, why?

(3) (a) Did the Minister support BBC Consulting’s recommended option based on extensive community consultation to retain Lawson village shops along the highway?

(b) If not, why not?

(4) (a) Has the Minister sought increased funding for highway widening works through villages such as Lawson so as to provide tunnel works or other forms of bypass, and thereby preserve the integrity of these historic villages?

(b) If not, why not?

(5) (a) Has the Minister allowed many traditional mountain cottages in Lawson to be demolished ahead of highway widening and ahead of the completion of any environmental impact assessment processes?

(b) If so, why?

(6) Was the Minister approached in 1999 by the Mayor Michael Neall, owner of three affected shops on the highway and director and shareholder in Blue Mountains Village Shopping Consortium set up to redevelop Lawson, to support BMCC’s preferred option to demolish the shops along the highway?

(7) (a) Were any of the Blue Mountains councillors employed in the Minister’s office in 1999?

(b) If so, what were their names?

(8) (a) In 1999 did the Minister issue a directive to, or otherwise encourage, any Blue Mountains councillor to support the demolition option?
(b) If so:

(i) What were the terms of the directive or suggestion?

(ii) To which councillors was it issued?

(9) Can the Minister guarantee that if the shops are demolished, Lawson will be redeveloped as proposed in the exhibited plans of the retail study?

(10) (a) What recommendations did the two major consultants’ reports since 1993 make on Lawson Village and the highway widening, in relation to the retention of Lawson shops?

Answer—

The Member’s question appears to relate to comments which I made in 1998 in my (then) capacity as Minister for Tourism, condemning proposals advocated over a 25 year period, and recently revived, by the National Party, one of which involved smashing a road through 40 kilometres of National Park from Glenbrook to Wentworth Falls.

More recently, after many years of public consultation and community debate, the Blue Mountains City Council adopted a preferred option for the upgrading of the Great Western Highway that included the redevelopment of the commercial area of Lawson. I have made a number of public statements in my capacity as local member stating my support for this proposal, and have freely answered questions from my constituents as to all aspects of the roadworks. I will continue to do so.

However, the Member’s question is raised in a forum used to query Ministers about their portfolio responsibilities. The substance of the question relates to issues of the design, construction and funding of road works, none of which are the province of the Minister for the Environment. In particular, for example, I have no capacity to “allow” or prevent demolition of houses as the question suggests. The question should be referred primarily to the Minister for Transport, and in other respects inquiries should be directed to Blue Mountains City Council.

On 6 November 2001, Blue Mountains City Council formally resolved to accept responsibility for the coordination of the redevelopment of the Lawson town centre as part of the broader RTA project to upgrade the Great Western Highway. I have no capacity to direct any Councillor as to the stance he or she should adopt in such a matter, and would not exercise it if I had.

*223 JUVENILE JUSTICE—GIRLS ACTION PLAN—Ms Rhiannon asked the Minister for Juvenile Justice, Minister Assisting the Premier on Youth, and Minister Assisting the Minister for the Environment—

(1) Has the Department of Juvenile Justice’s Girls Action Plan been implemented?

(2) (a) Has money been set aside for it?

(b) If so, how much?

Answer—

(1) The department’s Girls’ and Young Women’s Action Plan has been developed over a substantial period and is in the process of being implemented. The expert input from the Department for Women and other agencies who participated on the Action Plan committee ensured that a cross-sector view of service provision was considered, encouraged and initiated.

In relation to the accommodation of girls and young women the process of developing the Action Plan has informed the design of the new Juvenile Justice Centre for girls and young women to be based at Lidcombe.

(2) The implementation of the Action Plan will be within existing budgets. However, the department has received a budget allocation of more then twenty one million dollars for the building of the new centre for girls and young women at Lidcombe.

*224 ROADS—GREAT WESTERN HIGHWAY—Ms Rhiannon asked the Minister for Mineral Resources, and Minister for Fisheries representing the Minister for Transport, and Minister for Roads—

(1) Are the shops in Lawson scheduled to be demolished to widen the Great Western Highway?

(2) If so, is there a precedent in NSW of a village or town being demolished to accommodate the widening of a highway?

Answer—

(1) (a) and (b) Fifteen (15) buildings occupied by twenty (20) businesses would be demolished or relocated in the RTA’s preferred option for the widening of the Highway. This option has been determined following comprehensive consultation with the local community and the approval of Blue Mountains City Council. The RTA will prepare an Environmental Assessment for this option during the next six months.

In addition, a heritage study and structural assessment will be undertaken to determine which buildings, if any, are suitable and warrant relocation. The intention is to progressively relocate businesses into new accommodation before demolishing or relocating the vacant building so there is minimal disruption to trade.

(2) Shop frontages have been totally rebuilt on King Georges Road, Beverly Hills and on Military Road, Neutral Bay to enable widening of those roads from four to six lanes.

*225 SYDNEY WATER—WOLLONGONG SEWAGE TREATMENT—Ms Rhiannon asked the Minister for Juvenile Justice, Minister Assisting the Premier on Youth, and Minister Assisting the Minister for the Environment representing the Minister for Information Technology, Minister for Energy, Minister for Forestry, and Minister for Western Sydney—

(1) (a) What form of filtration will be used on the new Wollongong sewage treatment scheme?

(b) Does the minister consider this to be world’s best practice?

(c) If so, can the Minister identify ten other schemes around the world, including their locations, that have installed or are planning to install this technology in the past 3 years?

(d) If not, why has it been adopted?

(2) (a) On average, what will be the flow rate of the scheme?

(b) Has the Minister considered other uses for this flow such as irrigation?

(3) (a) How often will the scheme overflow?

(b) Will this result in untreated or only partially treated sewage flowing into the ocean?

(c) What impact will this have on nearby beaches and on the aquatic environment?

Answer—

(1) (a) The upgraded and amplified Wollongong Sewage Treatment Plant (STP) will use a combination of filtration technologies. All flows after primary and secondary treatment will pass through a deep-bed sand filtration system that will ensure appropriate quality effluent for ocean discharge that will meet or exceed standards. That portion of effluent to be further treated for industrial re-use will then be subjected to micro-filtration/reverse osmosis for de-salinisation.
(b) Yes. However making comparisons is not valid unless all the conditions are the same. The conditions at Wollongong are unique and require a unique solution to the challenges presented. The filtration technologies employed at Wollongong provide the best solution for the environment, public health, beach and ocean protection and resource conservation. A similar plant employing similar filtration technologies is operating efficiently at Cronulla STP with excellent outcomes exceeding EPA licence requirements. The leading edge filtration technologies employed by Sydney Water on this scheme will produce an effluent of such high quality it would even meet all the criteria for discharge into inland waters.

(c) and (d) Each area has unique characteristics. As such, the solution that is most appropriate for the particular area is implemented.

(2) (a) The projected average dry weather flow into the upgraded Wollongong plant is estimated to 59 megalitres per day (Ml/d).
(b) 20 Ml/d will be sent to BHP for industrial re-use in its steel making process. Apart from the industrial re-use by BHP, other options will continue to be pursued by Sydney Water for future re-use, including the possible irrigation of the neighbouring Wollongong Golf Club.

(3) (a) The sewage treatment plants currently operating at Bellambi and Port Kembla will be converted to storm flow plants when the amplification of Wollongong STP is complete and receiving the combined normal flow of all three catchments. During extreme wet weather events when normal flows exceed three times average dry weather flow, the storm flow plants will be activated to handle only the excess flows. Initially, these flows will be stored until the wet weather event subsides and then be pumped gradually back into the system for treatment at Wollongong STP. Should the wet weather event be prolonged or severe, the stored effluent will receive primary treatment and disinfection prior to discharge through the current ocean outfalls. It is expected that this will occur only 6 times per year on average.

*226 LAND AND WATER CONSERVATION—WATER MANAGEMENT PLANS—Ms Rhiannon asked the Special Minister of State, Minister for Industrial Relations, Assistant Treasurer, Minister Assisting the Premier on Public Sector Management, and Minister Assisting the Premier for the Central Coast representing the Minister for Land and Water Conservation, and Minister for Fair Trading—

(1) (a) Have the Water Management Plans developed by the Water Management Committees been abandoned?

(b) If not, when will the committees be returned to the work of developing these plans?

(2) When will they be implemented?

Answer—

The Minister for Land and Water Conservation and Minister for Fair Trading has provided the following response:

(1) (a) No. Thirty six draft water management plans relating to water sharing are currently being progressed towards approval.

(b) The committees not only prepared the draft plans but also have been integral to the analysis of the public submissions and recommendations on the final plans.

(2) The thirty six plans are scheduled to be finalised before the end of 2002.

*227 LAND AND WATER CONSERVATION—CATTLE ACCESSING NATURAL WATERCOURSES—Ms Rhiannon asked the Special Minister of State, Minister for Industrial Relations, Assistant Treasurer, Minister Assisting the Premier on Public Sector Management, and Minister Assisting the Premier for the Central Coast representing the Minister for Land and Water Conservation, and Minister for Fair Trading—

(1) (a) Does the Minister consider the issue of cattle accessing natural watercourses to be a serious environmental problem?

(b) If so, what does the Minister consider to be the main impacts?

(2) (a) Does the Minister consider the issue of cattle accessing natural watercourses to be a serious health problem?

(b) If so, what does the Minister consider to be the main impacts?

Answer—

The Minister for Land and Water Conservation and Minister for Fair Trading has provided the following response:

(1) (a) Yes.

(2) (a) While cattle access to natural watercourses could potentially cause health problems where intensive grazing is in conflict with other users, I am advised that there is no epidemiological data to suggest it is a widespread problem.

(c) The NSW Government has set interim Water Quality Objectives through the water reform process. Various health, water treatment and risk management guidelines are available, including “The Management of Giardia and Cryprosporidium in Town Water Supplies: Protocols for Local Government Councils (December 1999)”. Many Urban water supply catchments are subject to special controls in order to reduce the input of pathogens to the water supply.

*228 TREASURY—TREE POISONING—Ms Rhiannon asked the Treasurer, Minister for State Development, and Vice-President of the Executive Council—

(1) What information was the Treasurer referring to when he stated in reply to a question without notice about tree poisoning which I asked on 13 June 2002 that “the email from the Officer (of State Forests) to a member of my office was entirely wrong”?

(2) Will the Treasurer release that information which enabled him to state on 13 June 2002 that three emails from Shane Gilbert to Virginia Knox on 2 and 3 December 2001 contained information which is “entirely wrong”?

Answer—

The Chief Executive Officer of State Forests, Dr Bob Smith, in writing to the Minister for Forests, confirmed earlier verbal advice to my office that the information contained in the e-mails was incorrect. I understand that Dr Smith’s letter has been published.

*229 POLICE—FIREARMS—Ms Rhiannon asked the Minister for Police—

(1) How many registered firearms in NSW are potentially modifiable into a prohibited weapon?

(2) What sources of information about such modification are currently available?

(3) Can the Minister name the specific gun brands and models of Firearms Act category H (handguns/ pistols/revolvers) which are potentially modifiable into category D (prohibited weapons)?

Answer—

(1) None. See Schedule 1 of the Weapons Prohibition Act 1998.

(2) See 1.

(3) None.

*230 HEALTH—COMMUNITY BASED MIDWIFERY—Ms Rhiannon asked the Treasurer, Minister for State Development, and Vice-President of the Executive Council representing the Minister for Health—

(1) Is the Minister aware of the National Action Plan for the Introduction of Community Based Midwifery in Urban and Regional Australia?

(2) (a) Does the Minister accept the need, as outlined in the action plan, for urgent reform to maternity services?

(b) If not, why not?

(3) What steps will the Minister take towards adopting the action plan?

Answer—

I have been advised by the Hon Craig Knowles MP, Minister for Health, that the answers to the Honourable Member’s question are:

A review of maternity services in NSW resulted in the development and publication of the NSW Framework for Maternity Services in 2000. The document was developed with the participation of consumers and clinicians and is informed by current evidence of best practice. The Framework has guided improvements in maternity services.

The National Maternity Action Plan will be considered in the context of the full range of activities being undertaken to progress implementation of the NSW Framework for Maternity Services.

*231 PLANNING—COASTAL PROTECTION—Ms Rhiannon asked the Special Minister of State, Minister for Industrial Relations, Assistant Treasurer, Minister Assisting the Premier on Public Sector Management, and Minister Assisting the Premier for the Central Coast representing the Deputy Premier, Minister for Planning, Minister for Aboriginal Affairs, and Minister for Housing—

(a) Has the Coastal Protection SEPP been placed on public exhibition?

(b) If not:

(i) What has been the delay?
(ii) When will it be placed on exhibition?
(iii) Will it be gazetted before March 2003?

Answer—

The Deputy Premier, Minister for Planning, Minister for Aboriginal Affairs, and Minister for Housing has provided the following response:

(a) No.

(b) (i) The delay has been the result of consultation before the drafting of the SEPP with all coastal councils and some targeted consultation with key interest groups on drafts of the SEPP.

*232 POLICE—MEDIA—Ms Rhiannon asked the Minister for Police—

(1) How many people are employed in the Minister’s office to work on communicating the work of the Minister to the media and to the public?

(2) How many people are employed in the departments for which the Minister has responsibility to work on communicating the work of this portfolio to the media and to the public?

(3) How many consultants are employed by the Minister’s office to work on communicating the work of his portfolio to the media and to the public?

(4) How many consultants are employed by the department to work on communicating the work of this portfolio to the media and to the public?

(5) What is the total amount spent by the Minister’s office and his department on communicating with the media and the public?

(6) How much does the Minister’s office spend on:

(a) advertising?

(b) publications?

(d) public relations consultants?

(e) media consultants?

Answer—

(1) My staff are appointed in accordance with the Public Sector Management Act.

(2) There are approximately 17,400 employees in my portfolio areas. All have an important role in communicating the work of police to the public.

(3) Nil.

(4) It is not clear which Department the Hon Member is referring to.

(5) Again, it is not clear which Department the Hon Member is referring to.

(6) (a) to (e) My ministerial budget is included in the Ministry for Police budget contained in the Budget Papers.

*233 EDUCATION—PRIVATE SCHOOL FUNDING—Ms Rhiannon asked the Minister for Police representing the Minister for Education and Training—

(1) For each private school funding category (1 to 12) for the school year 2001, how much was paid per each student per year in non-government Schools Per Capita Allowances?

(2) For each private school funding category (1 to 12) for the school year 2001, how much was paid in non-government Schools Per Capita Allowances in total to all schools in that category?

(3) For each private school funding category (1 to 12) for the school year 2001, how much was paid in interest rate subsidies to all schools in that category?

Answer—

(1) Per capita allowance rates are determined on a financial, not a calendar, year basis. The rates are different for primary and secondary students. In 2000/2001, the amounts ranged from $244.99 to $890.36.

(2) See 2000/2001 Budget Paper No. 3.

(3) The Director, Corporate and Management Accounting, advises me that interest subsidies paid to non-government schools are recorded on a financial year basis and are not available, or easily attainable on a calendar year basis.

*234 FAIR TRADING—MR ROCCO VITALONE—Mr Ryan asked the Special Minister of State, Minister for Industrial Relations, Assistant Treasurer, Minister Assisting the Premier on Public Sector Management, and Minister Assisting the Premier for the Central Coast representing the Minister for Land and Water Conservation, and Minister for Fair Trading—

(1) What was the outcome of the “show cause” action against the residential builder Mr Rocco Vitalone, trading as Vital Homes Ltd?

(2) (a) Will the Minister supply a copy of the Fair Trading Tribunal’s reasons for its judgement?

(b) If not, why not

Answer—

The Minister for Land and Water Conservation and Minister for Fair Trading has provided the following response:

On February 22, 2002 the Fair Trading Tribunal handed down its decision with respect to disciplinary action taken against Mr Rocco Vitalone by the Department of Fair Trading.

On April 29, 2002 the Tribunal determined :

(1) Any licence held by Mr Rocco Vitalone is cancelled; and
(2) Mr Rocco Vitalone is disqualified from being the holder of a licence for 18 months from April 29, 2002. On June 20, 2002 the Tribunal ordered that Mr Rocco Vitalone pay one third of the Department’s costs. These costs are still to be determined.

The information requested has been provided to Mr Ryan.

*235 PLANNING—BOTANY/RANDWICK INDUSTRIAL COMPLEX—Ms Rhiannon asked the Special Minister of State, Minister for Industrial Relations, Assistant Treasurer, Minister Assisting the Premier on Public Sector Management, and Minister Assisting the Premier for the Central Coast representing the Deputy Premier, Minister for Planning, Minister for Aboriginal Affairs, and Minister for Housing—

In respect of the 1983 document “A Risk Assessment Study for the Botany/Randwick Industrial Complex and Port Botany” tabled by the Minister in the Legislative Assembly on Tuesday 18 June 2002, and subject to an Order for Papers by resolution of the Legislative Council on Tuesday 25 June 2002:

For each of the diagrams, figures, tables and appendices referred to in the document but not contained within the document:

(1) (a) Was the data on which they were based ever held by the department or its predecessors?

(b) If so:

(i) Does the department still hold that data?
(ii) In what form is the data held?

(2) (a) Did the diagrams, figures, tables or appendices ever exist?
(b) If so:
(i) Were they destroyed?
(ii) When were they destroyed?
(iii) Why and by whom were they destroyed?

(3) Was data relating to total risk of death resulting from the major industrial installations in the Botany/Randwick Industrial Complex and Port Botany area ever rendered into a cartographical representation by the department or its predecessors or by a consultant or other organisation working for or on behalf of the department or its predecessors?

(4) On what data has the Government been able to assess risks to the health and safety of the surrounding residents in the absence of the missing diagrams, figures, tables and appendices?

Answer—

The Deputy Premier, Minister for Planning, Minister for Aboriginal Affairs, and Minister for Housing has provided the following response:

(1) (a) to (c) The 1983 document was an internal working document which the Department of Planning informs me was incomplete.

(2) (a) to (c) See above. I am advised that all relevant material the subject of the Order for Papers dated 18 June 2002 has been tabled.

(3) The 1985 Risk Assessment Study for the Randwick/Botany Industrial Complex and Port Botany (a public document) includes a graphical representation of the overall risk assessment.

(4) See above.

27 AUGUST 2002

(Paper No. 26)

236 EDUCATION—BLUE HAVEN PUBLIC SCHOOL—Mrs Forsythe to ask the Minister for Police representing the Minister for Education and Training—

(1) (a) Does the Department of Education and Training plan to extend Blue Haven Public School, Blue Haven?

237 EDUCATION—HOLSWORTHY HIGH SCHOOL—Mrs Forsythe to ask the Minister for Police representing the Minister for Education and Training—

(1) What is the number of current enrolments at Holsworthy High School?

(2) What is the enrolment capacity at Holsworthy High School?

238 EDUCATION—ST JOHNS PARK PUBLIC SCHOOL—Mrs Forsythe to ask the Minister for Police representing the Minister for Education and Training—

(1) On 27 June 2002, were two classes not covered at St Johns Park Public School due to the unavailability of casual teachers?

(2) What is being done to address the lack of casual teachers in New South Wales?

239 EDUCATION—MACKSVILLE HIGH SCHOOL—Mrs Forsythe to ask the Minister for Police representing the Minister for Education and Training—

(1) On 29 July 2002, were 13 classes not held at Macksville High School due to the unavailability of casual teachers?

(2) What is being done to address the lack of casual teachers in New South Wales?

240 EDUCATION—MULWAREE HIGH SCHOOL—Mrs Forsythe to ask the Minister for Police representing the Minister for Education and Training—

(1) From 25 June to 3 July 2002, were 16 classes not held at Mulwaree High School, and 17 extra lessons taken by the school’s teachers for absent colleagues due to the unavailability of casual teachers?

(2) From 23 July to 26 July 2002, were 10 classes not held, 13 extra lessons taken by the school’s teachers for absent colleagues, and 6 extra lessons taken so excursions could be offered to children, due to the unavailability of casual teachers?

(3) What is being done to address the lack of casual teachers at Mulwaree High School, and across New South Wales?

241 EDUCATION—HALINDA SCHOOL FOR SPECIAL NEEDS—Mrs Forsythe to ask the Minister for Police representing the Minister for Education and Training—

(1) Between 12 August and 23 August 2002, were 17 classes not held at Halinda, a school for special needs education due to the unavailability of casual teachers?

(2) What is being done to address the lack of casual teachers in New South Wales?

242 EDUCATION—CHIFLEY COLLEGE—Mrs Forsythe to ask the Minister for Police representing the Minister for Education and Training—

(1) Between 12 August 2002 and 14 August 2002, were 42 classes not held at Chifley College, Dunheved due to the unavailability of casual teachers?

(2) What is being done to address the lack of casual teachers in New South Wales?

243 EDUCATION—FAIRFIELD PUBLIC SCHOOL—Mrs Forsythe to ask the Minister for Police representing the Minister for Education and Training—

(1) Between 31 July 2002 and 19 August 2002, were nine classes not covered at Fairfield Public School due to the unavailability of casual teachers?

(2) What is being done to address the lack of casual teachers in New South Wales?

244 EDUCATION—MT PRITCHARD PUBLIC SCHOOL—Mrs Forsythe to ask the Minister for Police representing the Minister for Education and Training—

(1) (a) On 19 August 2002, were two classes not covered at Mt Pritchard Public School due to the unavailability of casual teachers?

(b) On 26 August 2002, were two classes at the same school not covered for the same reason?

(2) What is being done to address the lack of casual teachers in New South Wales?

245 EDUCATION—MT DRUITT PUBLIC SCHOOL—Mrs Forsythe to ask the Minister for Police representing the Minister for Education and Training—

(1) On 13 August 2002, was one class not covered at Mt Druitt Public School due to the unavailability of casual teachers?

(2) What is being done to address the shortage of casual teachers in New South Wales?

246 EDUCATION—SMITHFIELD PUBLIC SCHOOL—Mrs Forsythe to ask the Minister for Police representing the Minister for Education and Training—

(1) Between 8 August 2002 and 18 August 2002, were ten classes and seven programs not covered at Smithfield Public School due to the unavailability of casual teachers?

(2) What is being done to address the lack of casual teachers in New South Wales?

247 EDUCATION—PRAIRIEVALE PUBLIC SCHOOL—Mrs Forsythe to ask the Minister for Police representing the Minister for Education and Training—

(1) Between 11 June 2002 and 20 August 2002, were 18 classes not covered at Prairievale Public School due to the unavailability of casual teachers?

(2) What is being done to address the lack of casual teachers in New South Wales?

248 EDUCATION—BARNIER PUBLIC SCHOOL—Mrs Forsythe to ask the Minister for Police representing the Minister for Education and Training—

(1) On 24 July 2002, was one class not held at Barnier Public School?

(2) What is being done to address the lack of casual teachers in New South Wales?

249 EDUCATION—RUSE PUBLIC SCHOOL—Mrs Forsythe to ask the Minister for Police representing the Minister for Education and Training—

(1) During term 2, were 11 classes not covered at Ruse Public School due to the unavailability of casual teachers?

(2) What is being done to address the lack of casual teachers in New South Wales?

250 EDUCATION—INGLEBURN HIGH SCHOOL—Mrs Forsythe to ask the Minister for Police representing the Minister for Education and Training—

(1) During week 5 of term 2, were 17 classes not covered at Ingleburn High School due to the unavailability of casual teachers?

(2) What is being done to address the lack of casual teachers in New South Wales?

251 EDUCATION—JAMES ERSKINE PUBLIC SCHOOL—Mrs Forsythe to ask the Minister for Police representing the Minister for Education and Training—

(1) On 6 June 2002, were 2 classes not covered at James Erskine Public School due to the unavailability of casual teachers?

(2) What is being done to address the lack of casual teachers in New South Wales?

252 EDUCATION—SEVEN HILLS WEST PUBLIC SCHOOL—Mrs Forsythe to ask the Minister for Police representing the Minister for Education and Training—

(1) From 1 May 2002 to 25 June 2002, were there 23 occasions when classes could not be covered, or classes were split at Seven Hills West Public School due to the unavailability of casual teachers?

(2) What is being done to address the lack of casual teachers in New South Wales?

253 EDUCATION—BUNINYONG PUBLIC SCHOOL—Mrs Forsythe to ask the Minister for Police representing the Minister for Education and Training—

(1) From 3 June 2002 to 12 June 2002, were 15 classes not covered at Buninyong Public School due to the unavailability of casual teachers?

(2) What is being done to address the lack of casual teachers in New South Wales?

254 EDUCATION—BONNYRIGG HIGH SCHOOL—Mrs Forsythe to ask the Minister for Police representing the Minister for Education and Training—

(1) On 6 August 2002, were two classes not covered at Bonnyrigg High School due to a lack of casual teachers?

(2) What is being done to address the lack of casual teachers in New South Wales?

255 EDUCATION—SARAH REDFERN HIGH SCHOOL—Mrs Forsythe to ask the Minister for Police representing the Minister for Education and Training—

(1) On 2 August 2002, were two classes not covered at Sarah Redfern High School due to a lack of casual teachers?

(2) What is being done to address the lack of casual teachers in New South Wales?

256 EDUCATION—HARBORD PUBLIC SCHOOL—Mrs Forsythe to ask the Minister for Police representing the Minister for Education and Training—

(1) (a) Did the State Budget in 2001 allocate $2.4 million for Stage I of a building program at Harbord Public School?

(b) If so, is it proposed that the building program be in two stages?

(2) Did the 2002 State Budget provide $1.9 million for the Stage I project?

(3) (a) Has any money as yet been allocated for the Stage II upgrade?

(4) What is the timetable for work on Stage II?

257 EDUCATION—SELECTIVE HIGH SCHOOLS—Mrs Forsythe to ask the Minister for Police representing the Minister for Education and Training—

(1) What is the number of places available at selective schools across New South Wales:

(b) By school?

(2) How many and where are OC places located:

(b) By school?

(3) For each selective or part selective high school, please provide the number of first preference applications for Year 7 for each of the years from 1995?

(4) (a) For each selective or part selective high school, please provide the number of applicants for vacancies in Years 8- 12 over the past 8 years (from 1995)?

(b) How were these enrolments selected?

258 EDUCATION—BROOKVALE TAFE—Mrs Forsythe to ask the Minister for Police representing the Minister for Education and Training—

In relation to Brookvale TAFE:

(1) What were the total enrolments for each of the years (a) – (d):

(2) What was the capacity of the entire College for each of the years?

(3) What were the enrolments or each course for each of the years (a) – (d):

(4) What was the capacity of each course offered at the College for each of the years?

259 POLICE—EMERGENCY CALLS—Mr Corbett to ask the Minister for Police—

What is the criteria used by the Police Force to determine the degree of urgency that will be attached to an emergency call made by a member of the public?

John Evans
Clerk of the Parliaments

_________________________
Authorised by the Parliament of New South Wales

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