QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS - Parliament of NSW
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1991
PARLIAMENT OF NEW SOUTH WALES
LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY
2007-08
FIRST SESSION OF THE FIFTY-FOURTH PARLIAMENT
QUESTIONS
AND
ANSWERS
No. 53
TUESDAY 1 APRIL 2008
The Questions and Answers Paper is published at the end of each sitting day and will contain, by number and
title, all unanswered questions, together with questions to which answers have been received on that sitting day
and any new questions. Consequently the full text of any question will be printed only twice: when notice is
given; and, when answered. During any adjournment of two weeks or more a Questions and Answers Paper will
be published from time to time containing answers received1992
LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS
TUESDAY 1 APRIL 2008
Publication of Questions Answer to be lodged by
Q & A No. 46 (Including Question Nos 2036 to 2057) 01 April 2008
Q & A No. 47 (Including Question Nos 2058 to 2106) 02 April 2008
Q & A No. 48 (Including Question Nos 2107 to 2161) 03 April 2008
Q & A No. 49 (Including Question Nos 2162 to 2196) 08 April 2008
Q & A No. 50 (Including Question Nos 2197 to 2245) 09 April 2008
Q & A No. 51 (Including Question Nos 2246 to 2309) 10 April 2008
Q & A No. 52 (Including Question Nos 2310 to 2361) 11 April 2008
Q & A No. 53 (Including Question Nos 2362 to 2400) 06 May 20081993
LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS
TUESDAY 1 APRIL 2008
26 FEBRUARY 2008
(Paper No. 46)
*2036 RETAIL ELECTRICITY MARKET—Mr Richard Amery asked the Minister for Emergency Services,
and Minister for Water representing the Minister for Primary Industries, Minister for Energy, Minister for
Mineral Resources, and Minister for State Development—
(1) How many companies are currently selling electricity on the retail market in New South Wales?
(2) How many of these companies are publicly owned?
(3) How many of these companies are privately owned?
(4) What are the names of the retail companies mentioned in the answers to questions (2) and (3) above?
(5) What are the latest estimates of the market share that each of these companies have in New South
Wales?
(6) How have those market share figures changed over the past three years?
Answer—
I am advised:
(1) There are 19 licensed retailers selling electricity in the NSW market as at 7 March 2008. I am advised
that an additional six companies hold retail electricity licences but were not offering to sell electricity to
consumers in NSW.
(2) There are five State-owned corporations selling electricity in NSW:
• The three 'standard' retailers, EnergyAustralia, Country Energy and Integral Energy, who supply
small customers on regulated prices and conditions within their respective supply areas, in
addition to supplying electricity to 'market' customers; and
• Two generators, Delta Electricity and Eraring Energy, who supply a small number of large
electricity customers directly.
(3) There are 14 privately-owned retailers selling electricity in NSW.
(4) The names of those companies are as follows:
State-owned retailers: Privately-owned:
EnergyAustralia ActewAGL Retail Ltd
Integral Energy AGL Sales Pty Limited (Formerly AGL Victoria Pty
Country Energy Limited)
Delta Electricity AGL Sales (Queensland Electricity) Pty Limited (ex
Eraring Energy Powerdirect Australia)
Aurora Energy Pty Ltd
Australian Power and Gas (NSW) Pty Ltd
Independent Electricity Retail Solutions
Jackgreen (International) Pty Limited
Momentum Energy Pty Limited
Origin Energy Electricity Limited
Powerdirect Pty Ltd
Red Energy Pty Ltd
Sun Retail Pty Ltd TRUenergy Pty Ltd (formerly SPI &
TXU)
TRUenergy Yallourn Pty Ltd
(5) The NSW Government does not collect information on the market share of different companies. Such
information is provided annually to the Independent Pricing and Regulatory Tribunal (IPART) on a
commercial-in-confidence basis.
(6) According to IPART's public data, at the end of 2002/03, six months after full retail competition was
introduced in NSW, Country Energy supplied 99.8% of the customers in its supply area, EnergyAustralia
supplied 93.6% and Integral Energy supplied 95.8%.
The information in IPART's 2007-2010 Retail Price Determination is that, as at July 2006, Country
Energy supplied 96.9% of the customers in its supply area, EnergyAustralia supplied 79.3% and Integral
Energy supplied 80.0%.1994
LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS
TUESDAY 1 APRIL 2008
*2037 COMMUNITY SERVICES STAFF LEVELS—Ms Katrina Hodgkinson asked the Minister for
Community Services—
When will the underlying 213 care worker vacancies identified by Director General Shepherd in the
recent DoCS Supplementary Estimates hearings be filled?
Answer—
This question was comprehensively answered by the former Director-General at the Supplementary
Estimates hearing on Friday 15 February 2008.
*2038 LYMPHOEDEMA TREATMENT—Ms Katrina Hodgkinson asked the Minister for Health—
(1) Does the NSW Department of Health provide any financial assistance for patients diagnosed with
Lymphoedema who require specialised sleeves, costing $418 each, as part of their treatment?
(2) If so, what are the details of, and criteria for, accessing this assistance?
Answer—
I am advised:
(1) There are a range of treatment modalities available for the management of lymphoedema.
Recommendations for appropriate treatment intervention are made by the person's treating medical
team.
Area Health Services are responsible for the provision of treatment for lymphoedema.
The Program of Appliances for Disabled People (PADP) provides pressure garments and pressure
relief equipment to financially eligible applicants for circulatory support for long term functioning in
the community.
(2) People who require garments for circulatory support for long term functioning in the community may
contact the PADP Lodgement Centre in their Area Health Service.
People seeking assistance through PADP for pressure garments are prioritised on the basis of their
financial circumstances and their clinically assessed need. This is to ensure that the program assists
people with the highest level of need.
*2039 BEECHWOOD HOMES—Ms Katrina Hodgkinson asked the Minister for Fair Trading, Minister for
Youth, Minister for Volunteering—
(1) How many complaints has the Office of Fair Trading had about sub-standard work carried out by
Beechwood Homes in the past three years?
(2) How many complaints against Beechwood Homes has the Consumer, Trader and Tenancy Tribunal
heard in the past three years?
(3) Of these complaints how many resulted in a finding requiring rectification action by Beechwood
Homes?
Answer—
The Office of Fair Trading advises me that:
(1) In the past three years the Office of Fair Trading has received 119 complaints for sub-standard work
carried out by L E D Builders Pty Ltd trading as Beechwood Homes and its associated companies.
(2) Between 25 February 2005 and 25 February 2008 there were 30 applications lodged at the
Consumer, Trader and Tenancy Tribunal against Beechwood Homes.
(3) The Office of Fair Trading issued one rectification order and in the Consumer, Trader and Tenancy
Tribunal five applications resulted in a work order for rectification.
*2040 FTE AGENCY NURSES—HORNSBY HOSPITAL—Mrs Judy Hopwood asked the Minister for
Health—
How many FTE agency nurses have been employed at Hornsby Hospital (with a separate estimation for
the Mental Health Unit) for the years:
(a) 2003;
(b) 2004;
(c) 2005;
(d) 2006;
(e) 2007 to date?
Answer—1995
LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS
TUESDAY 1 APRIL 2008
NSW Health utilises agency nurses on a needs basis, to ensure continuity of service provision during
periods of staff absences or pending recruitment action to fill vacancies and where appropriate staff from
the Area Health Service are unavailable.
The Department of Health routinely provides state-wide workforce data in its Annual Report. Similarly,
all Area Health Services publish localised workforce data in their Annual Reports.
To answer this question would unjustifiably divert the resources of the Department and Area Health
Service away from the exercise of their core functions.
*2041 MENTAL HEALTH UNIT—HORNSBY HOSPITAL—Mrs Judy Hopwood asked the Minister for
Health—
(1) How many beds are in the Mental Health Unit of Hornsby Hospital?
(2) What was the bed occupancy rate for 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006 and 2007 to date?
(3) Have any beds been closed over this period?
Answer—
I am advised:
(1) and (2) Information relating to Mental Health beds and occupancy rates by facility is published in the
Department of Health's Annual Report.
(3) Temporary bed closures have occurred occasionally for short periods of time due to nursing staff
shortages or essential maintenance issues.
*2042 GALSTON HIGH SCHOOL—SECURITY FENCE—Mrs Judy Hopwood asked the Deputy Premier,
Minister for Transport, Minister for Finance representing the Minister for Education and Training,
Minister for Industrial Relations, Minister for the Central Coast, and Minister Assisting the Minister for
Finance—
What is the latest update on the need to install a security fence around Galston High School as a result of
continuing and frequent events e.g. vandalism at the school?
Answer—
As part of the NSW Government's $2 billion Building Better Schools Program, 200 schools will receive
security fencing over the term of the current government at an estimated cost of $39 million.
Galston High School will receive a security fence as part of this four year Program.
*2043 DESALINATION PROJECT—STAGE 2—Mr Malcolm Kerr asked the Minister for Emergency
Services, Minister for Water Utilities—
(1) Regarding the desalination project you have spoken of, worth nearly $2 billion, why have you not
mentioned or costed Stage 2, which will be necessary to pump the water uphill some 90 metres to
Potts Hill Reservoir which gravity-feeds most of Sydney's drinking water, from Yagoona to Coogee?
(2) Is the value of this infrastructure of pipes and pumping stations a further billion dollars, meaning the
desalination project will cost nearly $3 billion?
Answer—
I am advised by Sydney Water:
(1) and (2) The NSW Government's decision was to build a desalination plant that will produce 250
million litres of water a day, which can be upscaled to 500 million litres a day in the future if needed.
Water will be piped from the desalination plant at Kurnell to a connection point with the existing
drinking water supply at Erskineville, via an 18 km pipeline. At Erskineville, the water from the
desalination plant will be fed into an existing water tunnel and distributed to customers. No further
work is required on this tunnel.
The total cost of the desalination project, including connection to the existing Sydney Water network,
is $1.9 billion.
*2044 UNION CONSULTATION—Mr Jonathan O'Dea asked the Minister for Emergency Services, Minister
for Water Utilities representing the Minister for Primary Industries, Minister for Energy, Minister for
Mineral Resources, and Minister for State Development—
(1) Which unions, including the CFMEU and the United Services Union, were consulted before the
Government wrote to relevant electricity industry employees about the proposed power sell-off?
(2) What was the form and nature of that consultation?1996
LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS
TUESDAY 1 APRIL 2008
Answer—
I am advised:
(1) and (2) The NSW Government has consulted with and continues to consult with representatives of
relevant unions regarding the Government's proposals to secure the State's energy supply.
The Consultative Reference Committee, chaired by the Hon Barrie Unsworth also includes trade
union representatives.
The terms of reference for the Committee are publicly available and the Committee reported to
Government on 7 March 2008.
The Government remains committed to an ongoing dialogue with workforce representatives.
*2045 NORTHERN PENINSULA TRANSPORT—Mr Jonathan O'Dea asked the Deputy Premier, Minister for
Transport, Minister for Finance—
(1) Did the Military Road working group established by the Government report by the end of 2007, as
the Member for Maroubra indicated it would when he spoke on 6 December 2007 on a motion
regarding Northern Peninsula transport?
(2) When will this report addressing integrated transport options for the corridor be made public?
Answer—
(1) and (2) I am advised that this matter falls within the administration of the Minister for Roads.
*2046 NSW MARITIME—EMPLOYMENT OF STAFF—Mr Jonathan O'Dea asked the Minister for Small
Business, Minister for Regulatory Reform, Minister for Ports and Waterways—
In relation to the employment of staff in NSW Maritime:
(1) Regarding the recent employment of Steve Dunn as Deputy Chief Executive and GM Property
Division:
(a) Was his position advertised and subject to a competitive merit selection process?
(b) How many applicants were there for the role?
(c) Which of your Ministerial colleagues advocated in favour of his appointment?
(d) Is it now proposed for him to become the new CEO following Mr Chris Oxenbould's recent
retirement?
(2) Regarding the recent employment of senior managers in the Property Division:
(a) Other than the GM, how many SES officer or senior officer positions were there prior to Mr
Dunn's appointment?
(b) Who were they and how much were they paid in total?
(c) Other than the GM, how many SES officer or senior officer positions are there now?
(d) Who are they and how much will they be paid in total once all in place?
(3) Regarding the recent employment of Joe Scimone to a senior role in the Property Division:
(a) Who in your Ministerial Office spoke with the external recruiter involved in the recruitment
process?
(b) Who outside NSW Maritime had input into drafting the job specification and why?
(c) What employment screening or probity checks were undertaken before you appointed Mr
Scimone?
(4) Regarding the recent promotion of Dennis Buttigieg to a senior role in the Property Division, how
many applicants were there for his new role and what was the selection process?
(5) Regarding the 2006 employment of Patrick Low as GM Policy:
(a) Is he the same former Labor Ministerial staffer who was unavailable to ICAC when it
investigated the controversy relating to Cecil Hills High School?
(b) Which of your Ministerial colleagues advocated in favour of his appointment?
(c) How many people were there in the Policy Division before his appointment?
(d) How many people currently report to him as GM and do they work in the same building as him?
Answer—
(1) (a) The position was filled in accordance with s87 of the Public Sector Employment and
Management Act 1972.
(b) Refer to 1 (a).
(c) None.1997
LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS
TUESDAY 1 APRIL 2008
(d) The position of Chief Executive Officer, NSW Maritime has been advertised and is the subject of
an open recruitment process being conducted by the Department of Premier and Cabinet.
(2) (a) There were 5 SES or manager positions reporting to the General Manager.
(b) The annual report provides details of SES Officers.
(c) There are currently four SES or manager positions reporting to the General Manager.
(d) Executive Director, Strategic Development and Commercial Property Management, SES 3.
Executive Director, Infrastructure Procurement and Planning, SES 2.
Manager, Business Support, SMO 1.
Manager, Domestic Leasing and Mapping, SMO 1.
(3) (a) No one.
(b) Mercer Consulting.
(c) NSW Maritime made an appointment to this position after conducting reference checks in
accordance with standard public service recruitment procedures.
(4) Eight applications were received. The position was advertised externally and the position filled in
accordance with standard public service recruitment procedures.
(5) (a) The Honourable Member's attention is drawn to page 2 of the report of the Independent
Commission Against Corruption "Report on an investigation into matters from a Ministerial
Statement to the Legislative Assembly on 10 April 2001" dated 10 August 2001, which states "All
relevant parties co-operated fully with the ICAC's investigation."
(b) None.
(c) Nil.
(d) As from 25 March 2008 there will be 26. NSW Maritime staff locations are dictated by the
requirements of their position.
*2047 PHARMACISTS—GREATER SOUTHERN AREA HEALTH SERVICE—Mr Adrian Piccoli asked the
Minister for Health—
(1) How many positions exist for pharmacists in the Greater Southern Area Health Service hospitals?
(2) How many of these positions are currently vacant?
(3) How many of these positions have been vacant for less than 12 months?
(4) What action is being taken by NSW Health to address these shortages?
Answer—
I am advised by the Chief Executive of the Greater Southern Area Health Service:
(1) 18.2 FTE.
(2) Two.
(3) One.
(4) Greater Southern Area Health Service continues to actively recruit into vacancies, with positions
being posed on the Society of Hospital Pharmacist jobs register website.
Greater Southern Area Health Service continues to use recruitment agencies and also trains graduate
pharmacists with a view to retaining staff in the hospitals as junior pharmacists.
Greater Southern Area Health Service participated in NSW Health's pharmacist reconnect program
in 2007 to encourage pharmacists who have been out of the workforce for several years to return.
*2048 POPPA BILL’S MOTEL—BANORA POINT—Mr Geoff Provest asked the Minister for Housing,
Minister for Tourism—
In relation to Poppa Bill's Motel in Banora Point, which is used to accommodate Department of Housing
clients, and its recent sale to a property developer:
(1) (a) Will the Department of Housing provide the ten displaced persons, who have been given less than
two weeks notice to vacate their homes, with emergency accommodation?
(b) If yes, for how long will the accommodation be provided for?
(c) If not, why not and what alternative will the Department provide to these persons?
(2) What are the long-term accommodation options the Department of Housing will present to these
persons?
Answer—1998
LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS
TUESDAY 1 APRIL 2008
(1) (a) Yes. Housing NSW has approached all residents to discuss their eligibility for housing assistance
and to offer them financial assistance to secure temporary accommodation.
(b) Up to 28 days.
(c) N⁄A
(2) Residents will be able to apply for housing and in some cases priority housing. Residents will also be
offered Rentstart which is assistance to find accommodation in the private sector through financial
assistance in the form of bond and advance rent.
*2049 KINGSCLIFF HIGH SCHOOL—Mr Geoff Provest asked the Deputy Premier, Minister for Transport,
Minister for Finance representing the Minister for Education and Training, Minister for Industrial
Relations, Minister for the Central Coast, and Minister Assisting the Minister for Finance—
In relation to safety concerns at Kingscliff High School regarding a stormwater drainage pond in the
school's ground:
(1) Will the Department of Education provide additional maintenance funding to repair or replace the
severely deteriorated fencing which surrounds the pond?
(2) What is the number of complaints⁄inquires made to the Department of Education regarding safety
concerns in Government schools in the Tweed electorate during:
(a) 2007;
(b) 2008 year to date?
Answer—
(1) The Department has approved a project to provide a new galvanized post and chainmesh fence
around the stormwater retention pond. Weather permitting, the project will be completed by the end
of Term 1 this year. In the interim, the school Principal is managing the situation to ensure the safety
of students and staff.
(2) In accordance with Departmental policies and procedures, occupational health and safety issues and
complaints are normally addressed at the workplace. Each workplace should have an occupational
health and safety committee or an occupational health and safety representative.
If school principals require advice or support concerning specific occupational health and safety
issues, they are able to contact the Regional Occupational Health and Safety Liaison Manager.
*2050 TWEED HEADS COMMUNITY HEALTH CENTRE—Mr Geoff Provest asked the Minister for
Health—
Given that only 0.5 of a paediatric physiotherapist position remains active at Tweed Heads Community
Health Centre and that treatment is only administered to the most critical patients, leaving a patient
waiting list that extends to October 2008:
(1) What treatment options will be made available to:
(a) Patients who require urgent treatment and cannot wait until October 2008?
(b) Premature babies, whom the level 1 paediatric physiotherapist occupying the active 0.5 position
cannot legally treat without supervision?
(2) Why was the position for a level 2 paediatric physiotherapist not filled when the person previously
occupying this position took maternity leave?
(3) Why has a senior paediatric physiotherapist, who was recruited to cover the position left vacant when
the physiotherapist referred to in (2) took maternity leave, let go?
Answer—
I am advised by the Chief Executive, North Coast Area Health Service:
(1) (a) Paediatric physiotherapy hours within Tweed Heads Community Health have not been reduced to
0.5 of a position.
Patients requiring treatment are assessed and prioritised through an intake system. Urgent cases are
seen within one to three weeks and non-urgent cases are effectively managed on waiting lists with
patients' guardians provided with a range of alternative avenues of treatment, should they choose to
consider other options.
(b) Premature babies are still receiving treatment from either a level two paediatric physiotherapist or
a level one physiotherapist with access to supervision by a level two physiotherapist.1999
LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS
TUESDAY 1 APRIL 2008
(2) The temporary recruitment against a paediatric physiotherapist taking maternity leave in Tweed
Byron Community and Allied Health Network was delayed briefly, while staffing priorities for that
network were assessed.
(3) Locums are in place to cover this vacancy while the recruitment process is underway.
*2051 ATTENDANCE AT EMERGENCY DEPARTMENTS—Mrs Jillian Skinner asked the Minister for
Health—
How does the Minister account for the difference between the number of people who attended emergency
departments in September 2007 (154,710) and the number of patients who went through the triage
process in September 2007 (145,254)?
Answer—
I am advised that the number of patients reported under each triage category represent those patients that
are Emergency attendances that have undergone the triage process and been provided with clinical
treatment.
The total number of people attending emergency departments also includes patients attending for non-
emergency services, such as planned follow up of a previous attendance, and patients who choose to
depart from the emergency department prior to receiving clinical treatment.
*2052 FTE AGENCY NURSES IN THE GREATER WESTERN AREA HEALTH SERVICE—Mrs Jillian
Skinner asked the Minister for Health—
How many FTE agency nurses are employed at each hospital in the Greater Western Area Health
Service?
Answer—
I am advised:
As the Member has not specified a time period for the data in this question it is not possible to provide
accurate data and any interpretation of the question would be subjective.
However, the Department of Health reports agency nursing staffing data on a monthly basis on the NSW
Health internet site at www.health.nsw.gov.au/nursing/dohrs. Additionally, information about Health
Service staffing is published each year in the Area Health Services Annual Report.
*2053 FTE AGENCY NURSES IN THE SOUTH EASTERN SYDNEY ILLAWARRA AREA HEALTH
SERVICE—Mrs Jillian Skinner asked the Minister for Health—
How many FTE agency nurses are employed at each hospital in the South Eastern Sydney Illawarra Area
Health Service?
Answer—
I am advised:
As the Member has not specified a time period for the data in this question it is not possible to provide
accurate data and any interpretation of the question would be subjective.
However, the Department of Health reports agency nursing staffing data on a monthly basis on the NSW
Health internet site at www.health.nsw.gov.au/nursing/dohrs. Additionally, information about Health
Service staffing is published each year in the Area Health Services Annual Report.
*2054 UNUSED SCHOOL SITES—Mr George Souris asked the Deputy Premier, Minister for Transport,
Minister for Finance representing the Minister for Education and Training, Minister for Industrial
Relations, Minister for the Central Coast, and Minister Assisting the Minister for Finance—
(1) Is there a policy to allow the private sector to lease or purchase unused school sites?
(2) If so, regarding the unused school site on the corner of Kelso and Church streets Singleton, is it
available to be either leased or purchased by non-government schools?
Answer—
(1) Department of Education and Training land/facilities will generally be leased to Out of School Hours
Centres, Pre-Schools and limited commercial operations. Commercial ventures on school premises
must compliment the primary use of the site, consistent with the provisions of the Government's
Guidelines for Privately Financed Projects.
The Department of Education and Training follows the NSW Government's policy in the disposal of
surplus property. In such cases property is sold in a competitive and transparent manner.2000
LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS
TUESDAY 1 APRIL 2008
The Department has a further policy of not selling or leasing surplus land to non-government
schools.
(2) This site has not been declared surplus to the needs of the Department of Education and Training.
*2055 LAND AT NARRABEEN LAGOON—Mr Rob Stokes asked the Minister for Climate Change
Environment and Water representing the Minister for Lands, Minister for Rural Affairs, Minister for
Regional Development—
What is the legal status of the land west and south of the main Academy of Sports building and down to
the shore of the Narrabeen Lagoon that was gazetted by the Department of Lands in August 2006 as part
of the Oxford Falls Crown Reserve?
Answer—
Oxford Falls Regional Crown Reserve is reserve no. 1012168 for the public purpose of access and public
requirements, rural services, tourism purposes and environmental and heritage conservation notified on
25 August 2006. Land west and south of the main Academy of Sports building is also either within
freehold land standing in the name of the Minister administering the Sporting Venues Act 2002 or within
reserve no. 81304 for the public purpose of national fitness and physical education notified 12 December
1958.
*2056 DOCTORS AT MONA VALE HOSPITAL—WHITE COATS—Mr Rob Stokes asked the Minister for
Health—
Are doctors at Mona Vale Hospital required to wear a white coat over their street clothes?
Answer—
I am advised by the Chief Executive of the Northern Sydney and Central Coast Area Health Service that
there is no specific requirement for doctors at Mona Vale Hospital to wear white coats over their street
clothes.
*2057 MEDICAL STAFF AT MONA VALE HOSPITAL—UNIFORMS—Mr Rob Stokes asked the Minister
for Health—
Are medical staff at Mona Vale Hospital who are required to wear uniforms, required to change into their
uniforms at the hospital, or are they permitted to travel to and from work in uniform?
Answer—
I am advised by the Chief Executive of the Northern Sydney and Central Coast Area Health Service that
there is no requirement for medical staff at Mona Vale Hospital to wear uniforms.
27 FEBRUARY 2008
(Paper No. 47)
2058 SYDNEY PARKLANDS TRUST—Mr Richard Amery to ask the Minister for Planning, Minister for
Redfern Waterloo, Minister for the Arts—
2059 NEW POWER GENERATION FACILITY—Mr Peter Debnam to ask the Minister for Planning, Minister
for Redfern Waterloo, Minister for the Arts—
2060 RENEWABLE ENERGY GENERATION—Mr Peter Debnam to ask the Minister for Planning, Minister
for Redfern Waterloo, Minister for the Arts representing the Treasurer, Minister for Infrastructure, and
Minister for the Hunter—
2061 RENEWABLE ENERGY GENERATION—Mr Peter Debnam to ask the Minister for Emergency
Services, Minister for Water Utilities representing the Minister for Primary Industries, Minister for
Energy, Minister for Mineral Resources, and Minister for State Development—
*2062 CLEAN COAL COUNCIL—Mr Peter Debnam asked the Premier, Minister for Citizenship—
In relation to the Premier's announcement of a "Clean Coal Council" ("NSW Government announces
response to Owen inquiry", 10 December 2007):
(1) Who will sit on the "Clean Coal Council"?
(2) How often will the "Clean Coal Council" meet?2001
LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS
TUESDAY 1 APRIL 2008
(3) What responsibilities will the "Clean Coal Council" have?
(4) Have any funds from the "Clean Coal Fund" already been allocated?
(5) Will funds from the "Clean Coal Fund" only be spent on projects within New South Wales?
(6) How will the "Clean Coal Council" be related to the "Clean Coal Working Group"?
Answer—
The NSW Government is currently in the process of drafting legislation to establish the Clean Coal
Council and Fund. Details of the membership, role and expenditure of the Council will be contained in
this legislation, which is to be presented to Parliament in the near future.
2063 ROLL-OUT OF SMART METERS—Mr Peter Debnam to ask the Premier, Minister for Citizenship—
*2064 LEASING OF EXISTING ELECTRICITY GENERATORS—Mr Peter Debnam asked the Premier,
Minister for Citizenship—
In relation to Premier's announcement to "lease existing electricity generators to private
operators" ("NSW Government announces response to Owen inquiry", 10 December 2007):
(1) Once Government-owned energy generators Macquarie Generation, Delta Energy and Eraring
Energy are "leased" to private operators, is the Government going to independently fund and
construct any new renewable energy generation infrastructure?
(2) Will the "Clean Energy Fund" be used for funding renewable energy research projects rather than
grid-connected generation infrastructure?
Answer—
(1) The primary policy instrument for encouraging investment in renewable energy in Australia will be
the Commonwealth's expanded Mandatory Renewable Energy Target. This will require that 20 per
cent of all energy consumed comes from renewable sources by 2020. Electricity retailers will need to
build their own renewable generation capacity, or contract with renewable generating companies to
purchase the additional renewable energy, to meet their statutory obligations under this scheme.
To support the commercialisation of proven renewable energy technologies, the NSW Government
has committed $100 million over five years to the Renewable Energy Development Fund within the
Climate Change Fund.
(2) I am advised that the Renewable Energy Development Fund does not discriminate between
development that is connected to the electricity grid and that which is not connected.
*2065 YASS DAM UPGRADE—Ms Katrina Hodgkinson asked the Minister for Emergency Services, and
Minister for Water—
(1) Given your statement in the House of 26 February 2008 and the urgent need for upgrade work of the
Yass Dam, why did you not visit Yass as part of your visits to rural areas of NSW?
(2) Given the positive indications for funding assistance that you gave to Yass Valley Council
representatives during your meeting with them on 6 June 2007, why have you now changed your
mind and refused to fund the upgrade of the Yass Dam wall as a high priority?
(3) When will you reply to my letter, reference 07Z108 dated 17 January 2008, about this matter?
Answer—
(1) There are 107 local water utilities in New South Wales, and it was not possible to visit all utilities
during my recent regional tour. Locations were selected which were convenient for most of the
utilities, and all local water utilities were informed of the meeting dates, times and venues.
A meeting was held at Braidwood on 13 February 2008, and the Mayor and General Manager of
Yass Valley Council attended and raised issues of interest to Council.
(2) I was pleased to meet with Yass Valley Council on 6 June 2007 last year to discuss a number of
issues, including the proposal to upgrade Yass Dam.
In my subsequent letters to Council and yourself I reiterated that all funds under the Country Towns
Water Supply and Sewerage Program are fully allocated.
(3) Unfortunately neither my office nor the Department of Water and Energy have a record of receiving
the correspondence mentioned.
If the Member would like to re-send the correspondence to my office it will be dealt with
expeditiously.
2066 DOCS CASEWORKER STAFFING—Ms Katrina Hodgkinson to ask the Minister for Community
Services—2002
LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS
TUESDAY 1 APRIL 2008
2067 P-PLATE EXEMPTIONS—Ms Katrina Hodgkinson to ask the Minister for Health representing the
Minister for Roads, and Minister for Commerce—
2068 EX-DOCTOR GRAEME REEVES—Mrs Judy Hopwood to ask the Minister for Health—
2069 MENTAL HEALTH INTERVENTION TEAM—Mrs Judy Hopwood to ask the Minister for Police,
Minister for the Illawarra—
2070 EQUIPMENT AT HORNSBY HOSPITAL—Mrs Judy Hopwood to ask the Minister for Health—
2071 UNIVERSITY OF NEWCASTLE—Ms Sonia Hornery to ask the Deputy Premier, Minister for
Transport, Minister for Finance representing the Minister for Education and Training, Minister for
Industrial Relations, Minister for the Central Coast, and Minister Assisting the Minister for Finance—
*2072 SYDNEY DESALINATION PROJECT LIAISON GROUP—Mr Malcolm Kerr asked the Minister for
Emergency Services, and Minister for Water—
What are the names of the eight community representatives chosen to be part of the Sydney Desalination
Project Liaison Group?
Answer—
I am advised by Sydney Water that the membership of the Desalination Project Liaison Group was
established from nominations following public advertisements, and in consultation with Sutherland Shire
Council.
Membership of the group is:
• Denise Wilson – Chair, Partner in a planning consultancy;
• Susan Davis – chair of the Kurnell Progress Association;
• Pieter de Rooy – Kurnell resident;
• John Scott – Kurnell resident;
• Nick Boes – Kurnell resident;
• Marion Gately – Teacher, Cronulla High School;
• Glenn Horton – Principal, Kurnell Public School;
• Les Leake – Sutherland resident;
• Felicity Simmons - Sutherland resident;
• Ian Drinnan - Sutherland Council's Principal Environmental Scientist.
2073 MIRANDA RAILWAY STATION LIFT—Mr Malcolm Kerr to ask the Deputy Premier, Minister for
Transport, Minister for Finance—
*2074 TITLE OF LAND TRANSFER—KURNELL—Mr Malcolm Kerr asked the Minister for Climate Change
Environment and Water representing the Minister for Lands, Minister for Rural Affairs, Minister for
Regional Development—
(1) Was title of land adjacent to the desalination plant at Kurnell, that was subject to a successful
Aboriginal Land Rights Claim, transferred to the La Perouse Aboriginal Land Council?
(2) Is there any expiry on when title for a successful land rights claim can be transferred?
Answer—
(1) No. Claim 3430 was granted to La Perouse Aboriginal Land Council on 31 July 2001. Title cannot
be transferred until the granted land has been surveyed.
(2) No.
2075 SECURITY FENCE—YOWIE BAY PUBLIC SCHOOL—Mr Malcolm Kerr to ask the Deputy Premier,
Minister for Transport, Minister for Finance representing the Minister for Education and Training,
Minister for Industrial Relations, Minister for the Central Coast, and Minister Assisting the Minister for
Finance—
*2076 ABORIGINAL LAND RIGHTS CLAIM—KURNELL—Mr Malcolm Kerr asked the Minister for
Emergency Services, and Minister for Water—
Why was mention of a successful Aboriginal Land Rights Claim in 2001 on land adjacent to the
desalination plant at Kurnell omitted from the Environmental Assessment?2003
LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS
TUESDAY 1 APRIL 2008
Answer—
I am advised by Sydney Water the land rights claim has no impact on the Kurnell desalination site or any
other aspects of the desalination project.
2077 LEVEL CROSSINGS—IMPROVED SAFETY—Mr Daryl Maguire to ask the Deputy Premier, Minister
for Transport, Minister for Finance—
2078 WASTE AVOIDANCE AND RESOURCE RECOVERY ACT—Mr Daryl Maguire to ask the Minister
for Health representing the Minister for Roads, and Minister for Commerce—
*2079 BUILDING AND CONSTRUCTION INDUSTRY LONG SERVICE PAYMENTS CORPORATION
BOARD—Mr Daryl Maguire asked the Deputy Premier, Minister for Transport, Minister for Finance
representing the Minister for Education and Training, Minister for Industrial Relations, Minister for the
Central Coast, and Minister Assisting the Minister for Finance—
(1) How much is paid to each member of the Building and Construction Industry Long Service
Payments Corporation Board:
(a) chairman;
(b) members;
(c) deputy members?
(2) Are members paid a set fee per year or per meeting?
(3) Who sets the fee and how are amounts of remuneration set?
(4) How much of the fund is applied to and reinvested back into the industry into education and skills
upgrading?
(5) How much of the fund is unclaimed because of the five-year qualification rule?
(6) Have any funds been lent from the fund for projects and on what basis?
Answer—
(1) to (6) The Long Service Payments Corporation does not have a Board. In line with the governing
legislation, funds are only applied to the payment of long service entitlements to registered workers
and scheme administration. There are no funds unclaimed, and no funds lent for projects.
2080 DRIVERS OVER 85 YEARS OF AGE—Mr Daryl Maguire to ask the Minister for Health representing
the Minister for Roads, and Minister for Commerce—
2081 OLD TOWN BRIDGE—Mr Daryl Maguire to ask the Minister for Health representing the Minister for
Roads, and Minister for Commerce—
2082 APPOINTMENT OF PLANNING PANEL TO KU-RING-GAI COUNCIL—Mr Jonathan O'Dea to ask
the Minister for Local Government, Minister for Aboriginal Affairs, Minister Assisting the Minister for
Health (Mental Health)—
2083 STAFF NUMBERS IN MINISTERIAL OFFICES—Mr Jonathan O'Dea to ask the Premier, Minister for
Citizenship—
*2084 NEW NETBALL COURTS—BELROSE—Mr Jonathan O'Dea asked the Minister for Climate Change
and the Environment, Minister for Women, Minister for Science and Medical Research, and Minister
Assisting the Minister for Health (Cancer) representing the Minister for Lands, Minister for Rural
Affairs, Minister for Regional Development—
(1) What government support has been indicated previously for establishing new netball courts in
Belrose (or nearby on the Northern Beaches), including making Crown land available?
(2) What is the planned future use of the land at the current Belrose Quarry?
(3) Mindful of the answer to Question No 0427 in 2007, might part of the TAFE site in Belrose be made
available for construction of new netball courts?
Answer—
(1) The Department of Lands has assisted Warringah Council in identifying Crown land sites that may
be suitable for development as a regional netball complex.
(2) The current quarry operations are planned to continue for at least another ten years. End use options
are still under consideration.
(3) This question should be referred to the Minister for Education and Training.2004
LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS
TUESDAY 1 APRIL 2008
*2085 RURAL LANDS PROTECTION BOARD—RATES AND ANNUAL REPORTING—Mr Donald Page
asked the Minister for Emergency Services, and Minister for Water representing the Minister for Primary
Industries, Minister for Energy, Minister for Mineral Resources, and Minister for State Development—
(1) When will the Rural Lands Protection Board remove the rates and annual reporting of non-existent
animals on all non-livestock properties?
(2) (a) Will consideration be given to requiring only stocked properties to submit an annual return of
land and stock?
(b) If not, why not?
(3) (a) Will consideration be given to a proposal that only stocked properties are rated?
(b) If not, why not?
(4) What is the justification for moving from a minimum rate applied on a stocking rate to a minimum
area?
(5) How many more minimum ratepayers in NSW pay rates under the new criteria compared to the old
criteria?
Answer—
(1) In 2007 the Hon Richard Bull conducted a review of the Rural Lands Protection Boards' rating
system at my request. I have received a detailed report from Mr Bull, in which he has recommended
various significant changes to the rating system. Those recommendations are currently being
analysed.
(2) See answer to question (1) above.
(3) See answer to question (1) above.
(4) A report from a statutory review of the Act conducted in 2004 recommended this change.
(5) I'm advised that it is 6,583.
2086 DIAGNOSTIC SERVICES FOR FOETAL ALCOHOL SPECTRUM DISORDER—Mr Donald Page to
ask the Minister for Health—
2087 NOISE LEVEL TESTING—PACIFIC HIGHWAY UPGRADE—Mr Donald Page to ask the Minister for
Health representing the Minister for Roads, and Minister for Commerce—
*2088 PENSIONER ENERGY REBATE—Mr Geoff Provest asked the Minister for Emergency Services,
Minister for Water Utilities representing the Minister for Primary Industries, Minister for Energy,
Minister for Mineral Resources, and Minister for State Development—
Given that in 2007 IPART permitted Country Energy to increase its service availability charge (SAC) by
8.4% whilst the pensioner energy rebate, which is used to cover the total SAC cost, has not increased
over the past 5 years:
(1) Why has the pensioner energy rebate not increased to a level at which it would cover the increased
SAC costs applied by NSW energy suppliers?
(2) Does the Government intend to increase this pensioner rebate?
(a) If yes, when and by how much?
(b) If no, why not?
Answer—
I am advised:
(1) The Pensioner Energy Rebate is applied to the whole of a customer's bill rather than just the Service
Availability Charge.
(2) The NSW Government is currently considering the recommendations of the Unsworth Committee.
*2089 CATTLE TICK SURVEILLANCE CAMERAS—Mr Geoff Provest asked the Minister for Emergency
Services, Minister for Water Utilities representing the Minister for Primary Industries, Minister for
Energy, Minister for Mineral Resources, and Minister for State Development—
In relation to recently installed cattle tick surveillance cameras on the Pacific Highway:
(1) How many cattle tick surveillance cameras have been installed on the Pacific Highway, and when did
these cattle tick surveillance cameras become operational?
(2) (a) Are there any additional cattle tick surveillance cameras planned for installation along the Pacific
Highway?
(b) If yes, how many and when will these cameras become operational?2005
LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS
TUESDAY 1 APRIL 2008
(3) How many investigations involving illegal cattle transportation due to ticks have been carried out by
the Department of Primary Industries since the introduction of these cameras on the Pacific
Highway?
Answer—
(1) New surveillance cameras have been installed at one site on the Pacific Highway, at Sextons Hill,
Tweed Heads. This is the same site that has had older technology camera surveillance in place since
August 2000. It total there are 9 cameras at this site – three cameras for each lane of southbound
traffic. The set of three cameras for each lane is designed to capture three images of each target
vehicle – a front on, a rear and a wide angle image.
(2) (a) Additional camera surveillance is under consideration.
(b) With the construction of the Banora Point upgrade at Tweed Heads it is anticipated that the
majority of vehicle movements between Queensland and NSW on the Pacific Highway will bypass
the existing site. So it may be necessary to locate an additional camera surveillance site on the
Banora Point upgrade when this project is completed.
(3) One. The majority of suspect movements detected by the camera surveillance relates to movement of
stock other than cattle – primarily horses.
2090 REVIEW OF PUBLIC LIBRARY FUNDING—Mr Geoff Provest to ask the Minister for Planning,
Minister for Redfern Waterloo, Minister for the Arts—
2091 FTE AGENCY NURSES IN THE SYDNEY SOUTH WEST AREA HEALTH SERVICE—Mrs Jillian
Skinner to ask the Minister for Health—
2092 FTE AGENCY NURSES IN THE NORTHERN SYDNEY CENTRAL COAST AREA HEALTH
SERVICE—Mrs Jillian Skinner to ask the Minister for Health—
2093 FTE AGENCY NURSES IN THE NORTH COAST AREA HEALTH SERVICE—Mrs Jillian Skinner to
ask the Minister for Health—
2094 PRIVATISATION OF ELECTRICITY SECTOR—IMPACT ON PENSIONERS—Mr Rob Stokes to ask
the Deputy Premier, Minister for Transport, Minister for Finance—
2095 DRESS POLICY FOR MEDICAL STAFF—Mr Rob Stokes to ask the Minister for Health—
2096 BUS SERVICES BETWEEN MONA VALE AND WYNYARD—Mr Rob Stokes to ask the Deputy
Premier, Minister for Transport, Minister for Finance—
2097 SCHOOLCHILDREN WITH ADD AND ADHD—Mr Andrew Stoner to ask the Deputy Premier,
Minister for Transport, Minister for Finance representing the Minister for Education and Training,
Minister for Industrial Relations, Minister for the Central Coast, and Minister Assisting the Minister for
Finance—
2098 OFFICE OF THE PROTECTIVE COMMISSIONER—Mr Andrew Stoner to ask the Minister for Police,
Minister for the Illawarra representing the Attorney General, and Minister for Justice—
2099 MARIA RIVER BRIDGE—Mr Andrew Stoner to ask the Minister for Health representing the Minister
for Roads, and Minister for Commerce—
*2100 KEMPSEY SHOWGROUND FUNDING—Mr Andrew Stoner asked the Minister for Climate Change
and the Environment, Minister for Women, Minister for Science and Medical Research, and Minister
Assisting the Minister for Health (Cancer) representing the Minister for Lands, Minister for Rural
Affairs, Minister for Regional Development—
In relation to the Kempsey showground:
(1) (a) Has funding from the Public Reserve Management Fund been allocated to the Kempsey
Showground Trust for upgrading the buildings on the ground?
(b) If so, how much?
(c) If not, why not?
(2) What is the annual fee⁄salary to be paid to the recently appointed administrator?
Answer—
(1) (a) Yes.2006
LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS
TUESDAY 1 APRIL 2008
(b) $175,000.
(2) $40.00 per hour.
*2101 MANNING RIVER ENTRANCE OPENING—Mr John Turner asked the Minister for Climate Change
Environment and Water representing the Minister for Lands, Minister for Rural Affairs, Minister for
Regional Development—
(1) Did the Minister visit the Greater Taree City Council area in January 2008?
(a) If so, what activities did he undertake?
(b) If so, what was the result of his visit?
(c) If so, what does he or any of his ministerial colleagues or the Government intend to do in
relation to the Manning River and in particular in relation to the opening of the Manning River
at either or both entrances?
(2) What capital works might be involved in such opening including any rock or training walls or other
engineering or infrastructure work?
(3) What costs might be associated with such wall?
(4) If the Minister intends to do nothing, why?
Answer—
(1) Yes.
(a) I met with oyster farmers, fishers, and landholders at Old Bar at the invitation of the Taree
Country Labor Branch. At the invitation of the Greater Taree City Council Mayor, Councillor
Eddie Loftus, I undertook an aerial inspection of the Taree surrounds, as well as inspecting the
Manning River breakwall at Harrington, the Crowdy Head Harbour and its surrounds.
(b) The Minister gained first-hand knowledge of the community concerns relating to the Manning
River Entrances.
(c) The Minister has directed the Department of Lands to work with Greater Taree City Council's
Manning River Entrance Taskforce in relation to the Harrington Entrance. The Taskforce is
reviewing the issues associated with the provision of a southern breakwall at the Harrington
Entrance including environmental impact, engineering design, cost benefits and funding
sources.
Council is preparing an entrance opening strategy with the assistance of the NSW Government
through the Department of Environment and Climate Change. This process is expected to result
in a long-term plan for dealing with entrance issues. In the interim, to provide immediate relief
for the local community, the Minister announced funding of $30,000 to undertake urgent
earthworks on a "one off" basis to open the entrance at Old Bar.
(2) to (4) The capital works and associated costs involved will be determined following the completion
of detailed engineering design and significant environmental impact assessment.
*2102 KERIN REPORT INTO THE WESTERN LANDS—Mr John Turner asked the Minister for Climate
Change Environment and Water representing the Minister for Lands, Minister for Rural Affairs, Minister
for Regional Development—
Pursuant to the Kerin Report into the Western Lands, how much land that is being used as a public road
has been withdrawn from any lease and dedicated as a public road?
Answer—
3,145 hectares.
2103 OVERTAKING LANES—OLD NORTHERN ROAD—Mr Ray Williams to ask the Minister for Health
representing the Minister for Roads, and Minister for Commerce—
2104 NORTH RICHMOND BRIDGE—Mr Ray Williams to ask the Minister for Health representing the
Minister for Roads, and Minister for Commerce—
2105 TREES ALONG WISEMANS FERRY ROAD—Mr Ray Williams to ask the Minister for Health
representing the Minister for Roads, and Minister for Commerce—
*2106 LOT 59 BROADWATER ROAD GLENORIE—Mr Ray Williams asked the Minister for Climate Change
Environment and Water representing the Minister for Lands, Minister for Rural Affairs, Minister for
Regional Development—2007
LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS
TUESDAY 1 APRIL 2008
Given Treasury has agreed to fund a survey for the land formally known as the Maroota State Forest on
behalf of the Deerubin Local Aboriginal Land Council which will create a registered title deed for an
established legal easement to the property known as Lot 59 Broadwater Road Glenorie, and given the
Sydney Metropolitan Office of Crown Lands NSW has advised the owners of this property it is severely
understaffed to undertake this workload, when will this work be completed and allow residents legal
access to their properties?
Answer—
The Sydney Metropolitan Office of the Department of Lands will be calling for tenders to undertake the
survey of the former Maroota State Forest, including access easements as required by the owner of Lot
59 and others, by May 2008. The tender will seek completion of the work by the end of November 2008.
28 FEBRUARY 2008
(Paper No. 48)
2107 HUME FREEWAY FROM ETTAMOGAH TO NSW BORDER—Mr Greg Aplin to ask the Minister for
Health representing the Minister for Roads, and Minister for Commerce—
*2108 SUPPLY OF COMMUNICATION EQ UIPMENT—Mr Greg Aplin asked the Minister for Emergency
Services, and Minister for Water—
What is the update for the completion of the supply of communication equipment for the NSW State
Emergency Service as committed to in Budget Paper No. 4 2007-2008?
Answer—
I am advised that 30 June 2008 is the expected completion date for the supply of communication
equipment for the NSW State Emergency Service as committed to in Budget Paper No. 4 2007-2008.
2109 MENTAL HEALTH PATIENT BEDS—CONCORD HOSPITAL—Mr Greg Aplin to ask the Minister for
Local Government, Minister for Aboriginal Affairs, Minister Assisting the Minister for Health (Mental
Health)—
2110 BUS RAPID TRANSIT SYSTEM—Mr Mike Baird to ask the Deputy Premier, Minister for Transport,
Minister for Finance—
2111 STAFF TURNOVER—RAILCORP—Mr Mike Baird to ask the Deputy Premier, Minister for Transport,
Minister for Finance—
2112 STAFF TURNOVER—DEPARTMENT OF COMMUNITY SERVICES—Mr Mike Baird to ask the
Minister for Community Services—
2113 STAFF TURNOVER—NORTHERN SYDNEY CENTRAL COAST AREA HEALTH SERVICE—Mr
Mike Baird to ask the Minister for Health—
2114 NORTHERN AREA HOSPITAL PLAN—Mr Mike Baird to ask the Minister for Health—
2115 LICENSING OF OLDER DRIVERS—Mr Mike Baird to ask the Minister for Health representing the
Minister for Roads, and Minister for Commerce—
2116 STAFF TURNOVER—DEPARTMENT OF COMMERCE—Mr Mike Baird to ask the Minister for
Health representing the Minister for Roads, and Minister for Commerce—
2117 DISBANDING OF PUBLIC WORKS DEPARTMENT—Mr Mike Baird to ask the Minister for Health
representing the Minister for Roads, and Minister for Commerce—
2118 SPIT-MILITARY ROAD WORKING GROUP—Mr Mike Baird to ask the Minister for Health
representing the Minister for Roads, and Minister for Commerce—
2119 CHATSWOOD-EPPING RAIL LINE—Ms Gladys Berejiklian to ask the Deputy Premier, Minister for
Transport, Minister for Finance—
2120 NORTH-WEST HEAVY RAIL LINK—Ms Gladys Berejiklian to ask the Deputy Premier, Minister for
Transport, Minister for Finance—2008
LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS
TUESDAY 1 APRIL 2008
2121 STA BUSES—EPPING ROAD—Ms Gladys Berejiklian to ask the Deputy Premier, Minister for
Transport, Minister for Finance—
2122 CHATSWOOD RAILWAY STATION—SIGNAGE—Ms Gladys Berejiklian to ask the Deputy Premier,
Minister for Transport, Minister for Finance—
2123 267 BUS SERVICE—Ms Gladys Berejiklian to ask the Deputy Premier, Minister for Transport, Minister
for Finance—
*2124 NSW FOOD AUTHORITY INVESTIGATIONS—Mr Richard Amery asked the Minister for Emergency
Services, and Minister for Water representing the Minister for Primary Industries, Minister for Energy,
Minister for Mineral Resources, and Minister for State Development—
In light of the information provided by the Minister for Health in answer to Question No 1264:
(1) Has the New South Wales Food Authority carried out any investigation into any complaints from
people suffering ill health caused by the consumption of genetically engineered (GE) foods?
(2) Is the authority aware of any such investigation being carried out in any other jurisdiction?
(3) Is there any evidence available to the New South Wales Food Authority that would suggest that the
consumption of genetically engineered food is harmful to human health?
(4) If so, what is this evidence?
Answer—
(1) The NSW Food Authority has not received any complaints from people suffering ill health caused by
the consumption of genetically engineered (GE) foods, where the ill health was attributed to genetic
engineering. Thus there has been no need for the Authority to carry out such investigations.
(2) The NSW Food Authority is not aware of any other jurisdiction undertaking such investigations.
(3) There is no evidence available to the NSW Food Authority that would suggest that the consumption
of GE foods is harmful to human health.
(4) Not applicable.
*2125 PUBLIC SECTOR USE OF ETHANOL BLENDS—Mr Peter Debnam asked the Premier, Minister for
Citizenship—
In relation to public sector use of ethanol blends:
Given the Premier's response to Q uestion No 1118, can the Premier confirm the Government therefore
collects no management information on the quantity of ethanol used by public sector vehicles?
Answer—
State Fleet collects and analyses information on fuel usage (including E10) and distributes it to those
agencies which utilise its fleet management services.
*2126 ENERGY DIRECTIONS GREEN PAPER—Mr Peter Debnam asked the Minister for Emergency
Services, Minister for Water Utilities representing the Minister for Primary Industries, Minister for
Energy, Minister for Mineral Resources, and Minister for State Development—
In relation to the NSW Government's 2004 Energy Directions Green Paper and the Minister's response to
Question No 1447:
(1) Has the Minister retained a list of which individuals and organisations made submissions on the 2004
Energy Directions Green Paper?
(2) If so, how many "submissions made to the Energy Directions Green Paper" were made available for
"approximately two years on the website of the former Department of Energy, Utilities and
Sustainability"?
(3) Which individuals and organisations made submissions?
Answer—
(1) to (3) Submissions from the following individuals and organisations were received and made
available on the former Department's website:
A Mills
A Milne
Abeed Ahmad
Adam Bramwell
Adam Dwyer
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