81
PARLIAMENT OF NEW SOUTH WALES LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY
1999
FIRST SESSION OF THE FIFTY-SECOND PARLIAMENT
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QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS
No. 10
WEDNESDAY 23 JUNE 1999
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[The Questions and Answers Paper is published for each sitting day and will contain, by number and title, all unanswered questions, together with questions to which answers have been received on the previous sitting and any new questions. Consequently the full text of any question will be printed only twice: when notice is given; and, when answered.] 82 QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS Wednesday 23 June 1999
PUBLICATION OF QUESTION ANSWER TO BE LODGED BY
Q. & A. No. 1 15 June 1999 (Including Question Nos 1 to 4)
Q. & A. No. 2 16 June 1999 (Including Question Nos 5 to 19)
Q. & A. No. 3 17 June 1999 (Including Question Nos 20 to 39)
Q. & A. No. 4 29 June 1999 (Including Question Nos 40 to 50)
Q. & A. No. 5 30 June 1999 (Including Question Nos 51 to 59)
Q. & A. No. 6 1 July 1999 (Including Question Nos 60 to 65)
Q. & A. No. 7 6 July 1999 (Including Question Nos 66 to 79)
Q. & A. No. 8 7 July 1999 (Including Question Nos 80 to 93)
Q. & A. No. 9 8 July 1999 (Including Question Nos 94 to 98)
Q. & A. No. 10 27 July 1999 (Including Question Nos 99 to 110) 83 QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS Wednesday 23 June 1999
Notice of Question given on the date shown
11 MAY 1999
(Paper No. 1)
*1 JUDGE PHILIP RONALD BELL—POLICE INVESTIGATIONS—Mr O’Farrell asked the Minister for Police—
(1) Did Detective Superintendent John Woodhouse contact a member of the Legislative Council (other than the Attorney General) and advise that Judge Philip Ronald Bell was to be: (a) interviewed; and/or (b) charged by police before either event actually occurred? (2) If so, why? (3) Which member?
Answer—
(1) to (3) I am advised that there is no member of the Police Service named Detective Superintendent John Woodhouse.
*2 POLICE PRACTICE—CHILD SEXUAL ASSAULT CASES—Mr O’Farrell asked the Minister for Police representing the Attorney General and Minister for Industrial Relations—
(1) Is it normal practice for police investigating child sexual assault cases which may be termed “stale” to seek Director of Public Prosecutions advice before charges are laid? (2) Did this occur in the case of Judge Philip Ronald Bell? (3) If not, why not?
Answer—
(1) to (3) I refer the Member for Epping to the Attorney General’s answer to a question without notice in the Legislative Council from the Hon Brian Pezzutti on 23 November 1998. The Attorney replied “My understanding is that whether the police consult the DPP before the laying of charges is a matter for the discretion they exercise in relation to a particular case.”
*3 JUDGE PHILIP RONALD BELL—MEDIA INVESTIGATIONS—Mr O’Farrell asked the Minister for Police representing the Attorney General and Minister for Industrial Relations—
(1) (a) Has he ordered an investigation into how media were “tipped off” about Judge Philip Ronald Bell’s visit to NSW Police on Friday 30 October 1998? (b) If so, who is undertaking the investigation? (c) When is the investigation expected to be completed? (2) If not, why not? 84 QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS Wednesday 23 June 1999
Answer—
(1) (a) No. (b) Not applicable. (c) Not applicable. (2) The Attorney General is confident that no such information was provided to the media from his office.
*4 PROPOSED RAVENSWORTH EAST MINE—Mr Souris asked the Premier, Minister for the Arts and Minister for Citizenship—
(1) At what stage of progress is the above proposal? (2) Does he intend to proceed to a Commission of Inquiry as requested by concerned property owners? (3) Does the proposal rely on an agreement to be reached with another mining company for effective water management? (4) How will the proponents of Ravensworth East be held accountable for water management? (5) Will the proposal destroy a reafforestation area of another mining company which is part of their consent conditions? (6) As the proposal relies on the 1982 EIS for its calculations and estimates of affectation, what update of the EIS is proposed? (7) Does he consider proposed noise and dust levels acceptable for nearby residents? (8) What analysis and what is the result of any analysis of cumulative impacts contributable by this proposal? (9) Which properties are proposed to be acquired? (10) Will the conditions of consent regarding property acquisitions be enforceable? (11) Does the Government consider the proponent a suitable applicant that can be relied upon to adhere to any conditions of consent?
Answer—
(1) to (11) These matters are currently under consideration by the NSW Government.
12 MAY 1999
(Paper No. 2)
*5 SYDNEY WATER CORPORATION—MINISTERIAL DIRECTIONS—Mr Brogden asked the Minister for Information Technology, Minister for Energy, Minister for Forestry and Minister for Western Sydney—
(1) Have you issued any ministerial directions to the Sydney Water Corporation? (2) If so, how many, when and on what matters? (3) Have they been written or verbal directions?
Answer—
(1) to (3) I have not issued any ministerial direction to the Sydney Water Corporation as provided by the legislation governing the Sydney Water Corporation. 85 QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS Wednesday 23 June 1999
*6 WASTE RECYCLING FACILITY—AUSTRALIAN NATIVE LANDSCAPES—Dr Kernohan asked the Minister for the Environment, Minister for Emergency Services, Minister for Corrective Services, and Minister Assisting the Premier on the Arts—
With respect to the waste recycling facility owned and operated by Australian Native Landscapes Pty Ltd at 210 Martins Road, Badgerys Creek— (1) How many complaints has the EPA received about either dust, odour or noise pollution from residents living in close proximity to this property? (2) How many times has the EPA officially warned ANL about either dust, odour or noise pollution? (3) Has ANL been fined for either dust, odour or noise pollution? (4) If so, what were the dates, the reason(s) and the amount of fines levied?
Answer—
(1) The Environment Protection Authority (EPA) advises that between February 1998 and February 1999 its Pollution Line service received approximately 120 complaints about Australian Native Landscapes’ Badgerys Creek facility. It should be noted that following a comprehensive review of the company’s EPA licences in early 1999 complaints regarding the site have almost ceased. (2) It is not EPA policy to issue official warnings about pollution incidents. The facility is licensed under the Pollution Control Act 1971 and the Waste Minimisation and Management Act 1995. The licensee must operate within the conditions of these licences or risk being penalised. (3) The EPA issued four penalty infringement notices against Australian Native Landscapes in relation to the Badgerys Creek facility in 1998. (4) The dates of the penalty infringement notices, the reasons and the amounts are as follows:
Date Reason Penalty
9 March 1998 Breach of licence condition (materials falling from a transporter) $500
5 April 1998 Breach of licence condition - dust $500
7 April 1998 Breach of licence condition - operating out of hours $500
4 May 1998 Breach of licence condition - odour $500
*7 PORT MACQUARIE BASE HOSPITAL—BED DAYS—Mr Oakeshott asked the Minister for Health—
(1) Did the State Government agree in writing to supply extra bed days at Port Macquarie Base Hospital? (2) If so, what were the details of this agreement? (3) If so, when will the Government commit funding for the bed days? (4) If not, why not?
Answer—
(1) to (3) The 1 June 1992 Public Accounts Special Committee Inquiry Report identified that for 1990/91 Hastings District Hospital was estimated to provide some 22,550 bed days (plus 691 psychiatric days, a total of 23,241 bed days). 86 QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS Wednesday 23 June 1999
The contract signed on 13 December 1992 provided for 33,054 bed days (including 1,365 psychiatric days) plus 803 special care nursing bed days. Prior to the hospital opening, psychiatric services were agreed to be funded on a different basis. Therefore, adjusted contract bed days are 32,492 bed days per year which compares to 22,550 bed days. Since the hospital opened in November 1994, the number of bed days compared to 32,492 has been increased to 36,822 per year with a 3,677 annual increase in 1997/98. 36,822 bed days are funded. Accordingly, in the 7 years since the Public Accounts Report, bed days per year at Port Macquarie have increased by some 14,000 or 63 per cent. (4) Not applicable.
*8 RED SPOT WHITING DISEASE—Mr Oakeshott asked the Minister for Local Government, Minister for Regional Development and Minister for Rural Affairs representing the Minister for Mineral Resources and Minister for Fisheries—
(1) Is the Department of Fisheries aware of red spot whiting disease in North Coast estuaries? (2) How many reported cases have been dealt with by the department? (3) What options does the Government have in dealing with red spot whiting disease in the future?
Answer—
I am informed by the Hon Edward Obeid, Minister for Mineral Resources and Minister for Fisheries, that the answer to the question is: (1) My Department, NSW Fisheries, is aware that outbreaks of red spot disease, affecting whiting as well as other estuarine fish species, often occur in North Coast estuaries. Research conducted by my Department has shown that these outbreaks are particularly common after heavy rainfall in the lower catchment areas. (2) Since the 1980s, many hundreds of fish affected by red spot, including whiting, have been examined by my Department’s researchers and disease diagnosticians. As a result, causal factors for the disease have been identified as an exposure of fish to runoff from acid sulfate soil areas and subsequent fungal invasion of the skin. (3) This Government has been at the forefront in dealing with acid sulfate soil problems which cause red spot disease. Funding of $2.1 million over 3 years (1997-2000) has been provided for acid sulfate soil projects. This funding has been used to support landholder and community education, training, investigation and demonstrations and research to improve diagnosis, management and rehabilitation of acid sulfate soils. The Government has also mapped all the acid sulfate soils in coastal New South Wales and has developed a model Local Environment Plan for acid sulfate soils. When incorporated by all coastal councils in New South Wales, no new developments will be possible without adequate planning and assessment. I am advised the uptake of these model Local Environment Plans by local government has been encouraging with 10 out of 16 councils on the North Coast commencing action on this front. The Government has published and distributed an Acid Sulfate Soil Manual for use as a reference by councils, consultants, agencies and rural industries. In addition, staff of a number of agencies has assisted in running numerous workshops and field days to assist excavator operators, council staff, consultants and landowners. My Department is also significantly involved in the examination of further proposals to achieve remediation of the major acid sulfate soil “hot spots” in New South Wales.
*9 HUME HIGHWAY—OVERPASS FENCING—Ms Seaton asked the Minister for Transport and Minister for Roads— 87 QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS Wednesday 23 June 1999
(1) How many road overpasses along the Hume Highway have had fencing installed to prevent malicious acts of stone throwing at passing vehicles? (2) Which bridges between Campbelltown and Goulburn have yet to be fenced?
Answer—
(1) The Hume Highway is a Federal road. The responsibility for funding bridges on the Hume Highway rests with the Federal Government. A program of fencing bridges on this highway has been agreed between the Federal Government and the Roads and Traffic Authority. Currently, fencing to prevent stone throwing has been installed on nine bridges along the Hume Highway. (2) The bridges between Campbelltown and Goulburn yet to be fenced are as follows: Morton Park Road, Douglas Park. Picton Road, near Wilton. Avon Dam Road, near Yanderra. Sierra Street, Yerrinbool. Church Avenue, near Aylmerton. Draper Road, Willow Vale. Old Hume Highway (MR 258), Welby. Illawarra Highway, Hoddles Crossroad. Sally’s Corner Road, Hoddles Crossroad. South Goulburn Interchange, west/east bound. Windellama Road, Goulburn.
*10 DISABLED ACCESS AND SECURITY CAMERAS ON RAILWAY STATIONS—Ms Seaton asked the Minister for Transport and Minister for Roads—
(1) Did he link the justification for rail fare increases to the provision of disability access and security video cameras? (2) Which railway stations between Picton and Tallong (inclusive) have had these facilities installed?
Answer—
(1) The Government awaits the determination by the Independent Pricing and Regulatory Tribunal in relation to rail fares. (2) The stations between Picton and Tallong will have high intensity lighting, surveillance cameras and “Help Points” installed as part of the Carr Government’s security upgrade of all 301 CityRail stations by July 2000. Easy Access facilities have not been scheduled as most of the stations have level street access.
*11 CHEMPLEX-MONSANTO—REDEVELOPMENT SITE—Ms Seaton asked the Minister for the Environment, Minister for Emergency Services, Minister for Corrective Services and Minister Assisting the Premier on the Arts—
What is the location of the eventual disposal of landfill from the Chemplex-Monsanto redevelopment site at Rozelle which was not acceptable to the Chipping Norton Lake Authority? 88 QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS Wednesday 23 June 1999
Answer—
Waste material from the Chemplex-Monsanto redevelopment site at Rozelle was stored temporarily on land owned by the Chipping Norton Lakes Authority, over which extraction and landfilling options are leased to Maron Investments Pty Limited (trading as Benedict Sands). In accordance with directions from the Environment Protection Authority, the developer of the Rozelle site, Walker Civil Engineering Pty Limited, removed the waste to its eventual point of disposal at Penrith Waste Service’s Solid Waste Class 2 landfill at Mulgoa; a facility equipped to lawfully store, treat or dispose of the material.
*12 PARKS AND WILDLIFE—PLAN OF MANAGEMENT—Ms Seaton asked the Minister for the Environment, Minister for Emergency Services, Minister for Corrective Services and Minister Assisting the Premier on the Arts—
Which parks, reserves and other places under the National Parks and Wildlife Act have a Plan of Management: (a) completed? (b) in progress? (c) not commenced?
Answer—
(a) There are 101 National Parks and Wildlife Service (NPWS) parks and reserves that have adopted plans of management. A further 55 have plans currently on public exhibition or which are being reviewed following exhibition. (b) There are 92 parks and reserves for which plans of management are in preparation. (c) A total of 228 parks and reserves do not have plans of management. 117 of these areas have been gazetted only since 1 January 1999. Management of these areas is proceeding in accordance with relevant legislation (National Parks and Wildlife Act, Threatened Species Conservation Act, Wilderness Act, and associated regulations), and with current NPWS and government policies and procedures, pending development of plans of management.
*13 PRIMARY/HIGH SCHOOL STUDENTS—LEARNING DIFFICULTIES—Mr Souris asked the Minister for Education and Training—
(1) What is the percentage of primary school students living outside of the Greater Metropolitan of Sydney who have been identified by the Department of Education and Training as having a learning difficulty in each of the following years: (a) 1994? (b) 1995? (c) 1996? (d) 1997? (e) 1998? (2) What is the percentage of high school students living outside of the Greater Metropolitan of Sydney who have been identified by the Department of Education and Training as having a learning difficulty in each of the following years: (a) 1994? (b) 1995? (c) 1996? (d) 1997? (e) 1998? Answer— 89 QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS Wednesday 23 June 1999
(1) The total number of primary students that Support Teachers, Learning Difficulties (STLD) work with varies from day to day according to the needs of the students. Some require short interventions; others require long-term support. There are therefore no fixed numbers of students working with STLDs at any time. The information requested is therefore not available. (2) The total number of secondary students that Support Teachers, Learning Difficulties (STLD) work with varies from day to day according to the needs of the students. Some require short interventions; others require long-term support. There are therefore no fixed numbers of students working with STLDs at any time. The information requested is therefore not available.
*14 RURAL ASSISTANCE—DEPARTMENT OF EDUCATION—Mr Souris asked the Minister for Education and Training—
(1) What criteria are used by the Department of Education and Training to identify primary school students who may have a severe learning difficulty in rural and regional New South Wales? (2) How many specialised EFT staff are employed by the Department of Education and Training to specifically identify rural and regional primary school students with learning difficulties? (3) What assistance does the Department of Education and Training provide primary school students living in rural and regional areas who have been identified with a learning difficulty?
Answer—
(1) The assessment, Starting Kindergarten - Assessing Literacy and Numeracy - Using Foundation Outcomes assists teachers to identify students who need increased support in literacy and numeracy in their first year at school in order to meet kindergarten outcomes. Assessment is based on literacy and numeracy tasks appropriate for kindergarten entry. Ongoing classroom assessments, student observation and collection and analysis of work are also used to identify students with difficulties in learning. The Basic Skills Tests in Year 3 and Year 5 identify students in band 1 with severe learning difficulty in literacy and numeracy. In addition, when an appraisal of a student’s needs is undertaken within the school, information from other professionals is taken into consideration (e.g., speech pathology report). (2) In rural and regional New South Wales (i.e., in districts outside the Sydney metropolitan area), there are 422.9 EFT positions for support teachers learning difficulties and 24 EFT positions for learning difficulties co-ordinators. (3) In rural and regional areas, support teachers learning difficulties assist primary school communities to support students with learning difficulties. Learning difficulties co-ordinators provide professional support and training and development for support teachers learning difficulties and co-ordinate learning difficulties services within districts. Special education support centres provide across district service and training and development for school communities to assist students with severe learning difficulties. In addition, early learning program co-ordinators facilitate training and development for teachers of students with severe learning difficulties, K-2. There are 40 specialist reading and language classes which provide services for students with severe learning difficulties. Through the Government’s Literacy Strategy, specialist training to assist students requiring additional support in literacy has been made available for all primary support teacher learning difficulties and other specialist support teachers. 90 QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS Wednesday 23 June 1999
*15 RURAL ASSISTANCE—DEPARTMENT OF EDUCATION—Mr Souris asked the Minister for Education and Training—
(1) What criteria are used by the Department of Education and Training to identify high school students who may have a severe learning difficulty in rural and regional New South Wales? (2) How many specialised EFT staff are employed by the Department of Education and Training to specifically identify rural and regional high school students with learning difficulties? (3) What assistance does the Department of Education and Training provide high school students living in rural and regional areas who have been identified with a learning difficulty?
Answer—
(1) The criteria used to identify high school students with severe learning difficulty is their individual performance measured against the grade curriculum. This is achieved through classroom assessment in each subject area. The English Language and Literacy Assessment (ELLA) for students in Years 7 and 8 provides comprehensive information on students’ reading, writing and language skills. It identifies students with severe learning difficulties in the “Low” band who need additional support. (2) In rural and regional New South Wales there are 171.20 full-time positions for support teachers learning difficulties. There are 24 full-time positions for learning difficulties co-ordinators and 7 full-time positions for special education support centre co-ordinators. All these specialised staff work to identify students with learning difficulties. (3) In rural and regional areas, support teachers learning difficulties provide support for secondary students experiencing learning difficulties. The learning difficulties co-ordinators in each district provide professional support, extensive training and development and co-ordinate learning difficulties services for students with learning difficulties. The special education support centres provide further support and training and development for school communities. Through the Government’s Literacy Strategy, specialist training to assist students requiring additional support in literacy has been made available for all secondary support teacher learning difficulties and other specialist support teachers.
*16 LOCATION OF PRIMARY SCHOOL READING RECOVERY TEACHERS—Mr Souris asked the Minister for Education and Training—
(1) Could he provide a list of all primary schools where primary school reading recovery teachers are located? (2) How many reading recovery teachers are located in each of these schools throughout the State?
Answer—
(1) The Government’s commitment to appointing 400 teaching positions for Reading Recovery has been reached. There are 759 primary and central schools where Reading Recovery teachers are located. The names of these schools are supplied in the following list. More than 8,000 Year 1 students will participate in the program this year. (2) The total number of Reading Recovery teachers implementing the program throughout the State is 864. Some Reading Recovery teachers work across two or three small schools, while larger schools have two or more Reading Recovery teachers. (See following list for numbers of Reading Recovery teachers per school.) 91 QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS Wednesday 23 June 1999
Number of District School teachers Albury Adelong 1
Albury Albury 2
Albury Albury North 2
Albury Albury West 1
Albury Batlow Technology 1
Albury Corowa 1
Albury Culcairn 1
Albury Franklin 1
Albury Glenroy 1
Albury Gundagai 1
Albury Henty 1
Albury Holbrook 1
Albury Howlong 1
Albury Hume 2
Albury Khancoban 1
Albury Lavington 1
Albury Lavington East 1
Albury Mulwala 1
Albury Rand/Walbundrie 1
Albury Springdale Heights 1
Albury Thurgoona 1
Albury Tumbarumba 1
Albury Tumut 1
Armidale Armidale City 1
Armidale Ashford Central 1
Armidale Ben Venue 1
Armidale Drummond Memorial 1
Armidale Emmaville Central 1
Armidale Gilgai/Bundarra 1 92 QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS Wednesday 23 June 1999
Number of District School teachers Armidale Glen Innes 1
Armidale Glen Innes West Infants 1
Armidale Guyra Central 1
Armidale Inverell 1
Armidale Martins Gully 1
Armidale Newling 1
Armidale Ross Hill 1
Armidale Sandon 1
Armidale Sir Henry Parkes 1
Armidale Tingha 1
Armidale Uralla Central 1
Armidale Walcha Central 2
Bankstown Banksia Road 1
Bankstown Bankstown 3
Bankstown Bankstown North 1
Bankstown Bankstown South 1
Bankstown Bankstown West 1
Bankstown Bass Hill 2
Bankstown Beverly Hills 1
Bankstown Chullora 1
Bankstown Condell Park 1
Bankstown Greenacre 2
Bankstown Hannans Road 1
Bankstown Narwee 1
Bankstown Padstow Park 1
Bankstown Peakhurst Public 1
Bankstown Revesby 1
Bankstown Revesby South 1
Bankstown Riverwood 1 93 QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS Wednesday 23 June 1999
Number of District School teachers Bankstown Tower Street 1
Bankstown Villawood East 1
Bankstown Wattawa Heights 1
Bankstown Yagoona 1
Batemans Bay Batemans Bay 1
Batemans Bay Bega 1
Batemans Bay Bega West 1
Batemans Bay Bermagui 1
Batemans Bay Bodalla 1
Batemans Bay Bombala 1
Batemans Bay Broulee 1
Batemans Bay Cobargo 1
Batemans Bay Eden 1
Batemans Bay Huskisson 1
Batemans Bay Merimbula 1
Batemans Bay Milton 2
Batemans Bay Moruya 1
Batemans Bay Narooma 2
Batemans Bay Pambula 1
Batemans Bay Sanctuary Point 2
Batemans Bay St Georges Basin 1
Batemans Bay Tathra 1
Batemans Bay Ulladulla 2
Batemans Bay Wyndham/Candello/Bemboka 1
Bathurst Bathurst 1
Bathurst Bathurst West 1
Bathurst Blayney 2
Bathurst Cooerwull 1
Bathurst Cudegong Valley 1 94 QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS Wednesday 23 June 1999
Number of District School teachers Bathurst Eglinton 1
Bathurst Gulgong 1
Bathurst Kandos 1
Bathurst Kelso 2
Bathurst Lithgow 1
Bathurst Mudgee 1
Bathurst Oberon 1
Bathurst Perthville/South Bathurst 1
Bathurst Portland CS 1
Bathurst Raglan 1
Bathurst Rylstone 1
Bathurst Wallerawang 1
Blacktown Bligh Park 1
Blacktown Glossodia 1
Blacktown Hobartville 1
Blacktown Kurrajong 1
Blacktown Lalor Park 1
Blacktown Quakers Hill 1
Blacktown Riverstone 2
Blacktown Schofields 1
Blacktown Seven Hills 1
Blacktown Vineyard/Marsden Park 1
Blacktown Windsor 1
Blacktown Windsor Park 1
Blacktown Windsor South 1
Bondi Bondi Beach 1
Bondi Botany 1
Bondi Bourke Street 1
Bondi Bronte 1 95 QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS Wednesday 23 June 1999
Number of District School teachers Bondi Clovelly 2
Bondi Coogee 1
Bondi Crown Street 1
Bondi Daceyville 1
Bondi Eastlakes 1
Bondi Gardeners Road 1
Bondi Kensington 1
Bondi La Perouse 1
Bondi Malabar 1
Bondi Maroubra Bay 1
Bondi Maroubra Junction 1
Bondi Mascot 1
Bondi Matraville 1
Bondi Rainbow Street 1
Bondi Rose Bay 1
Bondi South Coogee 2
Bondi Waverley 1
Broken Hill Broken Hill North 1
Broken Hill Burke Ward 1
Broken Hill Cobar 1
Broken Hill Dareton 1
Broken Hill Gol Gol 1
Broken Hill Morgan Street 1
Broken Hill School of the Air 1
Broken Hill Wentworth 1
Campbelltown Ambarvale 1
Campbelltown Blairmount 2
Campbelltown Briar Road 1
Campbelltown Buxton 1 96 QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS Wednesday 23 June 1999
Number of District School teachers Campbelltown Camden 1
Campbelltown Campbellfield 1
Campbelltown Campbelltown 1
Campbelltown Campbelltown East 1
Campbelltown Campbelltown North 2
Campbelltown Escol Park 2
Campbelltown John Warby 1
Campbelltown Kentlyn 1
Campbelltown Mawarra 1
Campbelltown Minto 1
Campbelltown Mount Annan 2
Campbelltown Narellan 1
Campbelltown Narellan Vale 1
Campbelltown Oakdale/Mount Hunter 1
Campbelltown Picton 1
Campbelltown Robert Townson 2
Campbelltown Sarah Redfern 1
Campbelltown St Helens Park 1
Campbelltown Tahmoor 1
Campbelltown The Grange 1
Campbelltown The Oaks 1
Campbelltown Thomas Acres 2
Campbelltown Warragamba 1
Campbelltown Woodland Road 1
Campbelltown Yanderra 1
Central Coast Bateau Bay 2
Central Coast Berkeley Vale 1
Central Coast Brisbania 1
Central Coast Brooke Avenue 1 97 QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS Wednesday 23 June 1999
Number of District School teachers Central Coast Chertsey 2
Central Coast Chittaway Bay 1
Central Coast Ettalong 2
Central Coast Gosford 1
Central Coast Kariong 3
Central Coast Killarney Vale 1
Central Coast Kincumber 1
Central Coast Narara 1
Central Coast Niagara Park 2
Central Coast Terrigal 2
Central Coast The Entrance 1
Central Coast Tuggerawong 2
Central Coast Umina 2
Central Coast Woodport 1
Central Coast Woy Woy South 1
Central Coast Wyong 1
Central Coast Wyong Grove 1
Clarence/Coffs Harbour Bayldon 2
Clarence/Coffs Harbour Coffs Harbour 1
Clarence/Coffs Harbour Corindi 1
Clarence/Coffs Harbour Gilwinga 1
Clarence/Coffs Harbour Grafton South 2
Clarence/Coffs Harbour Gulmarrad 1
Clarence/Coffs Harbour Maclean 1
Clarence/Coffs Harbour Narranga 1
Clarence/Coffs Harbour Sawtell 1
Clarence/Coffs Harbour Tucabia/Ulmarra 1
Clarence/Coffs Harbour Westlawn 1
Clarence/Coffs Harbour Wollgoolga 1 98 QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS Wednesday 23 June 1999
Number of District School teachers Deniliquin Balranald Central 1
Deniliquin Braham 2
Deniliquin Barooga/Berrigan 1
Deniliquin Bunnaloo 1
Deniliquin Deniliquin North 1
Deniliquin Deniliquin South 1
Deniliquin Edward 1
Deniliquin Euston 1
Deniliquin Finley 1
Deniliquin Hay 1
Deniliquin Jerilderie 1
Deniliquin Mathoura 1
Deniliquin Moama 1
Deniliquin Moulamein 1
Deniliquin Tocumwal 1
Deniliquin Tooleybuc CS 1
Dubbo Bourke 1
Dubbo Brewarrina Central 1
Dubbo Buninyong 2
Dubbo Coolah Central 1
Dubbo Coonabarabran 2
Dubbo Dubbo North 1
Dubbo Dubbo South 3
Dubbo Dubbo West 1
Dubbo Dunedoo Central 1
Dubbo Gilgandra 1
Dubbo Mendooran Central 1
Dubbo Narromine 1
Dubbo Nyngan 1 99 QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS Wednesday 23 June 1999
Number of District School teachers Dubbo Orana Heights 1
Dubbo Peak Hill Central 1
Dubbo Tottenham Central 1
Dubbo Wellington 1
Dubbo Yeoval Central 1
Fairfield Cabramatta 1
Fairfield Cabramatta West 2
Fairfield Canley Heights 2
Fairfield Canley Vale 2
Fairfield Chester Hill 3
Fairfield Chester Hill North 1
Fairfield Fairfield 2
Fairfield Fairfield West 1
Fairfield Fairvale 1
Fairfield Governor Phillip King 2
Fairfield Harrington Street 1
Fairfield King Park 1
Fairfield Lansvale East 1
Fairfield Merrylands 1
Fairfield Merrylands East 1
Fairfield Prairievale 2
Fairfield Smithfield 1
Fairfield Smithfield West 1
Fairfield St Johns Park 1
Fairfield Villawood North 1
Fairfield Yennora 1
Granville Auburn 2
Granville Auburn North 2
Granville Auburn West 1 100 QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS Wednesday 23 June 1999
Number of District School teachers Granville Belmore North 1
Granville Berala 2
Granville Birrong 1
Granville Blaxcell Street 1
Granville Campsie 2
Granville Enfield 1
Granville Granville 1
Granville Guildford West 1
Granville Hampden Park 2
Granville Lakemba 1
Granville Lidcombe 2
Granville Old Guildford 1
Granville Punchbowl 2
Granville Regents Park 1
Granville Wiley Park 2
Griffith Ardlethan Central 1
Griffith Ariah Park/Beckom/Barellan Central 1
Griffith Coleambally Central 1
Griffith Darlington Point 1
Griffith Goolgowi 1
Griffith Griffith 2
Griffith Griffith East 1
Griffith Griffith North 1
Griffith Hanwood 1
Griffith Hillston Central 1
Griffith Narrandera 1
Griffith Parkview 1
Griffith West Wyalong 1
Griffith Yenda 1 101 QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS Wednesday 23 June 1999
Number of District School teachers Hornsby Cherrybrook 1
Hornsby Epping West 2
Hornsby Hornsby South 1
Hornsby John Purchase 1
Hornsby Mount Kuring-gai 1
Hornsby Oakhill Drive 1
Hornsby Pennant Hills 3
Hornsby Samuel Gilbert 1
Hornsby Thornleigh West 1
Hornsby Waitara 1
Hornsby West Pennant Hills 1
Lake Macquarie Biraban 1
Lake Macquarie Blackalls Park 1
Lake Macquarie Blue Haven 1
Lake Macquarie Bonnells Bay 1
Lake Macquarie Booragul 1
Lake Macquarie Budgewoi 2
Lake Macquarie Cooranbong 1
Lake Macquarie Edgeworth 2
Lake Macquarie Fennell Bay 1
Lake Macquarie Gateshead 1
Lake Macquarie Gorokan 2
Lake Macquarie Gwandalan 1
Lake Macquarie Kanwal 2
Lake Macquarie Northlakes 1
Lake Macquarie Rathmines 1
Lake Macquarie Swansea 1
Lake Macquarie Toukley 1
Lake Macquarie Warners Bay 1 102 QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS Wednesday 23 June 1999
Number of District School teachers Lake Macquarie West Wallsend 1
Lake Macquarie Windale 1
Lismore Barkers Vale 1
Lismore Bonalbo CS 1
Lismore Casino 2
Lismore Casino West 1
Lismore Coffee Camp/Goolmangar/Blakebrook 1
Lismore Coraki 1
Lismore Goonellabah 2
Lismore Kyogle 1
Lismore Leeville/Ellangowan/Manifold 1
Lismore Lismore 1
Lismore Lismore Heights 1
Lismore Lismore South 1
Lismore Nimbin 1
Lismore Tabulam 1
Lismore The Risk/Wiangaree/Collins Creek 1
Lismore Tregeagle/Rous 1
Lismore Wollongbar 1
Lismore Woodenbong/Urbenville 1
Lismore Wyrallah Road/Albert Park 1
Liverpool Ashcroft 1
Liverpool Austral 1
Liverpool Bonnyrigg Heights 2
Liverpool Busby West 2
Liverpool Cartwright 1
Liverpool Casula 1
Liverpool Curran 1
Liverpool Green Valley 1 103 QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS Wednesday 23 June 1999
Number of District School teachers Liverpool Hammondville 1
Liverpool Heckenberg 1
Liverpool Hinchinbrook 1
Liverpool Holsworthy 3
Liverpool Ingleburn 2
Liverpool Ingleburn North 1
Liverpool Liverpool 2
Liverpool Liverpool West 2
Liverpool Lurnea 2
Liverpool Macquarie Fields 2
Liverpool Marsden Road 1
Liverpool Miller 1
Liverpool Mount Pritchard 2
Liverpool Mount Pritchard East 1
Liverpool Prestons 2
Liverpool Sackville Street 2
Liverpool Sadleir 1
Liverpool Warwick Farm 1
Maitland Abermain 1
Maitland Bellbird 1
Maitland Beresfield 1
Maitland Cessnock West 1
Maitland Cessnock 2
Maitland Cessnock East 1
Maitland Greta/Lochinvar 1
Maitland Kearsley 1
Maitland King Street 1
Maitland Kurri Kurri 1
Maitland Maitland 1 104 QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS Wednesday 23 June 1999
Number of District School teachers Maitland Metford 1
Maitland Paxton/Milfield/Ellalong 1
Maitland Telarah 1
Maitland Thornton 1
Maitland Woodberry 1
Moree Bingara CS 1
Moree Boggabilla Central 1
Moree Collarenebri 1
Moree Coonamble 1
Moree Gulargambone Central 1
Moree Lightning Ridge 1
Moree Moree 1
Moree Moree East 1
Moree Mungindi Central 1
Moree Narrabri 1
Moree Narrabri West 1
Moree Toomelah 1
Moree Walgett 2
Moree Warialda 1
Mount Druitt Bennett Road 2
Mount Druitt Bidwill 2
Mount Druitt Blackett 1
Mount Druitt Blacktown West 1
Mount Druitt Colyton 1
Mount Druitt Crawford 2
Mount Druitt Dawson 2
Mount Druitt Doonside 1
Mount Druitt Emerton 1
Mount Druitt Glendenning 3 105 QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS Wednesday 23 June 1999
Number of District School teachers Mount Druitt Hassall Grove 2
Mount Druitt Hebersham 2
Mount Druitt James Erskine 2
Mount Druitt Lethbridge Park 2
Mount Druitt Madang Avenue 1
Mount Druitt Marayong South 1
Mount Druitt Minchenbury 1
Mount Druitt Mount Druitt 1
Mount Druitt Noumea 2
Mount Druitt Oxley Park 1
Mount Druitt Plumpton 1
Mount Druitt Rooty Hill 2
Mount Druitt St Clair 1
Mount Druitt St Marys 1
Mount Druitt St Marys North 1
Mount Druitt St Marys South 1
Mount Druitt Tregear 2
Mount Druitt Whalan 1
Mount Druitt William Dean 1
Mount Druitt Willmot 1
Newcastle Hamilton 1
Newcastle Kahibah 1
Newcastle Maryland 1
Newcastle Mayfield East 1
Newcastle Mayfield West 1
Newcastle Plattsburg 1
Newcastle Stockton 1
Newcastle Tighes Hill 1
Newcastle Wallsend 1 106 QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS Wednesday 23 June 1999
Number of District School teachers Newcastle Waratah 1
Newcastle Waratah West 1
Northern Beaches Allambie Heights 1
Northern Beaches Artarmon 1
Northern Beaches Avalon 2
Northern Beaches Balgowlah Heights 1
Northern Beaches Brookvale 1
Northern Beaches Cromer 1
Northern Beaches Curl Curl North 1
Northern Beaches Dee Why 1
Northern Beaches Manly Vale 1
Northern Beaches Mimosa 1
Northern Beaches Mona Vale 1
Northern Beaches Narrabeen Lakes 1
Northern Beaches Narraweena 1
Northern Beaches Northbridge 1
Northern Beaches Willoughby 1
Orange Bowen 1
Orange Canowindra 1
Orange Condobolin 1
Orange Cowra 1
Orange Forbes 1
Orange Forbes North 1
Orange Glenroi Heights 1
Orange Grenfell 1
Orange Middleton 1
Orange Molong CS/Cumnock PS/Manildra CS 1
Orange Mulyan 1
Orange Orange 1 107 QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS Wednesday 23 June 1999
Number of District School teachers Orange Orange East 1
Orange Parkes 2
Orange Parkes East 1
Parramatta Beresford Road 1
Parramatta Bert Oldfield 1
Parramatta Ermington West 1
Parramatta Hilltop Road 1
Parramatta Kellyville 2
Parramatta Metella Road 2
Parramatta Parramatta East 1
Parramatta Parramatta North 1
Parramatta Parramatta West 1
Parramatta Rose Hill 1
Parramatta Rydalmere East 1
Parramatta Telopea 1
Parramatta The Meadows 2
Parramatta Toongabbie East 1
Parramatta Toongabbie West 1
Parramatta Westmead 1
Parramatta Winston Hills 1
Penrith Braddock 2
Penrith Cambridge Gardens 2
Penrith Cambridge Park 1
Penrith Claremont Meadows 1
Penrith Emu Heights 1
Penrith Jamisontown 1
Penrith Katoomba 1
Penrith Katoomba North 1
Penrith Kingswood 1 108 QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS Wednesday 23 June 1999
Number of District School teachers Penrith Kingswood Park 1
Penrith Kingswood South 1
Penrith Llandilo 1
Penrith Penrith South 1
Penrith Regentville 1
Penrith Samuel Terry 2
Penrith Wentworth Falls 1
Penrith Werrington 1
Penrith Werrington County 1
Penrith Winmalee 1
Penrith York 2
Port Jackson Annandale 1
Port Jackson Ashfield 1
Port Jackson Australia Street Infants 1
Port Jackson Camdenville 1
Port Jackson Croydon Park 1
Port Jackson Darlington 1
Port Jackson Drummoyne 2
Port Jackson Dulwich Hill 2
Port Jackson Ferncourt 1
Port Jackson Forest Lodge 1
Port Jackson Glebe 1
Port Jackson Haberfield 2
Port Jackson Leichhardt 1
Port Jackson Lewisham 1
Port Jackson Marrickville 2
Port Jackson Marrickville West 1
Port Jackson Newtown/Waterloo 1
Port Jackson Orange Grove/Balmain/Taverners Hill 1 109 QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS Wednesday 23 June 1999
Number of District School teachers Port Jackson Petersham 1
Port Jackson Redfern 1
Port Jackson Rozelle 1
Port Jackson Stanmore 2
Port Jackson Summer Hill 2
Port Jackson Tempe 1
Port Jackson Ultimo 1
Port Jackson Wilkins 1
Port Macquarie Aldavilla 2
Port Macquarie Bowraville CS 1
Port Macquarie Frank Partridge 1
Port Macquarie Fredrickton/Kinchela 1
Port Macquarie Hastings 1
Port Macquarie Kempsey East 1
Port Macquarie Kempsey South 2
Port Macquarie Kempsey West 2
Port Macquarie Macksville 1
Port Macquarie Nambucca Heads 1
Port Macquarie North Haven 1
Port Macquarie Port Macquarie 1
Port Macquarie Wauchope 1
Port Macquarie Westport 1
Queanbeyan Berinba 2
Queanbeyan Boorowa CS 1
Queanbeyan Bradfordville 1
Queanbeyan Cooma 1
Queanbeyan Cooma North 1
Queanbeyan Goulburn 1
Queanbeyan Goulburn South 1 110 QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS Wednesday 23 June 1999
Number of District School teachers Queanbeyan Goulburn West 1
Queanbeyan Queanbeyan 1
Queanbeyan Queanbeyan South 1
Queanbeyan Queanbeyan West 1
Queanbeyan Wollondilly 1
Queanbeyan Yass 1
Ryde Denistone East 1
Ryde Kent Road 1
Ryde Lane Cove 2
Ryde North Sydney 1
Ryde Ryde 1
Ryde West Ryde 1
Shellharbour Albion Park 1
Shellharbour Albion Park Rail 1
Shellharbour Balarang 1
Shellharbour Barrack Heights 1
Shellharbour Bomaderry 3
Shellharbour Colo Vale 1
Shellharbour Culburra 2
Shellharbour Gerringong 1
Shellharbour Hill Top 1
Shellharbour Illaroo Road 2
Shellharbour Kiama 1
Shellharbour Lake Illawarra South 1
Shellharbour Minnamurra 2
Shellharbour Mittagong 1
Shellharbour Mount Warrigal 2
Shellharbour North Nowra 1
Shellharbour Nowra 1 111 QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS Wednesday 23 June 1999
Number of District School teachers Shellharbour Nowra East 2
Shellharbour Oak Flats 2
Shellharbour Shellharbour 1
Shellharbour Shoalhaven Heads 1
Shellharbour Warilla 1
Shellharbour Warilla North 1
Shellharbour Windang 1
St George Arncliffe 1
St George Arncliffe West Infants 1
St George Ashbury 1
St George Athelstane 1
St George Bexley 1
St George Bexley North 1
St George Brighton-le-Sands 2
St George Canterbury 1
St George Canterbury South 1
St George Carlton 2
St George Carlton South 1
St George Clemton Park 1
St George Hurstville 3
St George Kingsgrove 2
St George Kogarah 1
St George McCallums Hill 2
St George Ramsgate 1
St George Undercliffe 1
St George Yeo Park 1
Sutherland Bangor 1
Sutherland Bundeena 1
Sutherland Caringbah 1 112 QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS Wednesday 23 June 1999
Number of District School teachers Sutherland Caringbah North 1
Sutherland Engadine West 1
Sutherland Gymea Bay 1
Sutherland Gymea North 1
Sutherland Kurnell 1
Sutherland Laguna Street 1
Sutherland Menai 1
Sutherland Miranda 1
Sutherland Yarrawarrah 1
Tamworth Aberdeen 1
Tamworth Barraba Central 1
Tamworth Denman 1
Tamworth Gunnedah 1
Tamworth Gunnedah South 1
Tamworth Hillvue 2
Tamworth Kootingal 1
Tamworth Manilla Central 1
Tamworth Muswellbrook South 2
Tamworth Scone 1
Tamworth Tamworth 1
Tamworth Tamworth South 2
Tamworth Tamworth West 1
Tamworth Werris Creek 1
Tamworth Westdale 1
Taree Bobin/Elands/Mount George 1
Taree Bulahdelah Central 1
Taree Chatham 1
Taree Cundletown 1
Taree Forster 1 113 QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS Wednesday 23 June 1999
Number of District School teachers Taree Gloucester 1
Taree Irrawang 1
Taree Karuah 1
Taree Manning Gardens 1
Taree Old Bar 1
Taree Pacific Palms 1
Taree Raymond Terrace 1
Taree Tanilba Bay 1
Taree Taree 1
Taree Taree West 1
Taree Wingham 1
Taree Wingham Brush 1
Tweed Heads Ballina 2
Tweed Heads Banora Point 1
Tweed Heads Bilambil 1
Tweed Heads Brunswick Heads 1
Tweed Heads Byron Bay 1
Tweed Heads Cabbage Tree Island 1
Tweed Heads Centaur 1
Tweed Heads Chillingham/Crystal Creek/Dungay 1
Tweed Heads Cudgen 1
Tweed Heads Durrumbul/Main Arm Upper/The Pocket 1
Tweed Heads Evans Head 1
Tweed Heads Kingscliff 1
Tweed Heads Lennox Head 1
Tweed Heads Mullumbimby 1
Tweed Heads Murwillumbah 1
Tweed Heads Murwillumbah East 1
Tweed Heads Pottsville Beach 2 114 QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS Wednesday 23 June 1999
Number of District School teachers Tweed Heads Tweed Heads 1
Tweed Heads Tweed Heads South 1
Tweed Heads Uki 1
Tweed Heads Wardell/Empire Vale/Broadwater 1
Tweed Heads Woodburn Central 1
Wagga Wagga Ashmont Public 2
Wagga Wagga Coolamon Central 1
Wagga Wagga Cootamundra 2
Wagga Wagga E A Southee 1
Wagga Wagga Forest Hill 1
Wagga Wagga Junee 1
Wagga Wagga Junee North 1
Wagga Wagga Kapooka/Uranquinty 1
Wagga Wagga Kooringal 4
Wagga Wagga Lake Albert 1
Wagga Wagga Lockhardt Central 1
Wagga Wagga Mount Austin 2
Wagga Wagga Murrumburrah 1
Wagga Wagga North Wagga 1
Wagga Wagga South Wagga 1
Wagga Wagga Sturt 2
Wagga Wagga Temora 1
Wagga Wagga Temora West 1
Wagga Wagga Tolland 1
Wagga Wagga Turvey Park 1
Wagga Wagga Wagga Wagga 2
Wagga Wagga Young 1
Wagga Wagga Young North 2
Wollongong Bellambi 1 115 QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS Wednesday 23 June 1999
Number of District School teachers Wollongong Berkeley 2
Wollongong Berkeley West 2
Wollongong Coniston 1
Wollongong Corrimal 1
Wollongong Corrimal East 1
Wollongong Cringila 1
Wollongong Dapto 1
Wollongong Farmborough Road 1
Wollongong Hayes Park 1
Wollongong Helensburgh 1
Wollongong Kemblawarra 1
Wollongong Koonawarra 2
Wollongong Lake Heights 1
Wollongong Lakelands 1
Wollongong Lindsay Park 1
Wollongong Mount Brown 2
Wollongong Port Kembla 1
Wollongong Scarborough/Otford/Coledale 1
Wollongong Tarrawanna 1
Wollongong Towradgi 1
Wollongong Unanderra 1
Wollongong Warrawong 2
Wollongong Wollongong West 1
Total 759 864
*17 SCHOOL INTERNET CONNECTION—Mr Souris asked the Minister for Education and Training—
(1) What schools in country New South Wales are not connected to the Internet? (2) If not, why not? (3) When will these schools be connected to the Internet? 116 QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS Wednesday 23 June 1999
Answer—
(1) The Department of Education and Training provided a connection to the Internet, through its contracted Internet service provider, OzEmail, to all government schools in New South Wales in December 1996. (2) Refer to answer (1). (3) Refer to answer (1).
*18 QUANTITY OF DUTY OFFICERS BELOW RANK OF INSPECTOR—Mr Tink asked the Minister for Police—
How many duty officer positions were being filled by police officers below the rank of Inspector: (a) as at 30 April 1999? (b) as at 31 October 1998? (c) as at 30 April 1998?
Answer—
(a) 293. I am advised by Commissioner Ryan that it is anticipated a further 105 positions will be filled by Inspectors by the end of June 1999, with the remaining positions being filled following current discussions between the NSW Police Service and the Police Association of New South Wales. (b) 292. (c) 283.
*19 FORSTER POLICE STATION STRENGTH—Mr Turner asked the Minister for Police—
(1) What was the authorised and actual strength for the Forster Police Station for the period: (a) 30 June 1995? (b) 30 June 1996? (c) 30 June 1997? (d) 30 June 1998? (e) to date? (2) How many police officers were on duty in the Forster Police Station and during what hours for the following days: (a) 31 December 1998? (b) 9 January 1999? (c) 28 January 1999? (d) 7 February 1999? (e) 16 February 1999? (f) 4 March 1999? (g) 18 March 1999? (h) 28 March 1999? (i) 2 April 1999? (j) 3 April 1999? (k) 4 April 1999? (l) 20 April 1999? (m) 30 April 1999? (3) What hours was Forster Police Station open during the above dates? 117 QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS Wednesday 23 June 1999
Answer—
(1) I am advised by Commissioner Ryan that the answer to the Member for Myall Lakes’ questions are as follows: (a) 17 authorised, 20 actual. (b) 27 authorised, 26 actual. (c) 27 authorised, 24 actual. (d) to (e) Following the 1 July 1997 restructure of the NSW Police Service, police strength has been allocated on a Local Area Command, rather than individual station, basis. (2) The staffing arrangements of individual stations within a Local Area Command are a matter for the Local Area Commander and are determined according to need. Officers from the relevant Local Area Command police the entire area, responding to, and preventing, crime. Other than this, to provide a detailed response to these questions would take considerable time and resources, particularly as some shifts may operate across 2 days and some officers may work two shifts on a single day. To provide answers to these questions would require police officers to check numerous records, which would be extremely time-consuming. This would be an unacceptable impost on New South Wales taxpayers. (3) Police are on call to provide services to the people of Forster and surrounding communities 24 hours a day. The operating hours of the Forster sector vary from time to time, according to need.
13 MAY 1999
(Paper No. 3)
*20 POLICE STATIONS STAFFING—Mr Armstrong asked the Minister for Police—
Can he advise the number of police officers attached to each of the following police stations as at 29 April 1999: (a) West Wyalong? (b) Tallimba? (c) Ungarie? (d) Weethalle? (e) Barmedman? (f) Young? (g) Grenfell? (h) Quandialla? (i) Caragabal? (j) Harden? (k) Stockingbingal? (l) Bethungra? (m) Greenethorpe? (n) Forbes? (o) Tullibigeal? (p) Condobolin? (q) Lake Cargelligo? (r) Junee? (s) Ariah Park? (t) Temora? (u) Coolamon? (v) Ganmain?
Answer— 118 QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS Wednesday 23 June 1999
The honourable member for Lachlan’s question concerns police stations within the Griffith, Cootamundra, Lachlan and Wagga Wagga Local Area Commands. Actual police strength is allocated on a Local Area Command, rather than station, basis. Accordingly, the staffing of individual stations at any particular time is a matter for the relevant Local Area Commander and is determined according to need. I am pleased to be able to advise the honourable member that the actual strength for the above Local Area Commands in January 1999 was 381, which I’m sure he will agree compares favourably with the 367 officers provided by the now Opposition in November 1994.
*21 OVINE JOHNES DISEASE—Mr Armstrong asked the Minister for Agriculture and Minister for Land and Water Conservation—
(1) How has the NSW Department of Agriculture established a “footprint” in relation to Ovine Johnes Disease in New South Wales? (2) What process of audit has been established to measure the success or otherwise of the NSW Department of Agriculture’s management of Ovine Johnes Disease in New South Wales? (3) Is it the Government’s policy to eliminate Ovine Johnes Disease from sheep in New South Wales or control the spread thereof? (4) Is it the Government’s policy to eliminate Bovine Johnes Disease from cattle in New South Wales or control the spread thereof? (5) Do other sheep producing countries throughout the world have Ovine Johnes Disease? (6) If so, what action has been taken in other countries with Ovine Johnes Disease to eradicate the disease? (7) What action has been taken to control the disease? (8) What is the success rate of the above two questions? (9) What is the estimated loss factor in failing to eliminate Ovine Johnes Disease from New South Wales sheep flocks? (10) What is the value of the stud merino industry to New South Wales? (11) What percentage of the world’s fine wool producing sheep have or are being influenced by Australian merino stud genes? (12) (a) Has the Government set a time limit to eliminate Ovine Johnes Disease? (b) If so, what is that limit? (13) Will the Government compensate a sheep owner who, having complied with all the requirements laid down by the Government’s Ovine Johnes Disease Management Plan, experiences a re-occurrence of the disease within a reasonable period, say 5 years?
Answer—
(1) NSW Agriculture has established a footprint in relation to Ovine Johnes Disease (OJD) in New South Wales by ongoing surveillance testing. Surveillance is currently based on: • targeted testing of flocks identified by tracing from infected flocks. This includes trace forward flocks which have received suspect animals, neighbours of infected flocks and traceback flocks where they have been identified as a high risk of being the source of infection; • owner initiated investigations of clinical wasting where OJD is considered a possible cause; and • “At-Risk” flocks in low prevalence areas identified by random surveys of producers. These have identified properties with a history of sheep introductions from high risk areas or evidence of unexplained wasting in their flocks. Flocks are identified for further investigation following an individual property Risk Assessment. Where appropriate within the surveillance priorities, the flock is investigated by blood sampling and clinically affected (illthrifty) or reactor animals autopsied. Preserved intestinal tissues are submitted 119 QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS Wednesday 23 June 1999 to a NSW Agriculture Regional Veterinary Laboratory for microscopic examination for the presence of OJD. Intensive activity during the Interim Surveillance Program in 1998 was critical in confirming the distribution of OJD infection in New South Wales. Tracing and testing confirmed that OJD has continued to spread in New South Wales, but at a reduced rate. Most of the State still remains free of known OJD cases and the disease is predominantly localised to the central and southern tablelands. There is still no evidence of any major foci of infection that is independent of the known endemic area. Current strategies are being reviewed in the light of the commencement of the 6-year $40 million National Ovine Johnes Disease Program (NOJDP) with the signing of the Deed of Agreement in March 1999. The planned implementation of national zoning for OJD on 1 July 1999 is based on the known distribution of OJD and will influence the direction and priorities for surveillance activities. The Pooled Faecal Culture is planned to be utilised as a more sensitive testing method for screening flocks for OJD both for surveillance and market assurance testing. Abattoir surveillance for OJD is due to be trialled in New South Wales later in 1999 to determine whether it is a cost-effective and sensitive method of detecting infection. It has most potential application in medium to low prevalence areas. Random surveys using the Pooled Faecal Culture are also being considered for use in low prevalence areas. (2) The management of OJD in New South Wales by NSW Agriculture is continually being audited externally by the NOJDP within the agreed Business Plan. Similarly, the NSW OJD Advisory Committee performs an ongoing audit role on progress with the program. Internally, NSW Agriculture monitors outcomes delivered through the Rural Lands Protection Boards, including surveillance and regulatory activities. (3) It is Government policy to comply with the Deed of Agreement of the NOJDP to evaluate and control (not eradicate) OJD in compliance with the Standard Definitions and Rules formulated by the national Veterinary Committee. (4) The overall aim of the Australian Cattle Industry Peak Bodies is the interim control of Johnes disease with eradication as the ultimate option if progress indicates this is feasible. The NSW Government policy would be to facilitate this progress. (5) OJD is present in most sheep-producing countries throughout the world. (6) In most countries the disease is endemic and control has been limited to strategic use of vaccination where appropriate. No country has successfully eradicated the disease. Attempts to eradicate the disease in Iceland, after OJD was introduced in the 1930s, were unsuccessful. The worldwide failure to initiate eradication programs has been attributable to pre-existting widespread endemic nature of the disease and the knowledge deficits about OJD. The major emphasis of the NOJDP is to define the distribution of OJD in Australia and undertake research to address the knowledge deficits. (7) In New Zealand, where the disease has spread to infect flocks throughout the country over the past 20 years, the tools available at the time were inadequate to control the spread. As a result, control of the disease was deregulated and vaccine utilised in flocks with sufficient losses to yield a cost benefit. New Zealand is now reviewing their approach in the light of recent technical developments in relation to OJD. This includes the ability to reliably grow the causative organism and to differentiate the strains associated with sheep from those in cattle by using genetic technology, both breakthroughs developed by NSW Agriculture researchers at Elizabeth Macarthur Agricultural Institute, Menangle. In South Africa, where the disease appears to be spreading from defined foci of infection, similar to the situation in Australia, a surveillance and control program has been instituted. (8) Eradication has not been successful in the very limited situations where it has been tried. Control of spread of OJD has been limited to countries where the disease was not endemic. New Zealand failed to control the spread of OJD because of the limitations of the tools then available. The 120 QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS Wednesday 23 June 1999
situation in South Africa is unclear because of the early stage of the program. Australia is presented with a “window-of-opprotunity” to control the spread while research is undertaken into improved methods of diagnosis, to determine the survival of the organism in the environment and the efficacy of destocking for two summers in eradicating the disease from infected properties and the efficacy of vaccination. (9) The estimated loss in failing to eliminate OJD from New South Wales sheep flocks is difficult to quantify in dollar terms and would vary according to the final outcome. Possible outcomes would include failure to control the spread such that all Australian flocks were at risk of infection, restriction of the disease to certain endemic areas (or zones) or eradication from all areas of Australia. Presence of the disease in an individual flock, in a region or a State has significant ongoing costs depending on the degree of regulation, prevalence within flocks and prevalence of infected flocks in the area. Even if the disease was totally deregulated there would still be a major role for the Market Assurance Program in protecting studs and other high value flocks from introducing and spreading disease to their clients. Some of the costs are associated with: • impediments to trade of live sheep (both local, regional, interstate and overseas); • mortalities of adult sheep on individual properties (reports vary from nil to 12-15 per cent of adult sheep dying per year, average 2-5 per cent once the disease becomes endemic in a flock); • complications to property management; • decreased wool production in infected animals; • animal welfare implications; • emotional and social aspects; • decreased viability of producers; • possible effects on the lamb and mutton trade (consumer perceptions); • cost of protecting a flock (e.g., Market Assurance Programs, fencing, etc.); • vaccination. These costs have a general flow-on effect to rural service providers (agents, abattoirs, saleyards) and rural communities in general. (10) The value of the stud merino industry to New South Wales needs to be more clearly defined in dollar terms. It is a major source of genetic material for the national sheep industry. Much of the merino stud industry is located in low prevalence areas of New South Wales. (11) The Australian merino genes have had a major effect on the world’s fine wool-producing sheep industries. (12) The Government has not set a time limit to eliminate OJD. Any decision will be taken within the NOJDP, the purpose of which is: (a) to provide, during a research and evaluation period and by 31 July 2004, sufficient information to allow an informed decision on the national management of OJD, and especially on the feasibility and cost-effectiveness of eradication; and (b) to control OJD during the research and evaluation period. (13) Under the NOJDP, there is currently no compensation for a sheep owner who has undertaken an approved Property Disease Eradication Plan and who subsequently experiences a re-occurence of the disease.
*22 COMMERCIAL IRRIGATION POLICY—LACHLAN VALLEY—Mr Armstrong asked the Minister for Agriculture and Minister for Land and Water Conservation—
Can he inform me of the Government’s policy for commercial irrigators in the Lachlan Valley between 29 April 1999 and 29 April 2004?
Answer— 121 QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS Wednesday 23 June 1999
The NSW Government will continue to build on the Water Reform process commenced in 1995. NSW Government’s aim is to secure our water future by achieving clean, healthy rivers and groundwater systems and productive use of water. The challenges in building a secure water future is that it cannot be done by government alone. Government and communities must move forward together. This is a big commitment of the NSW Water Reforms. Of course, the Council of Australian Governments (or COAG) and the Murray-Darling Basin Ministerial Council have provided a solid framework for improved water management, nationally. All governments have agreed there should be a process for: • better sharing between users and the environment; • trading between users, for better defining water rights and access; and • recovering the real cost of supplying water. These developments should contribute to the more efficient use of water and a flexible allocation of water to the most productive end users. There is an urgent need to move from industry development based on the idea of unlimited water availability, to a system which allows further development within the constraints of restricted resources. By the same token, I am equally aware of the strict obligations and conditions imposed by the national framework on all water users and their resulting impacts. In New South Wales, local community-based committees are an integral part of the way in which water resources are now being managed and for this reason policies in the Lachlan Valley between 29 April 1999 and 2004 will be greatly influenced by the community. The Lachlan River Management Committee has established a set of environmental flows for the Lachlan. The committee has 5 years (with about 3 years remaining) to develop a Water Management Plan for the Lachlan. Decisions on water sharing within the plan will be shaped by community preferences for environmental objectives (river flow and water quality) and the socio-economic analysis of the impacts of options to achieve the objectives. The Lachlan River Management Committee is progressing well in developing their Water Management Plan, having identified and prioritised all the important issues. Working groups are operating on key issues in an extremely positive environment. The issues associated with water access and use rights also need to be finalised to provide users with a clear definition of their rights and the obligations associated with those rights. In April 1998, the Department of Land and Water Conservation released a discussion paper titled “Water Sharing - Access and Use”. The discussion paper described the current water licensing system, identified existing problems, suggested possible solutions and requested feedback on these issues. A summary of submissions was released on 2 June 1999. The issue of water sharing has links, of course, to many of the other reform initiatives, such as market-based trading and pricing. Water markets provide existing water users with flexibility on how their water needs are met, provide an incentive for better water use efficiency and facilitate access to water for new development, while minimising government involvement in what are, essentially, private decisions. Significant development is currently taking place within the Lachlan Valley. For example, 10,000 hectares of cotton is likely to be grown in the valley in the 1999/2000 water year which did not exist 4 years ago. Viticulture plantings are around 6,000 hectares, up from around 1,000 hectares 4 to 5 years ago. 122 QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS Wednesday 23 June 1999
Markets have played a role in allowing industry to move from traditional lower value commodities such as lucerne and pasture, to those higher value crops of viticulture and cotton as well as mining. On 2 June 1999, NSW Government released a report on Water Trading Development and Monitoring. The report provides a number of recommendations on Water Trading in New South Wales. Rural bulk water charges are being determined by the Independent Pricing and Regulatory Tribunal. The last determination of 16 July 1998 set prices for the 1998/99 and 1999/2000 water years. Their next determination is due in July 2000. Although I expect that, in line with the requirements of COAG and competition policy principles, the tribunal will move further along the track of full cost recovery, my interest is in making sure that these costs are reasonable and that they are shared equitably. The NSW Government is moving forward with the water reform process. Policies will obviously change the Lachlan between 29 April 1999 and 2004 with community greatly influencing the change.
*23 ENDOSULFANS—“E” LISTING OF CATTLE—Mr Armstrong asked the Minister for Agriculture and Minister for Land and Water Conservation—
(1) In the use of endosulfans on cotton crops in New South Wales, will the Government give an assurance that “E” listing of cattle within a 30-km radius of farms using endosulfans will not be discriminated against in the market place? (2) Does the “E” list still exist? (3) Is there an “unofficial” “E” list within the agents and cattle buying fraternity? (4) Does the Government believe that the protection of cotton and the use of associated chemicals is compatible in high-value horticulture producing areas and intense dairying regions in New South Wales?
Answer—
(1) It is Government’s role to ensure that residue affected cattle do not reach the market place. In doing so, our vital export industries and consumer confidence are protected. It has been the cotton and cattle industry’s role, through much negotiation and discussion, to ensure fair remuneration for product. This is continuing with the cattle and cotton industries currently developing Endosulfan monitoring proposals for the 1999/2000 cotton season in consultation with Federal and State agencies. There has never been any requirement for the “E” listing of all cattle located within a 30 km radius of cotton farms using Endosulfan. It is highly unlikely that cattle grazed 30 km from Endosulfan applications are at risk from Endosulfan spray drift. The Endosulfan targeted testing list used over the past two cotton seasons comprised tail tag numbers registered to cotton growers and to their immediate neighbours. These were the only criteria for selecting tags. Provision was made to remove tag numbers from the list where the cattle were not at risk from Endosulfan spray drift. (2) No. All tail tag numbers listed for Endosulfan testing during the 1998/99 cotton season were removed from the Australian Quarantine and Inspection Service (AQIS) Extended Residue Program (ERP) database when the monitoring program finished on 19 March 1999. (Note: Abattoirs are required to check all cattle tail tags against the AQIS ERP database prior to slaughter. The database specifies residue testing requirements for cattle considered to be at risk of particular chemical residues. Abattoirs are obliged to undertake testing in accordance with database instructions.) (3) I have no evidence of an “unofficial” “E” list held by cattle buyers or agents. There would seem to be little point in doing so. Any targeted test list is only valid while in use for targeted testing purposes. At that time, it is readily available to legitimate users, including processors, saleyards and agents, through the AQIS ERP database. 123 QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS Wednesday 23 June 1999
The misuse of any such list would contravene the access conditions for the AQIS ERP database. AQIS limit database access to “stock agents, saleyards, feedlots, processors and regulators in the meat industry for the sole purpose of meeting the planned residue testing requirements of cattle sent to slaughter.” Users are also required to “take measures to ensure it (the data) is not misused, or passed to unauthorised persons.” Anyone breaching these requirements may have their database access denied. (4) Cotton can be protected from insect pests without creating problems for adjacent land users, by the use of best management practices. NSW Agriculture has worked with the industry to assist with the development and promotion of best management practices relying on integrated pest management to minimise the use of chemicals. High value horticultural crops have similar pest problems to cotton and NSW Agriculture also assists those industries to minimise chemical use. It is desirable to have a buffer between cotton fields and pastures used by dairy cattle. With planning, both industries could be located within the same region.
*24 NEWCASTLE DISEASE—Mr Armstrong asked the Minister for Agriculture and Minister for Land and Water Conservation—
(1) Will the Government guarantee that it has controlled the spread of Newcastle Disease in the New South Wales chicken industry? (2) If not, why not? (3) Can the Government demonstrate that the most recent outbreak of Newcastle Disease on Mangrove Mountain was not caused by the failure to arrest the previous outbreaks in that area earlier this year? (4) Can the Government indicate where the source of infection in any of the outbreaks in the last 18 months originated from? (5) Can the Government give an assurance that the contamination was not caused by poor management at the time of the Government’s remedial action on Newcastle Disease-affected farms?
Answer—
(1) and (2) All possible steps have been taken by NSW Agriculture, supporting agencies and volunteers to contain the current outbreak on the Mangrove Mountain ridge. To date, the control operation has recruited staff from some 43 different agencies. Along with volunteers brought in from New South Wales and interstate, this has meant that up to 1,000 people have been involved at any one time. Destruction of almost two million birds has been completed and the area is now completely destocked. Systematic decontamination of the 33 commercial poultry premises on the ridge has commenced. At this stage, this outbreak would appear to have been successfully contained, given that there is no evidence that virulent Newcastle disease is present in other parts of the State. However, the situation is being closely monitored. (3) to (5) The stringent measures undertaken as part of the control program have ensured that the disease has been confined to a single outbreak involving a number of farms in the Mangrove Mountain area. Detailed investigations to clarify the source and movement of the disease in this outbreak are proceeding. There is no scientific evidence to suggest a direct connection between the Western Sydney outbreak in 1998 and the current Mangrove Mountain outbreak. There is, however, scientific evidence in the present restricted area of a number of non-virulent strains of virus which are closely related to the virulent strains indicating an unstable situation in the area. The National Consultative Committee on Emergency Animal Disease has recommended a policy of depopulation of the area to eliminate these unstable strains.
*25 KU-RING-GAI HOUSING STRATEGY—Mr Humpherson asked the Deputy Premier, Minister for Urban Affairs and Planning, Minister for Aboriginal Affairs and Minister for Housing— 124 QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS Wednesday 23 June 1999
(1) Will he meet with the mayor and councillors to discuss their progress with the housing strategy for Ku-ring-gai? (2) Is he prepared to extend the August 1999 deadline if the council can demonstrate its commitment toward providing housing choice?
Answer—
(1) I met the Mayor, Deputy Mayor and council officers on 4 June 1999. (2) Yes.
*26 RTA LAND—FRENCHS FOREST—Mr Humpherson asked the Minister for Transport and Minister for Roads—
(1) What options have been, or are being, considered by his department for the future use of the portion of RTA land at the corner of Warringah Road and Wakehurst Parkway, Frenchs Forest? (2) Have there been any approaches from Channel 9 or other media outlets seeking to purchase or lease the land? (3) Has his department considered utilising the land for a bus interchange and car park? (4) If not, would he consider proposals from the local council and local Members of Parliament?
Answer—
(1) A series of road and public transport options were considered as part of the Warringah/Lower North Shore Urban Strategy Advisory Committee in late 1994. The committee endorsed six transport improvement options for public exhibition. Of these six options, only two involved the land in question. Option 2 (9.8 km tunnel from Chatswood to Warringah Mall) provided for a station on RTA land at the intersection of Warringah Road and Wakehurst Parkway. Option 6 (7 km road tunnel from the Warringah Freeway at Naremburn to the Wakehurst Parkway) also provided for a bus station at the same location. Since that time, no other transport-related options have been considered for the land in question. (2) The RTA has advised it has not been approached by Channel 9 or any other media outlet seeking to purchase or lease the land. (3) See (1) above. (4) Proposals from local council and local Members of Parliament would be considered.
*27 CITYRAIL—CARRIAGE MAINTENANCE POLICY—Mr O’Farrell asked the Minister for Transport and Minister for Roads—
(1) Why was CityRail carriage number 4147 allowed to operate during the morning peak of 13 May 1999 with a set of doors failing to open? (2) When was this malfunction first noticed? (3) When was it repaired? (4) What is CityRail’s policy on the identification, use and repair of carriages with such faults? 125 QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS Wednesday 23 June 1999
Answer—
The State Rail Authority advises me of the following: (1) The doors on car 4147 have had no defects reported over the last 3 months. Car 4147 underwent scheduled maintenance on 17 May 1999 and no defects were detected at that time either. (2) Not applicable. (3) Not applicable. (4) A defect is reported by the train crew to Network Control which arranges for the train to be attended by an Equipment Examiner and the fault is rectified in service, if possible, or at a Maintenance Centre.
*28 BUS ROUTE 422-428—Mr O’Farrell asked the Minister for Transport and Minister for Roads—
(1) Is he aware of complaints concerning the bus stop for route 422-428 located in Castlereagh Street, opposite David Jones? (2) What action is the Department of Transport and State Transit undertaking to eliminate the conflict between STA buses and tourist coaches? (3) How long will commuters have to wait for the problem to be remedied?
Answer—
(1) to (3) The State Transit Authority and the RTA have reported illegal parking by tourist coaches to the Police Service. I understand that the present location of the bus stop is only temporary pending the completion of footpath widening by Sydney City Council.
*29 SECURITY AT ROCKDALE STATION—Mr O’Farrell asked the Minister for Transport and Minister for Roads—
(1) Is he aware of an assault upon a school student at Rockdale Station on 26 November 1998? (2) Did station staff inform the student’s family that their requests for a security upgrade and increased staffing at the station had been refused? (3) What action is he taking to improve security at Rockdale Station? (4) What is the proposed timetable for completion of any improvements?
Answer—
(1) and (2) The State Rail Authority advises it has no record of this incident. (3) and (4) The Carr Government is currently undertaking the most comprehensive security upgrade in the history of CityRail. As part of this upgrade, Rockdale Station will have high intensity lighting, “Help Points” and surveillance cameras installed by January 2000. This is in addition to the two security guards on every CityRail service each night from 7.00 pm.
*30 BIOTECHNOLOGY CONFERENCE—Mr O’Farrell asked the Minister for Information Technology, Minister for Energy, Minister for Forestry and Minister for Western Sydney—
(1) Is New South Wales represented at BIO99, the biotechnology conference and exhibition, being held in Seattle, USA? (2) If not, why not? 126 QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS Wednesday 23 June 1999
(3) If so: (a) who attended? (b) for what period? (c) at what cost?
Answer—
(1) Yes, New South Wales was represented at BIO99 in Seattle. (2) Not applicable. (3) (a) The New South Wales mission to BIO99 was led by Professor Gus Guthrie, Chairman of the NSW Innovation Council. Professor Guthrie was supported by an officer of the NSW Department of State and Regional Development, Mr Jamie Callachor. The mission comprised representatives from eight New South Wales biotechnology companies which also participated in BIO99 in Seattle, namely: Aoris Nova Pty Ltd. Aza Research Pty Ltd. Symbiotic Research Pty Ltd. Biotech Australia Pty Ltd. Biodiscovery Pty Ltd. Elastomedics Pty Ltd. Encompass Bioinformatics Pty Ltd. IRM Technologies Pty Ltd. (b) Professor Guthrie and Mr Callachor arrived in Seattle on Saturday 15 May. BIO99 commenced on Sunday 16 May and ran until Thursday 20 May inclusive. Professor Guthrie departed for Sydney on the morning of Thursday 20 May. Mr Callachor departed for Sydney on the morning of Friday 21 May 1999 at the conclusion of the conference and trade exhibition. (c) The total cost of attendance by Professor Guthrie and Mr Callachor at BIO99 in Seattle is estimated to be $15,700 which includes airfares, accommodation, daily expenses, freight, exhibition costs, sponsorship charges, registration fees for BIO99 and cost of publications (some final invoices not yet received). Participating companies were responsible for their own costs.
*31 BRUNSWICK VALLEY HIGH SCHOOL—Mr D. L. Page asked the Minister for Education and Training—
In relation to the proposed new high school for the Brunswick Valley, can he advise— (1) What funding is being allocated to this project in the 1999/2000 Capital Works Program? (2) How many sites are being considered and where are these sites? (3) What is the proposed construction and completion dates for this project? (4) How many students is it proposed this new school will accommodate? (5) What is the estimated cost of the project?
Answer—
This Government is committed to providing a new high school in the Brunswick Valley and the project has been nominated for inclusion in a forward Capital Works Program. At this stage, I am unable to provide a firm indication as to the timeframe for when construction funds will be allocated for this project, as I cannot pre-empt the deliberations of the Budget Committee. Details of the new school will be announced when planning and funding matters are finalised. 127 QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS Wednesday 23 June 1999
*32 GOVERNMENT PUBLICATIONS—Mr Souris asked the Premier, Minister for the Arts and Minister for Citizenship—
In regards to the Government Publication “Working Together—A Statement of Commitment to Rural Social Justice by the New South Wales Government”, signed by the Premier, the Minister for Health and the Minister for Regional Development— (1) What was the release date? (2) What was the total cost of production and distribution? (3) How many copies were produced? (4) How many copies were distributed? (5) What are the organisations and individuals that the document was distributed to? (6) Which department(s) paid for the production and distribution costs of the document? (7) What was the aim for this document’s release?
Answer—
(1) Monday 15 February 1999. (2) The cost was within the budget and guidelines for the project. (3) 2,200. (4) 2,128. (5) A schedule of organisations and individuals who were sent the document follows: Ministers H. Woods MP Regional Development and Rural Affairs P.D. Allan MP Environment R.S. Amery MP Agriculture, Land and Water J.J. Aquilina MP Education R.J. Debus MP Energy, Tourism, Arts R.D. Dyer MP Public Works and Services M.R. Egan MP Treasurer J.R. Face MP Gaming and Racing G.M. Harrison MP Sport and Recreation C.J. Knowles MP Urban Affairs, Housing F. Lo Po’ MP Community Services R.D. Martin MP Mineral Resources, Fisheries E.T. Page MP Local Government A.J. Refshauge MP Health, Aboriginal Affairs P.C. Scully MP Transport and Roads J.W. Shaw MP Attorney General P.F.P. Whelan MP Police K.M. Yeadon MP Information Technology, Forestry, Ports, Western Sydney 128 QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS Wednesday 23 June 1999
Government Departments Human Services’ Director’s General and Senior Offices Group Ministry for the Arts Corrective Services Community Services Commission Ethnic Affairs Commission Forests and Marine Administration Gaming and Racing Health Care Complaints Commission Rural Fire Service Department of Public Works and Services Department of Local Government Department of Aboriginal Affairs Department of Ageing and Disability Department of Agriculture Anti-Discrimination Board Attorney Generals Department Department of Community Services Department of Education and Training Department of Fair Trading NSW Fire Brigades Department of Health Home Care Service of NSW Department of Housing Department of Juvenile Justice Department of Land and Water Conservation National Parks and Wildlife Service NSW Police Service Roads and Traffic Authority Department of Sport and Recreation State and Regional Development State Emergency Service 129 QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS Wednesday 23 June 1999
Government Departments State Forests State Library State Rail Authority of NSW State Transit Authority Surveyor General’s Department Sustainable Energy Development Authority Sydney Water Tourism NSW Department of Transport Treasury Urban Affairs and Planning Ministry Urban Infrastructure Management Department for Women
Premiers Department Strategic Projects Division Regional Co-ordinators: North Coast North Coast RCMG Hunter Illawarra South Coast Western New South Wales Western Sydney Riverina - Murray New England Office of Regional Communities Government Access Pilot Centres Regional Consultative Council members Ministerial and Parliamentary Services State Administration Services Office of Information Technology 130 QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS Wednesday 23 June 1999
Premiers Department Council on the Cost of Government Corporate Services Reform Media Monitoring Community Projects Public Sector Management Office Library
Local Councils
Albury Queanbeyan Grafton
Armidale Quirindi Corowa
Ashfield Casino Cowra
Auburn Rylstone Crookwell
Ballina Scone Culcairn
Balranald Glen Innes Deniliquin
Barraba Blackbutt Dubbo
Bathurst Nowra Armidale
Castle Hill Singleton Dungog
Bega Berridale Moruya
Bellingen Beaconsfield Bathurst
Berrigan Braidwood Forbes
Bingara Tamworth Gilgandra
West Wyalong Temora Glen Innes
Blayney Tenterfield Gloucester
Katoomba Tumbarumba Gosford
Nyngan Tumut Goulburn
Bombala Murwillumbah Grafton
Boorowa Ulmarra Forster
Bourke Uralla Taree
Brewarrina Urana Griffith 131 QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS Wednesday 23 June 1999
Local Councils
Broken Hill Wagga Wagga Gundagai
Mullumbimby Moulamein Gunnedah
Molong Walcha Gunning
Camden Walgett Guyra
Campbelltown Warren Harden
Goolgowi Dee Why Port Macquarie
Casino Grenfell Windsor
Wilcannia Wellington Hay
Cessnock Wentworth Holbrook
Cobar Deniliquin Albury
Coffs Harbour Moss Vale Inverell
Deniliquin Picton Jerilderie
Coolah South Coast Mail Centre Junee
Coolamon Wyong West Kempsey
Cooma Warialda Kiama
Coonabarabran Queanbeyan Kyogle
Coonamble Yass Condobolin
Cootamundra Young Leeton
Manilla Muswellbrook Lismore
Merriwa Macksville Lithgow
Moree Narrabri Lockhart
Mudgee Narrandera Maclean
Goulburn Narromine Maitland
Mathoura Newcastle Orange
Darlington Point Nundle Parkes
Murrurundi South Grafton Tamworth
Raymond Terrace Oberon Mona Vale 132 QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS Wednesday 23 June 1999
Family Support Services Inverell Family Albury Taree (Manning) Kempsey Armidale Temora Kyogle Ballina Byron Tenterfield Leeton Outreach Bathurst Tweed Valley Lismore Blue Mountains Upper Hunter Lithgow Broken Hill and District Wingecarribee Menindee Family Services Casino Wollondilly/Camden Group Aboriginal Corporation Milton/Ulladulla Central West Nowra Moree Family and Adolescent Cessnock Orange Support Services Mudgee (Anglicare) Clarence Valley Parkes Muloobinba Aboriginal Coffs Harbour Tamworth Corporation Nambucca/Bellingen Cowra Far South Coast Namoi Deniliquin Goulburn Ngadrii Ngalli Way Dubbo Griffith Regional Nimbin Neighbourhood Eurobodalla Gunnedah Women Centre
Neighbourhood Centres Macksville Armidale Albury Moree Ballina Goulburn Mudgee Bathurst Gundagai Murwillumbah Bellingen Guyra Nimbin Bingara Taree Orange Brunswick Heads Port Macquarie Parkes Byron Bay Lithgow Batemans Bay Casino Evans Head Scone Grafton East Nowra Goulburn West Tamworth Dungog Nowra Cooranbong Forbes Sussex Inlet Coffs Harbour Glen Innes 133 QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS Wednesday 23 June 1999
Neighbourhood Centres Temora Condobolin Lismore Gunnedah Cootamundra Tumut Tumbarumba Cowra Uralla Eden Crookwell Wauchope Young Woolgoolga
Peak Organisations ACOSS ACROD (NSW) Division Aged Services Association and ACT AIDS Council of NSW Association Children’s Welfare Australian Birthright Movement Australian Chamber of Manufacturers Australian Early Childhood Association Australian Red Cross NSW Centacare Child Protection Council Combined Pensioners/Superannuation Community Transport Organisation Incorporated Community Welfare Advisory Council Council of Intellectual Disability Council of University of Third Age Council on Crime Prevention Council on the Ageing NSW Country Women’s Association Disability Council of NSW Enough is Enough Ethnic Communities Council Family Support Services Association HACC Development Officers Institute for Family Advocacy and Leadership 134 QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS Wednesday 23 June 1999
Peak Organisations Intellectual Disability Rights Interchange NSW KU Children’s Services Lady Gowrie Child Centre Local Government and Shires Association Local Government Association (NSW) Local Government Community Service Association Migrant Women’s Speakout Mobile Resource Services Association National Children’s and Youth Law Centre National Council of Churches Network Community Activity NSW Aboriginal Land Council NSW Child Protection Council NSW Committee on Ageing NSW Council of Social Service NSW Farmers Association Older Women’s Network NSW People with Disabilities NSW Premiers Council on Women Salvation Army State Chamber of Commerce State Network Young in Care Tenants Union of NSW The Smith Family Volunteering NSW Welfare Rights Centre Ltd Western Sydney Regional Organisation Councils Women’s Electoral Lobby Youth Accommodation Association 135 QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS Wednesday 23 June 1999
Universities Southern Cross University CARED - Lismore University of New England Armidale Charles Sturt University Albury University of Wollongong Wollongong University of Newcastle Callaghan Australian Catholic University Dickson - ACT
Other Father McDowell Merrawa 2329, P O Box 58 Bill Randulph Urban Frontiers UTS Leigh Thompson Office of Public Service - Queensland RTIF National Meeting Chris Sidoti HREOC
Launch Minister Refshauge and staff Local press Launch participants
(6) The Premier’s Department - Office of Regional Communities paid for production and distribution. (7) The Government gave a commitment in the Social Justice Directions Statement in October 1996 that the Office of Regional Communities would prepare a Rural Social Justice Statement. The document is a statement of the Government’s strategic intent, achievements and initiatives in relation to the social justice needs of the people of rural New South Wales. The document has integrated over 400 Government initiatives from 30 agencies into an integrated statement, covering the social, economic and environmental needs of the communities of rural New South Wales.
*33 PROPOSED HIGH SCHOOL—TWEED HEADS/TWEED COAST REGION—Mr Souris asked the Minister for Education and Training—
In relation to the proposed new high school in the Tweed Heads/Tweed Coast region— (1) What is the proposed location? (2) How many students will be accommodated? (3) What is the proposed construction start date? (4) What is the proposed completion date? (5) What is the estimated cost? (6) What plans and designs have been proposed? 136 QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS Wednesday 23 June 1999
(7) In what year and term will the students commence their studies? (8) What programs/provisions will be provided for Aboriginal students? (9) What programs/provisions will be provided for students with learning difficulties? (10) How many teachers and auxiliary staff will be employed?
Answer—
(1) to (10) Planning is underway for a new high school for the area. The new high school would be a $15 million investment in the region. Such a high school would have permanent classrooms, science laboratories, technology rooms, art and drama spaces, a music room, a gymnastics and performance space, library, computer cabling, administration and landscaping.
*34 PROPOSED DUBBO SENIOR COLLEGE—Mr Souris asked the Minister for Education and Training—
In regards to the proposed new Dubbo Senior College— (1) What is the proposed construction start date? (2) What is the budgeted cost and completion date? (3) What plans and designs have been proposed for the college? (4) How many students will be accommodated? (5) In what year and term will the students commence their studies? (6) Will TAFE, workplace and university programs be accommodated at this college? (7) If yes, how will the programs be conducted? (8) If yes, will high schools outside of Dubbo, i.e., Narromine and Wellington, be included in these programs? (9) What programs/provisions will be provided for Aboriginal students at the proposed new college? (10) What programs/provisions will be provided for students with learning difficulties at the proposed new college? (11) Will students be required to relocate from other high schools in Dubbo to the proposed new college after completing Year 9? (12) Will teachers be required to relocate from other high schools in Dubbo to the proposed new college?
Answer—
(1) to (12) In December 1998, the Government announced that planning for the new senior college at Dubbo would begin. At this time, booklets and pamphlets were distributed. The information requested is contained in these publications.
*35 POLICE STRENGTH—NORTHERN REGION AND KEMPSEY DISTRICT—Mr Stoner asked the Minister for Police—
(1) What is the estimated number of additional police to be allocated to the Northern Region and Kempsey district of the extra 2,110 police promised by the Premier prior to the March 1999 State Election? (2) Can he give an assurance that the police station at Gladstone will not be closed? 137 QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS Wednesday 23 June 1999
Answer—
(1) to (2) As the Member for Oxley will be aware, the allocation of police resources to particular Region Commands is an operational matter for the Commissioner of the NSW Police Service. Commissioner Ryan has advised me that the Service is currently analysing the regional impact of the Government’s policy to place an additional 2,110 officers on the policing frontline.
*36 KEMPSEY DISTRICT HOSPITAL—Mr Stoner asked the Minister for Health—
(1) What measures will he implement to prevent the untenable situation at Kempsey District Hospital whereby: (a) the children’s ward was recently closed for 3 weeks? (b) no general surgeon has been available for the treatment of patients? (c) no x-ray services have been available? (d) patients are being told to travel to another hospital up to 1½ hours away from their residences? (2) Can he give an assurance that Kempsey District Hospital will not be downgraded below its level 3 status?
Answer—
(1) (a) The Mid North Coast Area Health Service has advised that when there are fewer than four paediatric patients, children are cared for in the general ward areas where appropriate nursing and medical care is provided. This is responsible management of health resources and is appropriate in the circumstances. (b) Two visiting general surgeons provide elective and emergency surgical services. (c) X-ray services are available for both routine and after hours care. (d) Where care required exceeds any hospital’s delineated role level, patients are transferred to the closest hospital that provides the appropriate level of service. (2) The Department of Health and the Area Health Board have provided assurances to the Kempsey community that the Kempsey District Hospital will continue to function as a Level 3 facility. These assurances were made provided that the Area Health Service and the community together are able to attract the necessary mix of specialist medical practitioners and other health professionals to the region to service Kempsey District Hospital and the community generally in private practice.
*37 SOUTH WEST ROCKS AMBULANCE STATION—Mr Stoner asked the Minister for Health—
(1) Will he honour the commitment made to the people of South West Rocks by the former Minister for Health on 10 March 1999 to construct and staff a full-time ambulance station at South West Rocks? (2) If so, what is the timeframe for said ambulance station?
Answer—
(1) Yes. (2) The former Minister for Health announced that an ambulance station would be built at South West Rocks during the term of this Government. 138 QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS Wednesday 23 June 1999
*38 POLICE MEDIA UNIT—Mr Tink asked the Minister for Police—
(1) For the year ended 31 December 1998, how much money was spent on, and by, the Police Media Unit? (2) As at 30 April 1999: (a) how many police were employed in the Police Media Unit? (b) how many people other than police were employed in the Police Media Unit?
Answer—
(1) I am advised that it is not possible to answer the Member for Epping’s question as there is no discrete Media Unit budget. (2) (a) 4. (b) 8.
*39 HIGH SCHOOL IN JERRABOMBERRA—Mr Webb asked the Minister for Education and Training—
In relation to the proposed new high school in Jerrabomberra— (1) Is the proposed location still the same as designated on the Jerrabomberra Plan? (2) How many students will be accommodated? (3) What is the proposed construction start date? (4) What is the proposed completion date? (5) What is the estimated cost? (6) What plans and designs have been proposed? (7) In what year and term will the students commence their studies? (8) Will the school be at full capacity on opening or will it be staggered to allow a progressive opening? (9) What programs/provisions will be provided for students with learning difficulties? (10) How many teachers and auxiliary staff will be employed?
Answer—
(1) to (10) There is no new high school proposed in Jerrabomberra.
25 MAY 1999
(Paper No. 4)
40 SCHOOL INVASION PROSECUTIONS—Mr Ashton to ask the Minister for Education and Training—
41 COUNCIL FIRE SERVICE LEVY—Mr Ashton to ask the Minister for Local Government, Minister for Regional Development and Minister for Rural Affairs—
*42 PROPOSED DEVELOPMENT—TRAFFIC STUDY—Mr Hazzard asked the Deputy Premier, Minister for Urban Affairs and Planning, Minister for Aboriginal Affairs and Minister for Housing—
When a proposed development is being considered by a council, is a traffic study required to be conducted only for the development in the said street whilst other existing and proposed developments that are in the immediate area of that proposed development are not required to be taken into account in the said traffic survey? 139 QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS Wednesday 23 June 1999
Answer—
The “Guide to Traffic Generating Developments”, produced by the Roads and Traffic Authority, outlines all aspects of traffic generation considerations relating to developments. Existing and proposed developments in the immediate area of the proposed development are observed during the survey of existing conditions and considered when recommending works to minimise impacts.
43 STATE RAIL AUTHORITY—LAND DEVELOPMENT—Ms Moore to ask the Minister for Transport and Minister for Roads—
44 BUS SERVICE 311—RAILWAY SQUARE TO KINGS CROSS—Ms Moore to ask the Minister for Transport and Minister for Roads—
45 WOOLLOOMOOLOO BAY—TRIAL FERRY SERVICES—Ms Moore to ask the Minister for Transport and Minister for Roads—
46 PYMBLE BRIDGE—REPLACEMENT COST—Mr O’Farrell to ask the Minister for Transport and Minister for Roads—
*47 DIP SITES AND RELATED CLAIMS—Mr Slack-Smith asked the Minister for Agriculture and Minister for Land and Water Conservation—
(1) How many dip site and dip-related claims have been settled including those involving claimants Pagotto, Mount, Scifleet, Newell, Kilkelly, Sharpe, Pierley, Thompson Claydon & Allen? (2) What has this cost the Government for each site? (3) Of these outstanding claims and settled claims, what is the total cost to Government and associated costs? (4) How many dip site claims are outstanding? (5) What is the present position on: (a) Wilsons Creek? (b) Montecollum? (c) Minyon? (d) Crystal Creek? (e) Vineyard? (f) Invercauld? (g) Blacks? (h) Old Grevillia? (i) Duroby Creek? (j) Bullfrog Creek? (k) Bilambil? (l) Graveyard Creek? (m) Upper Commissioners Creek? (n) Crawfords? (o) Snows? (p) Rous Mill? (q) Hawkwood? (r) Upper Horseshoe Creek? (s) Harcastles? 140 QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS Wednesday 23 June 1999
(t) Joffre? (u) South Murwillumbah? (v) Eungella? (w) Upper Eungell? (x) Springfield? (6) When will the Government resolve the existing claims?
Answer—
(1) Pagotto, Claydon. (2) Pagotto: $11,500. Claydon: $169,450. Claydon’s claim did not relate to a specific dip site. (3) Total cost to government and associated cost would include salaries, travel costs, legal costs, etc. Cannot be ascertained with any degree of accuracy. (4) Eight. (5) There are outstanding claims on Bilambil and South Murwillumbah only. (6) These matters are before the court for resolution.
48 “COUNTRY EMBASSY”—OFFICE HOURS AND STAFF LEVELS—Mr Souris to ask the Minister for Local Government, Minister for Regional Development and Minister for Rural Affairs—
49 KOGARAH RTA OFFICE—METHODS OF OPERATION—Mr Turner to ask the Minister for Transport and Minister for Roads—
50 TIMBER WORKERS AND REPRESENTATIVES OF TRAIN—MEETING—Mr Turner to ask the Minister for Information Technology, Minister for Energy, Minister for Forestry and Minister for Western Sydney—
26 MAY 1999
(Paper No. 5)
51 EASTERN DISTRIBUTOR TOLLWAY—BOURKE STREET—Ms Moore to ask the Minister for Transport and Minister for Roads—
52 EASTERN DISTRIBUTOR TOLLWAY—SOUTH DOWLING STREET—Ms Moore to ask the Minister for Transport and Minister for Roads—
53 FISHING CLOSURES—REGULATION F93/186B—Mr Oakeshott to ask the Minister for Local Government, Minister for Regional Development and Minister for Rural Affairs representing the Minister for Mineral Resources and Minister for Fisheries—
54 AGENDA 21 COMMITTEES—Ms Seaton to ask the Minister for Local Government, Minister for Regional Development and Minister for Rural Affairs—
55 LICENSED PEAT MINES—Ms Seaton to ask the Minister for Local Government, Minister for Regional Development and Minister for Rural Affairs representing the Minister for Mineral Resources and Minister for Fisheries— 141 QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS Wednesday 23 June 1999
56 MID NORTH COAST AREA HEALTH SERVICE—Mr Stoner to ask the Minister for Health—
57 HUNTER AREA ASSISTANCE SCHEME—Mr Turner to ask the Deputy Premier, Minister for Urban Affairs and Planning, Minister for Aboriginal Affairs and Minister for Housing—
58 NORTHPOWER—SECURITY DEPOSITS—Mr Turner to ask the Minister for Information Technology, Minister for Energy, Minister for Forestry and Minister for Western Sydney—
59 MYALL LAKES NATIONAL PARK—ROADS PROGRAM—Mr Turner to ask the Minister for the Environment, Minister for Emergency Services, Minister for Corrective Services and Minister Assisting the Premier on the Arts—
27 MAY 1999
(Paper No. 6)
60 ELECTION PROMISE—POLICE SERVICE—Mr George to ask the Minister for Police—
61 DEPARTMENT OF HOUSING ASSETS—Mr Hazzard to ask the Deputy Premier, Minister for Urban Affairs and Planning, Minister for Aboriginal Affairs and Minister for Housing—
62 SID EINFELD DRIVE—NOISE BARRIERS—Ms Moore to ask the Minister for Transport and Minister for Roads—
63 PEDESTRIAN ACCIDENTS—OXFORD STREET—Ms Moore to ask the Minister for Transport and Minister for Roads—
64 WITNESS PROTECTION PROGRAM—Mr Tink to ask the Minister for Police—
65 ENFIELD POLICE STATION—STAFFING—Mr Tink to ask the Minister for Police—
1 JUNE 1999
(Paper No. 7)
66 TAFE STAFF—Mr Barr to ask the Minister for Education and Training—
67 CORRECTIVE SERVICES—INMATES—Mr Hazzard to ask the Minister for the Environment, Minister for Emergency Services, Minister for Corrective Services and Minister Assisting the Premier on the Arts—
68 POLICE SERVICE—STAFF LEVELS—Ms Hodgkinson to ask the Minister for Police—
69 AREA HEALTH SERVICES—DEBT LEVEL—Ms Hodgkinson to ask the Minister for Health—
70 TRAIN SERVICES—OLYMPIC PERIOD—Ms Hodgkinson to ask the Minister for Transport and Minister for Roads— 142 QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS Wednesday 23 June 1999
71 TAXIS AND HIRE CAR INDUSTRY REVIEW—Ms Moore to ask the Premier, Minister for the Arts and Minister for Citizenship—
72 DUTTON TROUT HATCHERY—Mr Oakeshott to ask the Minister for Local Government, Minister for Regional Development and Minister for Rural Affairs representing the Minister for Mineral Resources and Minister for Fisheries—
73 CARP BOUNTY LICENCES—Mr Oakeshott to ask the Minister for Local Government, Minister for Regional Development and Minister for Rural Affairs representing the Minister for Mineral Resources and Minister for Fisheries—
74 MERRIWA CENTRAL SCHOOL—Mr Souris to ask the Minister for Education and Training—
75 PROPOSED GAOL—MID-NORTH COAST—Mr Stoner to ask the Minister for the Environment, Minister for Emergency Services, Minister for Corrective Services, and Minister Assisting the Premier on the Arts—
76 TRAFFIC LIGHTS CO-ORDINATION—PENNANT HILLS ROAD—Mr Tink to ask the Minister for Transport and Minister for Roads—
77 MOTOR CYCLE ACCIDENTS—POLICE REPORTS—Mr Turner to ask the Minister for Police—
78 KARUAH POLICE STATION—Mr Turner to ask the Minister for Police—
79 COUNTY COUNCILS—CAPITAL CONTRIBUTION CHARGES—Mr Turner to ask the Minister for Local Government, Minister for Regional Development and Minister for Rural Affairs—
2 JUNE 1999
(Paper No. 8)
80 VACANT HOUSES/UNITS—DEPARTMENT OF HOUSING—Mr Hazzard to ask the Deputy Premier, Minister for Urban Affairs and Planning, Minister for Aboriginal Affairs and Minister for Housing— 81 STAFF LEVELS—DEPARTMENT OF HOUSING—Mr Hazzard to ask the Deputy Premier, Minister for Urban Affairs and Planning, Minister for Aboriginal Affairs and Minister for Housing—
82 NORTHERN BEACHES LOCAL AREA COMMAND—Mr Hazzard to ask the Minister for Police—
83 RECREATIONAL ANGLERS TRUST FUND—Mr Oakeshott to ask the Minister for Local Government, Minister for Regional Development and Minister for Rural Affairs representing the Minister for Mineral Resources and Minister for Fisheries—
84 PROGRAM TRANSFERRING PEOPLE FROM INSTITUTIONALISED CARE—Mr Rozzoli to ask the Minister for Community Services, Minister for Ageing, Minister for Disability Services and Minister for Women—
85 RESPITE CARE FUNDING—Mr Rozzoli to ask the Minister for Community Services, Minister for Ageing, Minister for Disability Services and Minister for Women— 143 QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS Wednesday 23 June 1999
86 DEVELOPMENTAL DISABILITY—GOVERNMENT EXPENDITURE—Mr Rozzoli to ask the Minister for Community Services, Minister for Ageing, Minister for Disability Services and Minister for Women—
87 DEVELOPMENTAL DISABILITY—RESPITE CARE—Mr Rozzoli to ask the Minister for Community Services, Minister for Ageing, Minister for Disability Services and Minister for Women—
88 DEVELOPMENTAL DISABILITY—LEVEL OF SERVICE—Mr Rozzoli to ask the Minister for Community Services, Minister for Ageing, Minister for Disability Services and Minister for Women—
89 DEVELOPMENTAL DISABILITY—ACCOMMODATION—Mr Rozzoli to ask the Minister for Community Services, Minister for Ageing, Minister for Disability Services and Minister for Women—
90 CANCELLED HIP SURGERY—Mrs Skinner to ask the Minister for Health—
91 HELICOPTER MEDICAL RETRIEVAL TEAM—Mrs Skinner to ask the Minister for Health—
92 RADIOTHERAPY TREATMENT—Mrs Skinner to ask the Minister for Health—
93 NORTHPOWER SERVICE ACCESS FEE—Mr Turner to ask the Minister for Information Technology, Minister for Energy, Minister for Forestry and Minister for Western Sydney—
3 JUNE 1999
(Paper No. 9)
94 FREIGHTCORP IN GOULBURN—Ms Hodgkinson to ask the Minister for Transport and Minister for Roads—
95 EASTERN DISTRIBUTOR—LOCAL AREA IMPROVEMENT PROGRAM—Ms Moore to ask the Minister for Transport and Minister for Roads—
96 RTA PROJECT—CHERRYBROOK—Mr Richardson to ask the Minister for Transport and Minister for Roads—
97 POLICE COMMISSIONER’S REMUNERATION—Mr Tink to ask the Premier, Minister for the Arts and Minister for Citizenship—
98 WIRE ROPE BARRIERS—MOTOR CYCLES—Mr Turner to ask the Minister for Transport and Minister for Roads— 144 QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS Wednesday 23 June 1999
22 JUNE 1999
(Paper No. 10)
99 HISTORIC HOUSE—FAULCONBRIDGE—Mr Collins to ask the Premier, Minister for the Arts and Minister for Citizenship—
(1) Was a house at Faulconbridge which once belonged to Sir Henry Parkes, former Premier of New South Wales, sold recently for $480,000? (2) Had local residents asked the State to acquire the house to recognise Sir Henry Parkes as the Father of Federation as Australia prepares to commemorate the Centenary of Federation? (3) Why did he not instruct the Historic Houses Trust of NSW to acquire the house as proposed?
100 NAREMBURN—TRAFFIC MANAGEMENT STUDY—Mr Collins to ask the Minister for Transport and Minister for Roads—
(1) Does the Naremburn Local Area Traffic Management Study recommend road access restrictions and the constructions of a Chandos Street Link? (2) Does the study point out that traffic flows in that area exceed the RTA’s agreed safety levels, in some cases, by over 100%? (3) Why is the RTA not acting immediately to restore safety levels to protect the lives of people living in this area? (4) Which is the RTA’s greater priority - human safety or traffic flow?
101 FEDERAL FUNDING—SIGNIFICANT LEARNING DIFFICULTIES—Mr Hartcher to ask the Minister for Education and Training—
(1) What is the cost per annum of educating a child with significant learning difficulties in the New South Wales State school system? (2) What allowance is received from the Federal Government for this purpose? (3) What is the name of the Federal Assistance Program? (4) (a) How much is to be paid under it this financial year to New South Wales? (b) How is this divided between government and independent schools? (5) How many children are classified in the New South Wales State school system as having significant learning difficulties? (6) How much is paid under the Federal Assistance Program per child to independent schools for children with significant learning difficulties? (7) How many children in independent schools are classified as having significant learning difficulties? (8) What State assistance, if any, is given to children in independent schools who have significant learning difficulties?
102 FESTIVAL DEVELOPMENT CORPORATION—Mr Hartcher to ask the Minister for Local Government, Minister for Regional Development and Minister for Rural Affairs representing the Treasurer and Minister for State Development—
(1) Who are the members of the Festival Development Corporation? (2) When do their terms of office expire? (3) What payment do they receive? (4) What is the annual cost of the Festival Development Corporation to the New South Wales Government? 145 QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS Wednesday 23 June 1999
(5) (a) How many staff are employed by the Festival Development Corporation? (b) At what cost? (6) What is the annual operating cost of the corporation? (7) (a) What property does the corporation rent? (b) What is the annual rental? (8) Under what Act does the corporation operate? (9) Who appoints the members of the corporation?
103 CENTRAL COAST ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT BOARD—Mr Hartcher to ask the Minister for Local Government, Minister for Regional Development and Minister for Rural Affairs—
(1) Who are the members of the Central Coast Economic Development Board? (2) When do their terms of office expire? (3) What payment do they receive? (4) What is the annual cost of the Central Coast Economic Development Board to the New South Wales Government? (5) (a) How many staff are employed by the Central Coast Economic Development Board? (b) At what cost? (6) What is the annual operating cost of the board? (7) (a) What property does the board rent? (b) What is the annual rental? (8) Under what Act does the board operate? (9) Who appoints the members of the board?
104 DOUGLAS PARK BRIDGE—Ms Seaton to ask the Minister for Transport and Minister for Roads—
(1) Is there any movement occurring in the Douglas Park Bridge on the Hume Highway? (2) What tests and measurements are conducted on the bridge and with what frequency? (3) What liaison occurs with other State agencies in this process?
105 STORMWATER TRUST PROJECTS—Ms Seaton to ask the Minister for the Environment, Minister for Emergency Services, Minister for Corrective Services and Minister Assisting the Premier on the Arts—
(1) What projects have received funding through the Stormwater Trust? (2) (a) Where are these projects located? (b) How much funding did each receive? (c) What was the nature and purpose of each project? (3) Were any projects located in “greenfields” sites?
106 DOUGLAS PARK BRIDGE—Ms Seaton to ask the Minister for Local Government, Minister for Regional Development and Minister for Rural Affairs representing the Minister for Mineral Resources and Minister for Fisheries—
(1) Is there any movement occurring in the Douglas Park Bridge on the Hume Highway? (2) If so, is any of this movement the result of mining impact in the area? (3) Is the bridge safe? 146 QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS Wednesday 23 June 1999
107 AIR-CONDITIONING—MUSWELLBROOK HIGH SCHOOL—Mr Souris to ask the Minister for Education and Training—
(1) Has an application by Muswellbrook High School for air-conditioning at the school been rejected for the 1999 year? (2) Will the same application succeed in the 2000 allocations? (3) What is the State Government’s contribution for 1999 and its intended contribution for 2000 for air-conditioning country schools? (4) What is the list of schools and value of each project for the 1999 allocations statewide? (5) Did the Government make a promise during the 1999 election campaign that there would be a program of $40 million to air-condition all country schools over the next 2 years? (6) Why has this promise been reduced to $2.6 million in 1999? (7) Given the outcome of this promise, what is the future of election promises to air-condition classrooms at 35 schools in the electorate of Upper Hunter over the next 2 years at schools such as Scone High, Cassilis, Coolah, Dunedoo, Goolma, Gulgong, Lue, Merriwa, Red Hill, Ulan, Wollar, Cudgegong Valley, Mudgee High and Primary, Windeyer, Belltrees and Martindale?
108 BINNAWAY RAIL HERITAGE—Mr Souris to ask the Minister for Transport and Minister for Roads—
(1) Why is the Binnaway Rail Heritage Museum continually denied its request to operate one trial run using a heritage rail motor at low speed? (2) Is the line between Binnaway and Gwabegar open for freight trains? (3) What weight and speed is tolerated on this line? (4) Does he agree that the heritage and tourism potential of the line to the Warrumbungles provides a significant opportunity for the local economy? (5) Would a train, as light weight as a heritage rail motor, travelling at 15-25 km per hour, be considered safe to conduct a single trial run? (6) What is the reason the Rail Access Authority is so opposed to granting a single trial for this dedicated group, which collectively has some 200 years of experience in rail operations?
109 COW PASTURE ROAD UPGRADE—Mr J.H. Turner to ask the Minister for Transport and Minister for Roads—
(1) Is Cow Pasture Road at Bossley Park being widened and upgraded? (2) In conjunction with such work, has the RTA or any relevant authority placed the electricity supply underground? (3) If so, in what section of the road works did this occur? (4) If it is proposed that the electricity supply aligned with the widening and upgrade not be put underground, what sections of the work will this occur in? (5) If any electricity supply aligned with the widening and upgrade is to be above the ground, why is this proposed? (6) If part of the electricity supply aligned with the widening and upgrade is underground and part is above-ground, why was this decision taken? (7) If any electricity supply that is aligned with the widening and upgrade is above-ground, what voltage and wattage pass through those lines? (8) If any electricity supply that is aligned with the widening and upgrade is above the ground, how close will the wires and poles associated with such supply be to residential dwellings? (9) If any electricity supply that is aligned with the widening and upgrade is above the ground, what testing or inquiry has been made as to occupational health and safety aspects of such supply being above the ground? 147 QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS Wednesday 23 June 1999
(10) If any electricity supply that is aligned with the widening and upgrade is above the ground, has any environmental impact statement been made or environmental assessment been undertaken? (11) If so, what was the result of such statement or assessment? (12) If not, why not? (13) Does the erection of cabling and poles comply with any local environment plan? (14) If not, why not? (15) If any electricity supply that is aligned with the widening and upgrade is above the ground, has he received any representation from residents in the areas that may be in the location of such electricity supply? (16) If such residents have made representations to him to have the electricity supply placed underground, what was the result of such representation? (17) If the representation by the residents to place the supply underground was denied, why was it denied? (18) If it was agreed during any representations or at any other time that the electricity supply should go underground, when will this occur?
110 COMMUNITY VISITORS—Mr J.H. Turner to ask the Minister for Community Services, Minister for Ageing, Minister for Disability Services and Minister for Women—
(1) What is the role of the community visitor in relation to the Department of Community Services? (2) How many community visitors are appointed? (3) How are they appointed? (4) What is the length of the appointment? (5) What is the expertise that they must have to have such appointment? (6) What statutory recognition do they have? (7) Do they have any powers of direction? (8) Should a community visitor give notice that they are attending a particular organisation or establishment prior to arrival? (9) If so, what is the protocol for such notification? (10) If not, why not? (11) How is the appointment of a community visitor terminated?
______Authorised by the Parliament of New South Wales