2511

PARLIAMENT OF NEW SOUTH WALES LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY

1999-2000-2001

SECOND SESSION OF THE FIFTY-SECOND PARLIAMENT

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QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS

No. 89

WEDNESDAY 30 MAY 2001

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(The Questions and Answers Paper is published for each sitting day and will contain, by number and title, all unanswered questions, together with questions to which answers have been received on the previous sitting day and any new questions. Consequently the full text of any question will be printed only twice: when notice is given; and, when answered.) 2512 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS Wednesday 30 May 2001

PUBLICATION OF QUESTIONS ANSWER TO BE LODGED BY Q. & A. No. 79 12 April 2001 (Including Question Nos 1682 to 1714) Q. & A. No. 80 1 May 2001 (Including Question Nos 1715 to 1746) Q. & A. No. 81 2 May 2001 (Including Question Nos 1747 to 1784) Q. & A. No. 82 3 May 2001 (Including Question Nos 1785 to 1815) Q. & A. No. 83 8 May 2001 (Including Question Nos 1816 to 1851) Q. & A. No. 84 9 May 2001 (Including Question Nos 1852 to 1880) Q. & A. No. 85 10 May 2001 (Including Question Nos 1881 to 1908) Q. & A. No. 86 15 May 2001 (Including Question Nos 1909 to 1932) Q. & A. No. 87 16 May 2001 (Including Question Nos 1933 to 1960) Q. & A. No. 88 21 May 2001 (Including Question Nos 1961 to 1983) Q. & A. No. 89 3 July 2001 (Including Question Nos 1984 to 2035) 2513 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS Wednesday 30 May 2001

Notice of Question given on the date shown

8 MARCH 2001

(Paper No. 79)

*1689 THERAPY SERVICES AT THE CRESCENT SSP, GOULBURN—Ms Hodgkinson to the Minister for Community Services, Minister for Ageing, Minister for Disability Services, and Minister for Women—

(1) Is the Minister aware that the Crescent SSP School at Goulburn has been without occupational, speech and physiotherapy services since July 2000? (2) Is the Minister aware that despite her written assurances made during October 2000 the DOCS therapy positions in Goulburn remain vacant? (3) Is the Minister aware of the serious effect the lack of these services is having on the disabled children in Goulburn? (4) What specific action did the Minister take to rectify the lack of these services in Goulburn following her written assurances in October 2000? (5) Why were these actions unsuccessful? (6) What personal action does the Minister now propose to take to fill these positions?

Answer— (1) The Dept of Ageing, Disability and Home Care have current arrangements to purchase therapy from private practitioners across all disciplines to specifically meet the needs of Crescent SSP, Goulburn. This arrangement has been long standing in lieu of vacant positions. This has been provided on the basis of referrals generated by the school to the Department. The Department has worked to provide an appropriate response to all referrals by the school that is timely and professional. The Department is unaware of any dissatisfaction with the current arrangements and service to the school. (2) As a consequence of the latest recruitment action the Speech Therapy position has been successfully filled. The position was offered in mid-April and the successful applicant has accepted the position and will start work on the 28 May 2001. The Occupational Therapy and Physiotherapy positions remain vacant but the Department has contracted private practitioners in the community for variable hours to meet the demand generated by Crescent SSP and the wider community. (3) The challenge of attracting therapists to rural and remote areas of NSW is a serious issue for disability services in NSW. The frustration and impact vacancies have upon children, adults, families, and communities is recognised and given high priority. When vacancies arise in therapy services, the Department purchases services from the private sector, non-government sector, and through working with other Government Departments, such as the Southern Area Health Service. (4) Vacancies in Speech Therapy have been advertised four times in the previous twelve months. In the latest recruitment action for a speech therapist, applicants were interviewed on 28 March 2001. The position was offered in mid-April and the successful applicant has accepted the position and will start work on the 28 May 2001. Private Occupational Therapist and Physiotherapist services continue to be purchased while the Department pursues further recruitment action. (5) See above. (6) The purchase of private therapy in lieu of vacancies will continue and be reviewed to ensure client and community needs are met. This will be supported by ongoing consultation with stakeholders and community partners in Goulburn. 2514 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS Wednesday 30 May 2001

27 MARCH 2001

(Paper No. 80)

*1715 CAPITAL CONSTRUCTION—Mr Armstrong to Minister for Fair Trading, Minister for Corrective Services, and Minister for Sport and Recreation—

(1) Since 1995 how much has NSW Tourism spent on capital construction and improvements for Sport and Recreation in NSW? (2) How much of these funds have been expended in Newcastle, Sydney and Wollongong? (3) How much per capita does this represent?

Answer—

(1) Questions relating to NSW Tourism should be directed to the Minister for Tourism. (2) N/A (See 1) (3) N/A (See 1)

*1716 TRANSFER OF PRISONERS—Mr Armstrong to Minister for Fair Trading, Minis ter for Corrective Services, and Minister for Sport and Recreation— What date have you determined for the Department of Corrective Services to assume responsibility for the transfer of prisoners in NSW as opposed to the NSW Police carrying out those responsibilities?

Answer—

The transfer of responsibility for court escort security functions is an on-going staged program. The Department of Corrective Services and the Police Service will continue to roll out the program in keeping with the government’s commitment in this regard.

*1717 ALUMINIUM SMELTER, LITHGOW—Mr Armstrong to Minister for Information Technology, Minister for Energy, Minister for Forestry, and Minister for Western Sydney— What funds has the NSW Government spent from your Department in the development of an aluminium smelter for Lithgow?

Answer—

The Ministry of Energy and Utilities has not expended any specific funds in relation to the Lithgow Aluminium Smelter (LAS). The NSW Government has taken the position that contract negotiations for projects requiring large amounts of electricity must proceed on a commercial basis directly with the relevant electricity business. This position is consistent with Government policy, the State Owned Corporations Act, and the commercial charter of the NSW Generation Sector. In line with this, there have been detailed negotiations between the Smelter proponents and each generator. However, the NSW Government has now agreed that the Market Implementation Group (MIG) within Treasury, together with the Parliamentary Energy Caucus Committee, will carry out a review to consider the operations of the generators in NSW in the context of a contract with LAS not being finalised. The review is in its early stages and anticipated costs have not yet been identified but would be met from the MIG expenditure allocation.

*1718 TAHMOOR DRUG CONSULTATION—Ms Seaton to Minister for Health— 2515 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS Wednesday 30 May 2001

(1) Are you aware of a Drugs and Community Action (Premiers Department) consultation held in Tahmoor in February 2001? (2) How many such consultations have been and will be held around NSW? (3) What is the total cost of the administration and running of these consultations? (4) Were any consultations held between Premier’s Department and the department of (a) Health; (b) DOCS; (c) Juvenile Justice; before this plan was finalised? (5) Why was it that the consultant who visited Tahmoor had no knowledge of discussions ongoing between the CEO of the South Western Area Health Service and myself about a range of community-generated proposals regarding local detox and residential rehabilitation? (6) Why is this information not sought by the Drugs and Community Action group before such consultations, and how much money and effort do you estimate will be wasted as a result of this lack of competent administration? (7) Are you aware that there are no such services in the Southern Highlands and Wollondilly Area? (8) What guarantees will you give that adequate services will be located in the Wollondilly and Southern Highlands areas? (9) What is the total budget of the Drugs and Community Action program and how much is being spent on: (a) administration? (b) programs? (10) How much will be allocated to the Wollondilly and Southern Highlands areas?

Answer—

(1) to (10) These questions should be referred to the Premier’s Department.

*1719 NPWS STAFF FILES—Ms Seaton to Attorney General, Minister for the Environment, Minister for Emergency Services, and Minister Assisting the Premier on the Arts— (1) How many National Parks and Wildlife Service (NPWS) staff have an adverse report attached to their current personal file? (2) Have any complaints been received from current NPWS employees about such reports? (3) Are employees past or present allowed access to this information?

Answer—

I am advised that the NPWS does not maintain such records and is not aware of any such complaints. In accordance with Premier’s Department guidelines, both present and past employees may access their personnel file.

*1720 NPWS OFFICE RENT—Ms Seaton to Attorney General, Minister for the Environment, Minister for Emergency Services, and Minister Assisting the Premier on the Arts— (1) What is the annual rent being paid by NPWS for the current NPWS office space? (2) What is the annual cost of cleaning services for the office? (3) What is the floor space of the office? (4) What is the annual cost of electricity and water?

Answer— 2516 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS Wednesday 30 May 2001

In 1994/1995, the National Parks and Wildlife Service (NPWS) employed 1197 staff and paid approximately 4 per cent of its total budget in rental costs. By 1999/2000, while staff numbers had increased to around 1700, rental costs actually fell to only 3% of the total NPWS budget. The floor space at this time was 26,853 square metres. The annual cleaning costs are generally included in the gross rent for each site. I am further advised that the total cost of electricity and water across NPWS for the 1999/2000 financial year was $805,773.49 and $270,352 respectively.

*1721 DOCS OFFICE KEMPSEY—Mr Stoner to Minister for Community Services, Minister for Ageing, Minister for Disability Services, and Minister for Women— How many positions (full-time equivalent) will be cut from the Kempsey Area Office of DOCS as a result of the restructuring process currently underway?

Answer—

Two positions will be affected under the Transformation – the Finance and Administration Manager and the HR Manager. There will now be one Senior Finance and Administration Manager and one Senior HR Manager for the new Northern Area. The Director Child & Family for Northern is based at Kempsey. Kempsey is the base location for the new position of Senior Practitioner Child & Family. There is no previous equivalent for this position.

*1722 SOUTH WEST ROCKS AMBULANCE STATION—Mr Stoner to Minister for Health— (1) In relation to the Ambulance Station under construction at South West Rocks (a) How many staff (full/part-time) will be employed? (b) What is the annual budget for operation of the station (salaries and running costs)? (c) How many vehicles will be in operation?

Answer—

(1) It is proposed that: (a) three full-time officers will be employed; (b) the annual budget for the operation of the station be $325,000; and (c) the two Ambulance vehicles be in operation from the station.

*1723 POLICE NUMBERS AT GOULBURN LOCAL AREA COMMAND—Ms Hodgkinson to Minister for

(1) How many authorised positions, by Police Station, are located within the Goulburn Local Area Command (LAC)? (2) How many of these positions are actually filled by Police Officers who are available for duty? (3) What duty position in the Goulburn LAC will be lost to allow the establishment of the Rural Crime Investigator?

Answer—

(1) to (2) There is no such category as an ‘authorised position’. However, the Honourable Member may care to note that the actual strength of the Goulburn local area command as at 2 April 2001 was 114. These figures reflect a favourable increase when compared to November 1994, under the Coalition Government, when the actual strength for the equivalent Command was 101 (3) Rural Crime Investigator positions are currently under consideration by the Police Service. 2517 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS Wednesday 30 May 2001

*1724 THERAPY SERVICES AT THE CRESCENT SSP, GOULBURN—Ms Hodgkinson to Minister for Community Services, Minister for Ageing, Minister for Disability Services, and Minister for Women—

(1) Is the Minister aware that because the Department of Community Services has been unable to provide therapy services to the Crescent SSP School, the Parents and Citizen’s Association are being forced to pay for the services of a visiting physiotherapist? (2) Is the Minister aware that despite her written assurances made during October 2000 that the Crescent School would be able to access Department of Health therapy services, they have only been available on an emergency basis? (3) What personal action does the Minister now propose to take to rectify this situation?

Answer—

(1) From discussion with the School Principal and the President of the P&C it has been established that this arrangement was initially put in place two years ago on the initiative of the Parents & Citizens Association. It is unclear what level of consultation was had with the Department around this arrangement and what support was asked of or offered by the Department. (2) The Department of Ageing, Disability and Home Ca re have current arrangements to purchase therapy from private practitioners across all disciplines to specifically meet the needs of Crescent SSP, Goulburn. This arrangement has been long standing in lieu of vacant positions. This has been provided on the basis of referrals generated by the school to the Department. The Department has worked to provide an appropriate response to all referrals by the school that is timely and professional. At this time the Department is unaware of any dissatisfaction with the current arrangements and service to the school. (3) Southern Area Health Service has been prepared to examine each referral on a case by case basis, but have not had the capacity to provide more substantial services to children with disability in Goulburn. (4) The Department will continue to purchase private physiotherapy to meet demand generated by Crescent SSP and the wider community of Goulburn. The Department will also continue to consult with the school and the Parents and Citizen Association, over the delivery of therapy services to the school’s students.

*1725 SOUTHERN AREA HEALTH SERVICE VACANCY—Ms Hodgkinson to Minister for Health—

(1) When will the position previously held by Kieran Gleesen (of Southern Area Health Service) be advertised and in which publications? (2) What date (approximate) is the position due to be filled?

Answer—

(1) Advertisements for the position of Chief Executive Officer of Southern Area Health Service appeared in The Sydney Morning Herald of 5 and 7 April 2001, The Australian of 7 April 2001, and the Public Service Notices of 4 April 2001. (2) A new appointee will commence when the selection process is completed.

*1726 CENTRAL SCHOOL STAFFING—Mr Souris to Minister for Education and Training—

(1) Is the Government committed to delivering equitable literacy and numeracy standards at Central Schools and Small High Schools? (2) Under the “whole school staffing” guidelines, are principals permitted to staff English and Mathematics secondary school classes with either primary teachers or secondary teachers outside the subject areas of English or Mathematics? 2518 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS Wednesday 30 May 2001

(3) Do you agree that only qualified English and Mathematics teachers should be assigned to Central Schools’ and Small High Schools’ English and Mathematics classes? (4) How many teachers who are either primary teachers or are teaching outside their subject areas, are involved in teaching English and Mathematics and in which schools are they located? (5) In the cases identified in (4) , will these teachers continue to teach such classes or is it intended that such appointments be short term and temporary? (6) In cases identified in (4) when will qualified and trained secondary English and Mathematics teachers be appointed to all English and Mathematics classes in Central Schools and Small High Schools?

Answer—

(1) Yes. (2) School principals allocate teachers to classes in accordance with the needs of the students in the school. Subjects are taught by teachers qualified in the subject area or willing and able to teach the subject. (3) Subjects are taught by teachers qualified in the subject area or willing and able to teach the subject. (4) Conducting the research necessary to provide this information would substantially and unreasonably divert the resources of the Department of Education and Training away from the exercise of its core functions. (5) The determination of whether a teacher continues to teach in a particular faculty area is made by the principal having regard to the teacher’s ability to deliver the curriculum appropriately and the availability of other teachers. (6) Permanent teaching vacancies are filled in accordance with advice from the principal regarding the curriculum area or areas the teacher filling the vacancy is required to teach.

*1727 POLICE RESPONSE TO MINOR THREATS—Mr Collins to Minister for Police—

(1) What is policing policy on the use of terminal force to quell a relatively contained threat? (2) Is there a time limit within which offenders must comply or be shot? (3) How can the New South Wales Police justify the allocation of such massive resources to the incident at Tumut (media reports say 90 police) to such a small-scale offence (no prior record of violence and minor charges)? (4) Do the New South Wales police have non-lethal alternatives available (eg nets, stunguns using sedatives etc)? (5) Will the New South Wales Police consider such non-lethal alternatives as a result of these incidents where the offender poses a minor threat and is contained/sealed off by police?

Answer—

(1) I am advised by the Deputy Commissioner that police operate under National Guidelines – Police Use of Lethal Force and that, in accordance with these Guidelines, every effort is made to effect the peaceful resolution of incidents by containment and negotiation. (2) No (3) The incident will be the subject of coronial proceedings and it is not appropriate for me to comment further. (4) to (5) I am advised that non-lethal alternatives are available to police and their use in accordance with the National Guidelines.

*1728 COUNTRY OBSTETRIC SERVICES—Mr Piccoli to Minister for Health—

Concerning country obstetric services: 2519 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS Wednesday 30 May 2001

(1) Why have obstetric services at Hay Hospital ceased even though Hay has a doctor with an obstetrics degree available? (2) Are doctors required to do 300 obstetric procedures over 3 years in order to fulfil NSW Health requirements and therefore keep obstetric services available at local hospitals? (3) If not, please advise what the current requirements relating to obstetric service quotas are? (4) How many hospitals have ceased obstetric services since January, 2000? (5) What are the names of these hospitals?

Answer—

(1) to (5) Hay Hospital in 1998/99 had only 14 deliveries. The Royal Australian College of GPs and the Royal Australian College of Obstetricians & Gynaecologists recommend GPs attend approximately 40 deliveries over a three year period. On the other hand, the quality standard recommended by the Shearman Committee was a minimum of 80 deliveries per annum per site.

*1729 BORDER TOWNS HEALTH CARE—Mr Torbay to Minister for Health—

Has the Minister or the department considered reciprocal health care arrangements with border towns and communities?

Answer—

Under the Australian Health Care Agreement all state and territory jurisdictions are committed to the following principles for admitted patient services irrespective of where patients reside: (1) Eligible patients must be given the choice to receive public hospital services free of charge as public patients; (2) Access to public hospital services by public patients is to be on the basis of clinical need and within clinically appropriate periods; (3) Eligible persons should have equitable access to public hospital services, regardless of their geographical location. New South Wales has funding arrangements with all states and territories to reimburse the costs of inpatient and, in some cases, outpatient services.

*1730 HIH INSURANCE COLLAPSE—Mr Torbay to Minister for Fair Trading, Minister for Corrective Services, and Minister for Sport and Recreation—

What steps has the Minister taken to protect business and private members of the community since the announcement of the collapse of HIH insurance?

Answer—

The collapse of HIH Insurance has created a range of problems for New South Wales families and businesses. The Department of Fair Trading has established an information line to obtain details of consumers and traders affected by the collapse. Emergency assistance to home building consumers who face immediate housing problems is being provided. The Department of Community Services is working with the Department in assessing applications for assistance. In the case of building contractors, the Department has met with the two other major home warranty insurers to discuss steps that they are putting in place to help former HIH builder clients obtain cover for future work. 2520 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS Wednesday 30 May 2001

The Department is also continuing to liaise with the liquidator, The Insurance Council of Australia and industry associations on this matter. Due to the size of the HIH group the liquidator is still determining the true financial position and it may be some time before the situation is clear. In light of the Federal Government’s responsibility for the prudential regulation of insurers the Premier has written to the Prime Minister calling for the introduction of a nationally administered levy on all insurance policies. The funds from this levy would cover the existing situation and possible future collapses. The Premier has also called for a review of the regulation of the Australian insurance industry.

*1731 MACKSVILLE AND DISTRICT HOSPITAL—Mr Stoner to Minister for Health—

In relation to your letter M00/3254 dated 11 September 2000, regarding the downgrading of services at Macksville and District Hospital: (1) Who was the “…Surgical Review Group formed at Macksville in 1999 to review patient

(2) Was there any consultation by this group with medical staff and/or the local community? (3) Why was the starting point for decisions about availability of surgery at Macksville and District Hospital the “….imperative that Macksville Hospital operates at a level commensurate with its physical ability and the skills and training of its clinical staff….”? (4) Why was not the starting point the health needs of the residents of the Nambucca District, who are between 30-60 minutes away from alternative hospitals? (5) Will you now review the health needs of this District and commit to upgrading where necessary the “physical ability and the skills and training of its clinical staff” to meet these needs?

(1) The Surgical Review Working Group consisted primarily of medical practitioners, including members of the Macksville District Hospital Medical Staff Council, as the matters for consideration by the Group required specialist clinical knowledge and skills. Any enquiries about the composition and skills of the Group should be addressed to the Chief Executive Officer of Mid North Coast Area Health Service. (2) The health needs of the local community were considered during the development of the Area Health Service’s Clinical Services Strategy, which involved wide consultation with clinical and other relevant stakeholders. The community consultation stage of the process included meetings of representatives from both the community and the health service. The Area Medical Advisory Committee and the Macksville Hospital Medical Staff Council were also involved. (3) to (5) The public hospital hierarchy appropriately provides a range of services at each of its hospitals based on case complexity and resources. The Nambucca Valley community has access to level 2/3 services locally at the Macksville District Hospital and more acute services at base hospitals throughout the Mid North Coast Area Health Service.

*1732 FIREARMS LINKS—Mr Souris to Minister for Information Technology, Minister for Energy, Minister for Forestry, and Minister for Western Sydney—

In regards to firearms links on the Government website: (1) Why are users of the NSW Government website who enter the search query “firearms” confronted with two headings entitled “Gun Control” before they can access any information on firearms? (2) Why is the link to the Sporting Shooters Association of Australia only available after negotiating the two links entitled “Gun Control”? (3) Is the emphasis on the heading “Gun Control” evidence of the Government’s bias against responsible firearms ownership for sporting shooters and farmers? (4) Will he instruct the managers of the website to create a more appropriate heading to the firearms information contained on the Government website? 2521 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS Wednesday 30 May 2001

(5) Will he instruct the managers of the website to create more links to sporting shooting organisations? (6) Will he make information on the responsible use of firearms more accessible on the website?

Answer—

(1) There are currently six links listed when a search query on “firearms” is entered, the links provided vary from legislative to sport. The link entitled “NSW Parliament – Gun Control” was listed because of its topical nature. Links on the NSW Government Home Page are generally sorted in alphabetical order. (2) The NSW Government Website does not contain all individual sporting associations, but it does provide a link to “NSW Sport and Recreation – NSW Sporting Organisations”. A similar approach has been taken with charitable organisations, links are provided to charity information and charity directories, but not to individual charities. This policy has been adopted for maintenance reasons. Maintaining links external to government is more difficult than internal government links, which are maintained by individual government agencies. (3) The search query result with a link to “NSW Parliament – Gun Control” is a link to information that was topical when entered into the system. (4) There are currently 6 titles returned following a search query for the term “firearms” and all of their titles appear to be appropriate, for example, (a) .AustLII – Acts (Consolidated NSW) Legislation Online, (b) 2.Australian Institute of Criminology (c) 3.Free Legal Advice and Assistance – LIAC (d) 4.NSW Parliament – Gun Control (e) 5.NSW Police Service – Prohibited Weapons Amnesty (f) 6.NSW Sport and Recreation – NSW Sporting Organisations (5) The NSW Government Home Page has a facility available for anyone who wishes to register a link with the NSW Government Home Page. The facility is available from the footer of the Home Page in the bottom right hand corner labelled “Register your link”. The policy for registering your link is also available from the “Register your Link” webpage. (6) I again invite all users of the NSW Government website to avail themselves of the facility “Register your Link” and to also utilise the “feedback” facility.

*1733 AFFORDABLE HOUSING LEGISLATION—Mr Humpherson to Deputy Premier, Minister for Urban Affairs and Planning, Minister for Aboriginal Affairs, and Minister for Housing—

How many dwellings have been completed and are now tenanted as a result of the Affordable Housing Legislation: Environmental Planning and Assessment Amendment (Affordable Housing) Act 2000?

Answer—

The provisions of the Environmental Planning and Assessment Amendment (Affordable Housing) Act 2000 are not triggered until the State Environmental Planning Policy for Affordable Housing is made. The Department of Urban Affairs and Planning is currently preparing the SEPP in consultation with industry and community representatives.

*1735 MENTAL HEALTH SERVICES—Mr Kerr to Minister for Health—

(1) What proportion of the $3.2 million for mental health services in South Eastern Area Health Service announced last year went to the Division of Mental Health at Sutherland Hospital? (2) What is the value of the amount that went directly to Sutherland Hospital? 2522 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS Wednesday 30 May 2001

Answer—

(1) 16.2% (2) $518,421

*1736 SALE OF RTA LAND—Mr Kerr to Minister for Transport, and Minister for Roads—

(1) What amount of money has been raised from sale of land formerly owned by the RTA on Port Hacking Road Miranda? (2) What is the total area of all lands that have been sold? (3) What is the total area of all lands that have yet to be sold?

Answer—

(1) $2,050,000 (two million and fifty thousand dollars) including GST calculated on the Margin Scheme was realised from RTA sale of surplus land on Port Hacking Road, Miranda. (2) The land sold comprising Lot 1 of Deposited Plan 1018486 has an area of 6,954 square metres. (3) No other Surplus RTA Land is available for disposal in this vicinity. The RTA has reserved from Sale Lot 2 Deposited Plan 1018486, an adjoining parcel to the land sold. This parcel having an area of 1,629 square metres, is required for Freeway.

*1737 SPECIAL STATE SPORT GRANTS—Mr Kerr to Minister for Education and Training—

(1) What criteria has the Minister laid down for Members of the Parliament of New South Wales to obtain a Special State Sport Grant to purchase sports equipment for schools in their electorate? (2) Is this Special State Sport Grant available to all fifteen Government schools in the Cronulla electorate? (3) From what budget are these Special State Sport Grants allocated? (4) What was the amount allocated for Special State Sport Grants for Government schools in the 2000/2001 budget?

Answer—

(1) I assume the Honourable Member is referring to the School Sport 2000 Foundation Grants Fund which I announced in March 1997. All applications are assessed in line with the following criteria: That the initiative: (a) Promotes physical activity, fitness and/or health across the school. (b) Provides benefits that are supplementary to normal curriculum requirements (c) Supports a clearly defined need. (d) Is cost effective. (e) Provides ongoing benefits to the school and students. (f) Demonstrates commitment of school resources and has the support of the school community. (g) Would not normally be covered by global funding. (h) Is within the $500 to $2000 funding range. (i) Is supported by an appropriate evaluation and reporting process. (j) Must be implemented and funds expended in the year that the grant is given. (2) Yes. Every NSW public school is eligible to apply for a School Sport 2000 Foundation Grant. (3) The School Sport 2000 Foundation Grants are allocated from the School Sport 2000 Foundation budget that is dependant upon sponsorship agreements. (4) For 2000/2001, $190,000 was allocated for School Sport 2000 Foundation Grants. 2523 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS Wednesday 30 May 2001

*1738 RECOUPS PROJECT—Mr Debnam to Minister for Education and Training, representing the Treasurer, Minister for State Development and Vice-President of the Executive Council—

In relation to the RECOUPS project within the Office of State Revenue (OSR): (1) Which consultants have been hired to work on the RECOUPS project? (2) What has been the cost of each of these consultants? (3) What has been the duration and nature of each consultancy? (4) Which SES officers oversaw the final stages of the RECOUPS project?

Answer—

The RECOUPS project, which commenced in 1997, was a major infrastructure and software development project to comply with Y2K requirements and also develop an integrated taxation & revenue system. The objective was to replace a series of independent non-compatible taxation systems operating on old technology hardware and which were approaching the end of their useful life. The project involved four stages, each with a senior OSR executive acting as a sponsor. The total cost of developing and implementing the four stages is $32 million. The RECOUPS system handles approximately 800,000 transactions a year totalling over $10 billion. It will improve services to taxpayers and improve compliance. A Steering Committee chaired by the executive director of OSR and including OSR senior executives had overall executive responsibility for the RECOUPS project. The Committee was established at the commencement of the RECOUPS project in 1997. The Director, Information Services Division, who was the overall RECOUPS Project Sponsor had responsibility primarily for logistical support and internal resource and infrastructure provision to the project. Stephen Amesbury held the position of Director, Information Services Division until 2 June 2000. John Maker, Deputy Director, Compliance acted in the position from 2 June until Release 4 went live on 3 November 2000. Each Release had a senior SES officer as Sponsor. The Sponsors were: Release 1 Tony Newbury, Director, Client Services Division. An SES officer, John Maker, Deputy Director, Compliance Division acted as Business Release Manager for Release 1. Release 2 Joe Purcell, Director, Revenue Advisory Services Division Release 3 Ian Smith, Director, Compliance Division Release 4 Dianne Barden, Director, Management Services Division. John Maker also acted as Business Release Manager for this Release until 2 June 2000. The Committee appointed one consultant to the RECOUPS Project. Col Brown Consulting Pty Ltd, an expert in organisational performance, was appointed in 1999-2000 at a cost of $58,750 to provide an independent evaluation of the project at that stage.

*1739 SES GUIDELINES—Mr Debnam to Premier, Minister for the Arts, and Minister for Citizenship—

In relation to the Statutory and Other Offices Remuneration Tribunal determination for CES and SES officers dated 31 August 2000: (1) (a) As advised in paragraph 20 of the determination, has Premier’s Department prepared the guidelines that will be used to assess increased competence and effectiveness that will allow SES officers to be moved along their SES level? (b) If not, when will they be completed and implemented? (c) If so, what are the guidelines? (2) How will the guidelines cope with the situation where an SES officer’s competence and effectiveness improves one year but declines the next?

Answer— 2524 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS Wednesday 30 May 2001

(1) (a) The Premier’s Department has developed guidelines to assist agencies to implement the 2000 Statutory and other Offices Remuneration Tribunal (SOORT) determination. (b) The Guidelines are complete. (c) The guidelines state that any decision to progress an officer’s remuneration along the range should be based on a rigorous assessment or evaluation and such a decision may only be made at the time of the annual performance review. “In making these decisions the matters to be considered must include either: · An officer’s performance which over time has significantly contributed to the agency meeting its corporate objectives and outcomes as outlined in the agency’s business plan, or · An officer’s increased competence and effectiveness as assessed in the performance review process, or · Any expanding job requirements (where a position’s work value has increased but not sufficiently to result in the position being evaluated at a higher level).” (2) Performance management at all levels is a key element of the NSW Government’s public sector reform program. The Government has established a board-based approach to manage the performance of the Senior Executive Service. There has always been the option to move an SES officer’s remuneration down within the range. But sanctions are only one option available to Ministers and CEOs to manage and improve the performance of CES and SES officers. Other important elements of the Government’s approach focus on performance agreements, regular feedback, coaching and reviews.

*1740 ADT REVENUE DIVISION—Mr Debnam to Minister for Education and Training, representing the Treasurer, Minister for State Development and Vice-President of the Executive Council—

In relation to the review of decisions made by the Office of State Revenue (OSR): (1) Will Treasury agree that the Administrative Decisions Tribunal (ADT) can accept applications from taxpayers who are aggrieved by decisions made by the OSR and if so, when? (2) Will the establishment of a Revenue Division within the ADT result in the abolition of the Hardship Board? (3) Will all tax assessments and correspondence to taxpayers include information explaining taxpayers’ right to review of decisions made by the OSR? (4) Will OSR decisions made in previous financial years be reviewable by the ADT? (5) What additional resources will the ADT receive in order to fund the operation of a Revenue Division?

Answer—

(1) Commencement of the ADT Revenue Division. The Attorney General's Department is currently making arrangements for the resourcing of the Revenue Division. Once this is finalised, the legislation can be proclaimed which will allow taxpayers who are aggrieved by decisions made by the Chief Commissioner of State Revenue to make applications for review of those decisions. The Treasury has carried out most aspects of its action plan to implement the ADT Revenue Division legislation. The OSR is ready to refer taxpayers to the ADT once this legislation has been proclaimed. (2) ADT Revenue Division and the Hardship Board. The establishment of a Revenue Division within the ADT will not result in the abolition of the Hardship Board. The Division and the Board have distinct and separate roles. The Division will be concerned with reviewing legal aspects of the Chief Commissioner's assessments and decisions while the Board is concerned with reviewing taxpayers' capacity to pay a tax liability and providing relief, where appropriate, by waiving or deferring the tax. (3) Information for taxpayers explaining their rights to reviews of decisions. Under the legislation, only a decision that is the subject of an objection may be reviewed by the ADT Revenue Division. All correspondence and assessments informing taxpayers of decisions by the Chief Commissioner 2525 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS Wednesday 30 May 2001

on objection will provide taxpayers with information about their rights for a review by the ADT Revenue Division. Currently, all correspondence concerning decisions that are the subject of an objection provide taxpayers with information about their rights to lodge an appeal with the Supreme Court. The correspondence will be updated to include information about taxpayers' rights of review by the ADT Revenue Division contemporaneously with the proclamation of the ADT Revenue Division legislation. (4) Previous years' decisions and the ADT Revenue Division. The legislation when proclaimed will not be retrospective and will only allow the ADT Revenue Division to review decisions made by the Chief Commissioner on objection that occur after the proclamation of the legislation. Consequently, the ADT Revenue Division will not have the ability to review decisions made in previous financial years. (5) Resources for the ADT Revenue Division. Funding for the ADT Revenue Division has been provided to the Attorney Generals’ Department with staff recruitment currently underway. The ADT Revenue Division is expected to be operational in early July 2001.

*1742 GLOUCESTER SOLDIERS MEMORIAL HOSPITAL—Mr J. H. Turner to Minister f

(1) Is there an all-weather parking facility at Gloucester Soldiers Memorial Hospital? (2) If not, why not? (3) If not, does this mean that ambulance drivers and patients who unload, are not provided with shelter from inclement weather at the main hospital entrance? (4) Does this compromise the patients’ safety and comfort? (5) Is this a breach of any occupational health and safety category? (6) If so, why is it being allowed to continue? (7) Has any cost been projected for the work? (8) If so, how much? (9) If so, why hasn’t the work been carried out? (10) If it is agreed the work is to be carried out, when will it be carried out?

Answer—

(1) to (10) The rear entrance at Gloucester Soldiers’ Memorial Hospital has an awning and has been used by the Ambulance Service, staff and patients for many years. However, with the introduction of the new, higher ambulance vehicles, the rear entrance is not considered appropriate on the grounds of restricted vision and concern for patient safety. The main front entrance of the Hospital is being used. The main front entrance does not have undercover parking. While procedures are in place to ensure patient safety is not compromised when alighting or boarding ambulance vehicles at this entrance, patients may experience some discomfort during wet weather. Minor works, at an estimated cost of $20,000 are to be carried out to address this problem.

*1745 ALPINE WAY REMEDIAL WORKS—Mr Webb to Attorney General, Minister for the Environment, Minister for Emergency Services, and Minister Assisting the Premier on the Arts—

(1) Are you satisfied that all the ties in the gabions on the Alpine Way reconstruction above Thredbo Village have been completed according to specification? (2) Are you satisfied that the requirement of a set back of 250 mm on each of the gabion wall layers above Thredbo Village has been adhered to? (3) Why aren’t the pedestrian barriers above the Thredbo Village on the Alpine Way constructed in a way that is consistent with standards that lodge owners are required to meet for their verandahs and walkways? 2526 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS Wednesday 30 May 2001

(4) What is the projected cost of inspecting, measuring and maintaining the flows of the drainage pipes on the Alpine Way, on an annual basis? (5) What is the projected life of the remedial works on the Alpine Way above the Thredbo Village?

Answer—

(1) The ties referred to in the Honourable Member’s question are an aesthetic consideration, primarily supplied to prevent unsightly bulging of the gabion basket. The ties have no practicable impact upon the structural integrity of the gabion basket and are not considered within any analysis of the structural performance of the gabion units. (2) The issue of oversteep gabion walls at isolated locations has been identified and is subject to investigation (monitoring) and assessment. The intention of the specified setback is to maintain a nominal overall batter angle of 0.25:1 (H:V). (3) The fencing constructed along the Alpine Way above Thredbo Village is designed as a vehicle crash barrier and not a pedestrian barrier fence. (4) The projected cost to maintain all drainage structures above Thredbo Village along the Alpine Way on an annual basis has not yet been determined. (5) The primary geotechnical component of the Alpine Way gabion wall system has been designed for a life of 100 years and is reliant upon an appropriate monitoring and maintenance program.

*1746 BRUNSWICK VALLEY HIGH SCHOOL—Mr D. L. Page to Minister for Education and Training—

Further to your answer to a Question on Notice on 23 June 1999 that “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 Programme”, can you advise: (1) Whether the Government commitment still exists? (2) Whether the project is on any capital works programme? (3) Whether the proposed upgrade of Mullumbimby High School is occurring irrespective of a new high school for the Brunswick Valley and whether there is any connection between the two projects? (4) The time-frame for construction of the new high school?

Answer—

(1) The Government is committed to providing appropriate secondary education facilities for students residing in the Brunswick Valley. Following exhaustive investigations of a number of potential new high school sites, it was determined that available alternatives did not meet Department of Education and Training requirements. An alternative resolution to upgrade Mullumbimby High School to 1,000-student capacity was put to and endorsed by the school community. (2) Stage 1 of the Brunswick Valley Secondary Education Provision project, with a total estimated cost of $2.919 million, was included in the Department of Education and Training’s Major Capital Works Program that was approved in the 2000/01 State Budget. The Stage 1 capital works funding has been directed to the extensive upgrading of Mullumbimby High School. A second stage of works to complete the project has been nominated for inclusion in a forward Capital Works Program. (3) At this s tage, the upgrade of Mullumbimby High School is the agreed resolution to the provision of secondary education facilities for the Brunswick Valley. (4) It is anticipated that tenders for construction work for Stage 1 of the upgrade at Mullumbimby High School will be called by late 2001 and the initial stage completed in the second half of 2002.

28 MARCH 2001

(Paper No. 81) 2527 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS Wednesday 30 May 2001

*1747 TAFE OLYMPIC TICKETS—Mr Armstrong to Minister for Education and Training—

(1) Did NSW TAFE Institutes spend $180,000 on the purchase of tickets for the Sydney 2000 Olympic Games? (2) If so: (a) How many tickets were purchased? (b) Were the tickets used by clients and senior bureaucrats? (c) If the tickets were not used by clients and senior bureaucrats, who did benefit from use of the Olympic tickets?

Answer—

No. NSW TAFE Institutes did not spend $180,000 on the purchase of tickets for the Sydney 2000 Olympic Games. TAFE NSW purchased 220 tickets. The tickets were allocated to clients of TAFE NSW and a small proportion went to TAFE NSW staff to host their clients. All tickets were used to benefit TAFE NSW business by inviting existing and potential clients, hosted by TAFE NSW staff.

*1749 SOCIAL WORKERS, CONDOBOLIN AND LAKE CARGELLIGO—Mr Armstrong to Deputy Premier, Minister for Urban Affairs and Planning, Minister for Aboriginal Affairs, and Minister for Housing—

What social workers are available to look after the needs of elderly and isolated Aboriginal people living in the towns of Condobolin and Lake Cargelligo?

Answer—

The identifying and placement of social workers in communities to fulfil the needs of elderly and isolated Aboriginal people living in towns such as Condobolin and Lake Cargelligo or anywhere else in the state of NSW does not fall within my portfolio. This government considers Aboriginal issues to be a priority and as such, NSW Government departments address Aboriginal issues as a core departmental responsibility. It would be more appropriate for Mr Armstrong to refer his question to the appropriate portfolio.

*1750 COUNTRY ENERGY—Mr Stoner to Minister for Information Technology, Minister for Energy, Minister for Forestry, and Minister for Western Sydney—

In relation to the merger of Advance Energy, Great Southern Energy and NorthPower to form the new organisation Country Energy: (1) Please identify the number, title and location of management positions which will cease to exist as a result of the merger? (2) What is the timeframe for restructure of management positions as a result of the merger? (3) What redundancy arrangements will apply for Managers whose positions cease to exist as a result of the merger?

Answer—

(1) The Government has announced its intention to merge Advance Energy, Great Southern Energy and NorthPower into a single entity to be known as Country Energy. The merger will not proceed until the necessary clearance is received from the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission. In the meantime, the three businesses are operating as separate and independent commercial 2528 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS Wednesday 30 May 2001

organisations under the existing management teams. The new Board and Chief Executive Officer of Country Energy will have responsibility for determining the structure of the new management team of Country Energy following the formal establishment of the merged business. (2) As outlined above, the Government has indicated that the proposed merger will not proceed until the necessary clearance is received from the ACCC. Restructuring of management positions will then be a matter for the new Board and Chief Executive Officer of Country Energy. (3) The Government has stated that there will be no forced redundancies as a consequence of the merger.

*1751 PETROLEUM PRODUCTS SUBSIDY SCHEME—Mr Stoner to Minister for Fair Trading, Minister for Corrective Services, and Minister for Sport and Recreation—

In relation to the NSW Petroleum Products Subsidy Scheme, which applies in Northern NSW: (1) Can you explain why, on 15 March 2001, unleaded petrol retailed in Coffs Harbour (3.3 cents per litre subsidy under the PPSS) for between 98.9 cpl and 101.9 cpl; in Urunga (3.3 cpl subsidy) for 98.9 cpl; in Nambucca Heads (1.7 cents per litre subsidy) for 98.9cpl; and Macksville (no subsidy) for between 93.8 cpl and 94.9 cpl? (2) Do you still stand by your statements in late 1999 that you will do all you can to promote competition and fair trading in the petrol industry in country NSW? (3) In view of calls by North Coast National Party Members in late 2000 for an inquiry into the operation of the PPSS, will you honour your commitments and conduct an inquiry into the PPSS and why motorists are not receiving the full benefit for the subsidy, as found by the Automobile Association of Australia and the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission?

Answer—

(1) The NSW Petroleum Products Subsidy Scheme is administered by the Treasurer, the Hon M R Egan, MLC. Questions regarding it should be directed to him. (2) Yes (3) See (1)

*1752 FISHING LICENCE ADVERTISING—Mr Stoner to Minister for Local Government, Minister for Regional Development, and Minister for Rural Affairs, representing the Minister for Mineral Resources and Minister for Fisheries—

What fee/s have been/will be paid to Rex Hunt or his associated company/ies for his role in endorsing the Government’s saltwater recreational fishing licence scheme?

I am advised that no fees were or will be paid to Rex Hunt for his involvement in the Recreational Fishing Fee education program. He was happy to contribute his support to this initiative free of charge.

*1753 VALUATIONS OF OJD INFECTED PROPERTIES—Ms Hodgkinson to Minister for Agriculture, and Minister for Land and Water Conservation—

(1) Has the Valuer General sought information as to which properties are classified as infected or suspect of being infected with ovine Johne’s disease? (2) Has this information led to a devaluation of infected or suspect properties? (3) Has the Valuer General done any research as to the effect OJD is having on property values?

Answer— 2529 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS Wednesday 30 May 2001

(1) The Valuer-General has not sought information from NSW Agriculture as to which properties are classified as infected, or suspected of being infected with ovine Johne’s disease. (2) This question is no longer appropriate given the information in (1). (3) I am unaware that the Valuer-General has done any research into the effect of ovine Johne’s disease on property values.

*1754 SYDNEY WASTE DISPOSAL FACILITIES—Ms Hodgkinson to Deputy Premier, Minister for Urban Affairs and Planning, Minister for Aboriginal Affairs, and Minister for Housing—

(1) Will the Minister confirm that his department has recommended he approve an extension to the landfill rubbish dump which is to be located 450 metres from the Prospect Reservoir? (2) Has the department completed an Environmental Impact Statement for this proposal? (3) Has the department completed a Water Balance Study for this proposal? (4) Has the department completed a Geotechnical Study for this proposal? (5) Has the department put the proposal out for a period of public consultation and invited submissions from the public?

Answer—

(1) I have approved an extension to the Eastern Creek Waste Management Centre, following a full and comprehensive assessment. The Centre is outside the Prospect Reservoir catchment. (2) to (4) As required by the Regulations, the applicant completed and submitted an Environmental Impact Statement (EIS), including a water balance and geotechnical study. (5) Yes.

*1755 FUTURE OF ADELONG TOWNSHIP—Ms Hodgkinson to Minister for Information Technology, Minister for Energy, Minister for Forestry, and Minister for Western Sydney—

(1) Will the Minister confirm that the NSW Geographical Names Board has downgraded the township of Adelong to a ‘locality’ as reported in the Sun Herald of 25 March 2001? (2) What is the criteria for discontinuing a town under the Geographical Names Act 1966? (3) Given that today Adelong has a population of about 900 and supports two schools, a bank, two pubs, three clubs, a supermarket, a clothing store, an electrical appliance store, a stock and station agent and several other businesses why was the township name downgraded to a locality?

Answer—

(1) The Geographical Names Board has not ‘downgraded’ the township of Adelong. In 1992 the Geographical Names Board commenced the Address Locality program. This program set out to define the extent of localities throughout NSW in order to determine legal addresses. The project assigned the designation of: · Locality for a rural area · Suburb for an urban area · Historical Locality for any gazetted areas not formally assigned as either of the above, and therefore not to be used as legal addresses. Adelong was redesignated from a Town to a locality in 1996 as part of this program. In October 2000, the Geographical Names Board commenced a Cultural Designation Program in recognition that the existing policy did not reflect the social and cultural designations that communities continued to use. The program enables communities to reinstate the titles of ‘city’, ‘town’ or ‘village’ – in addition to the designation of address locality – should they so desire. 2530 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS Wednesday 30 May 2001

(2) Section 14 of the Geographical Names Act enables the Geographical Names Board to discontinue a geographical place name. Notice of the discontinuance shall be published in the Gazette and shall have the concurrence of a relevant government body. (3) Adelong has not been ‘downgraded’; as stated above, the change in designation was an administrative one. However, the Cultural Designation Policy recognises the symbolic significance that such changes may have for communities. The Geographical Names Board is currently working with Tumut Council and other community groups to explore options for reinstating Aelong’s title of

*1756 BUILDERS REPORTS—Mr Maguire to Minister for Fair Trading, Minister for Corrective Services, and Minister for Sport and Recreation—

(1) Is it law that a building inspection must be carried out by a licensed tradesperson when a citizen wishes to purchase a property? (2) What should be included in a Builders Report? (3) Should a Builders Report include plumbing and electrical compliance and if not why not? (4) Is it possible to purchase a property passed as structurally sound by a building inspector but which could be found to have defective or illegal plumbing and electrical work? (5) What course of action would you advise the purchaser after purchase of a property deemed structurally sound in a Builders Report and later found to contain defective or illegal plumbing and electrical work?

Answer—

(1) No, that’s why the government’s Home Building reform package released in November last year, includes this particular reform. (2) Whatever the parties contracted. (3) See (2) (4) As the question is hypothetical, it is impossible for me to provide an accurate answer. If the Member wishes to provide a more specific question, I will endeavour to answer it. (5) To seek legal advice.

*1757 WAGGA WAGGA BASE DENTAL SERVICE—Mr Maguire to Minister for Health—

(1) How many dental practitioners are practising at Wagga Wagga Base Dental Service? (2) How do you propose to fill the shortage of dental practitioners at Wagga Wagga Base Dental Service? (3) How long can patients expect to wait for: (a) Consultation and treatment of urgent dental needs? (b) Dentures?

Answer—

(1) One. (2) The one vacant position has been advertised nationally through specialised agencies. Until this position is filled, the Area Health Service has taken action to employ a locum. (3) (a) Patients with urgent dental needs such as trauma, uncontrollable bleeding or swelling of the face, neck or gums will be seen within one week. (b) 6 months.

*1758 SALINITY FORUMS—Mr Maguire to Minister for Local Government, Minister for Regional Development, and Minister for Rural Affairs— 2531 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS Wednesday 30 May 2001

(1) Why have you not included Wagga Wagga along with Gunnedah, Deniliquin, the Hunter and Dubbo in the Regional Salinity Business Opportunities Forums being conducted by your Department of Regional Development? (2) Will you now include Wagga Wagga in the Regional Salinity Business Opportunities Forums?

Answer—

(1) to (2) The Department of State and Regional Development (DSRD) has a responsibility under the NSW Salinity Strategy to develop and implement a Salinity Business Development Program to stimulate business responses to the salinity problems of the waterways and the landscape. An important part of this work will be the holding of Regional Salinity Business Opportunities Forums. The first series of forums are to be conducted in centres which are representative of a cross section of NSW regions experiencing salinity problems. The first of these will be held at Deniliquin on May 24 next. This is a pilot program which will be carefully evaluated to enable departmental officers to incorporate lessons learned into subsequent salinity forums. Wagga Wagga City Council is involved in a separate project under the Salinity Business Development Program. This project is a partnership between DSRD and the city councils of Wagga Wagga and Dubbo. It involves a feasibility study and pilot projects in the two cities in which water will be pumped from underground, salt extracted from it and sold. The consequent lowering of the water table is likely to reduce the salt damage to infrastructure. Interest in staging salinity forums has been received from other regions such as New England North West, the Hunter, Central Western and Orana. DSRD are considering Wagga Wagga, along with other centres, as possible locations for future forums.

*1759 CABRAMATTA VISIT—Mrs Chikarovski to Premier, Minister for the Arts, and Minister for

(1) What was the cost to the taxpayers of New South Wales of the production and distribution of video tape footage of the Premier and the Member for Cabramatta visiting Cabramatta on 26 March 2001, which was then distributed to media outlets? (2) Which company and on what conditions did the Government hire to produce this footage? (3) Which agency of Government paid for this? (4) From which program of the identified agency did the funds originate? (5) Who authorised this expenditure? (6) Why did this occur?

Answer—

(1) to (6) I refer you to the answer I gave in the House on Wednesday, 28 March 2001.

*1760 CABRAMATTA VISIT—Mrs Chikarovski to Minister for Police—

(1) What was the cost to the taxpayers of New South Wales of the production and distribution of video tape footage of the Premier and the Member for Cabramatta visiting Cabramatta on 26 March 2001, which was then distributed to media outlets? (2) Which company and on what conditions did the Government hire to produce this footage? (3) Which agency of Government paid for this? (4) From which program of the identified agency did the funds originate? (5) Who authorised this expenditure? (6) Why did this occur? 2532 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS Wednesday 30 May 2001

Answer—

(1) to (6) I refer you to the answer the Premier gave in the House on Wednesday, 28 March 2001.

*1761 SUNDAY TRADING—Mr Souris to Minister for Information Technology, Minister for Energy, Minister for Forestry, and Minister for Western Sydney, representing the Special Minister of State, Minister for Industrial Relations, Assistant Treasurer, Minister Assisting the Premier on Public Sector Management, and Minister Assisting the Premier for the Central Coast—

(1) Does he condone moves by the Department of Industrial relations to allow Sunday trading in the towns of Dubbo, Tamworth and Gunnedah? (2) If he does not condone such moves, what action will he take? (3) If no action, why not? (4) If he does condone such moves, is he aware that the local councils of the above mentioned towns are opposed to the introduction of Sunday trading? (5) If yes, what is his response to claims by the community and local councils that the introduction of Sunday trading will jeopardise small businesses in the towns of Dubbo, Tamworth and Gunnedah? (6) If he was not aware of the objections raised by local councils, will he support local councils and also oppose the introduction of Sunday trading? (7) If not, why not? (8) If what ways does the Government support small business in rural and regional NSW?

Answer—

(1) Under Section 78A of the Factories, Shops and Industries Act 1962, the Director-General of the NSW Department of Industrial Relations is responsible for the granting of exemptions to allow ‘general’ shops to trade on Sunday. The then Director-General of the Department approved a trial period of Sunday Trading in Dubbo on 7 September 1999, with an expiry date of 10 September 2001. On 22 February 2000, the then Director-General approved a trial period of Sunday Trading in Tamworth until 31 March 2002. On 1 September 2000, the then Director-General approved a trial period of Sunday Trading in Gunnedah until 31 March 2002. (2) The Factories, Shops and Industries Act 1962 does not provide a role for the Minister in the approval of Sunday trading applications. (3) See (2). (4) The views of the respective local councils are sought by the Department in relation to any application that seeks to introduce Sunday trading to a new locality or seeks to extend the hours of trading beyond those normally permitted presently. (5) The views of the community and local council in Dubbo, Tamworth and Gunnedah were sought as part of the consultation process leading up to the Director-General’s decision. These organisations will again be consulted by the Department in the lead-up to the review of Sunday trading in each locality. (6) See (5). (7) See (5). (8) The Government, through the NSW Department of Industrial Relations, has developed and implemented a number of specific initiatives for small businesses throughout regional NSW, which allow better, more equitable access to Departmental services, some never previously available. It would be true to say that this access is not more than equivalent to that available to the Sydney metropolitan area. 2533 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS Wednesday 30 May 2001

*1762 DIAGNOSTIC SERVICES—Mr Souris to Minister for Agriculture, and Minister for Land and Water

In regards to the full cost recovery policy for NSW Agriculture’s diagnostic and analytical services: (1) Is he aware of the reduction in the number of accessions received for diagnostic testing at NSW Agriculture’s laboratories in 1999/2000? (2) If yes, is he concerned by the reduction in animal health testing throughout NSW? (3) If not, why not? (4) How many accessions were received for diagnostic testing by NSW Agriculture’s Veterinary Laboratories in the third quarter of 1999? (5) How many accessions were received for diagnostic testing by NSW Agriculture’s Veterinary Laboratories in the fourth quarter of 1999? (6) Has the introduction of full cost recovery for diagnostic testing in November 1999 had an impact on the number of accessions received for diagnostic testing by NSW Agriculture? (7) If so, how? (8) How many accessions resulted in payments to NSW Agriculture for diagnostic testing in 1999/2000? (9) How many accessions resulted in payments to NSW Agriculture for diagnostic testing in 1998/99? (10) What was the value of payments to NSW Agriculture for diagnostic testing in 1999/2000? (11) What was the value of payments to NSW Agriculture for diagnostic testing in 1998/99? (12) Has the policy of full cost recovery for diagnostic testing had an influence on the level of animal health surveillance in NSW? (13) If yes, how? (14) If not, how has the level of animal health surveillance been maintained? (15) Is he committed to ensuring that NSW retains a high level of animal health surveillance? (16) If yes, how will animal health surveillance levels be maintained and/or improved?

Answer—

(1) Yes. (2) No. (3) On 1 November 1999, NSW Agriculture implemented a policy of full cost recovery for diagnostic testing that was of completely private benefit to the stock owner. This allowed the Department to re-direct the funds saved from the implementation of this policy to targeted active and passive surveillance programs that are designed to demonstrate disease freedom to overseas countries. This new policy as a result enhanced domestic and export markets. (4) 7285 accessions (5) 5977 accessions (6) The introduction of full cost recovery for diagnostic testing has had an impact on the number of accessions. However, as stated above the introduction of such a policy has allowed for a better use of government funds to more greatly demonstrate disease freedom to overseas countries receiving our exports. This has enhanced the marketability of primary products. (7) See answer to question 6. (8) 24,993 (9) 27,521 (10) $2,727,356 (11) $2,767,802 (12) Yes. (13) There has been a reduction in the number of accessions since the introduction of full cost recovery. While these accessions did provide some information, the information obtained did not really enhance the demonstration of disease freedom required by overseas countries receiving our exports. The redirection of funds towards targeted, active and passive surveillance programs has provided 2534 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS Wednesday 30 May 2001

more information to demonstrate disease freedom. There is no cost recovery for the targeted surveillance programs. This is provided free of charge to producers. (14) See answer to question 13. (15) Yes. (16) Further development of targeted surveillance programs is under-way to establish a more structured approach aimed not only at detecting disease, but also demonstrating disease freedom. It is only through this type of surveillance that we can ensure the maintenance of our export markets. Some of these programs are: · Exotic Disease Surveillance · Notifiable Disease Surveillance · Bovine Brucellosis Surveillance · TSE (Mad Cow) Disease Surveillance · Arbovirus Monitoring Program · Tuberculosis Freedom Assurance Program · Johnes Disease Surveillance Emerging Disease Surveillance (eg. Lyssavirus) Some of these programs are partly Nationally funded. Some are completely funded by NSW Agriculture. They will all not only be maintained, but strengthened. In 1999/2000 there were 290 accessions made as part of targeted surveillance programs. So far in 2000/2001 there have been 458 accessions as part of these programs. The Department is well advanced in selecting a Laboratory Information System to manage surveillance and other aspects of laboratory work. This will allow the Department to more readily access necessary information, which may be needed at short notice to demonstrate to other countries our freedom from a particular disease.

*1763 POLICE ASSISTANCE LINE—Ms Moore to Minister for Police—

Concerning the Police Assistance Line: (1) How many persons are rostered on to take calls : (a) between 8.00am-12noon Mondays? (b) between 8.00am-12 noon other weekdays? (c) between 12noon-6pm weekdays? (d) between 6pm-midnight Mondays-Thursdays? (e) between midnight-8am Mondays-Fridays? (f) between 6pm-midnight Fridays? (g) between midnight-8am Saturday mornings? (h) between midnight-8am Sunday mornings? (i) between 8am-6pm Saturdays? (j) between 6pm-midnight Saturdays? (k) between 8am-6pm Sundays? (l) between 6pm-midnight Sundays? (2) What is the level of absenteeism during each of the roster periods specified in (1)? (3) Are records kept of the time taken to respond to each call ie, the duration of time from the point at which the caller is connected to the line to the time when an operator actually answers the call? (4) If not, why not? (5) If so, what percentage of calls are responded to:- (a) in more than three minutes? (b) in more than five minutes? (c) in more than ten minutes? (d) in more than 15 minutes? (e) in more than 20 minutes? (f) in more than 30 minutes? (g) in more than 45 minutes? (h) in more than 60 minutes? (6) Do any of the following use the Police Assistance Line to report incidents: 2535 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS Wednesday 30 May 2001

(a) state government agencies (including schools, hospitals, departments, statutory authorities); (b) the Supreme Court, District Courts, Local Courts and/or the Administrative Decisions Tribunal; (c) Local councils. (7) Do the bodies referred to in (6) above have alternative means of reporting such incidents? (8) If not, why not? (9) If so, why is the Police Assistance Line used for reporting such incidents?

Answer—

(1) I am advised that staffing levels in PAL fluctuate depending on a number of factors, including patterns of previous demand for the service. (2) I am advised that absenteeism is monitored in line with police service policy. (3) Yes. (4) See 3. (5) I am advised that for the 12 months up to 31 March 2001, 66% of calls were answered in under three minutes and 74% in under five minutes. A number of measures are currently being explored which are expected to provide continued improvements in call waiting times. (6) (a) to (c) Yes. (7) Yes. (8) See 7. (9) The PAL has been designed to provide a flexible service delivery option that provides members of the community with a choice in how they are best served by the Police Service. Many government departments and authorities are taking advantage of the ease and flexibility of reporting crimes to PAL. The option of using PAL to report minor offences is solely at the discretion of the caller. Any caller who may be temporarily placed on hold will be reminded immediately that Triple 0 is the appropriate number for emergencies. Any person who wishes to report an incident to their local police can also do so.

*1764 CENTENNIAL SQUARE ACCIDENTS—Ms Moore to Minister for Transport, and Minister for

(1) How many vehicle accidents were reported at “Centennial Square”, the intersection of Oxford Street, Queen Street, Moore Park Road and Lang Road in : (a) 1996? (b) 1997? (c) 1998? (d) 1999? (e) 2000, to date? (2) In each year, what proportion of these accidents involved pedestrians? (3) In each year, what proportion of these accidents involved vehicles turning into or out of Queen Street? (4) What is the estimated proportion of accidents that remain unreported and therefore not included in these statistics? (5) When will action be taken to fix the problem at this intersection?

Answer—

(1) Traffic accident data has been collected from the areas within 10 metres of the intersection of Oxford Street, Queen Street, Moore Park Road and within 10 metres of the intersections of Moore 2536 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS Wednesday 30 May 2001

Park Road and Lang Road. The section of Moore Park Road (approximately 20 metres) between these intersections has also been included: Year Accidents Reported (a) 1996 8 (b) 1997 5 (c) 1998 8 (d) 1999 10 (e) 2000 to date ## 7 ## Provisional data only (2) One accident in August 1999 was reported as involving a pedestrian. (3) One accident in May 2000 resulted from a southbound vehicle turning right, out of Queen Street, being impacted by a northbound vehicle heading straight. (4) This is a matter for the Minister for Police. (5) Analysis of the accident history of this location indicates that the prevailing accident patterns are not directly related to the existing traffic signals or the intersection geometry. The RTA will undertake further investigations to identify potential engineering or enforcement solutions.

*1765 CROSS CITY TUNNEL—Ms Moore to Minister for Transport, and Minister for Roads—

Concerning the proposed Cross City Tunnel toll road: (1) What additional research is being undertaken in response to public submissions and concerns about the Environmental Impact Statement that was on public display in 2000? (2) When is this work expected to be completed? (3) What consideration is being given to effective traffic management to address predicted negative traffic impacts in adjacent residential areas? (4) Have the recently announced preferred tenderers been required to make allowance for air filtration systems for the tunnel? (5) How is management of construction impacts being improved over the ineffective processes used for the Eastern Distributor tollway construction? (6) What consideration is being given to increase public transport options and alternatives in relation to the Cross City Tunnel project? (7) How will the public be provided with an opportunity to comment on additional research and any proposed changes to the project? (8) When will the Cross City Tunnel project be referred to the Minister for Urban Affairs and Planning for him to consider approval for the project?

Answer—

(1) A number of additional studies have been commissioned. These will be included in the Roads & Traffic Authority’s (RTA) Representations Report. They include: · an updated traffic study; · a peer review of the air quality assessment undertaken for the Environmental Impact Statement (EIS); · additional noise studies; and · studies relating to a Tunnel Control Building. (2) The additional studies have been completed. (3) The updated traffic study includes consideration of the potential need for local area traffic management measures in suburbs near the proposal. The Cross City Tunnel would generally reduce traffic volumes in residential areas. Some local area traffic management measures will be included in the modified proposal. (4) The shortlisted consortia have not yet been formally invited to submit proposals. However, the consortia will be required to make allowance in their designs for the possible future installation of emission treatment technology (as discussed in the EIS). 2537 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS Wednesday 30 May 2001

(5) A number of mitigation measures have been included addressing types of construction equipment that can be used, community consultation, hours of work and maintenance of road capacity. These are additional to measures that have been implemented on other projects, including the Eastern Distributor. (6) A Central Sydney Public Transport Working Group has been set up to investigate public transport opportunities beyond those included in the Cross City Tunnel proposal. Membership of the Working Group includes staff from various State transport authorities and local government. (7) Following submission of the RTA’s Representations Report to the Department of Urban Affairs and Planning, a Preferred Activity Report will be released for public information. The Preferred Activity Report will include details of modifications proposed to the EIS scheme. It will be available at locations where the EIS was exhibited and on the RTA internet site for at least 30 days. Members of the public wishing to comment on the Preferred Activity Report could write to the Department of Urban Affairs and Planning. Following the decision of the Minister for Urban Affairs and Planning, the RTA’s Representations Report would be made public. (8) The RTA proposes to seek approval for the Cross City Tunnel by lodging the Representations Report with the Department of Urban Affairs and Planning shortly. The Department will consider the Environmental Impact Statement and the Representations Report and compile an Assessment Report. Following this, the Minister for Urban Affairs and Planning will consider approval of the proposal.

*1766 TRAIN CANCELLATIONS—Mr Kerr to Minister for Transport, and Minister for Roads—

How many trains were delayed or cancelled for the period commencing 1st February 2001 and ending 28th February 2001?

Answer—

I am advised by the State Rail Authority that 1151 peak services were delayed or cancelled in February 2001. There were 8980 timetabled peak services over this period.

*1768 RAINBOW LODGE—Mr Humpherson to Minister for Fair Trading, Minister for Corrective Services, and Minister for Sport and Recreation—

(1) How many people were admitted into Rainbow Lodge in 94/95, 95/96, 96/97, 98/99, 99/00 and 00/01? (2) How many people were discharged from Rainbow Lodge in 94/95, 95/96, 96/97, 98/99, 99/00 and 00/01? (3) Of those released from Rainbow Lodge in each year in question 2, how many inmates returned to jail after being convicted of another offence?

Answer—

(1) to (3) The Rainbow Lodge is not operated by the Department of Corrective Services.

*1770 INTEREST ON RENTAL BONDS—Mr Debnam to Minister for Fair Trading, Minister for Corrective Services, and Minister for Sport and Recreation—

In relation to the Landlord and Tenant (Rental Bonds) Regulation 1993: (1) Is the current rate of interest payable on rental bonds (as described in section 9 of the regulation) equal to 0.15%? (2) Given that section 9 of the regulation benchmarks the interest payable on rental bonds to an on-call deposit with the State Bank of NSW, and that the Bank has been privatised and subsequently sold 2538 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS Wednesday 30 May 2001

to the Commonwealth Bank, which benchmark account does the Department of Fair Trading currently use? (3) Since the regulation was enacted, what has been the highest rate of interest paid by the Department of Fair Trading on rental bonds? (4) Why has he postponed the scheduled sunset date for this regulation (under the Subordinate Legislation Act (1989) in 2000, 1999 and 1998? (5) When will this regulation be reviewed and remade under the Subordinate Legislation Act (1989) and will such a review examine the very low rate of interest paid on rental bonds held by the Department of Fair Trading?

Answer—

(1) No. (2) The Colonial State Bank’s. (3) 6.5%. (4) Because of the National Competition Policy review of NSW residential tenancy legislation. (5) See (4).

*1771 SBDC DEPOSIT ACCOUNT—Mr Debnam to Minister for Small Business, and Minister for Tourism—

In relation to ministerial responsibility and the Small Business Development Corporation (SBDC): (1) Given the NSW Auditor-General confirmed in his Volume 6, 2001 Report that the SBDC was not operating with its own Special Deposit Account and was therefore in breach of section 12 of its enabling Act, will she accept responsibility for this financial mismanagement? (2) Is the SBDC now in compliance with section 12 of its enabling Act and if not, when will she arrange for an appropriate Special Deposit Account to be established?

Answer—

(1) The financial transactions of the Small Business Development Corporation (SBDC) are accounted for as a separate cost centre within the financial management system of the Department of State and Regional Development. The Auditor-General confirms this in Volume 6 of the Auditor General’s Report 2000. (2) The results of the Auditor General’s compliance review of the operation of Special Deposit Accounts across all Government Departments is contained in Volume 4 of the Auditor General’s Report 2000.

*1772 DUMPED VEHICLES—Mr Debnam to Minister for Local Government, Minister for Regional Development, and Minister for Rural Affairs—

In relation to representations on abandoned, derelict or dumped vehicles: (1) Has he or the Department of Local Govern ment received any representations from Waverley Council in the last three years? (2) If so, when and what has been his response in each case?

Answer—

(1) Yes (2) A review of the relevant Departmental file indicates that the Mayor of Waverley Council wrote to me in April 2000 informing me that the Council had resolved to ask that I convene a working party into abandoned cars. My reply to the Mayor was as follows – 2539 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS Wednesday 30 May 2001

“I would be pleased to further consider the proposal to set up a working party. However, I note that councils have been provided with comprehensive powers to deal with abandoned motor vehicles under the Impounding Act 1993 and, as the Council’s resolution did not elaborate its concerns, it is suggested that the Council provide the Department of Local Government with a detailed submission that clarifies the issues that are of concern. The submission should also report on the extent to which the Council has applied any regulatory and non-regulatory options to deal with perceived abandoned motor vehicle problems, and any proposed reforms that the Council may have identified.” There does not appear to have been further correspondence from the Council.

*1773 ORTHOPAEDIC SURGERY—BEGA—Mr R. H. L. Smith to Minister for Health—

Regarding my letter to him dated 31 August 2000 alerting him to the concerns of the orthopaedic surgeon at Bega District Hospital regarding the cutback in funding preventing them fully utilising theatre facilities for elective surgery: (1) Is the Minister aware that despite having a catchment of 80,000 for orthopaedic services, this surgeon is now on call 24 hours/day seven days/week, but is allocated only a half day per week for elective surgery, and permission for one joint replacement per month? (2) Is the Minister aware that the waiting list for hip/knee replacements at Bega Hospital is now six years? (3) Does the Minister realise that if the orthopaedic surgeon is unable to increase the number of operations he can perform, it is likely that he will be obliged to leave the area by the end of the year? (4) Can the Minister explain how it is cost effective to continually transfer patients to Canberra Hospital for surgery that could be performed at Bega? (5) What measures does the Minister intend to take to ensure that the services of this professional are not lost to the area?

Answer—

(1) to (5) The Director-General of the NSW Department of Health recently engaged a group of health professionals to liaise with the orthopaedic surgeon in question with a view to determining the requirements for the area. I am confident this process will satisfactorily resolve the issues of concern. With the exception of major joint procedures the vast majority of presentations for orthopaedic work are managed locally. At the end of March 2001 the average waiting times of those on the Bega District Hospital list for hip replacement and knee replacement surgery were 7.28 months and 6.76 months respectively.

*1774 CSC INTAKE STAFF—Mr Hazzard to Minister for Community Services, Minister for Ageing, Minister for Disability Services, and Minister for Women—

What is the number of intake staff in each of CSCs throughout NSW, as at 1 March 2001?

Answer—

Intake is now primarily undertaken at the DoCS Helpline. Some caseworkers in Community Services Centres are involved in intake of matters either from the Helpline or when reports are taken direct at CSCs. The numbers of caseworkers involved in “intake” work varies from office to office and these staff would generally be undertaking a range of other work as well. A breakdown of the amount of time spent by each caseworker on intake is not available and to obtain this information would be an unreasonable diversion of the Department’s resources. 2540 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS Wednesday 30 May 2001

*1775 HELPLINE FAXES—Mr Hazzard to Minister for Community Services, Minister for Ageing, Minister for Disability Services, and Minister for Women—

What number of faxes were received by Helpline in each week in February and March?

Answer—

Number of faxes received in February Week 1 – not available Week 2 – not available Week 3 – 650 Week 4 – 525 Number of faxes received in March Week 1 – 555 Week 2 – 395 Week 3 – 634 Week 4 - 425

*1776 LAKE EUCUMBENE FISHING INDUSTRY—Mr Webb to Minister for Local Government, Minister for Regional Development, and Minister for Rural Affairs, representing the Minister for Mineral Resources and Minister for Fisheries—

(1) With respect to fisheries can you clarify the difference between the Lake Eucumbene Anglers area and the Lake Jindabyne Tourist Fishing area? (2) Why is Lake Eucumbene being treated differently to Lake Jindabyne? (3) Although guides and tackle store owner are represented why aren’t anglers directly represented on the Snowy Mountains Lake Working Group formed by Fisheries in December 2000? (4) Was there notification and advertisement that this group was to be formed and were expressions of interest sought? (5) If not, why not? (6) Since it has been acknowledged as a $50 to $100 million dollar industry why hasn’t the whole community been fully consulted on the proposed changes? (7) When will the Minister and his department be responding to the Australian Recreational Fishing Alliance and the Old Adaminaby and Anglers Reach Progress Association? (8) Are further meetings proposed at Cooma or elsewhere in the Snowy Mountains to discuss the finalised proposals? (9) Why is Eucumbene being neglected in the restocking program? (10) How many fishing inspectors are currently operating in the Snowy Mountains area? (11) Is there to be an increase in the number of fishing inspectors in the area both during the season to police catch sizes and bag limits and also between May and November to police out of season illegal fishing?

Answer—

(1) Lake Eucumbene is being managed as the premier quality fishery with catches to be predominantly of larger fish. Lake Jindabyne is to be managed as a high catch rate fishery aimed at the tourist, with catches of predominantly smaller fish. (2) Lake Jindabyne and Lake Eucumbene are proposed to be managed for different fishery goals to provide for a diversity of fishing experiences at the lakes. These experiences reflect traditional expectations of the lakes and current use. Anglers travelling to Lake Eucumbene expect to be able 2541 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS Wednesday 30 May 2001

to catch reasonably large trout; Jindabyne is a tourist town with more inexperienced or first time anglers. (3) Anglers are directly represented on the Snowy Mountains Lakes Working Group with a number of representatives who are committed anglers in the Snowy Mountains region. (4) Members of the Snowy Mountains community, who have had a long standing interest in recreational fishing and tourism in the area, were asked to participate in the Working Group. (5) These representatives were the major contributors to the long standing debate on recreational fishing and tourism in the Snowy region. The members of the Working Party represented a wide range of views on management proposals. (6) Consultation has occurred. Firstly, the working group represented a wide range of interests in the Snowy Mountains Region and was able to consult with these groups. Secondly, the public meetings held in Cooma and Jindabyne gave other members of the local community an opportunity to comment on proposals. These meetings were well attended (approximately 80 people in Cooma, approximately 30 in Jindabyne) and valuable input was provided on the day. (7) The response to the Australian Recreational Fishing Alliance is being prepared. I have not received any correspondence from the Old Adaminaby Progress Association. However, I am advised that NSW Fisheries have received correspondence from this group and a response is being prepared. (8) No. There have been long standing concerns from the Snowy region community that Governments, including the previous Coalition government, have not addressed issues about the future of the trout fishery. Consultation has been undertaken through the Working Party and the open meetings in Cooma and Jindabyne. The Snowy community now expects action to be taken on the proposals developed as a result of this consultation. (9) Lake Eucumbene is not being neglected in the restocking program. The target stocking rate is set at 150,000 fingerlings per year for Lake Eucumbene. Stocking has previously been undertaken in an ad hoc way. (10) There are currently three fisheries officers specifically assigned to the Monaro District. (11) Compliance resources will continue to be allocated as required to maintain compliance in the fishery. Operations are mounted at peak times, including during the closed season. Additional compliance staff are utilised during these operations. I am advised that there is a high level of awareness amongst anglers about the rules that apply to trout fishing in the Snowy region.

*1777 BEGA ORTHOPAEDIC SERVICES—Mr Webb to Minister for Health—

(1) Can you confirm that funding for orthopaedic surgery at Bega District Hospital has been cut, or is intended to be limited to the extent that the Orthopaedic Surgeon Matthew Nott may consider leaving Bega? (2) How can, and why should, the number of emergency and non scheduled work be reduced from around 115 cases to 70 cases? (3) How can you explain the postponement of scheduled surgery to pre booked patients, some of whom have waited up to 18 months for arthroscopy, and others over six years for urgent joint replacement, or those who have waited four months to see an orthopaedic surgeon in Bega? (4) Where are the patients—27,000 Bega Valley Shire, 10,000 from part of the Eurobodalla Shire, 2000 from part of the Cooma Monaro Shire and 2000 from Eastern Victoria community—going to be able to access these services other than at the Bega District Hospital? (5) Why does the Southern Area Health Service deem it necessary to keep making these reductions in services to the people of Monaro?

Answer—

(1) to (5) The evidence does not support claims of a reduction in orthopaedic services to the Bega community. The reality is that more Southern Area Health Service patients are being treated locally. Based on current activity it is estimated that the orthopaedic surgeon, Dr Nott, will this year perform more operations than that performed prior to his appointment. Emergency and non- 2542 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS Wednesday 30 May 2001

scheduled cases this year will also significantly increase above the levels performed prior to the orthopaedic surgeon’s appointment. The Director-General of the NSW Department of Health recently engaged a group of health professionals to liaise with the orthopaedic surgeon at Bega with a view to determining the orthopaedic requirements for the area. I am confident the issues of concern will be satisfactorily resolved.

*1778 LANDCARE AND RIVERCARE PROJECTS—Mr Webb to Minister for Agriculture, and Minister for

(1) Can you confirm how much money was received from the Commonwealth for Landcare and Rivercare projects in the Monaro Electorate in the last financial year? (2) What proportion of these funds was spent on administration? (3) What is the breakdown between Landcare and Rivercare Projects? (4) What is the estimated quantum for this financial year? (5) Has the Delegate River Catchment Landcare groups application for funds to control crack willows been considered? (6) If so, what was the result?

Answer—

(1) For the 2000/01 financial year the Commonwealth Government, through the Natural Heritage Trust, approved the expenditure of some $625,250 for National Landcare Program projects and National Rivercare Program projects in the Monaro electorate. (2) New South Wales receives about $50 million in Commonwealth funding each year through the Natural Heritage Trust and of this amount, approximately 0.7% is used to administer and coordinate the various programs funded through the Trust. (3) Approximately $616,000 was approved for National Landcare Program projects while some $9,250 was approved for National Rivercare Program projects in the Monaro electorate. The disparity in these amounts is largely because part of the Monaro electorate is within the Murray Darling Basin and funding under the National Rivercare Program is only available for projects outside the Murray Darling Basin. (4) The assessment process for 2001/02 funding is currently in progress. Although no decision has been as yet, I anticipate that the Commonwealth Government will approve amounts that are commensurate with the 2000/01 financial year. (5) & (6) The Delegate River Catchment Landcare Group’s current project for willow removal is not funded through either the National Landcare or National Rivercare Programs. Funding for the project, totalling $5,000, was approved through the Small Projects Fund which is managed and administered by the Department of Land and Water Conservation. To date none of this funding has been expended by the Landcare Group. However, the Department’s local Landscape Manager is presently assisting the Group with preliminary planning for the project.

*1779 KURNELL HISTORICAL ARTEFACTS—Mr Kerr to Attorney General, Minister for the Environment, Minister for Emergency Services, and Minister Assisting the Premier on the Arts—

(1) Does the National Parks and Wildlife Service have an inventory of all historical artefacts located at Botany Bay National Park at Kurnell? (2) What type of professional maintenance is carried out on these historical artefacts? (3) Will the Minister give an assurance that no historical artefacts located at Kurnell will be moved to other locations?

Answer— 2543 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS Wednesday 30 May 2001

(1) Yes. (2) The historical artefacts are subject to cyclical assessment and any necessary professional maintenance or conservation activity is conducted as a result of the assessment. The next periodic assessment is scheduled to occur before the end of June 2001 and will be conducted by the National Parks and Wildlife Service’s Museums Curator. If necessary, the Curator will engage a professional conservator to prepare an updated Conservation Management Plan for the artefacts. (3) The National Parks and Wildlife Service is not seeking to move the artefacts from Kurnell to any other location. Occasionally requests are received to allow some items to be exhibited in other museums for limited periods. If approval is given for such requests, suitable arrangements are made for their safekeeping and return.

*1780 GRIFFITH POLICE STATION—Mr Piccoli to Minister for Police—

(1) Is it true that the cells at Griffith Police Station are soon to be upgraded? (2) If so, how much is the upgrading going to cost and what is the precise nature of that upgrade? (3) Does the Police Department have further plans to upgrade the Griffith Police Station? (4) Have all of the Notices issued by Workcover in 2000 been addressed at the Griffith Police Station? (5) Does the Minister accept that the condition of the Griffith Police Station is inadequate?

Answer—

(1) to (3) & (5) Provision has been made in the 2000/2001 Capital Works Program for an upgrade of the prisoner handling areas, including existing cells, at Griffith Police Station. (4) No Notices relating to the Griffith Police Station were issued by Workcover in 2000.

*1781 FINLEY HIGH SCHOOL—Mr Piccoli to Minister for Education and Training—

When will the Department of Education approve and fund the construction of new tech buildings at Finley High School, the former building having been demolished several years ago?

Answer—

The desirability of providing permanent specialist teaching spaces to replace the existing demountable facilities at Finley High School is recognised by the Department of Education and Training. The project will continue to be taken into consideration for inclusion in a forward Capital Works Program as part of the Department’s annual assessment of school facilities provision across the State. Further consultation on the design concept plans will occur during 2001 between officers in the Department’s Properties Directorate and Finley High School community. Finalisation of design concept plans will assist in future funding considerations.

*1782 TAMWORTH ROAD WORKS—Mr J. H. Turner to Minister for Transport, and Minister for Roads—

(1) Has work been funded and carried out in the area of Bridge Street and the Oxley Highway, Tamworth for traffic control and maintenance? (2) If so, what work has been done? (3) If so, what was the completed program of works to be carried out? (4) If not, has the completed program of works been carried out? (5) If not, why not? (6) If not, when was the last funding made available for the works? (7) If not, what works are required to be carried out that have not been carried out to date? (8) If not, when will such funding necessary to complete the works be made available? 2544 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS Wednesday 30 May 2001

(9) If not, why has such funding stopped? (10) Is this area classed as a black spot accident area? (11) If so, why hasn’t the work been completed? (12) If the work has not been completed and funding made available are traffic problems still evident in the area? (13) If so, what are the traffic problems? (14) If so, why haven’t these problems been addressed? (15) If so, have such traffic problems resulted in the bus company having to reroute buses? (16) If so, why?

Answer—

(1) Yes. Funding has been provided over a 6 year period for upgrading of Bridge Street (Oxley Highway). (2) Reconstruction and widening of the roadway and intersection improvements have been completed between Ebsworth Street and Mahony Avenue. (3) A Scheme was developed to upgrade the entire length between Ebsworth Street and Gunnedah Road. (4) to (9) The section between Hercules Street and Mahony Avenue has not been upgraded. Works are not planned in the near future given the overall priorities for allocation of funds across the State. The Mahony Avenue roundabout was funded and built in 1997/98. Traffic signal upgrading at Ebsworth Street intersection is being funded during 2000/01. (10) No. (11) to (14) N/A. (15) Buses have not been rerouted and continue to access Bridge Street via Phillip Street. (16) N/A.

*1783 KHORIBAKH CREEK BRIDGE—Mr J. H. Turner to Minister for Transport, and Minister for Roads—

(1) Has the Roads and Traffic Authority or any agencies of government allocated any funds for the replacement of the Khoribakh Creek Bridge? (2) If so, what funds have been allocated? (3) If not, why not? (4) If so, how much has been allocated? (5) If so, what is the estimated cost of construction? (6) If so, when will construction start? (7) If so, when will construction be completed? (8) If so, why has there been a delay in the commencement of work to replace the bridge? (9) If not, are there any plans for funds to be included in the forthcoming budget? (10) If so, how much? (11) If so, when will those monies be allocated? (12) If not, why not?

Answer—

(1) Yes. (2) The replacement of Khoribakh Creek Bridge is part of the Bucketts Way Improvement Program. The State Government has made $6 million available over 3 years and Great Lakes, Gloucester and Greater Taree Councils have jointly allocated $2.5 million over 4 years for the program. (3) N/A. (4) Sufficient funding is being provided to complete the bridge as part of the Bucketts Way Improvement Program. 2545 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS Wednesday 30 May 2001

(5) Councils’ estimated cost of replacing Khoribakh Bridge is $450,000. (6) Construction is expected to commence mid 2001. (7) Completion is expected end of 2001. (8) The tendering process commenced end of 2000. Tenders closed on 30 March 2001. The project is being managed by Councils with RTA assistance. (9) to (12) N/A.

*1784 PROPOSED SYERSTON MINE—Mr J. H. Turner to Deputy Premier, Minister for Urban Affairs and Planning, Minister for Aboriginal Affairs, and Minister for Housing—

(1) Has a decision been made regarding the approval of a mine licence for the proposed Syerston Mine near Fifield? (2) If a decision has been made, has the mine been approved? (3) If there has been no decision, is the mine likely to gain approval? (4) If yes, when is a decision expected to be made? (5) If the mine has not yet, and will not be approved, why not? (6) Does the Minister agree that if approval is given to the mine then it is highly likely that there will be a significant increase in heavy vehicle traffic on the Tullamore to Narromine Road (MR 354), the most direct route from the mine to the city of Dubbo? (7) If yes, is the Minister aware that Main Road 354 is in urgent need of a full seal and currently this program is beyond the means of the local councils responsible for the road? (8) If the Minister is yet to approve the mine’s operating licence will part of the approval require the mining company to make a financial contribution towards the upgrade of the road? (9) If not, why not? (10) What are the responsibilities of a mining company granted a mining licence in terms of the maintenance of roads that surround the mine? (11) Will the Minister consider increasing the mine’s responsibilities for the road surrounding the mine given the obvious anomaly between the route for heavy vehicles mentioned in the Environmental Impact Statement and the most direct route to the city of Dubbo which is Main Road 354? (12) If not, why not? (13) If yes, what will be the mining company’s extra responsibilities and how will these be enforced? (14) Is the Minister willing to guarantee to the MR 354 Committee that if the mine is given approval, that no heavy vehicles will take the most direct route to Dubbo, which is MR 354, instead of the route specified in the Environmental Impact Statement and which is longer? (15) If yes, how will this guarantee be granted? (16) If the mine is approved, what provisions have been made to ensure that councils responsible for main road 354 will be compensated to cope with costs arising from increased heavy vehicle traffic on the road? (17) If no provisions have been made to compensate local councils for the increase in heavy vehicle movements resulting from the mine’s approval, why not? (18) Has the Minister fully considered the submission made by the MR 354 Committee to the Department of Urban Affairs and Planning in relation to the number of heavy vehicle movements on MR 354? (19) If not, why not? (20) If yes, what has been the Minister’s response to this submission? (21) Will the Main Road 354 committee be involved in any further decisions made by the Minister and the Department of Urban Affairs and Planning in terms of the Syerston mine? (22) If not, why not?

Answer—

(1) No. (2) Not applicable. 2546 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS Wednesday 30 May 2001

(3) I am awaiting the outcome of the Department of Urban Affairs and Planning's (DUAP) environmental assessment and recommendations on the proposal before making any decision on the matter. I will also have due regard to submissions made by members of the community. (4) Not applicable. (5) Not applicable. (6) I am aware of the issues and will ensure that they are taken into consideration when making my decision. (7) See above. (8) See above. (9) See above. (10) A determination has not yet been made. (11) I will consider these issues in my determination of the project. (12) Not applicable. (13) Not applicable. (14) I will consider these issues in my determination of the project. (15) Not applicable. (16) Refer to the answer provided for question 6 above. (17) I am aware of the issues and will ensure that they are taken into consideration when making my decision. (18) I will be considering this submission in my determination of the proposal. (19) Not applicable. (20) Not applicable. (21) The concerns of the MR 354 committee will be taken into account in my determination of the project. (22) Not applicable.

29 MARCH 2001

(Paper No. 82)

*1785 BUILDING COURSE—FORBES TAFE—Mr Armstrong to Minister for Education and Training—

(1) Will you guarantee the continuation of the Building Studies Residential Certificate IV Post Trade Course at the Forbes TAFE College? (2) Has there been a survey undertaken on the availability of hard drugs in schools within the Western Region? (3) Has there been a survey undertaken on the amount of ‘binge drinking’ in schools within the Western Region?

Answer—

(1) The provision of the Building Studies Residential Certificate IV Post Trade Course will continue at the Western Institute of TAFE Forbes Campus provided there is sufficient community and industry demand in the future. (2) I am advised that the Department is unaware of any survey on the availability of hard drugs in schools within the Western Region. The Government firmly believes that schools must be places which are absolutely free of illegal drugs. Principals of government schools suspend immediately any student who is in possession of a suspected illegal substance. (3) I am advised that the Department is unaware of any survey on the amount of ‘binge drinking’ in schools, undertaken specifically in Western Region of NSW. 2547 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS Wednesday 30 May 2001

The policy of the Department of Education and Training states that alcohol must not be consumed or brought to government school premises under any circumstances during school hours.

*1786 FREIGHTCORP—Mr Armstrong to Minister for Transport, and Minister for Roads—

(1) How many individual freight train movements were there in NSW last year? (2) How many tonnes were carried by Freightcorp in NSW last year? (3) How many tonnes were carried by private and independent rail operators in NSW last year? (4) What was the total sum of community service obligation funds that private rail operators received in NSW last year? (5) What is the average speed that NSW Freightcorp trains travelled at in NSW last year? (6) Does your Department have a record of the average speed that non Freightcorp trains travelled at in NSW last year?

Answer—

(1) I am advised that there were approximately 83,000 individual freight train movements in NSW last year. (2) FreightCorp carried 85.5 million tonnes in the financial year ending 30 June 2000. (3) I am advised by the Rail Infrastructure Corporation (RIC) total freight on the NSW rail network in 1999/2000 was 37,000 million gross tonne kilometres. (4) In 1999/2000 the former Rail Access Corporation (now RIC) received $167.2 million in community service obligation payments. (5) to (6) FreightCorp and non-FreightCorp trains are operated in accordance with the track speeds set by the network owner, the Rail Infrastructure Corporation (RIC). There are many factors which influence the speed at which a freight train travels. Some of these factors can include route and gradients, track speed restrictions imposed by RIC, ambient temperature and weather conditions, and the total train load. I am advised that FreightCorp and the Department of Transport do not statistically track individual freight train speeds.

*1787 FISHING LICENCES—Mr Armstrong to Minister for Local Government, Minister for Regional Development, and Minister for Rural Affairs, representing the Minister for Mineral Resources and Minister for Fisheries—

(1) How many persons are licensed to fish in inland waters as of 31 December 2000? (2) How many fishing inspectors are employed to police the licensing system? (3) How many breaches of the relevant licensing Act were detected in the years: (a) 1998? (b) 1999? (c) 2000? (4) How many penalty notices were issued in: (a) 1998? (b) 1999? (c) 2000? (5) What was the total sum of fines collected in : (a) 1998? (b) 1999? (c) 2000? (6) Where are the records of these fines located within the Department? (7) How many persons were taken to court and charged with alleged breaches of the Act in (a) 1998? (b) 1999? (c) 2000? 2548 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS Wednesday 30 May 2001

(8) Of those persons taken to court how many were successful by prosecuted in (a) 1998? (b) 1999? (c) 2000? (9) How many hours did fishing inspectors spend at the courts to give evidence on behalf of the Crown against alleged breaches in (a) 1998? (b) 1999? (c) 2000? (10) What is the Department’s budget in terms of numbers of persons that will seek to be issued with salt water fishing licenses for the year 2000/2001?

Answer—

(1) There were approximately 90,000 people who held a freshwater recreational fishing licence on 31 December 2000. This does not include monthly licences sold prior to December 2000, which expired prior to 31 December 2000. (2) There are currently 101 fisheries officer positions. (3) The number of breaches of the freshwater fishing licence rules on which enforcement action was taken: (a) 1998 23 (b) 1999 499 (c) 2000 487 (4) The number of Penalty Notices issued for breaches of the freshwater fishing licence rules are: (a) 1998 21 (b) 1999 325 (c) 2000 315 (5) Penalty notices are processed by the Infringement Processing Bureau. The amount of fines collected from the issue of Penalty Notices for breaches of the freshwater fishing licence rules are: (a) 1998 $ 1,000.00 (b) 1999 $ 34,800.00 (c) 2000 $ 16,800.00 (6) The NSW Fisheries records of fines are located at Wollstonecraft Fisheries Centre. (7) The number of persons taken to court for alleged breaches of the freshwater fishing licence rules were: (a) 1998 0 (b) 1999 9 (c) 2000 5 (8) The number of people who went to court and were found to have breached freshwater fishing licence rules were: (a) 1998 0 (b) 1999 8 (c) 2000 5 (9) The approximate number of hours that fishing inspectors spent in court appearing in relation to alleged breaches of the freshwater fishing licence rules were: (a) 1998 0 (b) 1999 15 hours (c) 2000 7 hours (10) The NSW Government expects to raise an additional $6 million from the extension of the fishing licence scheme into saltwater. These funds are being paid into the Recreational Fishing (Saltwater Trust). 2549 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS Wednesday 30 May 2001

*1789 FIRE LEVIES—Mr Stoner to Attorney General, Minister for the Environment, Minister for Emergency Services, and Minister Assisting the Premier on the Arts—

In the 1999/2000 financial year, how much revenue was raised from the fire levy on insurance policies?

Answer—

In 1999/2000 financial year the insurance industry contributed $286,707,000 to the cost of operating the Fire Services in New South Wales in accordance with the provisions of the Fire Brigades Act, 1989 and the Rural Fires Act, 1997.

*1790 DEE WHY BUS INCIDENT—Mr Humpherson to Minister for Transport, and Minister for Roads—

(1) What action did State Transit take in relation to an incident involving approximately ten persons engaging in offensive behaviour on a State Transit bus service which departed Howard Avenue, Dee Why at approximately 2358 hours on Friday March 2, 2001? Did the bus driver contact State Transit radio room and request help? (2) Did State Transit contact Manly Police and request assistance? (3) Did police receive any message before the bus arrival outside Manly Police Station? (4) What time did they receive a call? (5) What communication occurred with Police? (6) What communication occurred with the bus driver? (7) What time did the bus driver radio State Transit for help? (8) What time did State Transit contact Manly Police Station? (9) What action did State Transit take between receiving the call for help and communicating it to Manly Police?

Answer—

I am advised by the State Transit Authority of the following: (1) to (9) The Bus Operator proceeded to Manly Police Station as the result of an alleged incident on board a State Transit Authority bus. I am advised that the persons allegedly involved in the incident dispersed upon arrival at the Manly Police Station.

*1791 WORK RELEASE—Mr Humpherson to Minister for Fair Trading, Minister for Corrective Services, and Minister for Sport and Recreation—

(1) How many offenders are on the work release program as at 30 March 2001 at each correctional centre? (2) Of those offenders on work release as at 30 March 2001, how many are on weekend release as well and from which correctional centre? (3) What type of work are the offenders engaged in? (4) How many offenders were approved for the work release program in 1998/99, 1999/2000 and 2000/2001? (5) How many were discontinued for any reasons? What were the reasons? (6) How many offenders completed work release and left prison in 1998/99, 1999/2000, 2000/2001? (7) How many offenders participated in weekend release in 1998/99, 1999/2000, 2000/2001? (8) What are the criteria which offenders have to satisfy in order to participate in weekend release? (9) What are the conditions under which weekend release is taken?

Answer— 2550 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS Wednesday 30 May 2001

(1) At 1 April 2001, a total of 130 inmates had participated in the work release program in the previous week. The number of inmates varies from centre to centre. (2) I am advised by the Department of Corrective Services that retrieval of this information would require a large allocation of resources and would unreasonably divert Department staff from operational priorities. (3) An inmate eligible for the work release program may undertake any meaningful employment which is appropriate to assist the inmate’s reintegration into the community, which will be ongoing upon release, and which is clearly aligned to the inmate’s knowledge, skills and previous experience. (4) A total of 1685 to 30 March 2001. (5) A total of 342 to 30 March 2001. Inmates are removed from the program for a range of reasons. I am advised by the Department of Corrective Services that the individual retrieval of 342 files over a three year period would unreasonably divert Departmental staff from operational priorities. (6) A total of 384 to 30 March 2001. Figures refer to the number of inmates who were on work release program at their discharge date. (7) A total of 945 to 30 March 2001. (8) Inmates must satisfy criteria as set out in the Department of Corrective Services Operations Procedures Manual. (9) Conditions for weekend release are set in the Department of Corrective Services Operations Procedures Manual.

*1792 DEE WHY BUS INCIDENT—Mr Humpherson to Minister for Police—

(1) What action did police take in relation to an incident involving approximately ten persons engaging in offensive behaviour on a State Transit bus service which departed Howard Avenue, Dee Why at approximately 2358 hours on Friday March 2, 2001? (2) Did State Transit contact Manly Police and request assistance? (3) Did police receive any message before the bus arrival outside Manly Police Station? (4) What time did they receive a call? (5) What communication occurred with State Transit? (6) What communication occurred with the bus driver? (7) Were any of the offending persons spoken to or apprehended?

Answer—

(1) to (7) I am advised by the Deputy Commissioner (Field Operations) that police first became aware of the incident when the bus driver attended Manly Station and reported the incident. I am advised that the offenders had dispersed before the incident was reported to police.

*1793 CONTAMINATION OF THE MURRUMBIDGEE RIVER—Ms Hodgkinson to Minister for Agriculture, and Minister for Land and Water Conservation—

(1) Is the Minister aware of a large fish kill which was reported in Lake Burrinjuck on 9 February? (2) What investigations has the Minister initiated to ascertain the cause of the fish deaths? (3) Were water samples taken of Lake Burrinjuck before and after the fish kill? (4) Were these samples lost during transit to the testing laboratory? (5) What action has the Minister initiated to investigate the loss of these samples? (6) Given that the Murrumbidgee River has recently been described as an ‘endangered ecological community’ by the NSW Fisheries Scientific Committee what actions will you take to ensure a similar event does not occur in the future?

Answer— 2551 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS Wednesday 30 May 2001

(1) Yes. (2) The fish kill was inspected by NSW Fisheries and Department of Land and Water Conservation staff. It was observed that the fish had open mouths and gills flared, which is an indication of death through suffocation. (3) Yes. (4) No. The event occurred approximately 1 to 3 days prior to discovery of the fish kill. The fish were probably washed into the area where they were discovered (taking into consideration inflows into the storage), therefore it was extremely difficult to definitely establish a cause. Neither sampling the fish flesh nor analysing the water samples collected were likely to assist with diagnosis of the cause of the event. It was not possible to preserve and transport the samples to a laboratory for analysis before the weekend of 10 February and therefore the samples were not processed. (5) No action has been taken on the basis that the samples were not lost. (6) There is no connection between the proposed listing by the NSW Fisheries Scientific Committee and a combination of normal events that have contributed to the subject fish kill. Accordingly, no action is proposed.

*1794 WOODLAWN MINERS ENTITLEMENTS—Ms Hodgkinson to Deputy Premier, Minister for Urban Affairs and Planning, Minister for Aboriginal Affairs, and Minister for Housing—

(1) Is the Minister aware that throughout the Australian Workers Union and the National Union of Workers, former employees of the Woodlawn Mine have been attempting, for six weeks, to obtain a meeting with him to discuss their unpaid entitlements? (2) Given that it was the Minister’s decision to restrict the size of the Collex Waste Depot and so put at risk the former employees unpaid entitlements why will he not meet with a delegation to discuss this matter?

Answer—

(1) to (2) While I am sympathetic to the plight of former mine workers, consideration of the issues of unpaid entitlements was not a matter that could be considered as part of the proposal.

*1795 STAPH INFECTIONS AT GOULBURN BASE HOSPITAL—Ms Hodgkinson to Minister for Health—

(1) Is the Minister aware of the case of Mrs Joan Berwick who was admitted to Goulburn Base Hospital on 3 September 2000 and contracted a golden staph infection at the hospital? (2) Is the Minister also aware that as a result of this infection Mrs Berwick has not left hospital care and has been almost continuously on intravenous antibiotics since 3 September 2000? (3) What actions has the Minister taken to ensure that patients admitted to Goulburn Base Hospital are protected from MSRA infections? (4) Why have these actions failed? (5) What new action will the Minister take to ensure that other patients do not suffer similar infections?

Answer—

(1) to (2) Mrs Berwick has been admitted and discharged from Goulburn Base Hospital on a number of occasions since September 2000 with her most recent admission on 21 December 2000. She was subsequently transferred to The Canberra Hospital on 25 January 2001. She has received antibiotic treatment for an underlying medical condition and intermittently for the MRSA. 2552 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS Wednesday 30 May 2001

(3) to (5) Goulburn Base Hospital has a MRSA management plan that outlines specific treatment and requirements for managing MRSA patients admitted to the hospital. It also has introduced a tracking system for known MRSA carriers. These action have prevented the further spread of MRSA within the hospital. As at 2 April 2001, there were no MRSA positive patients in the hospital.

*1796 INDUSTRIAL SUPPLIES OFFICE—Mr Debnam to Minister for Small Business, and Minister for

In relation to the Industrial Supplies Office (ISO): (1) Given her advice to Parliament on 27th March 2001 that, “Since 1999 the ISO has secured more than 4,400 jobs for this State”, what is the breakdown, by company and number of jobs? (2) Given her advice to Parliament on 27th March 2001 that, “2,110 new jobs have been created as a result of the work of the ISO; that is approximately half of the new jobs created in regional New South Wales”, does she believe that an increase in ISO funding would further reduce unemployment in regional NSW?

Answer—

(1) The value of new or retained manufacturing business secured for NSW firms by the activities of the NSW ISO is derived from written confirmation received by the Industrial Supplies Office from its clients. (2) The Department of State and Regional Development has a three-year performance agreement with the NSW ISO which provides for annual funding arrangements and import replacement targets, with the current agreement expiring on 30 June 2003. Job creation opportunities are directly related to the success of the ISO in generating business.

*1797 BACKPACKERS—Mr Debnam to Minister for Local Government, Minister for Regional Development, and Minister for Rural Affairs—

In relation to community concerns about backpackers: (1) Has he or the Department of Local Government initiated or participated in any reviews in the last two years which sought to address tenancy arrangements, noise or rubbish and if so, what were the outcomes?

Answer—

The issues, which the Member has raised, are not matters that fall within the responsibility of my portfolio.

*1798 RTA'S DRIVES—Mr Debnam to Minister for Transport, and Minister for Roads—

In relation to the RTA’s DRIVES project: (1) Is the project now operational? (2) Which SES staff were/are tasked with the DRIVES project? (3) Which if any of the SES staff in (2) above have subsequently left the RTA and under what circumstances? (4) What is the total cost of the DRIVES project? (5) Which consultants have been contracted to work on DRIVES and how much has each of these consultants cost? (6) What does the RTA charge local councils for access to the DRIVES system?

Answer— 2553 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS Wednesday 30 May 2001

(1) DRIVES was implemented in two phases. Phase 1 in September 1991 implemented the driver licensing modules. Phase 2 in June 1992 implemented the vehicle registration module. (2) Mr Geoff Deacon, Mr Frank Howarth, Mr Michael McMullan, Ms Margaret Crawford and Mr Greg Carvouni. (3) The SES staff who have subsequently left the RTA: Name Date Circumstance Geoff Deacon 27 October 1995 sought and gained employment in the Private Sector Michael McMullan 24 October 1997 sought and gained employment in the Private Sector Frank Howarth 13 November 1997 moved to another public service appointment Margaret Crawford 4 February 2000 moved to another jurisdiction (4) The DRIVES registration and licensing development that replaced the pre-existing IBM batch system cost $39.5 million. (5) Specific information on individual consultancies on DRIVES until 1999 has only been maintained on individual hard cover files and cannot be extracted from the RTA financial management system. The use of consultants on DRIVES has been limited to specialised maintenance and enhancements of the system to provide new functionality to meet legislative amendments and/or improvements in customer service. Since mid 1999 the following consultants have been engaged on DRIVES related projects: DATE PAYEE DESCRIPTION AMOUNT 24/06/1999 Stirling software DRIVES COOL:GEN Development tool - $4,290.00 Consulting 29/09/2000 Thawte Internet server certification $531.84 16/10/2000 Softworld DRIVES PITS (Project Information Tracking $8,580.00 System) maintenance 27/10/2000 Getronics Registry Hardware Java rollout Consultancy $27,000.00 27/10/2000 ISI MQ Series NEVDIS Software Messaging application $54,450.00 27/10/2000 ISI MQ Series NEVDIS Software Messaging application $18,000.00 24/11/2000 Getronics EMU design consultancy services - Registry $50,595.60 Terminal Emulators 01/12/2000 Search Software Technical services - DRIVES SSA name search $4,836.70 America software upgrade 28/12/2000 Search Software Technical services - DRIVES SSA name search $16,500.00 America software upgrade 03/01/2001 ETC Electronic Specialist Consultancy - Facial recognition software $13,760.00 Trading 24/01/2001 ETC Electronic Specialist Consultancy - Facial recognition software $1,880.00 Trading 25/01/2001 XLPRINT DRIVES letter application, LAPRES, software $4,479.20 upgrade 31/01/2001 Price Waterhouse Ebusiness Program Implementation $50,000.00 Coopers Being 25% of consultancy RTA wide 09/03/2001 Price Waterhouse Consultancy services for Online Motor Registry $40,000.00 Coopers

(6) The RTA does not currently charge local councils for access to the DRIVES system. However, a fee of $20 is charged if a certificate is required for court proceedings.

*1799 LAND CONTAMINATION CLAIM—Ms Seaton to Attorney General, Minis ter for the Environment, Minister for Emergency Services, and Minister Assisting the Premier on the Arts— 2554 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS Wednesday 30 May 2001

Regarding the ongoing legal action between Ms Michelle Fay and others in respect of their claims against the NSW Government in relation to cattle tick dip contamination of land previously leased to the NSW Government: (1) What are the legal costs to date incurred on behalf of the government in (a) fees to legal counsel? (b) administration time spent by government bureaucrats in defending this action? (c) travel costs incurred by government bureaucrats in defending this action?

Answer—

This is a question for my colleague, the Minister for Agriculture.

*1800 POLLUTION CLEAN UP—Ms Seaton to Attorney General, Minister for the Environment, Minister for Emergency Services, and Minister Assisting the Premier on the Arts—

(1) How much money has been allocated from the Environmental Trust to clean-up of pollution following the chemical fire at Resolve Liquids factory at Wilberforce in 1998, 1999, 2000, and 2001? (2) Will additional money be spent after 2001? (3) If so, how much? (4) Will any of these funds be recovered through insurance or prosecution? (5) What was the cause of the fire?

Answer—

(1) A total of $1.248 million has been approved for the clean-up and expended as follows: 1998-99 $769,722; 1999-2000 $189,849; 2000-01 $205,688 (to 18 April). $83,000 in funds remains available but has not been expended as at 18 April 2001. (2) Not known at this time. It is expected that the clean-up will be finalised shortly. (3) See answer to (2). (4) The Environment Protection Authority will soon finalise its decision regarding prosecution. It is usual for such proceedings to include an element for seeking cost recovery for clean-ups. (5) I am advised that the regulatory authorities were not able to determine the precise cause of the fire.

*1801 SCHOOL FACILITIES—Mr Webb to Minister for Education and Training—

(1) Are you aware that Sutton Public School has ongoing water and sewage problems that have not yet been adequately addressed? (2) Are you aware that Queanbeyan East Public School students’ toilets pose an actual health risk? (3) Are you also aware that their multi-purpose area has a mould and mildew problem due to plumbing and drainage problems? (4) When is your department going to fix these important health risk problems? (5) When can Queanbeyan East Public School expect to have permanent classrooms, which have adequate heating and cooling appliances, for their climate, to replace their totally unsatisfactory and long over-used demountables? (6) When can Wyndham Public School expect to have permanent classrooms to replace the existing demountable classrooms? (7) When will your department refurbish Bombala schools heating and cooling appliances which are totally unsatisfactory for the extreme climatic conditions experienced by this town? (8) To meet the need for basic shelter from cold weather, when can Cooma North and Queanbeyan West school communities expect to receive funding that will address their need for adequate school halls? 2555 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS Wednesday 30 May 2001

(9) When will you address Queanbeyan East’s requirement for a permanent library? (10) What is Queanbeyan South Public School’s status in the priorities schools program and how will this be reflected in additional financial support? (11) When can the students, teachers and families expect advice of your Government’s timetable to provide these basic services to schools in the Monaro Electorate?

Answer—

(1) Sutton Public School's water and sewage systems have been the subject of remedial works during 2000 and term one, this year. The review of the water and sewage systems has been undertaken in consultation with Yarrowlumla Shire Council, NSW Environmental Protection Agency and the Department of Public Works and Services (DPWS). Works on the water and sewage system completed last year include: installation of flow meters to septic holding tanks; CCTV video inspection of sewer system; cleaning out of septic tanks and overflow tank; installation of an electric float warning system and pump outs increased. During term one this year works have been completed on the commissioning of additional overflow/holding tank and adjustment to septic/holding tank warning system to provide increased notice on pump outs. All the works were completed under DPWS supervision. Concerns over the Sutton Public School water and sewage systems have been adequately addressed through detailed review, community consultation and appropriate remedial works. The performance of these systems will continue to be monitored by Department of Education and Training and DPWS. (2) The Department of Education and Training has recognised the need to upgrade student toilet facilities at Queanbeyan East Public School. Consideration will be given to this project for inclusion in the 2001/02 Minor Capital Works Program. (3) Queanbeyan East Public School’s plumbing and drainage systems are currently being reviewed as part of the annual detailed condition assessment by the school’s maintenance contractor, ABA Construction Manager P/L. Any repair works will then be scheduled, in consultation with the school principal, to be undertaken during the year. (4) It is anticipated that Queanbeyan East Public School’s drainage and plumbing works will occur during 2001. The toilet upgrade will depend on funding from the 2001/02 Minor Capital Works Budget. (5) The Department of Education and Training recognises the need to upgrade accommodation facilities at Queanbeyan East Public School. This project will include replacement of demountable classrooms with permanent facilities and will continue to be taken into consideration for inclusion in a forward Major Capital Works Program. (6) The Department of Education and Training recognises the need to provide permanent classrooms to replace existing demountables at Wyndham Public School. Consideration will be given to this project for inclusion in the 2001/02 Major Capital Works Program. (7) Bombala Public and High Schools’ heating systems are being maintained by the schools’ maintenance contractor, ABA Construction Managers P/L. There are no plans at this stage to replace the heating systems in these schools. Any concerns about the heating at the school should be forwarded to the principal to liaise with the maintenance contractor. (8) Planning approval has been granted for provision of a permanent hall, canteen and covered outdoor learning area at Cooma North Public School. Planning by the Department of Education and Training and the Department of Public Works and Services is anticipated to be completed during 2001 to allow funding consideration in a forward Major Capital Works Program. The Department of Education and Training recognises the desirability of improving/extending the existing permanent hall facility at Queanbeyan West Public School. Consideration will be given to funding this project in a forward Capital Works Program. (9) Funding for the redevelopment project at Queanbeyan East Public School, including a new library will be taken into consideration in a forward Major Capital Works Program. 2556 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS Wednesday 30 May 2001

(10) The Priority Schools Funding Program was established to support government schools serving the highest concentrations of students from low socio-economic status communities. Schools became eligible for the program on the basis of an index of relative socio-economic disadvantage. The index was constructed using data from a voluntary survey of the characteristics of families of students at the school. (11) Schools were ranked in order of socio-economic disadvantage. The cut-off point was drawn where approximately 21 per cent of students in NSW government schools were enrolled in a Priority School. Schools on the program are relatively more disadvantaged than schools that did not qualify for the program. The index score calculated from the data received from Queanbeyan South Public School did not qualify the school, in comparison to other schools, to receive funding from the Priority Schools Funding Program. Compared to other schools in the Monaro Electorate that qualified for the Priority Schools Funding Program, Queanbeyan South Public School has the highest percentage of families in which both parents work, the highest average occupational status and the highest level of educational qualifications. The finite resources available under the program must be offered to the schools that have been identified as more socio-economically disadvantaged than Queanbeyan South Public School Advice provided in the answers to sections (1) to (10).

*1802 ROZELLE HOSPITAL SITE—CALLAN PARK—Mrs Skinner to Mini

In relation to the Rozelle Hospital site Callan Park, can he please provide: (1) A map of the site with the land proposed for sale clearly marked? (2) The current estimated market value of the land proposed for sale? (3) Details about what is proposed to be built at concord, including the number and type of wards with bed numbers, information about outpatient services planned and numbers of patients envisaged, and other service activities proposed. (4) The current estimate of the capital cost of the Concord facility? (5) Details of the 1998-99, 1999-00 and 2000-01 total recurrent budget for Cental Sydney Area Health Service, the total mental health budget for the Area and the budget for Rozelle Hospital? (6) Details of the same periods of bed and staff numbers for Rozelle Hospital and details of what services have replaced beds and staff that have been lost and the bed and staff allocations to those services if any? (7) Confirmation or otherwise that a penalty of $15 million will be applied to Cental Sydney Area Health Service from next years budget if the sale of the land does not proceed?

Answer—

(1) The attached map shows the area of potential development as currently being foreshadowed in stakeholder consultation by the Urban Design Advisory Service (UDAS) as part of the SEPP56. (2) UDAS has advised that the estimated value of the potential development area shown on the map is $42 million. This has yet to be tested by proper valuation. (3) Ward Service Bed numbers 1. Psychiatric inpatient (acute) 35 2. Psychiatric inpatient (acute) 15 3. Acute Psychogeriatric Unit 30 4. Intensive Psychiatric Care Unit 20 5. Rehabilitation Unit 35 6. Extended Care Unit 15 7. Adolescent Unit number of beds to be confirmed · Approximately 2200 patients will be admitted to these facilities each year. 2557 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS Wednesday 30 May 2001

· Approximately 250,000 non-inpatient occasions of service will be provided annually. · Mental health outpatient activities will also, in large measure, be carried out within the community by the community health teams. (4) $40 million. (5) This information is available from the relevant annual reports of the Central Sydney Area Health Service. (6) This information is available from the relevant annual reports of the Central Sydney Area Health Service. Data for 2000/2001 is not yet available. (7) It is confirmed that no penalty will apply to Central Sydney Area Health Service as claimed in the question.

*1803 LANDCOM LOTS—Mr John Brogden to Deputy Premier, Minister for Urban Affairs and Planning, Minister for Aboriginal Affairs, and Minister for Housing—

(1) How many residential housing lots in greenfield locations in Sydney were released for sale by Landcom in 1998-1999? 2558 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS Wednesday 30 May 2001

(2) How many residential housing lots in greenfield locations in Sydney were released for sale by Landcom in 1999-2000? (3) How many residential housing lots in greenfield locations in Sydney does Landcom propose to release over the current financial year?

Answer—

Landcom greenfield land released for sale in the Sydney metropolitan area for the last two years and proposed for the current year is: Year Number of lots 1998-1999 1093 1999-2000 1065 2000-2001 1132

*1804 INJECTING ROOM COSTS—Mr O'Doherty to Premier, Minister for the Arts, and Minister for

What is the cost to date and estimated total cost of the set up operation and legal processes associated with the Kings Cross Heroin injecting room? Who is bearing this cost?

Answer—

I am advised that $1.8 million was set aside from Drug Summit funding to facilitate and assist in the establishment and operation of the 18 months trial of a medically supervised injecting centre. This allocation of $1.8 million has been sourced from the Confiscated Proceeds of Crime Account– which is primarily the confiscated proceeds of drug traffickers. This is a trial, the funding is not recurrent. I am advised that providing a final estimate on the overall cost of running the trial has not been possible to date as a necessary first step is the conclusion of a service agreement between the authorised operator and NSW Health. Although the Uniting Church was granted a licence to conduct the trial in October last year, the decision by the Kings Cross Chamber of Commerce to commence legal proceedings, has delayed these negotiations. On 5 April the Supreme Court dismissed the proceedings brought by the Chamber of Commerce, and ordered it to pay costs. Now that the matter has been finalised, I am advised that steps are being taken to finalise the arrangements with the Uniting Church, the authorised operator. Advice from NSW Health is that approximately $1 million has been spent to date to cover costs associated with the preparation of the Uniting Church’s application, hiring of staff, rent, and refurbishment and fit-out of the premises. As a result of the legal proceedings brought by the Kings Cross Chamber of Commerce, there has been a lengthy delay in commencing the trial. This has meant unanticipated additional costs have been incurred. I am advised that the trial of the medically supervised injecting centre will commence shortly, and in light of the above, the original estimate of $1.8 million will need to be revised.

*1805 SEWERAGE PROVISION—Mr O'Doherty to Minister for Agriculture, and Minister for Land and Water Conservation—

In view of the recommendation of the Regulation Review Committee, will you now commit to funding and provide a timetable for sewerage provision at Brooklyn/Dangar, Cowan and Mt Kuring-gai industrial area?

Answer— 2559 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS Wednesday 30 May 2001

This matter falls within the responsibility of Sydney Water. The Honourable Member should therefore direct his question to the Minister for information Technology, Minister for Energy, Minister for Forestry, and Minister for Western Sydney.

*1806 HORNSBY HELP PROGRAM—Mr O'Doherty to Minister for Education and Training—

What advice did you receive from the Hornsby District Office regarding the decision to de-fund the Hornsby HELP program?

Answer—

The Minister is not aware of any advice to him from the Hornsby District Office regarding the decision to de-fund the Hornsby HELP program.

*1807 BEROWRA POLICE STATION—Mr O'Doherty to Minister for Police—

Will you give a commitment not to close Berowra Police Station?

Answer—

The NSW Police Service has advised that there are no plans to close Berowra Police Station.

*1808 HORNSBY SCHOOLS—Mr O'Doherty to Minister for Education and Training—

Will you give a commitment not to close any schools in Hornsby electorate?

Answer—

There are no plans to close schools in the Hornsby electorate.

*1809 STUDENT TRAVEL CONCESSIONS—Mr O'Doherty to Minister for Transport, and Minister for

(1) What consideration has been given to making students travel concessions available to full time external studies students at least for the purpose of travelling to residential schools and for study purposes? (2) Will you make such concessions available?

Answer—

(1) Currently, fulltime internal students over the age of 16 years are entitled to travel concessions upon presentation of the NSW Student Identification Card, which is issued by their tertiary institution. External students are not entitled to similar travel concessions for the purpose of travelling to residential schools and for study purposes as it is considered that external students are more able and likely to be paid employment. (2) While the Government is committed to ensuring the public transport fares remain affordable, it does not currently have the resources to extend the eligibility criteria to include external students.

*1810 KURING-GAI LAC—Mr O'Doherty to Minister for Police—

(1) How many police from the Kuring-gai Local Area Command are assigned to duties associated with court duties, including prisoners escort on a weekly basis? 2560 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS Wednesday 30 May 2001

(2) When will the government allocate resources to relieve these Police from this non-core policing activity and allow them to return to directly serving the needs of the Hornsby communities?

Answer—

(1) These duties are shared amongst a number of police as required. (2) The Police Service is currently transferring some of its non-core policing functions, such as prisoner escort and guarding functions, to the Department of Corrective Services. This is being progressively implemented on a priority basis.

*1811 DURAL INTERSECTION—Mr J. H. Turner to Minister for Transport, and Minister for Roads—

(1) Is there a pedestrian crossing on Old Northern Road, Dural, adjacent to Galston Road? (2) If so, has the RTA or your office received representations for the installation of a safe refuge on the pedestrian crossing? (3) If so, what has been the outcome of such representations? (4) If the RTA has not agreed to a safe refuge, why did they not agree? (5) Has the RTA at any time advised in writing or verbally, that a fatality would be needed to bring any action for a safe refuge? (6) If so, why has this advice been given? (7) If so, is this standard advice? (8) If so, is this standard policy by the RTA? (9) Do school children use this intersection? (10) If so, what safeguards are there for children to cross the road safely? (11) If none, why not?

*Answer—

(1) to (11) There is no pedestrian crossing on Old Northern Road, Dural, adjacent to Galston Road. The RTA has received requests from members of the public for the provision of a pedestrian facility in the vicinity of the shops on Old Northern Road, Dural, approximately 150m south of the intersection with Galston Road. The RTA has not stated that a fatality would be needed to bring any action for a safe refuge. RTA policy for assessing a site for a pedestrian facility requires consideration of vehicular and pedestrian traffic, future demand and the accident history of the site. Although there is no school in the immediate area, it is understood school children do cross the road. A pedestrian refuge is proposed for this site and plans for the work are nearing completion. Subject to the successful outcome of community consultation, it is proposed to undertake the work in the 2001/02 financial year.

1812 REGIONAL REHABILITATION PROGRAMMES—Mr J. H. Turner to Minister for Transport, and

(1) What has been the level of funding for the Regional Rehabilitation Programme for the RTA Southern Region for the following years: (a) 1997/98? (b) 1998/99? (c) 1999/00? (d) 2000/01? (2) What has been the level of funding for the Regional Rehabilitation Programme for the RTA Hunter Region for the following years: (a) 1997/98? (b) 1998/99? 2561 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS Wednesday 30 May 2001

(c) 1999/00? (d) 2000/01? (3) What has been the level of funding for the Regional Rehabilitation Programme for the RTA Northern Region for the following years: (a) 1997/98? (b) 1998/99? (c) 1999/00? (d) 2000/01? (4) What has been the level of funding for the Regional Rehabilitation Programme for the RTA South Western Region for the following years: (a) 1997/98? (b) 1998/99? (c) 1999/00? (d) 2000/01? (5) What has been the level of funding for the Regional Rehabilitation Programme for the RTA Western Region for the following years: (a) 1997/98? (b) 1998/99? (c) 1999/00? (d) 2000/01?

Answer—

The RTA distributes available funds between types of work and between roads by closely monitoring road performance, road conditions, the levels and nature of usage, and by using risk management principles to support road safety. I am advised that as a result, even though the overall funding level for maintain has remained reasonably consistent over the period relevant to this question, the mix of treatment types and locations has varied. The RTA is focussing available funds on the satey of the network by increasing the relative funding for bridge maintenance and towards ensuring the stability of road cutting and embankment slopes. The average funding per annum for rehabilitation over the last four years is: Southern Region $17.7m, Hunter Region $16.25m, Northern Region $19.45m, South Western Region $27.1m and Western Region $21.7m These figures do not include high priority works such as bridge maintenance and updating currently being undertaken by the RTA. The Government’s $129 million Country Timber Bridge Programm to replace, or where necessary restore, 140 timber bridges across rural NSW represents the first part kof the NSW Government delivering the Rebuilding Country Roads Program.

*1813 ANZAC PARADE CROSSING—Ms Moore to Minister for Transport, and Minister for Roads—

Concerning a pedestrian crossing on Anzac Parade linking Moore Park East and West: (1) When was the at-grade, signalised pedestrian crossing, formerly near Gregory Avenue, installed and removed? (2) How much did it cost to install the pedestrian crossing? (3) How much did it cost to remove the pedestrian crossing? (4) What research was undertaken into the benefits of keeping the pedestrian crossing? (5) Has Roads and Traffic Authority research identified a pedestrian crossing is needed near this location? (6) If so, why was the pedestrian crossing removed? (7) What does the Roads and Traffic Authority consider to be the costs and benefits for an at-grade signalised pedestrian crossing compared with a pedestrian over-bridge at this location on Anzac Parade? (8) Did the Road and Traffic Authority initiate the proposal for a pedestrian over-bridge, funded through advertising, to be installed on Anzac Parade, Moore Park? 2562 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS Wednesday 30 May 2001

(9) If not, who initiated the proposal? (10) What locations have been investigated for this proposed pedestrian over-bridge? (11) Why has a location near Gregory Avenue been given priority over other possible sites? (12) Has the Roads and Traffic Authority, or another Government authority, had discussions with potential advertising sponsors for this proposed over-bridge? (13) If so, who are these potential advertising sponsors? (14) What Government authorities need to provide consent for the over-bridge proposal? (15) When will a Development Application be submitted to South Sydney Council for the proposal?

Answer—

(1) The temporary at grade signalised pedestrian crossing near Gregory Avenue became operational on 11 September 2000 and was switched off on 30 October 2000. (2) The installation of the pedestrian crossing cost $86,000. The cost of installation was borne by the Olympic Co-ordination Authority. The traffic signals comprised recycled components from other traffic signal sites. (3) The removal of the pedestrian crossing cost $6,000. The cost of removal was borne by the Olympic Co-ordination Authority. (4) The at grade signalised pedestrian crossing near Gregory Avenue was only considered as a temporary facility to cater to Olympic and Paralympic football and road cycling events staged at the Sydney Football Stadium and in and around Moore Park respectively. Approval to the installation of the traffic signals was based on their short-term use at this location. (5) The Roads and Traffic Authority has not identified a need for a pedestrian crossing across Anzac Parade near Gregory Avenue given the existing crossings at Moore Park Road, Sydney Girls High and Lang Road. The Olympic Roads and Transport Authority (ORTA) established a pedestrian corridor between Central Station and Moore Park for the purposes of Olympic Transport. (6) The RTA installed the temporary signalised pedestrian crossing to facilitate a major new pedestrian route designated and developed by ORTA between Central Station and Moore Park for the Olympic and Paralympic Games. The pedestrian traffic signals were removed following the completion of the last event associated with the Paralympic Games at Moore Park. (7) RTA comparisons for the costs and benefits for an at-grade signalised pedestrian crossing compared with a pedestrian over-bridge at this location on Anzac Parade are as follows:

Traffic Signals Costs: reduced efficiency of bus roadway cost of construction cost of maintaining signals delay to pedestrians and vehicles no existing/current desire line linking Central Station and Moore Park. The desire line resulted from ORTA’s Olympic and Paralympic transport plan Benefits: formal pedestrian crossing facility reduced pedestrian demand on traffic signals at Moore Park Road and Anzac Parade during event bump outs Additional safe crossing opportunity across Anzac Parade Pedestrian Bridge Costs: amount of land needed on both sides for bridge foundations/ ramps/lifts impact of advertising on amenity of the area visual impact of the structure on the urban landscape of the area reduced green space and impact on playing fields 2563 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS Wednesday 30 May 2001

no existing/current desire line linking Central Station and Moore Park. The desire line resulted from ORTA’s Olympic and Paralympic transport plan Significant additional cost unless funded by advertising

Benefits: no impact on the efficiency of the bus roadway formal pedestrian crossing facility reduced pedestrian demand on traffic signals at Moore Park Road and Anzac Parade during major events Additional safe crossing opportunity across Anzac Parade no delay to pedestrians or vehicles due to elimination of conflict Provision of extremely safe pedestrian facility Provided at no financial cost to the Government if funded by advertising

(8) The RTA initiated the proposal for a pedestrian overbridge, funded through advertising, on Anzac Parade, Moore Park at McArthur Avenue as a means of providing a grade separated facility adjacent to Sydney Girls High School. However, during the community consultation process, the School advised it did not wish to have such a bridge, bearing advertising, constructed at or near the School. (9) N/A. (10) The RTA has investigated Anzac Parade/McArthur Avenue as a possible site, however, for reasons as stated in (8) the bridge did not proceed. The RTA is currently investigating the possibility of providing a privately funded pedestrian bridge on Anzac Parade at Gregory Avenue which has the support of Centennial Park and Moore Park Trust (Centennial Parklands). (11) A location near Gregory Avenue is being considered as it would provide the ‘missing link’ between the current pathways at Moore Park East and West. The location has the support of the Centennial Park and Moore Park Trust and fits in with the Trust’s Masterplan for the parklands area. (12) The RTA has not had discussions with potential advertising sponsors regarding the Anzac Parade/Gregory Avenue site and is unaware of any other Government Authority having discussions with potential sponsors. (13) N/A. (14) The consent Authority for the provision of an overbridge with advertising is the local Council. However, the bridge must be designed and constructed to Austroads and RTA standards and specifications. (15) A development Application (DA) is proposed to be submitted to South Sydney Council for the proposed pedestrian bridge at Anzac Parade/Gregory Avenue after all concept and commercial issues have been satisfactorily addressed. Centennial Park and Moore Park Trust will also be required to give landowner’s consent to enable a DA to be lodged.

*1814 DOUGLAS STREET PARK—Ms Moore to Minister for Health—

Concerning the possible sale of the Douglas Street Park, Redfern, to South Sydney City Council: (1) Will a valuation be accepted for the land based on its current Open Space zoning? (2) If not, on what basis should South Sydney City Council seek a valuation for the land in order to consider possible purchase? (3) Will priority be given to selling the land to South Sydney City Council for preservation as open space, rather than to a developer? (4) What consideration has been given to rezoning the land to permit development? (5) What consideration has been given to selling the land to any organisation or individual other than South Sydney City Council? 2564 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS Wednesday 30 May 2001

Answer—

(1) No. (2) Residential 2(b). (3) Yes. (4) None. (5) None.

*1815 STRATA SCHEMES OFFICE—Ms Moore to Minister for Fair Trading, Minister for Corrective Services, and Minister for Sport and Recreation—

Concerning the regulation of strata title schemes: (1) Does the Strata Schemes Office, or another Government authority, have statutory power to require managing agents to notify insurers, at owners requests, of damage to owner’s property that is covered by the insurance? (2) Does the Strata Schemes Office, or other Government authority, have statutory power to compel managing agents to take all reasonable action to protect the rights and interests of owners? (3) Does NSW legislation regulate situations where managing agents receive a fee from contractors in addition to the fee they are paid by owners, a situation that creates a conflict of interest and could amount to receipt of a “Kick-back”? (4) Is the Minister aware that problems relate to these issues have been brought to the attention of this Department without action being taken to effectively protect the rights and interests of the affected owner? (5) If the answer to any of the above questions is no, will you initiate an independent review of regulation for strata schemes, including full public consultation?

Answer—

(1) In relation to the Strata Schemes and Mediation Services Branch, the answer is no. (2) In relation to the Strata Schemes and Mediation Services branch, the answer is no. (3) Under the common law, managing agents must disclose any commission arrangements to the owners corporation which engage them. (4) Section 146 of the Strata Schemes Management Act provides a remedy for owners corporations when a managing agent fails to lodge an insurance claim. (5) I have asked that this matter (see 3. above) be looked at as part of the National Competition Policy review of the Strata Schemes Management Act.

3 APRIL 2001

(Paper No. 83)

*1816 DISCIPLINARY ACTION—Mr Humpherson to Minister for Fair Trading, Minister for Corrective Services, and Minister for Sport and Recreation—

What disciplinary action was taken against staff officer Steve Chang at Silverwater Jail who threatened a junior officer on 8th October 2000 and yelled “I am going to hunt you down for the rest of your career” thereby generating a 2 ½ day strike? 2565 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS Wednesday 30 May 2001

The Commissioner of Corrective Services has advised me that due to the confidentiality provisions of clause 26(3) of the Public Sector Management (General) Regulation 1996 and a direction of the Industrial Relations Commission on 9 March 2001, I am unable to provide details of any disciplinary proceedings.

*1817 POST—RELEASE OFFENCES—Mr Humpherson to Minister for Fair Trading, Minister for Corrective Services, and Minister for Sport and Recreation—

How many of the 74 inmates released from Parramatta Transitional Centre over the past four years have since been charged with any offence? If so what offences were they and what punishment was given?

Answer—

See The Premier’s answer given in the House on 29 March 2001.

*1818 POLICE COMMUNITY OUTREACH—Mr Armstrong to Minister for Police—

(1) How many hours did police spend in talking to students and/or staff in schools within Lachlan Electorate in 2000 namely: Caragabal PS; Condobolin HS; Condobolin PS; Corinella PS; Forbes HS; Forbes North PS; Forbes PS; Grenfell PS; Quandialla PS; The Henry Lawson High School; Barmedman PS; Coolamon PS; Cootamundra PS; Cootamundra HS; EA Southee PS; Ganmain PS; Illabo PS; Junee HS; Junee North PS; Eurongilly PS; Junee PS; Greenethorpe PS; Maimuru PS; Murrumburrah HS; Murrumburrah PS; Temora West PS; Temora HS; Temora PS; Wallendbeen PS; Young North PS; Young HS; Young PS? (2) How many hours did police spend in talking to services clubs such as Rotary, Apex and Lions in 2000 in: (a) the Griffith Local Area Command? (b) the Cootamundra Local Area Command? (c) the Wagga Wagga Local Area Command? (d) the Lachlan Local Area Command? (3) How many hours did police spend in talking to community organis ations such as NSW Farmers and the Country Women’s Association in 2000 in: (a) the Griffith Local Area Command? (b) the Cootamundra Local Area Command? (c) the Wagga Wagga Local Area Command? (d) the Lachlan Local Area Command?

Answer—

(1) to (3) The Honourable Member’s questions seek details on the hours spent by hundreds of police speaking to thousands of students from 32 schools and members of numerous Clubs and Associations, across several Local Area Commands, over 365 days of the year. To provide a detailed answer to this question would require the Police Service to expend considerable time and resources. I am sure the Honourable Member for Lachlan would agree that this would be far better spent fighting crime.

*1819 JERILDERIE HOSPITAL—Mr Piccoli to Minister for Health—

(1) Is it true that Jerilderie Hospital will be closed during its redevelopment as a Multi Purpose Service? (2) If it is to be closed, how long will it be closed for? (3) When will that closure commence? (4) Is it true that Greater Murray Area Health Services will not allocate agency nurses to work at Jerilderie Hospital? 2566 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS Wednesday 30 May 2001

(5) If not, why not?

Answer—

(1) Yes (2) A maximum period of three months. (3) The actual timeframe for closure is yet to be clarified but the Area Health Service has maintained communication with the community about the closure. (4) No (5) NA

*1820 MARSHALLS CREEK FLOODPLAIN MANAGEMENT—Mr D. L. Page to Minister for Local Government, Minister for Regional Development, and Minister for Rural Affairs—

(1) How much money has been expended by all Government parties on the Marshalls Creek Floodplain Management Plan since the Plan’s inception in 1982? (2) What has been the total cost of the Plan do date? (3) How much of this money has been spent on physical works? (4) How much has been spent by Byron Shire Council on reports, legal advice and technical advice related to the Plan since the inception of the Plan? (5) How much money has been spent by Byron Shire Council in Tweed Shire for drainage works in the Shire as a consequence of the implementation of that Plan? (6) Has there ever been any other Floodplain Management Plan in any other Shire of this State that has taken so long to implement and that has raised floodwaters as a result of the implementation of that Plan?

Answer—

(1) to (3) I refer the Honourable Member to the answers provided by the Minister for Land and Water Conservation to Question 1821 (4) Byron Council advises that it has spent $65,333 since 1993 in relation to the plan. Indirect costs, including salaries and incidental costs have not been recorded specifically and are therefore unavailable. (5) Byron Council advises that it has no records of expenditure in Tweed Shire for drainage works in the Shire as a consequence of the implementation of that Plan. (6) The Department of Local Government advises that it does not, as a matter of course, require information about Floodplain Management Plans and their implementation in Shires throughout the State.

*1821 MARSHALLS CREEK FLOODPLAIN MANAGEMENT—Mr D. L. Page to Minister for Agriculture, and Minister for Land and Water Conservation—

(1) How much has the Department of Land and Water Conservation spent on Marshalls Creek Floodplain Management Plan since that Plan’s inception in 1982? (2) How much of this has been spent on physical works? (3) How much has been spent by the Department of Land and Water Conservation on obtaining reports and providing technical advice? (4) What is the financial arrangement regarding cost sharing between the Department of Land and Water Conservation and Byron Shire Council regarding Marshalls Creek Floodplain Management Plan? (5) What are the adverse effects on either the farming community or residents living within the Marshalls Creek Floodplain as a result of physical works undertaken in the Marshalls Creek Floodplain area by Byron Shire Council in the implementation of the Floodplain Plan? 2567 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS Wednesday 30 May 2001

Answer—

(1) Since 1984, grants under the Government’s Floodplain Management Program totalling $875,000 have been issued for Marshall's Creek Floodplain Management matters. (2) Since 1984, grants totalling approximately $600,000 have been made for physical works related to Marshall's Creek. Works include South Golden Beach Levee, compensatory works in the Wooyung area to the North, and an allowance for the modification of the Kallaroo Circuit Bund which is yet to take place. (3) Since 1984, grants totalling approximately $275,000 have been issued for assessment of technical aspects related to Marshall's Creek Floodplain Management. Additionally there would be costs of staff who have provided advice to Council over the years. Records of staff costs over the period in question are not available. (4) Approximately $40,000 in grants, at a ratio of $4 Govt : $1 Council were issued to Byron Shire Council back in 1984/85. Since that time all grants (totalling $835,000) have been made at a funding ratio of $2 Govt : $1 Council. (5) In the Marshall's Creek floodplain, there are two adverse effects. These include some drainage problems on the landward side of the South Golden Beach levee, and a potential for increased frequency of flooding to residences upstream of the Kallaroo Circuit Bund. To the North, in the Wooyung area, studies show adverse impacts arising from the presence of Kallaroo Circuit Bund include prolonged flooding and slightly higher flood levels.

*1822 CHATSWOOD HIGH SCHOOL—Mr Collins to Minister for Education and Training—

(1) When is the final plan for Chatswood High School being announced? (2) Will this provide suffic ient time to prevent a major reduction in year seven numbers in 2002?

Answer—

(1) Plans for Chatswood High School will form part of the Building the Future final plan which will be announced in June 2001 after a period of consultation has taken place. (2) Yes. It is anticipated that the proposed changes under Building the Future will significantly increase Year 7 enrolments at Chatswood High School.

*1823 CHATSWOOD HIGH SCHOOL—Mr Collins to Minister for Education and Training—

What plans does the Department have to release detailed information on the plans for Chatswood High School given the inadequacy of the one page statement currently available to parents?

Answer—

The draft proposal, Building the Future, provides the basis for community consultation. A more detailed implementation plan will be developed in consultation with the school’s community following the finalisation of the plan.

*1824 CHATSWOOD HIGH SCHOOL MAINTENANCE—Mr Collins to Minister for Education and

Will the new site for Chatswood High School have an improved maintenance budget?

Answer—

A maintenance budget appropriate to the nature of the facilities of the school will be provided. 2568 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS Wednesday 30 May 2001

*1826 ENVIRONMENTAL OFFICERS—Ms Seaton to Attorney General, Minister for the Environment, Minister for Emergency Services, and Minister Assisting the Premier on the Arts—

(1) How many officers across all state government agencies have been commissioned since anti- littering amendments to the POEO Act, to be empowered to issue infringement notices under that Act? (2) Where are these officers located, and in which agencies?

Answer—

(1) and (2). The Protection of the Environment Operations (Penalty Notices) Regulation 1999 lists the classes of officers who may issue Penalty Infringement Notices for littering and identifies the agencies where they are employed (see clause 6 (4-5) and Schedule 1 of the Regulation). Each agency determines which of its officers or employees will be authorised to issue penalty notices. Many of the agencies listed in the Regulation had littering penalty notice powers prior to the commencement of the new littering provisions. Information about the number of officers with authorisation would need to be sought from those agencies. All Environment Protection Authority officers are authorised to report littering offences, which may lead to a fine.

*1827 COUNTRYLINK SECURITY—Mr Torbay to Minister for Transport, and Minister for Roads—

What action is being taken to ensure appropriate security is provided on countrylink rail services between Sydney/Armidale?

Answer—

The State Rail Authority has advised that all Countrylinks’s XPT and XPLORER passenger trains are staffed with crews of Passenger Attendants ranging from 3 to 5 in number (the crew level per service is based on the number of carriages that make up the particular train set). It is part of the Passenger Attendant’s duties to conduct regular patrols of the train and take preventative action with passengers engaged in any behaviour, which impacts on the welfare and comfort of other travellers. The on-board staff undergo training which provides them with skills to assess and manage situations where passengers may display aggressive and/or intimidating behaviour. Depending upon the circumstances, Countrylink staff are authorised to request Police assistance in removing a passenger from the train. The Police can then deal with the passenger appropriately.

*1828 ARMIDALE HEALTH SERVICES—Mr Torbay to Minister for Health—

(1) What services are available in the public system for treatment of patients with chronic and nocturnal respiratory failure in Armidale? (2) Further, what arrangements (including cost implications) have been made for patients in the Armidale area?

Answer—

(1) Inpatients at the Armidale Health Service who require sleep studies as a diagnostic procedure are referred to the Armidale Private Hospital. The studies are undertaken within 48 hours of booking. Armidale Hospital undertakes appropriate discharge planning and organises any equipment required for inpatients following their discharge. (2) The arrangements for the Sleep Studies Unit based at the Armidale Private Hospital, including costs, are the responsibility of Mayne Health and the physician. The Armidale Private Hospital charges the Armidale Health Service approximately $300 per study. The Armidale Health Service is responsible for all expenses for this procedure for its inpatients. 2569 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS Wednesday 30 May 2001

*1829 SCHOOL LIBRARIAN—Mr Stoner to Minister for Education and Training—

Why was the qualified librarian at Nambucca Heads primary school removed from the position at the beginning of 2001, against her wishes, and replaced with another teacher with no librarian qualifications?

Answer—

The teacher referred to was appointed to Nambucca Heads Public School as a classroom teacher. A reduction in student enrolments at Nambucca Heads Public School required that a member of the teaching staff be nominated for transfer. The principal followed established procedures in identifying and nominating the teacher for transfer. The teacher agreed to return to a classroom teacher position for 2001. The principal, in consultation with the school staff, determined that the 0.6 full time equivalent library position would be filled by an executive member of staff who was willing to undertake the role for 2001.

*1830 PROPOSED PRAWN HATCHERY—Mr Stoner to Deputy Premier, Minister for Urban Affairs and Planning, Minister for Aboriginal Affairs, and Minister for Housing—

In relation to the development application for the proposed prawn hatchery at Goolawah Reserve, near Crescent Head: (1) Are there significant aboriginal sites in the area of the proposed development? (2) Will a scientific study by the National Parks and Wildlife Service be required, as recommended by that agency? (3) Does the Statement of Environmental Effects submitted as part of the Development Application take into account the strong community opposition to the proposal to install inlet and outlet pipes at the pristine and world-renowned Racecourse Headland?

Answer—

(1) Yes. (2) The Department of Urban Affairs and Planning is currently undertaking an assessment of the development application and will determine, in consultation with the National Parks and Wildlife Service, whether further studies are required. (3) The Department of Urban Affairs and Planning has required the Applicant to submit a report detailing the community consultation undertaken for the project.

*1831 RESERVATION OF HOMES—Mr Humpherson to Deputy Premier, Minister for Urban Affairs and Planning, Minister for Aboriginal Affairs, and Minister for Housing—

(1) As at April 1, how many criminals have reserved their Department of Housing homes whilst in jail at $5 per week? (2) Of those prisoners in question one, how many have dependant families who live with them in their Department of Housing property? (3) How many tenants applied to reserve their homes under this policy in 1999/2000 and 2000/01 (ytd)? (4) Of those applications in question 3 how many were approved and how many declined? (5) Of homes reserved under this policy, how many were vandalised in 1999/2000 and 2000/01? (6) What was the total cost in each year?

Answer—

(1) The Department of Housing does not reserve houses for criminals. 2570 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS Wednesday 30 May 2001

(2) The Department’s Absence from Dwelling policy is available on the Department’s website. The Department of Housing’s Absence from Dwellings policy does not apply to households where other members continue to reside in the premises. (3) The Department of Housing has no information concerning how many tenants applied to retain their public housing tenancy whilst in gaol during 1999/2000 and 2000/01. (4) N/A (5) When a client is absent from their public housing dwelling they must appoint an agent. The agent is responsible for the care of the property while the tenant is absent. The Department of Housing has no records concerning whether properties were vandalised whilst tenants were absent from their dwellings. (6) N/A

*1832 COOMA LANDS PROTECTION BOARD—Mr Webb to Minister for Agriculture, and Minister for

Regarding your instruction to the State Council of the Rural Lands Boards Association of NSW to appoint Mr Butcherine, of Nelson Keane & Hemingway, Solicitors of Dubbo, to conduct a Report into the Cooma Rural Lands Protection Board: (1) Can you advise how I can obtain a copy of this Report which was undertaken at the taxpayers expense for my constituents?

Answer—

It was not a public inquiry. It was similar to an Ombudsman’s inquiry. The inquiry was made by State Council under Section 50 of the Rural Lands Protection Act 1989 as a consequence of two complaints against the Cooma Rural Lands Protection Board. The report of the inquiry contains sensitive material about the domestic affairs of one of the complainants and being conscious of the privacy considerations of the people involved in the inquiry I think it appropriate that the permission of the persons involved be sought before releasing the report publicly. I am therefore writing to both complainants, the subjects of the report, to obtain their views as to the release of the report.

*1833 TIMBER BRIDGE REPLACEMENT—Mr Webb to Minister for Transport, and Minister for Roads—

(1) Can you give an indication of the date for the completion of the timber bridge replacement on Six Mile Creek on MR91, the Mount Darragh Road? (2) Is this being funded in part or in full by the Federal Government’s Timber Bridge replacement Program?

Answer—

(1) Main Road No 91 - Mount Darragh Road is a Regional Road for which Bega Valley Shire Council is responsible. As a Regional Road, decisions concerning the priority of maintenance and improvement works on this route, including bridges, are matters for Council to determine. The Government provides considerable road funding assistance to councils for works on Regional Roads under the Regional Road Block Grant and the REPAIR Program. Under the Block Grant system, the Government provides funding assistance to all Councils by way of annual grants for use on Regional Roads according to Council priorities. Councils also have the option of nominating specific improvement works for funding under the REPair And Improvement of Regional Roads (REPAIR) Program on a dollar for dollar basis for specific reconstruction and improvement works proposed by councils and prioritised by regionally based Council Consultative Committees. 2571 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS Wednesday 30 May 2001

The timber bridge at Six Mile Creek on MR91 - Mount Darragh Road is not being replaced in the near future. It has been identified by Council as requiring replacement due to maintenance and alignment difficulties. Preliminary actions are in hand to design a solution as and when funds become available. Council's advice to the RTA via the Council Consultative Committees is that its current priority is to seal Main Road No 272, the Bermagui – Tathra Road. A bridge was replaced at Cusacks Creek on MR91 by large culverts and was funded under the REPAIR Program. This bridge was subsequently washed away but has been replaced with assistance from the State Government by way of Natural Disaster funding. The total length of Main Road No 91 has now been sealed utilising funds from a number of sources including the Regional Block Grants and REPAIR programs. (2) The NSW Government is not aware that any such Federal program for Timber Bridge Replacement is presently in existence. The NSW Government has in place a $129M Country Timber Bridge Program to restore, and where necessary replace, 140 country timber bridges on State Roads in country NSW. These improvements will eliminate many narrow and weight restricted bridges with resulting safety and productivity benefits to road users as well as substantially reduced future maintenance costs.

*1834 SURRY HILLS CLEARWAYS—Ms Moore to Minister for Transport, and Minister for Roads—

Concerning the bus lanes and clearways introduced on Albion, Fitzroy and Foveaux Streets, Surry Hills, for a six month trial: (1) What process is being followed to review the trial? (2) What opportunity will the local community have to comment on the trial during the review? (3) What consideration is being given to the views and concerns of local residents and business operators? (4) When will the review be completed? (5) What alternative solutions are being considered to give priority to public transport while reducing private traffic and enhancing amenity in this residential area? (6) When will you reply to my letter to you about this issue, dated 29 January 2001?

Answer—

(1) The Bus Lanes and Clearways introduced on Albion, Fitzroy and Foveaux Streets, Surry Hills are a permanent arrangement. The facilities were introduced with the endorsement of the Eastern Distributor Bus Priority Task Force as part of a package of works aimed at improving bus efficiency. The Task Force members included, South Sydney Council, State Transit Authority, Department of Transport, Environment Protection Authority, the Roads and Traffic Authority (RTA) and other neighbouring Councils. The RTA, through South Sydney Council Traffic Committee, gave a commitment to monitor and review the operation of these facilities in order to evaluate options to mitigate the impacts of the scheme and to undertake adjustments where possible. Traffic and bus patronage/turnaround data is being collected and this will be compared to the data collected prior to the introduction of Bus Lanes and Clearways. (2) to (3) The RTA has received comments from local residents and business operators on the current arrangements of Bus Lanes and Clearways. These comments are being considered in the review. (4) The review is to be completed May 2001. (5) Bus Lanes, Clearways, Transit Lanes and B:Signals are the main devices currently used to provide priority for road based public transport, whilst restricting the opportunities for single occupant vehicles. (6) A reply was despatched to your office 3 May 2001.

*1835 355 BUS ROUTE—Ms Moore to Minister for Transport, and Minister for Roads—

Concerning the 355 Bus Route between Fox Studio and Bondi Junction: 2572 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS Wednesday 30 May 2001

(1) After 10.00pm, does this service run solely between the Fox entertainment complex to Bondi Junction? (2) What was the average number of people getting on this service at Moore Park and the Fox complex after 10.00pm on the evening of: (a) Monday 19 March 2001 (b) Tuesday 20 March 2001 (c) Wednesday 21 March 2001 (d) Thursday 22 March 2001 (e) Friday 23 March 2001 (f) Saturday 24 March 2001 (g) Sunday 25 March 2001? (3) What was the average number of people getting off this service at Moore Park and the Fox complex after 10.00pm on the evening of: (a) Monday 19 March 2001 (b) Tuesday 20 March 2001 (c) Wednesday 21 March 2001 (d) Thursday 22 March 2001 (e) Friday 23 March 2001 (f) Saturday 24 March 2001 (g) Sunday 25 March 2001? (4) What was the average number of people on the bus during each run after 10.00pm on the evening of: (a) Monday 19 March 2001 (b) Tuesday 20 March 2001 (c) Wednesday 21 March 2001 (d) Thursday 22 March 2001 (e) Friday 23 March 2001 (f) Saturday 24 March 2001 (g) Sunday 25 March 2001? (5) Are these patronage figures indicative of the usual evening patronage for this bus service? (6) If not, what is the nature of the variation from the usual patronage? (7) Does Fox Studios Australia subsidise or contribute to the costs of operating this bus service?

Answer—

(1) Yes. After 1.00pm the service operates only from Moore Park to Bondi Junction. There is no return service. (2) (a) 2.66 (b) 4.66 (c) 5.0 (d)5.25 (e) 10.25 (f) 7.16 (g) 4.5 (3) Not applicable. See the answer to (1) above. (4) See the answer to (2) above. (5) Yes, the passenger numbers are indicative and they on season and weather conditions. (6) Not applicable. (7) No.

*1837 REGIONAL FORESTRY AGREEMENT—Ms Hodgkinson to Premier, Minister for the Arts, and

(1) Is the Premier aware that as a result of the Regional Forestry Agreement between the State and Federal Governments several sawmill operators in the Adjungbilly area have made significant commitments to purchase new equipment which will allow them to increase employment opportunities at their businesses? (2) Why have you not yet signed the Regional Forestry Agreement which your Government has already reached with the Federal Government? 2573 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS Wednesday 30 May 2001

(3) When will you sign this agreement which will ensure more investment and jobs in this area?

Answer—

(1) Yes. One of the key objectives of the Southern Regional Forest Agreements is to provide certainty and foster private sector investment in viable and sustainable forest industries. This will increase job opportunities and associated benefits to local businesses and industries in the Southern region. (2) and (3) I signed the Southern Regional Forest Agreement on 24 April 2001, three working days after receiving the signed Agreement from the Commonwealth Government. This followed the resolution of drafting and financial issues. The finalisation of the Agreement is the culmination of a historic and inclusive assessment process that involved all the major forest stakeholders. The Agreement provides for the establishment of a world class reserve system which is comprehensive, adequate and representative, while at the same time providing for viable and ecologically sustainable timber industries. The Agreement also provides for additional investment of $7075 million by the NSW Government and $1.25 million by the Commonwealth Government, to increase the annual harvest in the South Coast subregion from 42,000 to 48,500 cubic metres per annum, by the land acquisition, plantations and silvicultural treatment. These additional measures will further increase job opportunities and associated benefits to local communities.

*1838 INSURANCE OF COMMUNITY BASED ORGANISATIONS—Ms Hodgkinson to Minister for Fair Trading, Minister for Corrective Services, and Minister for Sport and Recreation—

(1) Is the Minister aware that the Crookwell Golf Club is currently vigorously defending a civil action against it for damages arising out of an accident at the Golf Club? (2) Is the Minister further aware that the Club has just been informed by their solicitors that due to the collapse of the HIH Insurance corporation they are no longer able to defend the civil action? (3) What action is the NSW Government going to take to protect the rights of organisations and businesses like the Crookwell Bowling club?

Answer—

(1) to (3) If the matter is before the court, as the Hon. Member implies, it would be inappropriate for me to comment. However, in relation to the HIH collapse it is, of course, of concern to many industries across Australia, including the sport and recreation industry. At the present time, negotiations are under way between Government and the insurance industry to determine future courses of action in cases like these.

*1839 TOURIST ROADS—Mr J. H. Turner to Minister for Transport, and Minister for Roads—

(1) What roads in NSW if any, have been designated tourist roads under section 51 of the Roads Act 1993? (2) When were such designations made?

Answer—

(1) and (2) Following is a list of roads classified as Tourist Roads under the Roads Act 1993. The list includes the road number, description of the road and the date that the road was proclaimed a Tourist Road:

Tourist Road Description Date Number Gazetted 4004 Mount York Road, from the Great Western Highway (SH5) 2574 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS Wednesday 30 May 2001

near Mount Victoria, generally north-westerly for 3/11/61 approximately 4.8 km to Mount York within the City of Blue Mountains 4005 West Head Road, from Coal and Candle Creek Road (MR525), generally northerly through Ku-ring-gai Chase for 27/10/61 approximately 14.5 km to West Head within the Shire of Warringah 4006 From MR182 at Sackville North, approximately 4.8km from Sackville Ferry within the Shire of Baulkham Hills along the 5/1/62 bank of the Hawkesbury River to the River Road (MR181) near Webbs Creek Ferry 4016 From the Mount Kosciuszko Road (MR286) at Smiggin Holes to the Island Bend-Guthega Road near Perisher Creek, a length 29/6/62 of approximately 5.1 km within the Shire of Snowy River 4018 Sublime Point Road Leura, from Willoughby Road to Sublime Point Lookout, a length of approximately 0.8 km within the 21/9/62 City of Blue Mountains 4019 Evans Lookout Road at Blackheath, from the Great Western Highway (SH5) approximately 0.8 km south of Blackheath, 21/9/62 generally easterly to Evans Lookout, a length of approximately 4.2 km within the City of Blue Mountains 4020 Wattamolla Beach Road, from Stevens Drive (MR393) to Wattamolla Beach within the Royal National Park, within the 14/12/62 Shire of Sutherland 4025 Garie Beach Road from Stevens Drive (MR393) at 9.1 km east of Waterfall, generally easterly for 2.9 km to Garie Beach 19/7/63 within the Royal National Park within the Shire of Sutherland 4026 Riverside Drive, from Delhi Road (MR191) near Fullers Bridge, within the Municipality of Ryde, generally north- 19/7/63 westerly along the southern side of Lane Cove River through Lane Cove National Park to Lane Cove Road (MR162) near De Burghs Bridge 4031 The road from Captain Cook Drive at Kurnell, through the Captain Cooks Landing Place Park to Cape Solander within the 24/4/64 Shire of Sutherland 4033 The road from the Hume Highway (SH2) at about 27.4 km west of Yass, generally southerly to the gate at the entrance to the 24/7/64 works yard of Burrinjuck Dam, a length of approximately 29.9 km within the Shire of Yass 4039 That part of the Mitchell Pass Road from the Great Western Highway (SH5) near Emu Plains, generally westerly for 15/10/65 approximately 2.3 km, across Lennox Bridge, within the City of Blue Mountains 4052 Macquarie Road at Springwood, from the subway at the western end of Springwood Railway Station generally westerly 12/2/71 through the town of Springwood thence via Sir Henrys Parade at Faulconbridge, terminating at the Faulconbridge Cemetery approximately 0.2 km north of the junction of Sir Henrys Parade and Martin Place, a length of approximately 3.2 km within the City of Blue Mountains 4053 From the Oxley Highway (SH11) at Coonabarabran, generally westerly via Timor Rock and John Renshaw Parkway through 15/5/71 Warrumbungle National Park to MR205 at Gumin 2575 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS Wednesday 30 May 2001

4056 That part of the Barry Way from the Victorian border at Willis, generally along the Snowy River to the boundary of the 12/8/77 Kosciuszko National Park, approximately 38 km south of Jindabyne, being a length of approximately 35 km within the Shire of Snowy River

*1840 VISNET—Mr J. H. Turner to Minister for Small Business, and Minister for Tourism—

(1) When was the Visnet Information System introduced? (2) How many tourism operators currently belong to the Visnet information system? (3) When the Visnet system was devised, how many tourism operators did Tourism NSW believe would take up the opportunity to be registered on the database? (4) How much does it cost per year for tourism operators to be registered with the Visnet information system? (5) Has this cost increased from when the System was introduced? (6) If yes, what was the previous fee and what did the fee increase to? (7) If no, will the fee be increased at any time in the next financial year? (8) If so, what will the increase be? (9) Can tourism operators currently subscribe to the national tourism data warehouse direct? (10) If not, why not? (11) If yes, is this subscription free of charge? (12) If it is not free, what is the fee to access the database? (13) What benefits are provided to tourism operators who subscribe to Visnet? (14) Has the Minister for Tourism NSW received any complaints from tourism operators who are unhappy about the level of coverage for the businesses that Visnet provides? (15) If yes, what were the details of these complaints? (16) Is there any monitoring of Visnet in terms of the number of operators that claim that the system is working well for their businesses? (17) Are tourism operators required to inform tourism NSW of any business they receive as a result of subscribing to the Visnet database?

Answer—

(1) 1996 (2) 9,013 tourism operators are currently listed on the Visnet Information System. (3) 100% (4) Registration is free (5) See (4) (6) See (4) (7) See (4). (8) See (4). (9) If this question is referring to the Australian tourism data warehouse, the answer is no. (10) The Australian tourism data warehouse is a joint venture involving all states and the Australian Tourist Commission and is still being developed. Tourism New South Wales is advised that the expected launch time is September/October 2001. (11) See (9) (12) The organisations involved have determined that the charges will be $200 per annum for a full listing and $50 for a basic listing. (13) Visnet contributes some tourism data for the visitnsw.com.au website. The Tourism New South Wales customer inquiry line (132077) uses the Visnet data base to answer queries. The database is also used to prepare itineraries for the visiting journalists program and the compilation of materials. (14) As well as being free, Visnet is extensive in its coverage and has been well received by the tourism industry. (15) See (14). 2576 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS Wednesday 30 May 2001

(16) No. See (14). (17) No.

*1841 WATER AND SEWERAGE WORKS—Mr Webb to Minister for Agriculture, and Minister for Land

(1) When can the Snowy River Shire and the Adaminaby community expect to receive the extra funding they have previously sought and have been allocated by the Government for the improvement of drinking water in Adaminaby? (2) Is there provision in the recently announced increases in funding for the Country Towns Water and Sewerage Program for the Snowy River Shire’s towns of Adaminaby and Dalgety for Water supply works and for Berridale’s sewerage works? (3) If so will these funds be sufficient to complete the works in the next year? (4) If not, when could the people of Adaminaby expect to have Water Quality suitable for drinking and bathing? (5) If not, why hasn’t provision been made to reallocate and reprioritise funding for the water and sewerage works planned for Snowy River Shire’s towns?

(1) Government funding of up to $377,500 (50% of $750,000) has been approved to enable Snowy River Shire Council to investigate suitable water supply and sewerage options for Adaminaby, Dalgety and Berridale. Up to $70,000 has been made available in this current financial year to complete the investigation phase. Funds for design and construction have not been allocated and council has been advised that funding for these phases will be subject to the availability of funds and the needs of other projects in the State. (2) to (4) The additional funding of $60 million was announced by the Premier recently and all water and sewerage projects are in the process of being reassessed to determine priority for allocation of the additional funds. The outcome of the assessment will be announced when details for next year's Program Budget are finalised. It is however expected that the additional funding announced by the Premier will enable a number of projects that would have been delayed to proceed. (5) No. Consideration will be given for further funding upon satisfactory completion of the current investigation activities. Financial assistance for design and construction of these three schemes will be considered along with the needs of other projects in the State.

*1842 CRONULLA TRAIN DELAYS—Mr Kerr to Minister for Transport, and Minister for Roads—

How many trains which were meant to travel between the City and Cronulla were late or cancelled between 1st February 2001 and 28 February 2001?

Answer—

I am advised by the State Rail Authority that 17 peak services were late or cancelled between Cronulla and the City over this period.

*1843 MOTOR DEALER TRANSACTIONS—Mr Maguire to Minister for Fair Trading, Minister for Corrective Services, and Minister for Sport and Recreation—

(1) Are licensed motor dealers required to display their dealer numbers in full view of the public? (2) When a licensed motor dealer purchases a motor vehicle from another dealer is he required to show his licence number and details? 2577 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS Wednesday 30 May 2001

(3) If not why not? (4) Why can motor dealers or people purporting to be motor dealers purchase vehicles from dealers or auctions and not be required to provide identification or a certificate of licence? (5) Why is verbal confirmation of dealer licence details sufficient when carrying out inter-dealer transactions? (6) Will you require all dealers to provide visual proof of licence details when purchasing motor vehicles? (7) Will you provide motor dealers with transfer-proof motor dealers’ licences to be used for motor dealer identification purposes when transactions occur?

Answer—

(1) Yes. (2) The Motor Dealers Act requires that a dealer who sells a second-hand motor vehicle or demonstrator to another dealer must record prescribed details about the transaction, including the purchaser’s name, address and dealer licence number. Women motor dealers are subject to the same requirements. (3) Please refer to (2) above. (4) Dealers who knowingly deal with unlicensed dealers and record false particulars in records may contravene motor dealer legislation. (5) Please refer to (4) above. (6) to (7) The Motor Dealers Act is currently under review. I have referred the Hon. Member’s concerns to the Department for consideration in that context.

*1844 MOBILE BUSINESS ADVISERS—Mr Glachan to Minister for Education and Training, representing the Treasurer, Minister for State Development and Vice-President of the Executive Council—

In relation to his proposal for five mobile business advisers: (1) Does this proposal augment or supplant the existing role of the Business Enterprise Centre (BEC) network? (2) What impact, if any, will this proposal have on the ongoing funding of the BEC network? (3) Have the five mobile business advisers been taken from existing public sector positions and if so, which ones?

Answer—

This question relates to the portfolio of the Minister for Small Business and Minister for Tourism, the Hon. Sandra Nori MP. I have therefore forwarded your question on to the Honourable Member for a response.

*1845 HIGH SCHOOLS—Mr Debnam to Minister for Education and Training—

In relation to Dover Heights High and the closure of Vaucluse High School: (1) What specific works will be funded by the $6 million announced for the refurbishment of Dover Heights High School? (2) Will the announced $6 million fund the gymnasium, including disabled access and ground improvements, proposed to the Department four years ago? (3) How will the Government ensure the announced period of refurbishment activity does not impact student amenity? (4) What is the timeframe for the building works at Dover Heights High School? (5) What is the Government’s reasoning for not promoting the Dover Heights/Vaucluse proposal with a specialist selective stream/identity? (6) How and when will the Principal and Executive staff of the “new” school be chosen and is the Minister aware of Dover Heights school community’s determination to retain their current Principal? 2578 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS Wednesday 30 May 2001

(7) What process will be used and who will be assessing submissions and who will be involved in the final decision? (8) Should the two school communities develop differing views to the Government’s proposal, how will the two views be assessed, weighted and reconciled? (9) Should both school communities oppose the Government’s proposal, will the Government then properly resource and promote both schools? (10) Is the Minister aware of concerns about overcrowding during the period proposed for temporary siting of students on the Vaucluse site and in this case, how would overcrowding be managed and has the Minister considered leaving Dover Heights students at their own school during the period of refurbishment? (11) Why did the Minister release information to the media before informing students, parents and staff of both schools? (12) Given the current level of anxiety among students and parents of both schools, what further information will the Minister be releasing during April? (13) Will the Minister be informing all local primary schools as to where Year 7 students will be commencing their first year of high school and when will this information be advised ? (14) What will be the capacity at the proposed amalgamated school and, given the Minister’s new emphasis on promoting public education, when will that capacity be exceeded and what is the Minister’s proposal for the school when capacity is exceeded? (15) How does the Minister reconcile the success of relatively small private schools with his determination to merge public schools? (16) What other options were considered to address declining public enrolments and why were they rejected? (17) Is the Minister’s merger proposal genuinely on the table for consultation or is the Minister determined to close Vaucluse High? (18) Why has consultation been limited to eight weeks and will the Minister provide resources to school communities to assess the Minister’s proposal? If so, when and if not, why not? (19) Is the Minister assessing the feasibility of closing any other eastern suburbs schools?

Answer—

(1) The Building the Future draft proposal refers to expenditure of $6 million at Dover Heights High School on new and improved facilities such as a new gymnasium, media and communications workshops, improved design and materials technology workshops, improved information and communications infrastructure, performance workshop, fitness workshop, improved library and senior study facilities and improved catering facilities. (2) The precise nature of the capital works program for Dover Heights High School will be determined in discussion with the school community after the announcement of the final plan for inner Sydney schools. (3) Any changes will be planned to avoid disrupting students’ education. Proposed changes would take into account the timing of major examination periods and other important phases in students’ education. (4) The timeframe for building works will be discussed with individual school communities after finalisation of the plan. (5) Selective classes are available at other nearby schools. Sydney Boys and Sydney Girls High Schools have some 2,000 selective student places between them. (6) Discussions are taking place with the NSW Teachers Federation in relation to this matter. I appreciate the Dover Heights High School community’s respect for the current principal. (7) A report on the consultation process will be prepared by the Project Team for my consideration and approval. (8) The Project Team will analyse and assess submissions and the range of views expressed by parents, staff and the community. (9) The NSW Government is committed to providing a quality education for all students and the views of parents, staff and the community will be considered carefully in the development of the final plan. 2579 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS Wednesday 30 May 2001

(10) Transitional arrangements will be discussed and established with the school community to ensure minimal disruption to students and staff. (11) Meetings of staff at all affected schools were organised to take place at approximately the same time as the media were briefed on the day of the announcement of the draft proposal, Building the Future. Presidents of schools’ Parents and Citizens’ Associations were telephoned at approximately the same time. Copies of the draft proposal were mailed to the parents of students attending affected schools. (12) The draft proposal, Building the Future, provides the basis for community consultation. Members of the Project team are attending meetings during April and May to further discuss the proposal and answer questions that parents, staff and students might have. (13) Transitional arrangements will be dis cussed and established with school communities, including arrangements for Year 7 2002, after finalisation of the plan. (14) 1200 students. It is not anticipated that enrolment numbers would grow to such an extent that the site would be unable to accommodate increases. (15) The reasons that parents enrol their children in non-government schools are many and varied. There are many popular and large non-government schools in the eastern suburbs, in some cases expanding their enrolments through building programs. The level of Federal Government funding may be a factor in this expansion. (16) A number of options were considered including a Senior/Junior school arrangement for Vaucluse/Dover Heights. This option was rejected because the numbers of students forming the senior campus would be unlikely to make the arrangement viable in the long term. The current proposal provides the greatest opportunity for the long term viability of public education in the area. (17) The draft proposal, Building the Future, is open for discussion. However, some difficult decisions will be necessary to improve public education in inner Sydney. (18) The consultation timeframe will allow for arrangements under a final plan to be implemented from 2002. (19) No.

*1846 LAND AND PROPERTY INFORMATION—Mr Debnam to Minister for Information Technology, Minister for Energy, Minister for Forestry, and Minister for Western Sydney—

In relation to government policy on Land and Property Information NSW (LPI): (1) Given that the NSW Treasury report, “Performance of NSW Government Businesses 1999-00” shows that LPI made an operating surplus of $53.7 million from total revenue of just $84.5 million, will you concede that LPI is reaping monopoly profits at the expense of its customers and the NSW economy? (a) Did the “competitive neutrality principles” and “new access and pricing policy” that you referred to in your answer to Question on Notice number 1467, apply in 1999/00? (a) If not, when will they apply and what specific changes will be made to fees and charges levied by LPI?

Answer—

(1) Land and Property Information NSW (LPI) commenced operations on July 1 2000. The figures you quote from the Treasury report “Performance of NSW Government Businesses 1999-00” relate to the former Land Titles Office (LTO), not to LPI. As the Treasury report notes, the magnitude of the 1999-00 LTO operating surplus was affected by the inclusion of abnormal items. Principally it was enhanced by notification of a $21 million credit for superannuation liabilities at year end, commissioned by the State Superannuation Authority. The buoyant pre-GST property market and reduced operating costs also played a part in the size of the LTO surplus. Record numbers of transactions were processed by the LTO in this period, with lower staff numbers. 2580 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS Wednesday 30 May 2001

The profit achieved by LTO in 1999-2000 was not made at the expense of its customers or the NSW economy. Land title searching and registration fees in NSW are amongst the lowest in Australia, and form only a minor part of the overall cost of conveyancing. Further the guarantee of title provided by the NSW government engenders confidence in the property sector. (a) Competitive neutrality principles were applied in the former LTO and continue to apply to LPI. The “new access and pricing policy” did not apply in 1999-00. (b) The draft policy addressing access and pricing principles for government-held information was distributed for comment at the end of last year. As the policy is still in the consultation phase of its development, it does not yet apply to LPI or to any other government agency. At this point it is not known what, if any, changes to LPI fees and charges might come about as a result of its application.

*1847 BUS/TRAIN INTERCHANGE—Mr Debnam to Minister for Transport, and Minister for Roads—

In relation to the cost of the Bondi Junction Bus/Train Interchange: (1) What is the detailed breakdown of the nature, amount and timing (by month and year) of the costs to date to the NSW taxpayer since the redevelopment was approved?

Answer—

I am advised that payments are made on a milestone base payment system, rather than a monthly or yearly basis as implied in the Honourable Member's question. To date, I am advised that SRA has expended significant funds on this important public transport infrastructure project.

*1848 COMPLAINANTS COSTS—Mr Hazzard to Minister for Fair Trading, Minister for Corrective Services, and Minister for Sport and Recreation—

(1) When a complaint is lodged with the Department of Fair Trading about the quality of construction of a house, what recourse does a complainant home owner have to recover the cost of obtaining a specialist engineering/building report? (2) What assistance can you or your Government give to Joan & Fraser Richardson of 3 Penrose Place Frenchs Forest to recover the costs of approx. $8000.00 required to be paid for an expert building/engineering report to verify poor building work by Henley Properties P/L?

Answer—

(1) In insurance matters, since 1 May 1997, the complainant home owner can endeavour to recover the cost of any specialised report prepared through negotiation with the contractor responsible for the work in question. If this is unsuccessful, a claim can be lodged with the home warranty insurer. If the complainant disagrees with the decision taken by the private insurer, that person has the right to appeal to the Fair Trading Tribunal. In cases where the complaint lodged is for residential building work covered by the closed Government’s Comprehensive Insurance Scheme, the Department of Fair Trading may give consideration to paying some or all of the costs associated with preparation of the specialised report, if the report assists in finalisation of the claim. (2) Mr and Mrs Richardson should follow the processes outlined in (1). If they require assistance with this they should contact the Home Building Unit of the Department of Fair Trading.

*1849 HENLEY PROPERTIES—Mr Hazzard to Minister for Fair Trading, Minister for Corrective Services, and Minister for Sport and Recreation—

How many complaints have been made to the Department of Fair Trading regarding Henley Properties P/L in relation to poor construction of dwellings? 2581 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS Wednesday 30 May 2001

Answer—

The Director-General of the Department of Fair Trading has advised me that in 2001 the Department of Fair Trading has received one written complaint about Henley Properties (NSW) Pty Ltd.

*1851 ADVOCACY—Mr Stoner to Minister for Community Services, Minister for Ageing, Minister for Disability Services, and Minister for Women—

Do you stand by the statement posted on your Department’s Web Page on 22 February 2001 that, “the NSW government also supports individual and systemic advocacy through other bodies, including the Community Services Commission, ….. the Anti Discrimination Board and the Ombudsman’s Office”, in view of statements by: (a) the NSW Ombudsman that, “…. it is not our role to advocate on behalf of any individual or identified group of individuals”. (b) the Community Services Commissioner that, “ ….the Commission is not an advocate or an we are concerned that the Government is referring to a number of agencies in this manner”. (c) the President of the Anti-Discrimination Board that, “…. the Board has no specific plans to provide specific advocacy services for people with physical disabilities” ?

The Government supports advocacy in its many different forms. Advocacy is about putting a case for the benefit of an individual or a group of people. While the primary function of particular bodies may not be to act as an advocate, this does not mean that they are not part of a larger system that is about giving people a fair go in NSW. Turning to the statement on advocacy published on the Department’s website, it draws exactly that distinction. It says that one the one hand, there are groups that act solely as advocates for people with a disability. At the same time, there are allied bodies – such as the Ombudsman, the Community Services Commission, the Anti-Discrimination Board. In fact, the Ombudsman’s Office has agreed to the following wording to describe its role in relation to

“Another relevant body is the NSW Ombudsman. As an independent and impartial agency, it does not provide direct advocacy services, but it does investigate complaints within its jurisdiction, including complaints from people with a disability.” There are specific statutory functions related to advocacy for each of the bodies referred to in the Honourable Members question, which appears to be splitting hairs. For example, Community Services Commission has among its functions the following: · assisting persons receiving community services to make complaints; · promoting, liaising with and assisting advocacy services; · supporting the development of advocacy programs; · identifying ways in which complaints could be removed or minimised; · and promoting and assisting the development of standards in community disability services. The Commission may also, on its own initiative, review the situation of a person in care and provide advice on how to promote the welfare and interests of that person In its most recent annual report for 1999/2000 - tabled in Parliament – the Commission has a section titled “Advocating for positive change” (see pages 26-33). The Anti Discrimination Board has, as one of its statutory functions, the power to “consult with governmental, business, industrial and community groups and organisations in order to ascertain means of improving services and conditions affecting minority groups and other groups which are the subject of discrimination and inequality” [Anti-Discrimination Act 1977 section 119(e)]. 4 APRIL 2001

(Paper No. 84) 2582 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS Wednesday 30 May 2001

*1852 PUBLIC SCHOOLS CONTINUATION—Mr Collins to Minister for Education and Training—

Does the Minister acknowledge that by not giving any guarantees for the future of any public school, parents are dissuaded from sending their children into the public school system?

Answer—

The NSW Government is committed to maintaining a strong public education system. All appropriate actions will be taken to ensure a quality education is provided to all students across New South Wales. The Building the Future draft plan relates only to those schools listed in the draft proposal. No other public school in New South Wales is affected.

*1853 CHATSWOOD HIGH SCHOOL—Mr Collins to Minister for Education and Training—

(1) How is it envisaged Chatswood High School will operate over the next six years? (2) How is Chatswood High School to attract children to the school in this situation?

Answer—

(1) Transition arrangements for the relocation of Chatswood High School will be discussed and developed with the school’s community after the announcement of the final plan for inner Sydney schools. (2) It is anticipated that the proposed changes under Building the Future will significantly increase enrolments at Chatswood High School.

*1854 CHATSWOOD HIGH ANNOUNCEMENT—Mr Collins to Minister for Education and Training—

(1) When the transfer of Chatswood High School was announced to the staff of the school and the media was it without notification to parents or students? (2) What procedures, if any, will be initiated to ensure this does not happen to other NSW school communities?

Answer—

(1) The draft proposal “Building the Future” was forwarded by post to all parents in the school’s drawing area concurrently with the media announcement. (2) The NSW Government’s inner Sydney schools draft proposal relates to schools in the inner east and inner west of Sydney. It has no effect on any schools anywhere else in New South Wales.

*1855 MOBILE PHONE THEFT—Mr Debnam to Minister for Police—

In relation to mobile phone theft: (1) Has NSW Police met with representatives of telecommunications carriers to discuss the possibility of deterring mobile phone theft by deactivation of IMEI numbers? (2) If so, when and what are the outcomes of the meeting(s) and the timing of any action?

Answer—

(1) to (2) The proposal to deactivate mobile handsets using IMEI numbers is a matter for the Commonwealth to pursue with the telecommunications industry. 2583 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS Wednesday 30 May 2001

The Minister has written to the Federal Minister for Telecommunications requesting that he meet with the carriers to resolve this problem.

*1856 TAXATION GAMING REVIEW—Mr Debnam to Minister for Education and Training, representing the Treasurer, Minister for State Development and Vice-President of the Executive Council—

In relation to the Club and Hotel Taxation Gaming Review: (1) (a) As outlined in the terms of reference, did the Treasurer receive the results of the reviews conducted by the Club Taxation and the Hotel Taxation working groups by 31st January 2001? (b) If not, on what date were the reports provided to him? (2) Will the results of the review be public documents and if so when will they be released? (3) What are the conclusions and/or recommendations of the reviews? (4) What is the timetable for acting on the conclusions and/or recommendations of the reviews? (5) What is the Government’s position on the $4,000 surtax on electronic gaming machines being considered by the Victorian Government?

Answer—

(1) (a) Yes. (b) refer to (a) (2) The Government is currently considering the results of the Club and Hotel Gaming Taxation Reviews (3) It would be premature for me to discuss the results of the review before the Government has fully considered them. (4) A firm timetable for consideration of the review by the Government will not be set until the Government has completed its consideration of the results of the review. (5) The Victorian Government has not imposed a $4,000 surtax on electronic gaming machines.

*1857 JOINT AGREEMENT—Mr Debnam to Minister for Education and Training, representing the Treasurer, Minister for State Development and Vice-President of the Executive Council—

In relation to government policy announced in the Treasurer’s press release of 26th March 2001, “States Agree on Joint Investment Attraction Efforts”: (1) Under the agreement, what constitutes “unnecessary financial incentives”? (2) How will the new agreement deal with proposals by corporations to relocate from Victoria to another state, of which NSW is just one candidate? (3) How will the new agreement deal with proposals by corporations to relocate from NSW to another state, of which Victoria is just one candidate? (4) How will the agreement cope with proposals by corporations to relocate from overseas or a state or territory other than NSW or Victoria? (5) Will other state Treasurers and/or their representatives be invited to join the Working Party?

Answer—

(1) There are instances, both internationally and domestically, of some corporations and consultants seeking to leverage extraordinary financial benefit by generating competitive bidding relating to investment incentives available in different governmental jurisdictions. Governments should seek to ensure that in all instances where incentives are provided that this is done in a prudent and responsible manner. This agreement will help to minimise potential disadvantage to the State, which may occur from time to time, through the sharing of selected information on a case by case basis having regard to issues of commercial sensitivity. (2) All proposals will be dealt with on a case by case basis. (3) All proposals will be dealt with on a case by case basis. (4) All proposals will be dealt with on a case by case basis. 2584 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS Wednesday 30 May 2001

(5) All other States and Territories have been invited to join a working party to consider the most beneficial application of this agreement for the whole of Australia.

*1858 ENGLANDS ROAD REZONING—Mr Fraser to Deputy Premier, Minister for Urban Affairs and Planning, Minister for Aboriginal Affairs, and Minister for Housing—

Will you intervene in the rezoning of private land surrounding the land fill situated at Englands Road Coffs Harbour which is being rezoned in order to provide an EPA recommended buffer zone to the tip?

Answer—

I am advised that the plan is presently on public exhibition until 20 July 2001 in the Coffs Harbour City Council Chambers. Anyone with concerns about the plan should write to the Council regarding those concerns as provided for by section 67 of the Environment Planning Assessment Act 1979. As the matter is local issue and the plan is presently available for public comment, it is inappropriate for me to intervene in this matter.

*1859 COFFS HARBOUR ROAD PROJECTS—Mr Fraser to Minister for Transport, and Minister for

(1) Have any road projects in the Coffs Harbour Electorate had budgeted monies redirected to other projects? (2) Why is the Englands to Lyons Road project so far over its predicted completion date?

Answer—

(1) Some projects have had their project details reviewed and there has also been a significant impact on Council resources due to the recent flooding on the North Coast. However, in 2000/2001 a total of $12.9 million of funding has been redirected to the Coffs Harbour Electorate. This additional funding has allowed property acquisition to proceed on the Bonville Upgrade, completion of the Bray to Arthur Street and Lyons Road to Englands Road projects. The overall increase in allocations to the Coffs Harbour electorate has been made available within the Pacific Highway Upgrading program. (2) Due to record rainfall the timing of the project has been affected. However, the estimated completion date has not changed in the last twelve months and is still scheduled for mid 2001.

*1860 FLOOD RELIEF ASSISTANCE—Mr Fraser to Minister for Agriculture, and Minister for Land and

Will you re-examine the criteria for Rural Assistance Authority loans and grants for flood relief on the North Coast in order that loans may be used to relieve existing debt, restructure existing loans and enable current business accounts to be paid with these monies?

Answer—

Natural Disaster Relief loans through the NSW Rural Assistance Authority are available for replacement or repair of stock, plant and infrastructure, and for carry-on expenses pending the receipt of income from the farming or small business enterprise. Carry-on expenses can include current period business accounts. 2585 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS Wednesday 30 May 2001

The loans are designed to assist meet costs incurred as a result of the natural disaster involved. This does not extend to debts and loans already in existence when the natural disaster occurred. These criteria have been in place for many years under this and past Governments, and any changes do not appear necessary. Primary producers and small businesses may however be able to restructure existing loans by approaching their current lender with such a request.

*1861 NSW ELECTRICITY DISTRIBUTOR CEOS—Ms Seaton to Minister for Information Technology, Minister for Energy, Minister for Forestry, and Minister for Western Sydney—

(1) Can the Minister say how many electricity retailer Chief Executive Officers received a performance bonus in 1999, 2000, and 2001? (2) Who received the bonuses and how much was paid? (3) Did any SES level staff in any electricity retailer receive any performance bonus in 1999, 2000 or 2001? (4) If so, who received the bonus and how much was it?

Answer—

(1) In October, 2000 a NSW Treasury Circular was issued which outlined enhanced executive remuneration annual reporting requirements that included State Owned Corporations (SOCs) from and including the year ending 30 June 2000. These amendments require statutory SOCs to disclosed in their annual report, certain details regarding the remuneration of officers whose remuneration equals or exceeds $152,670 (equivalent to SES level 5). These are: · the position title; · name of the executive who occupies the position; · total remuneration package for the executive (excluding perform-related incentive payments); · total amount of any performance-related incentive payments; and · a summary of the criteria for determining total performance-related incentive payments. It is appropriate that any information provided on executive remuneration is limited to that required to be published in annual reports. Beyond that, details are a commercial-in-confidence matter. In light of these enhanced requirements, the 1999-2000 annual reports for the electricity retailers show that Chief Executive Officers from Energy Australia, North Power and Great Southern Energy received a performance bonus. (2) Refer to the 1999-2000 electricity retailer annual reports. (3) Refer to the 1999-2000 electricity retailer annual reports. (4) Refer to the 1999-2000 electricity retailer annual reports.

*1862 GREATER MURRAY AHS—Mr Maguire to Minister for Health—

In regard to page 39 Financial Statements of Greater Murray Area Health Service, where provision is made for bad and doubtful debts of $273,000: (1) What factors contributed to these bad and doubtful debts? (Please supply break-up of bad and doubtful debts). (2) Why have bad and doubtful debts risen from $97,000 to $273,000?

Answer—

(1) Provision for Pathology Bad & Doubtful Debts $170,000 Provision for Patient Fees Bad & Doubtful Debts $ 85,000 Provision for Other Bad & Doubtful Debts $ 18,000 (2) In changing the system for preparing pathology bills in 1999/2000, a large number of bad and doubtful debts were identified. This required a once-off increase in the provision for pathology bad 2586 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS Wednesday 30 May 2001

and doubtful debts. The Area Health Service has put in place strategies to ensure pathology bad and doubtful debts are reviewed annually and, where appropriate, debt collection procedures are instigated. The provision for patient fees bad and doubtful debts is calculated as a percentage amount, based on historical collection levels. A review has indicated that the Area Health Service may have overstated its collection rate of patient fees for previous years. This has accounted for a one-off increase in the 1999/2000 provision for patient fees bad and doubtful debts.

*1863 NOXIOUS SEAWEED—Mr Kerr to Minister for Local Government, Minister for Regional Development, and Minister for Rural Affairs, representing the Minister for Mineral Resources and Minister for Fisheries—

(1) What action has the Government taken to eliminate the noxious seaweed Caulerpa Taxifolia in Port Hacking? (2) What action is the Government taking to prevent the spread of Caulerpa Taxifolia in Port Hacking?

Answer—

(1) Caulerpa taxifolia was found in Port Hacking in the middle of last year. The Government has declared Caulerpa taxifolia as a noxious species, which makes it illegal to sell the weed and illegal to have it in possession in coastal waters. Since then a major education campaign has been put in place. Advisory brochures have been given to local businesses and distributed to community groups and signs explaining what water users should do to minimise the spread of the weed have been placed in prominent and highly used areas. Government officers have met with many different community and stakeholder groups to educate them about minimising the spread of the weed. Genetic studies have been undertaken and removal trials conducted at Fisherman’s Bay. Unfortunately, the weed is very fragile and has a long and densely matted root mass, which makes its removal difficult and unlikely to be successful. Government researchers are continuing to monitor the level of regrowth at these sites. (2) As above.

*1864 CRONULLA—CITY TRAINS—Mr Kerr to Minister for Transport, and Minister for Roads—

How many trains, which were meant to travel between Cronulla and the city, were late or cancelled between 1 February 2001 and 28 February 2001?

Answer—

I am advised by the State Rail Authority that 17 peak services were late or cancelled between Cronulla and the City over this period.

*1865 EMISSION WORKSHOP—Ms Seaton to Minister for Transport, and Minister for Roads—

(1) How many recommendations were made in the Roads and Traffic Authority (RTA) – sponsored workshop in 2000 on international emission management technologies convened as a result of concerns of residents near the M5 East stack at Turrella? (2) What was the cost of this workshop? (3) What were these recommendations? (4) How many, and which, recommendations have been acted upon by the Government?

Answer— 2587 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS Wednesday 30 May 2001

(1) 21. (2) $282,818 (3) The recommendations can be viewed in the “Summary and Recommendations” section of the Facilitator’s Report pages 46-51 dated 26 July 2000 and available via www.rta.nsw.gov.au/environment/env_facreport.pdf. (4) Each recommendation has been considered and has been addressed or is being addressed.

*1866 BUS SAFETY—Mr Souris to Minister for Transport, and Minister for Roads—

In regards to safety of school buses: (1) What safety requirements must buses used as school buses in NSW comply with? (2) Are safety requirements different for buses used in rural and metropolitan areas? (3) Who monitors the safety compliance of school buses in NSW? (4) How many children were injured in school bus accidents in NSW in 1996, 1997, 1998, 1999 and 2000? (5) Has he considered making seatbelts compulsory for school buses in NSW? (6) If so, when will this condition be introduced? (7) If not, why not?

Answer—

(1) Buses in NSW used to carry out public passenger services must comply with the Road Transport (Vehicle Registration) Amendment (Vehicle Standards) Regulation 1999 and the Passenger Transport Act 1990 and associated Regulations. In addition, all bus operators are obliged to ensure that their conform to Australian Design Rules (ADR’s). The ADR”s are national Standards. (2) No. (3) The Department of Transport, through its accreditation regime for passenger bus services, conducts random audits of bus operators within NSW to ensure compliance with the Passenger Transport Act and associated Regulations. The Roads and Traffic Authority also is responsible for conducting inspections on all heavy vehicles within NSW to ensure they are road worthy,. (4) Injuries to children 5–8 years (during school travel time) where a bus has been involved or a factor. Bus involvement: where the bus was hit or bus hit another vehicle. Bus as a factor: bus was sited in the Police Report. Child may have alighted from bus or bus may have been incidental to the accident. Injury where Police have determined that the child may have sustained an injury. Unless the Police Report specifies, there is no way of identifying if the bus involved was a school bus or a general bus carrying a child.

Year No. of children No. of children injured as Total injured as a bus pedestrians where bus passenger was involved or a factor 1996 53 31 84 1997 29 37 66 1998 37 31 68 1999 48 19 67 2000* 38 38 76 * provisional data (5) In 1994, the Department of Transport engaged an independent safety consultant to consider this matter. The consultant’s report supports the Department’s position and based on the consistently high safety record of travel on board school buses, recommended against the compulsory fitting of seat belts. A key issue in safety management is to ensure that funds are directed towards measures that achieve the greatest safety benefit. The consultant concluded that a better use of funds would be 2588 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS Wednesday 30 May 2001

to direct them to reducing road trauma and the prevention of accidents rather than installing seat belts on buses. The report estimated that the total cost for fitting the fleet of buses in NSW that may be used to carry school children, with effective three-point lap/sash restraint systems would be over $200M in 1994/95. The NSW School Student Transport Scheme has a budget of $402M which is already the most generous in Australia and could not sustain any further increases without considering the budgetary effects of any changes in policy. Nevertheless, the Government has introduced a number of measures to improve the safety of school bus travel and continues to review current measures to ensure they remain appropriate. As part of this commitment, all new buses manufactured since August 1997 are required to be fitted with specially designed seats with extra padding, improved padding on interior rails and stanchions, improved mirror systems and door safety systems, and the maximum speed of school buses with standing passengers has been restricted to 80km/hr.

(6) to (7) Refer to Question 5 above.

*1867 AKABANE VACCINE—Mr Souris to Minister for Agriculture, and Minister for Land and Water

In regards to Akabane Vaccine: (1) What was the economic impact of the Akabane virus on the NSW cattle industry in 1996, 1997, 1999, 2000? (2) Is he aware of the development of an effective Akabane vaccine by NSW Agriculture? (3) If not, why not? (4) Is he aware of the widespread demand for Akabane vaccine from the NSW cattle industry? (5) Is the Akabane vaccine currently available to the NSW cattle industry? (6) If not, why not? (7) Will he authorise NSW Agriculture to produce the Akabane vaccine? (8) If not, why not? (9) How has NSW Agriculture assisted the NSW cattle industry to overcome the economic damage caused by the Akabane virus?

Answer—

(1) While it is difficult to accurately estimate the losses from Akabane disease as cases are not generally reported, best estimates for the lost production from the Akabane outbreaks in the 1996- 1997 and 1999-2000 seasons at $1 - 2m and $0.5 - 1m respectively. (2) Yes. (3) Yes. (4) I am aware of periodic requests for the vaccine from areas affected by outbreaks when they occur. (5) No. (6) to (9) The vaccine developed by NSW Agriculture in 1983 was taken up by a commercial manufacturer and was available until 1995 when the company was acquired by US interests. Rationalisation took place and production of Akabane vaccine ceased. Despite strenuous efforts, NSW Agriculture has not been able to identify an alternative partner to undertake commercial manufacture. The manufacture of vaccines is not core activity for NSW Agriculture, which is currently reviewing the specific regulatory requirements and costs associated with the process. No decision has been made on NSW Agriculture’s involvement in this commercial activity.

*1868 POLICE SERVICE—Mr J. H. Turner to Minister for Police—

(1) How many officers were attested in: (a) 1996 2589 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS Wednesday 30 May 2001

(b) 1997 (c) 1998 (d) 1999 (e) 2000 (f) 2001 to date? (2) How many of those officers are still in the police force as at the present date? (3) What is the average period of time served by police officers who have now left the service?

Answer—

(1) (a)1996-724 (b)1997-851 (c)1998-758 (d)1999-717 (e)2000-891 (f)2001-282 (2) 3819. This represents a retention rate of 90.4% (3) For the 6 months prior to 25 April 2001, the average length of service for police who left during this time was 19.2 years.

*1869 FISHING LICENCES—Mr Webb to Premier, Minister for the Arts, and Minister for Citizenship—

(1) Can you explain how people wishing to fish and purchase fishing licences can comp ly with State fishing licence requirements if there is a ban by fisheries officers who refuse to issue new licences? (2) When will the fisheries department be sufficiently resourced to enable proper inspection and regulatory compliance to take place? (3) When does your Government intend to address the severe problems experienced by fisheries officers because of the introduction of fishing licences? (4) Will your Government urgently acknowledge that because of the impossibility facing people wishing to fish to obtain the necessary licence there should be an amnesty of the need for compliance with licensing requirements?

Answer—

(1) The recreational fishing licence can be purchased from nearly 1,000 agents across the State, including camping shops and tackle stores. Using a credit card, licences can also be purchased over the telephone, by phoning 1300 369 365 and on the Internet at www.fisheries.nsw.gov.au. (2) NSW Fisheries is adequately resourced to ensure high levels of compliance with recreational fishing regulations. Funding for NSW Fisheries has increased substantially under this Government, with NSW Fisheries receiving a record allocation of $26 million this financial year. (3) The Minister is not aware of any serious problems resulting from the introduction of the general recreational fishing fee. In fact, contact with members of the public by Fisheries Officers indicates that the majority of anglers have purchased a licence, with compliance levels as high as 90 per cent being reported. It has always been part of the duties of Fisheries Officers to talk to anglers about compliance with bag and size limits. Recreational licence compliance activities are being incorporated into these existing duties. (4) Recreational fishers can purchase a Recreational Fishing Licence from nearly1,000 agents across NSW, over the telephone on 1300 369 365, or through the NSW Fisheries Internet site. There is currently a three-month education period to enable anglers to become familiar with the new licence. There will also be a further transition period, during which time fishers who have not purchased a licence will be issued with a written caution. 2590 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS Wednesday 30 May 2001

*1870 KARABAR DENTAL CLINIC—Mr Webb to Minister for Minister for Health—

(1) Where do pensioners who wish to have a check up or suspected decaying teeth treated have the matter addressed if they have been told that the Karabar Dental Clinic in Queanbeyan is only for serious emergencies? (2) What is your explanation for the long wa it, up to six months, for pensioners to have impressions taken for urgent denture work? (3) Do you acknowledge that good dental hygiene and the speedy rectification of dental problems is essential for good health and wellbeing? (4) Where can Monaro pensioners including disabled people expect to receive vital denture repair work if the Karabar Dental Clinic refuses to help them? (5) Where can a disabled pensioner with a badly infected tooth receive treatment if the receptionist at the Dental Clinic won’t acknowledge the urgency of the complaint? (6) Does the Karabar Dental Clinic have to meet Quality Assurance guidelines with respect to the dental work carried out? (7) What control measures are undertaken by the Southern Area Health Service to ensure compliance with quality assurance guidelines? (8) Is the Dental Clinic adequately resourced and staffed to provide a reasonable service to the people of Queanbeyan and district? (9) Have staffing levels changed over recent months and years? (10) If so by how much and why?

Answer—

(1) to (10) Withdrawal of the Commonwealth Dental Health Program resulted in a reduction in access to oral health care by the most disadvantaged in our communities. The NSW Government is injecting $33 million into public oral health services, an increase of 27 percent, over three years. This will significantly increase the number of people treated by public oral health services in New South Wales. The State's oral health services are being reorganised to put greater emphasis on caring for those most in need. The new Priority Oral Health Program will ensure that eligible clients who have emergency dental needs or semi-urgent treatment such as for toothache are given priority over people who need routine care. Those people requiring routine care will be given an appointment appropriate to their clinical need. Staffing levels at Karabar have not changed in recent times. The clinic operates in accordance with the appropriate quality assurance guidelines with staff clinical practices supervised by the Chief Dental Officer. I understand the waiting period for assessment for routine dental work at Karamar Dental Clinic is less than six months. Eligible pensioners who need vital denture repair work should contact the dental clinic.

*1871 DENTAL SERVICES—Mr Webb to Minister for Health—

(1) Can you explain why Eden, Pambula and other school children on the far south coast are unable to access Government provided Dental Health care? (2) Where are these people expected to obtain urgent dental work should it be required? (3) Why have these services been withdrawn? (4) Is this reduction in vital dental health care services for people on the far south coast in line with cutbacks to other health services?

Answer—

(1) School children in Eden, Pambula and other areas of the far south coast who require dental treatment and have parental approval, are able to access the free public dental clinic located at Pambula Community Health Centre. (2) People requiring urgent dental work should contact Pambula Community Health Centre. 2591 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS Wednesday 30 May 2001

(3) Dental services have not been withdrawn. (4) There have been no cutbacks to health services within Southern Area Health Service.

*1872 TRANSPORT CONTRIBUTION—Mr O'Farrell to Minister for Transport, and Minister for Roads—

(1) What is the total Government contribution for STA Buses for the years 1999/2000 and 2000/2001? (2) What is the total Government contribution for STA Ferries for the years 1999/2000 and 2000/2001?

Answer—

(1) to (2) Government Contribution to STA Bus and Ferries 1999/00 2000/01 $M $M Buses (Sydney & Newcastle) Free and Concessional Travel 121.235 128.819 Community Service Obligations 32.867 36.598 Total Buses 154.102 165.417

Ferries (Sydney & Newcastle) Free and Concessional Travel 8.174 8.631 Community Service Obligations 17.356 19.405 Capital Grants 12.000(a) 10.912 Total Ferries 37.530 38.948 (a) Funded from STA property sale

*1873 ILLAWARRA PROMOTION—Mr O'Doherty to Minister for Small Business, and Minister for

(1) How much money has the Government allocated to the Illawarra Fighting Fund to promote business and investment in this region? (2) What programs has this money been spent on? (3) Will the Government continue this funding program? If yes, how much money and over what period of time? (4) How much money has the Government spent on the Wollongong Image Campaign? (5) What has this money gone towards and will the campaign be continued in the future? If yes, for how long and over what period of time? (6) How has the Government measured the success of the Illawarra Fighting Fund and the Wollongong Image Campaign?

Answer—

(1) It is presumed that the question refers to the Illawarra Advantage Fund. The administration of this Fund is the responsibility of the Minister for Regional Development. (2) See (1) above. (3) See (1) above. (4) Wollongong Image Campaign is a Wollongong City Council initiative. (5) See (4) above. (6) See (1) and (4) above.

*1874 FARE EVADERS—Mr O'Doherty to Minister for Transport, and Minister f

In relation to the recent crackdown on train fare evaders: 2592 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS Wednesday 30 May 2001

(1) Why were several ticket inspectors placed at stations such as Hornsby and Wynyard during peak hour times when these stations already contain a larger number of staff in comparison to other stations on the metropolitan lines and have mechanical exit barriers that require a valid ticket? (2) Are ticket inspector placed at stations where there are no other staff or ticket barriers? If yes, at which stations and how many inspectors are involved? (3) How many fare evaders were caught travelling without a valid ticket during the recent crackdown? (4) How many fines were issued to fare evaders during the recent crackdown? (5) Do ticket inspectors currently travel on trains to inspect commuters’ tickets? If yes, how many and on which train lines? (6) At which times during the day are ticket inspectors dispatched onto railway stations? (7) In relation to weekly, monthly and annual train tickets, is it possible for holders of these to transfer them to other patrons alighting at the same station once they’ve been put through the barrier on the same day?

Answer—

The State Rail Authority advises me of the following: (1) Fare evasion is a problem that CityRail is actively addressing. The majority of CityRail's many customers are honest and law abiding. CityRail's Revenue Protection Officers conduct ticket checks at large stations such as Hornsby and Wynyard, to monitor amongst many other things, the correct usage of concession tickets. It is against the law to travel on a concession fare without correct authorisation. Ticket checks are conducted at many other stations across the CityRail network. Fines of $100 are issued for infringements by Revenue Protection Officers. (2) Yes. It would be inappropriate to advise potential fare evaders at which railway stations CityRail's Revenue Protection Officers will be patrolling. Random inspections are carried out across the entire CityRail network. (3) to (4) I am advised that considerable public awareness has been raised as a result of CityRail's ongoing focus on revenue protection. (5) Yes. Again, it would be inappropriate to reveal the exact locations of Revenue Protection Officers to potential fare evaders, as requested in the Honourable Member's question. In general terms, CityRail's revenue protection officers patrol trains and stations on a regular and random basis. (6) Revenue protection staff can be deployed at any time that CityRail trains operate. (7) I am advised that this would be an offence under the Rail Safety Regulation 1999, Clause 7(1). Any person caught doing this would be liable for a fine under the provisions of the Rail Safety Regulation 1999.

*1875 CONTAMINATION OF THE MURRUMBIDGEE RIVER—Ms Hodgkinson to Minister for Agriculture, and Minister for Land and Water Conservation—

(1) Is the Minister aware of recent reports of a major discharge of turbid water, originating from the leachate ponds at the Belconnen (ACT) tip, into a tributary creek of the Murrumbidgee River? (2) Given that a similar discharge was brought to your Government’s attention several years ago what action did you take then to ensure further polluting discharges did not occur? (3) Why then did this incident occur? (4) Given that the Murrumbidgee river has recently been described as an ‘endangered ecological community’ by the NSW Fisheries Scientific Committee what further actions will you now take to ensure a similar event does not occur in the future?

Answer—

(1) Yes. 2593 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS Wednesday 30 May 2001

(2) and (3) The reported pollution occurred wholly within the Australian Capital Territory (ACT). Environment ACT is responsible for the management and monitoring of water quality within the Territory. The NSW Environment Protection Authority administers pollution events in New South Wales. (4) As advis ed, pollution within the ACT does not fall within my portfolio. However, Environment ACT has advised that the sediment control dam is now being used to water the landfill site and is subsequently less likely to fill and discharge.

*1876 TESTING FOR OJD IN NSW FLOCKS—Ms Hodgkinson to Minister for Agriculture, and Minister for

(1) How many sheep properties, are located in the Moree, Northern New England, Coonamble, Coonabarabran, Tamworth, Armidale, Nyngan, Mudgee-Merriwa, Hunter, Molong Central Tablelands, Forbes, Young, Yass, Goulburn, Narrandera, Wagga, Gundagai, Braidwood, South Coasts, Murray, Hume and Cooma Rural Lands Protection Board Districts? (2) By Rural Land Protection Board District, how many of these properties (number and percentage) have been tested for OJD using the Pooled Fecal Culture test? (3) By Rural Land Protection Board District, how many of these properties (number and percentage) have been tested for OJD using Blood Sampling? (4) By Rural Land Protection Board District, how many of these properties (number and percentage) have been tested of OJD using both Blood Sampling and the Pooled Fecal Culture test?

Answer—

(1) The following numbers of sheep properties are located in the following Rural Lands Protection Boards: Moree 223, Northern New England 1248, Coonamble 390, Coonabarabran 670, Tamworth 1157, Armidale 2000, Nyngan 600, Mudgee-Merriwa 879, Hunter 215, Molong 1104, Central Tablelands 2306, Forbes 1540, Young 1945, Yass 1200, Goulburn 1082, Narrandera 978, Wagga Wagga 1803, Gundagai 867, Braidwood 565, South Coast 490, Murray 1049, Hume 963, Cooma 668. (2) The number of properties (and the percentage of the total in the Board) which have been tested for OJD using the Pooled Faecal Culture test are: Moree 0 (0%), Northern New England 9 (0.7%), Coonamble 7 (1.8%), Coonabarabran 4 (0.6%), Tamworth 16 (1.4%), Armidale 115 (5.8%), Nyngan 0 (0%), Mudgee-Merriwa 1(0.1%), Hunter 0 (0%), Molong 44 (4.0%), Central Tablelands 69 (3.0%), Forbes 18 (1.2%), Young 80 (4.1%), Yass 24 (2.0%), Goulburn 26 (2.4%), Narrandera 6 (0.6%), Wagga Wagga 48 (2.7%), Gundagai 36 (4.2%), Braidwood 14 (2.5%), South Coast 0 (0%), Murray 17 (1.6%), Hume 83 (8.6%), Cooma 71 (10.6%). It should be noted that on some properties more than one submission may have been submitted. (3) The number of properties (and the percentage of the total in the Board) which have been tested for OJD using Blood Sampling are: Moree 15 (15.3%), Northern New England 69 (5.5%), Coonamble 19 (4.9%), Coonabarabran 33 (4.9%), Tamworth 41 (3.5%), Armidale 306 (15.3%), Nyngan 19 (3.2%), Mudgee-Merriwa 1 (0.1%), Hunter 6 (2.8%), Molong 219, (19.8%), Central Tablelands 595 (25.8%), Forbes 203 (13.2%), Young 363 (18.7%), Yass 202 (16.8%), Goulburn 157 (14.5%), Narrandera 25 (2.6%), Wagga Wagga 180 (10.0%), Gundagai 148 (17.1%), Braidwood 85 (15.0%), South Coast 13 (2.7%), Murray, 223 (21.3%), Hume 218 (22.6%), Cooma 176 (26.3%). It should be noted that on some properties more than one submission may have been submitted. (4) At this point it is not possible to indicate the number of properties tested using both Pooled Faecal Culture test and Blood Sampling. It should be noted that a very large number of properties have been tested in NSW using Abattoir Surveillance testing. For example, in the 3 months period to December 2000, more than 3,000 lines of sheep totalling nearly 900,000 were examined. 2594 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS Wednesday 30 May 2001

*1877 DELAYED CORRESPONDENCE—Ms Hodgkinson to Minister for Transport, and Minister for

Will the Minister explain why his Parliamentary Secretary took over eight months to reply to my letter 00O44/JC dated 6 July 2000?

Answer—

During the course of investigating this matter the correspondence was mislaid which resulted in the delay in forwarding a response.

*1878 POLICE FOOT PATROLS—Ms Moore to Minister for Police—

Concerning the use of police foot patrols in the vicinity of Taylor Square: (1) How many times were police foot patrols scheduled to be in the area on Friday evening, 23 February 2001? (2) How many police foot patrols were actually in the area on Friday 23 evening, February 2001? (3) At what times were the foot patrols in the area? (4) What was the minimum number of officers involved in foot patrols along Oxford Street, Darlinghurst, at any one point in time, on Friday evening, 23 February 2001? (5) What was the maximum number of officers involved in foot patrols along Oxford Street, Darlinghurst, at any one point in time, on Friday evening, 23 February 2001? (6) Is this pattern of foot patrols on 23 February 2001 indicative of patrols taken on Friday and Saturday evenings in the vicinity of Taylor Square and Oxford Street? (7) If not, what is the nature of the variation from other evenings?

Answer—

(1) to (3) 10 uniformed and plain clothed police were rostered for foot patrols at various times between the hours of 6pm and 7am. (4) 8. (5) 10. (6) Yes, for that time of the year. (7) See answer to question (6).

*1879 POLICE SNIFFER DOGS—Ms Moore to Minister for Police—

Concerning the policies and procedures for the use of police sniffer dogs in the vicinity of Taylor Square prior to Mardi Gras: (1) Was the Police Gay and Lesbian Liaison Officer consulted prior to the operation? (2) Was the Police Gay and Lesbian Liaison Officer involved in the operation? (3) What advice has the Gay and Lesbian Liaison Officer provided on the operation? (4) How did the operation contribute to positive relations between gays and lesbians and the police? (5) What protocols were in place during the operation to ensure that homeless people were treated courteously and ethically by police? (6) To what extent was the operation successful in curbing antisocial behaviour of intoxicated or otherwise drug-affected homeless people, which is often the subject of complaints from local business proprietors and residents? (7) Have police sniffer dog operations been undertaken in the identified drug dealing areas of Kings Cross, particularly adjacent Springfield Mall? 2595 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS Wednesday 30 May 2001

(8) Have police sniffer dog operations been undertaken in the identified drug dealing areas of Redfern/Darlington, particularly adjacent Redfern Railway Station? (9) How was Taylor Square identified as a priority for a police sniffer dog operation? (10) What criteria were needed to be met by the Local Area Commands in advance of being allocated use of police sniffer dogs for this operation?

Answer—

(1) This operation was conducted by the City East Region Target Action Group (CERTAG). The Surry Hills Local Area Commander was involved in the planning and implementation. (2) No (3) The Surry Hills Gay & Lesbian Officer was apprised of the operation on 24 February and he provided advice to the operation supervisors. (4) The target of the operation was to identify and arrest street level drug suppliers. I am advised that a number of people congratulated the police on their presence in Oxford Street. (5) Members of the Police Services are expected to treat all persons in a professional, ethical and courteous manner at all times. (6) The operation had a positive effect on anti-social behaviour. (7) Regular operations using Canine Drug Detection Dogs are conducted in the Kings Cross area. (8) Canine Drug Detection Dogs are regularly used in the execution of search warrants within the Redfern/Darlington area. (9) This location was identified through intelligence. (10) Request are made by Commands and assessed by the Police Service Dog Unit.

*1880 POLICE SNIFFER DOGS—Ms Moore to Minister for Police—

Concerning the use of police sniffer dogs in the vicinity of Taylor Square on the weekend of 23, 24 and 25 February 2001: (1) How many hours of planning went into the operation? (2) How many police were involved in the operation? (3) How many officers were deployed in the operation? (4) How many of these police were temporarily provided from outside the Local Area Command? (5) How many of those arrested were released without charge? (6) What was the most serious charge laid? (7) How many police were involved in processing those arrested? (8) How long were the police involved in processing kept from doing patrols in the local area? (9) How many requests for help in the local area were police unable to attend to while the operation was underway? (10) Will any intelligence gathered as a result of the operation make a significant contribution to convicting major drug traffickers? (11) How quickly could officers involved in the operation have been redeployed if an incident had arisen during the operation? (12) Did the operation reduce break-and-enters in the surrounding area? (13) Did the operation reduce anti-social behaviour in the local area? (14) How many requests for assistance elsewhere in the local did police receive while the operation was underway?

Answer—

(1) Approximately 15-20 hours of planning. (2) to (3) 18 Police Officers. (4) 15. This operation was coordinated by the City East Region Target Action Group. (5) All arrests resulted in the application by police of an appropriate legal process. (6) Supply Prohibited Drug 2596 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS Wednesday 30 May 2001

(7) Nearly all offenders were processed in the field by the police involved in the operation (8) No police involved in processing were kept from doing patrols in the area. (9) No police were taken from first response policing duties. No requests were made that police were not able to attend to. (10) As a result of intelligence flowing from the operation, 3 search warrants were executed and a trafficable amount of drugs was seized. (11) Immediately (12) The operation focused on drug and licensing enforcement. (13) The operation had a positive effect on anti-social behaviour. (14) Nil.

5 APRIL 2001

(Paper No. 85)

*1881 CHATSWOOD HIGH SCHOOL—Mr Collins to Minister for Education and Training—

(1) If the enrolment at Chatswood High School declines because of the instability created by the recent announcement, will teachers be lost? (2) If the enrolment at Chatswood High School declines because of the instability created by the recent announcement, will courses be dropped and options for School Certificate and Higher School Certificate be reduced?

Answer—

(1) It is anticipated that the proposed changes under Building the Future will significantly increase enrolments at Chatswood High School. (2) It is anticipated that the proposed changes under Building the Future will significantly increase enrolments with a resultant expansion of the curriculum options for the school at the Higher School Certificate.

*1882 CHATSWOOD HIGH SCHOOL CLASSES—Mr Collins to Minister for Education and Training—

(1) What will happen to the Intensive English and IM (moderately intellectually delayed) classes at Chatswood High School? (2) Were these children included in the student numbers quoted in the “Building the Future” document?

Answer—

(1) Provision for students with special learning needs attending Chatswood High School will be maintained. The continued provision of Intensive English classes at Chatswood High School will be considered when the final plan for inner Sydney schools is announced. (2) No. These student numbers were not included so that valid comparisons could be made of mainstream enrolment trends across all schools.

*1883 CHATSWOOD HIGH ENROLMENTS—Mr Collins to Minister for Education and Training—

(1) Is it true that enrolments in year 7 at Chatswood High School, have grown in the last couple of years? (2) If so, why is Chatswood High School referred to as a school in decline? 2597 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS Wednesday 30 May 2001

Answer—

(1) While Year 7 enrolments have increased in 2001 due to the introduction of a Year 7 gifted and talented class at the school, overall enrolments at the school have declined by 32 per cent over the last ten years. (2) The enrolment figures demonstrate clearly why Chatswood High School is “a school in decline”.

*1884 NOISE BARRIER LANDFILL—Ms Seaton to Attorney General, Minister for the Environment, Minister for Emergency Services, and Minister Assisting the Premier on the Arts—

(1) Did an officer of the EPA visit a property at Price’s Road, Douglas Park with an officer of Wollondilly Council, to inspect a property on which a roadside noise barrier had been constructed and allegedly contained fill items in breach of the consent? (2) What findings did the EPA officer make on this visit? (3) Were any breaches of state pollution statutes observed? (4) Were any fines or penalty infringement notices issued? (5) Will any court action be initiated? (6) Has any environmental damage including leachates into the Nepean waterway system been caused or likely to arise?

Answer—

(1) Yes (2) The EPA has advised me that the site has been revegetated and appeared to be stabilised in terms of erosion and sediment control. The inspection detected no signs of recent activity associated with the noise mound or waste dumping. (3) The EPA advises that none was observed. (4) Wollondilly Council is the Appropriate Regulatory Authority and any breaches would therefore be dealt with by the council. (5) See answers to (3) and (4) above. (6) The EPA advises me that it has not undertaken any environmental assessment of the site, as Wollondilly Council is the Appropriate Regulatory Authority.

*1885 MID NORTH COAST LAC—Mr Stoner to Minister for Police—

In relation to the figure of 153 “actual strength” for the Mid North Coast Local Area Command as at 30 June 2000, (1) How many of these officers were on long term leave for a period of three months or more (including sick leave, maternity leave, long service leave, leave without pay and other types of leave)? (2) How many of these officers were on restricted or partial duties?

Answer—

The Deputy Commissioner’s office has provided the following advice: (1) 18. (2) 6.

*1886 BEC FUNDING—Mr Debnam to Minister for Small Business, and Minister for Tourism—

In relation to Government policy on Business Enterprise Centre (BEC) funding: 2598 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS Wednesday 30 May 2001

(1) Does the three year funding certainty referred to in your release of 8 March 2001, “State Government delivers certainty for small business providers”, apply to all government sponsored business advice and assistance including the services of the Business Enterprise Centre (BEC) network, the Industrial Supplies Office (ISO) and business incubator programs? (2) If not, will funding certainty be extended across the entire range of services offered by the Department of State and Regional Development? (3) What changed circumstances have prompted the Minister to introduce three year funding for BECs?

Answer—

(1) The Small Business Advisory Services Program is the funding program which provides for free advisory and information services for new and existing businesses. Outsourced delivery of the program is through BECs and other business organisations. The NSW Government’s arrangements to support the ISO are also subject to a 3-year performance agreement. The NSW Government does not provide funding support to business incubators. (2) The programs delivered by the Department of State and Regional Development are subject to the annual appropriation to the Department from the NSW Budget, based on the four year budget planning cycle. (3) The BECs have for some time indicated a desire for certainty of funding to allow them to better plan and invest in staff skills development and new technology. The decision to provide a three- year contract reflects this request.

*1887 ICU DATABASE—Mr Debnam to Premier, Minister for the Arts, and Minister for Citizenship—

In relation to the allocation of capital outlays: (1) (a) As outlined in Premier’s Department Annual report 1999/00, has the Infrastructure Coordination Unit (ICU) completed “preparing a comprehensive database of all major infrastructure development

(b) If not, when will it be completed? (2) What practical use will the completed information database have if all capital spending for the next three years has already been allocated as per his address given on 25 March 2001?

Answer—

(1) (a) and (b) The development of the database is ongoing and evolutionary. (2) The database is used for individual project information and analysis of the overall infrastructure program.

*1888 KINGS CROSS LAC—Ms Moore to Minister for Police—

Concerning staffing numbers at the Kings Cross Local Area Command: (1) What was the actual number of police officers at the Command, as at: (a) 30/6/97? (b) 30/6/98? (c) 30/6/99? (d) 30/6/00? (e) 31/3/01? (2) For each of these answers in 1, how many of the officers were employed full-time (as opposed to part-time) in the Command? (3) For each of these answers in 1, how many of the officers were employed on a permanent (as opposed to a temporary or casual) basis in the Command? (4) For each of these answers in 1, how many of the officers were actually on duty (as opposed to on leave or acting in a position outside the Command)? 2599 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS Wednesday 30 May 2001

(5) For each of the answers in 1, how many of the officers were placed permanently at the Command (as opposed to on temporary transfer from other Commands)? (6) For each of the answers in 1, how many of the officers were assigned to administrative duties in the police station: (a) Full-time? (b) Part-time? (7) During each shift on the dates in 1, what is the number of police officers that were on duty in the Kings Cross Local Area Command?

Answer—

(1) (a) The Kings Cross Local Area Command had not been established at this date (b) to (e) I am advised that the NSW Police Service’s Workforce and Careers Directorate does not conduct audits of Local Area Command numbers on a daily basis. I am further advised that it is not possible to provide details of the exact number of police officers assigned to the Kings Cross Local Area Command on the dates specified by the Member for Bligh. (2) to (6) See response to question 1. (7) I am advised that the publication of roster information, including shift details, may prejudice the ability of the Service to perform its law enforcement, crime prevention and public safety functions, as this information could be used by criminal elements to plan the times of the day they commit offences.

*1889 REDFERN LAC—Ms Moore to Minister for Police—

Concerning staffing numbers at the Redfern Local Area Command: (1) What was the actual number of police officers at the Command, as at: (a) 30/6/97? (b) 30/6/98? (c) 30/6/99? (d) 30/6/00? (e) 31/3/01? (2) For each of these answers in 1, how many of the officers were employed full-time (as opposed to part-time) in the Command? (3) For each of these answers in 1, how many of the officers were employed on a permanent (as opposed to a temporary or casual) basis in the Command? (4) For each of these answers in 1, how many of the officers were actually on duty (as opposed to on leave or acting in a position outside the Command)? (5) For each of the answers in 1, how many of the officers were placed permanently at the Command (as opposed to on temporary transfer from other Commands)? (6) For each of the answers in 1, how many of the officers were assigned to administrative duties in the police station: (a) Full-time? (b) Part-time? (7) During each shift on the dates in 1, what is the number of police officers that were on duty in the Redfern Local Area Command?

Answer—

(1) (a)The Redfern Local Area Command had not been established at this date (b) to (e) I am advised that the NSW Police Service’s Workforce and Careers Directorate does not conduct audits of Local Area Command numbers on a daily basis. I am further advised that it is not possible to provide details of the exact number of police officers assigned to the Redfern Local Area Command on the dates specified by the Member for Bligh. 2600 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS Wednesday 30 May 2001

(2) to (6) See response to question 1. (7) I am advised that the publication of roster information, including shift details, may prejudice the ability of the Service to perform its law enforcement, crime prevention and public safety functions, as this information could by used by criminal elements to plan the times of the day they commit offences.

*1890 SURRY HILLS LAC—Ms Moore to Minister for Police—

Concerning staffing numbers at the Surry Hills Local Area Command: (1) What was the actual number of police officers at the Command, as at: (a) 30/6/97? (b) 30/6/98? (c) 30/6/99? (d) 30/6/00? (e) 31/3/01? (2) For each of these answers in 1, how many of the officers were employed full-time (as opposed to part-time) in the Command? (3) For each of these answers in 1, how many of the officers were employed on a permanent (as opposed to a temporary or casual) basis in the Command? (4) For each of these answers in 1, how many of the officers were actually on duty (as opposed to on leave or acting in a position outside the Command)? (5) For each of the answers in 1, how many of the officers were placed permanently at the Command (as opposed to on temporary transfer from other Commands)? (6) For each of the answers in 1, how many of the officers were assigned to administrative duties in the police station: (a) Full-time? (b) Part-time? (7) During each shift on the dates in 1, what is the number of police officers that were on duty in the Surry Hills Local Area Command?

Answer—

(1) (a) The Surry Hills Local Area Command had not been established at this date (b) to (e) I am advised that the NSW Police Service’s Workforce and Careers Directorate does not conduct audits of Local Area Command numbers on a daily basis. I am further advised that it is not possible to provide details of the exact number of police officers assigned to Surry Hills Local Area Command on the dates specified by the Member for Bligh. (2) to (6) See response to question 1. (7) I am advised that the publication of roster information, including shift details, may prejudice the ability of the Service to perform its law enforcement, crime prevention and public safety functions, as this information could be used by criminal elements to plan the times of the day they commit offences.

*1891 JERRAWA CREEK BRIDGE—Ms Hodgkinson to Minister for Transport, and Minister for Roads—

(1) Is the Minister aware that the Gunning Shire Council has been urgently seeking funds to replace the timber bridge over Jerrawa Creek on MR 241 for the last six years? (2) Is the Minister aware that the bridge requires immediate replacement to protect public safety? (3) Will the Minister instruct his department, as a matter of urgency, to provide sufficient funds to allow the bridge to be replaced? 2601 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS Wednesday 30 May 2001

Answer—

(1) to (3) Main Road No 241 is a Regional Road for which Gunning Shire Council is responsible. As a Regional Road, decisions concerning the priority of maintenance and improvement works on this route, including bridges, are matters for Council to determine. As the bridge is located on a Regional Road, Council has the option of using annual funds provided by the State Government under the Regional Road Block Grant, Repair and ex 3x3 Programs to replace the bridge. Council could also consider utilising its allocation under the Federal Government’s Roads to Recovery Program for this purpose.

*1892 THERAPY SERVICES AT THE CRESCENT SCHOOL GOULBURN—Ms Hodgkinson to Minister for Community Services, Minister for Ageing, Minister for Disability Services, and Minister for Women—

(1) Is the Minister aware that several applicants for the vacant Occupational, Physio and Speech therapy positions in Goulburn have taken other positions while waiting for over a month for an offer of employment by your department? (2) Is the Minister aware that the Department of Education and Training has a benchmark standard of 14 days between interview and offer of employment? (3) What is the benchmark standard for the Ageing and Disability Department? (4) What action have you taken to streamline the job application process to enable offers of employment to be made sooner?

Answer—

(1) I am advised that vacancies in Speech Therapy have been advertised 4 times in the last 12 months. There were no applicants on the first three occasions. In the latest recruitment action applicants were interviewed on 28th March 2001. The position was offered on 17th April and the successful applicant has accepted the position. The Occupational Therapy position has been advertised on three occasions in a little over twelve months. The recruitment process following the first advertisement in March 2000 was delayed because of the staffing freeze in place at the time and I understand that a number of applicants accepted other employment. I am advised that subsequent recruitment action for the Occupational Therapy position has been within the parameters set out in the Personnel Handbook, and has resulted in offers being made but declined. A temporary vacancy exists for Physiotherapy, which is currently met by contracting the services of a private physiotherapist. (2) to (4) It is my understanding that the employment process in the Department of Community Services, which was the employing agency at the time, follows the guidelines in the Personnel Handbook. This sets out a flow chart which provides that in the 3rd week of the recruitment process applications will close, in the 4th and 5th weeks the interviews will be held and criminal record checks undertaken and in the 6th week, the offer of employment will be made.

*1893 WAITING LISTS—Ms Hodgkinson to Minister for Health—

(1) Is the Minister aware that patients requiring hip replacement surgery at Goulburn Base Hospital are being forced to wait for between 18 months and 2 years before their operations? (2) Is the Minister aware that the waiting list for similar surgery at the Rachel Forster Hospital in Redfern is only 4 months? (3) Why is the Minister forcing elderly patients in great pain to travel hundreds of kilometres for surgery when they could be treated for less cost at Goulburn Base Hospital if he approved more surgery? 2602 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS Wednesday 30 May 2001

(4) Is the Minister aware that the only orthopaedic surgeon with visiting rights at Goulburn Base Hospital is restricted by the hospital to performing only one operation a week? (5) Will the Minister give a commitment to increase the number of operations that the surgeon is allowed to perform at Goulburn Base Hospital?

Answer—

(1) The average waiting time at Goulburn Base Hospital for hip replacements is much lower than the figures quoted. (2) Yes. (3) to (5) Between 1 July 2000 and 31 March 2001, the visiting orthopaedic surgeon at Goulburn Base Hospital has performed 98 procedures, including 15 hip replacement operations. It is an objective of the Southern Area Health Service that the waiting time for elective surgery in all categories, including orthopaedic surgery does not exceed 12 months. The Area Health Service is actively working towards meeting established benchmarks.

*1894 EMPLOYMENT ADVERTISING—Mr Richardson to Minister for Community Services, Minister for Ageing, Minister for Disability Services, and Minister for Women—

(1) How much did the following agencies within your portfolio spend in employment advertising in the 1999/2000 financial year: (a) Department of Community Services? (b) Ageing and Disability Department? (2) In which newspapers did the following agencies advertise: (a) Department of Community Services? (b) Ageing and Disability Department? (3) Does each agency have an individual policy relating to the size and cost of positions vacant advertisements and, if so, what is that policy? For example, would an agency insert a significantly smaller advertisement for a junior clerical position than it would for a senior management position?

Answer—

Government vacancies are advertised in accordance with Premier’s Circular No. 200-62.

*1895 EMPLOYMENT ADVERTISING—Mr Richardson to Attorney General, Minister for the Environment, Minister for Emergency Services, and Minister Assisting the Premier on the Arts—

(1) How much did the following agencies within your portfolio spend on employment advertising in the 1999/2000 financial year: (a) Environment Protection Authority? (b) National Parks and Wildlife Service? (c) Sydney Catchment Authority? (d) Waste Service NSW? (2) In which newspapers did the following agencies advertise: (a) Environment Protection Authority? (b) National Parks and Wildlife Service? (c) Sydney Catchment Authority? (d) Waste Service NSW? (3) Does each agency have an individual policy relating to the size and cost of positions vacant advertisements and, if so, what is that policy? For example, would an agency insert a significantly smaller advertisement for a junior clerical position than it would for a senior management position? 2603 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS Wednesday 30 May 2001

Answer—

Government vacancies are advertised in accord with premier’s Circular No. 200-62.

*1896 EMPLOYMENT ADVERTISING—Mr Richardson to Premier, Minister for the Arts, and Minister for

(1) How much did the following agencies within your portfolio spend on employment advertising in the 1999/2000 financial year: (a) Art Gallery of NSW? (b) Australian Museum? (c) Historic Houses Trust of NSW? (d) Museum of Applied Arts and Sciences? (e) NSW Film and Television Office? (f) State Library of NSW? (g) State Records? (h) Sydney Opera House? (2) In which newspapers did the following agencies advertise: (a) Art Gallery of NSW? (b) Australian Museum? (c) Historic Houses Trust of NSW? (d) Museum of Applied Arts and Sciences? (e) NSW Film and Television Office? (f) State Library of NSW? (g) State Records? (h) Sydney Opera House? (3) Does each agency have an individual policy relating to the size and cost of positions vacant advertisements and, if so, what is that policy? For example, would an agency insert a significantly smaller advertisement for a junior clerical position than it would for a senior management position?

Answer—

“Government Vacancies are advertised in accord with Premiers Circular No. 2000-62”

*1897 PRE-SCHOOL FUNDING—Mr Maguire to Minister for Community Services, Minister for Ageing, Minister for Disability Services, and Minister for Women—

(1) What steps have you taken to ensure that vitally important pre-schools are funded adequately? (2) Why haven’t pre-schools received extra funding in real terms since 1990? (3) With hundreds of pre-schools struggling to stay open how do you propose to assist them meet their financial needs? (4) Do you intend to lift the level of funding to pre-schools in the next financial year? (a) If so, by how much? (b) If not, why not?

Answer—

(1) The NSW Government recognises the value and benefits of children’s services for children, families, and communities and that children and parents have a diversity of needs and that to meet these needs requires a range of quality services. In NSW, a “pre-school” program is provided whether the service operates as a traditional pre-school, a long day care centre or as an occasional care service. 2604 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS Wednesday 30 May 2001

Since 1995 the NSW Government has continued to provide an operational subsidy to over 1,800 community based children’s services, which over the past 4 years approximates $345 million and includes maintaining operational funding for long day care and vacation care services. The Government has committed more than $39 million in additional monies for children’s services. These monies have been spent on a range of initiatives including creating more than five thousand new child care places. We are currently in the process of rolling out a $10 million funding scheme for children with additional needs. (2) See answer to Question 1 above. (3) Two main funding issues impact on pre-schools. These are the effects of the previous State Coalition Government’s funding freeze and the discrimination in the Commonwealth Government’s Childcare Benefit scheme against working families using pre-school services. The NSW Government’s view is that entitlements available to families should be equitable and unbiased and not based on the type of child care service a family uses. Regrettably the Commonwealth scheme does not follow these principles. The Commonwealth funding criteria for the scheme precludes working families using the traditional model pre-school service from being eligible for potentially the same level of assistance that would be available to families using long day care or family day care services. In NSW this affects some 45,000 families annually, particularly rural families. The inequity this creates for working families using traditional type pre-schools has frequently been raised with the Commonwealth Government. (4) The NSW budget for the 2001/02 financial year will be announced by the Treasurer on 29 May.

*1898 COMMUNITY CARE FUNDING—Mr Webb to Minister for Health—

With respect to accommodation needs of people with Mental Health problems: (1) What proportions of funds are spent on – (a) Institutional Care? (b) Community Care? (2) Have these proportions altered in recent years? (3) With respect to Community Care for Queanbeyan and its catchment, what are the budget allocations for: (a) Community Services delivery, Community nurses, crisis teams etc., and (b) Identifying community accommodation needs of Queanbeyan citizens?

Answer—

(1) (a) 58.5% of mental health service funds are spent on inpatient care. (b) 41.5% of mental health service funds are spent on community based care. (2) Yes. (3) (a) The current allocation for Community Mental Health Services in Queanbeyan is $1,422,507. (b) Identifying and responding to accommodation needs is a role for all community mental health workers and is embodied in the working relationship between the local Department of Housing service team and the local Community Housing Association.

*1899 BLOOD PRODUCTS—Mr Webb to Minister for Health—

In light of your answer to my question about Red Cross Blood Banks, and inquiries made to the 13 14 95 telephone number you referred to: (1) Where can far south coast residents and those from Monaro, from towns and areas such as Berridale, Bombala, Dalgety, Cooma and Eden access blood donor facilities, bearing in mind that from the closest of these centres it’s a 200km round trip to Canberra, and over 600km round trip from the outlying areas? 2605 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS Wednesday 30 May 2001

(2) Have you had any contact with the ACT health services or Red Cross about providing a mobile service for southern residents of Monaro and the far south coast? (3) In the year 1999/2000 where the number of blood products issued by ARCBS-NSW was a total of 15,310,250 AHF (IU) did the demand ever exceed product availability? (4) How long is the shelf life of blood and blood products under ideal and normal circumstances?

Answer—

(1) The Australian Red Cross Blood Service-NSW (ARCBS-NSW) operates a mobile service from its South Coast Blood Service that visits Milton/ Ulladulla for three consecutive days every 12 weeks. The feedback is very positive. People also donate generously when in Nowra, Wollongong or Goulburn on business or shopping. (2) The ARCBS-NSW has had tentative discussions with the ACT Health Department about a mobile service for the far south coast of NSW. (3) In the year 1999-2000, the Australian Red Cross Blood Service was able to meet the demand for AHF (IU) as requested by the Hemophilia Advisory Council of NSW and the ACT, including all requests for elective surgery. (4) The shelf life of blood and blood products is as outlined below: Red Cells 42 days Plasma 12 months Platelets 5 days

*1900 ASBESTOS REMOVAL—Mr Webb to Deputy Premier, Minister for Planning, Minister for Aboriginal Affairs, and Minister for Housing—

(1) Are you aware that there are a number of houses in Queanbeyan, that the City Council has helped to identify, where there is asbestos present? (2) Does your Government provide any financial assistance to house holders wishing to have insulation asbestos removed from their house roof spaces? (3) If not, then why not? (4) Does the NSW Government provide advice to Local Governments and house-holders on the safe removal and disposal of asbestos insulation products? (5) If not, why not? (6) Has the NSW Government considered a program such as the recently completed ACT asbestos removal program supported by the ACT Government?

Answer—

This question should be addressed to the Minister responsible for Industrial Relations, the Hon John Della Bosca MLC.

*1901 TOURISM CONSULTANTS—Mr J. H. Turner to Minister for Small Business, and Minister for

(1) Is Tourism NSW or consultants conducting meetings or seminars in various parts of NSW under the banner of “Tourism towards 2020”? (2) If so, where are such meetings being held? (3) If so, who is conducting such meetings? (4) What is the cost of conducting such meetings? (5) Does such costing include costs paid to consultants, if any commissioned, for all or part of the strategy and meetings? (6) If so, who are the consultants? (7) If so, what is the purpose of such meetings? (8) If so, what qualifications do the consultants or people conducting such strategy or meetings have? 2606 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS Wednesday 30 May 2001

Answer—

(1) Yes (2) Workshops have been held in Wagga Wagga, Albury, Terrigal, Wellington, Katoomba, Lord Howe Island, Yass, Broken Hill, Newcastle, Coffs Harbour, Port Macquarie, Tamworth, Wollongong, Batemans Bay, Parramatta, Jindabyne and Ballina. An industry and government forum was held in Sydney and appointments with government agencies and industry are currently being scheduled. Meetings have also been held with the key environment and conservation organisations. (3) Tourism New South Wales, with assistance from PricewaterhouseCoopers and Planning Workshop Australia. (4) The cost of meetings varies from region to region but all meetings are planned in a cost effective way. (5) See (4) (6) The Hospitality and Leisure group of PricewaterhouseCoopers, with Planning Workshop Australia contributing to the consultation process. Ms Penelope Figgis facilitated the meeting with environment groups. (7) To gather views from a broad cross-section of industry, government and the community to aid in the formulation of the New South Wales Tourism Masterplan to 2020. (8) Those involved in the process have a combined total of over 100 years of experience in areas relevant to this process.

*1902 BAT CONTROL—Ms Seaton to Attorney General, Minister for the Environment, Minister for Emergency Services, and Minister Assisting the Premier on the Arts—

(1) Are you aware of concerns of orchardists that release of names and addresses of orchardists by the NPWS could lead to orchard trees being poisoned or chopped down? (2) Will you and the Government pursue research into aversion methods and agents for the humane control of bats as advocated by the orchard industry? (3) What specific research will you pursue and what resources will be allocated?

Answer—

(1) As a result of an order by the Administrative Decisions Tribunal of NSW the NPWS provided the Humane Society International with the addresses of the properties where licences to shoot Flying- foxes had been issued. Only the locality details of those licences issued during October and November of 1998 were provided and no names or addresses of growers were released. (2) I am advised that it is the understanding of the NPWS that the Humane Society International intend to use the information for research only and that they do not intend to use the information to approach growers about their licences or their activities. (3) The NSW Government advocates the use of full crop netting as the only effective, long-term and non-lethal method of preventing crop damage due to Flying-foxes. The NSW Rural Assistance Authority offers low interest loans for the erection of these nets. The NPWS is currently conducting research into the effective conservation and management of Grey-headed Flying-foxes. Initiatives include supporting the Australasian Bat Society’s annual counts of Flying-foxes to estimate the population size in NSW; the mapping of all roost sites in NSW; and an assessment of the impact of shooting on the Grey-headed Flying-fox population in NSW. The NPWS is keen to support industry initiatives in researching alternative non-lethal crop protection methods, through in-kind contributions and technical support.

*1903 PRISON DRUG TRIAL—Mr Humpherson to the Minister for the Environment, Minister for Emergency Services, Minister for Corrective Services, and Minister Assisting the Premier on the Arts—

(1) How many drug addicts will be participating in the trial of buprenorphine at Silverwater Remand and Reception jail? 2607 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS Wednesday 30 May 2001

(2) How long will the trial run for?

Answer—

The Corrective Services portfolio is administered by the Hon. John Watkins, Minister for Fair Trading, Minister for Corrective Services and Minister for Sport and Recreation and this question should be re- directed to him.

*1904 CRONULLA TRAINS—Mr Kerr to Minister for Transport, and Minister for Roads—

How many trains, which were meant to travel between Cronulla and the city, were late or cancelled between 1 February 2001 and 28 February 2001?

Answer—

I am advised by the State Rail Authority that 17 peak services were late or cancelled between Cronulla and the City over this period.

*1905 LOCAL AREA COMMANDERS—Mr Kerr to Minister for Police—

What are the names of Local Area Commanders stationed at Cronulla Police Station since 1 August 1997?

Answer—

Superintendent Henry Karpik Acting Superintendent Stewart McNeice Acting Superintendent Laurie Pettiford Superintendent Frank Ryan Acting Superintendent Reg Mahoney I am advised that the recruitment action to permanently fill the position is currently underway.

*1906 MANLY—CBD TRANSPORT—Mr Hazzard to the Minister for Transport, and Minister for Roads—

In January, February and March 2001 specify which services between Manly and Sydney CBD were cancelled in the case of: (a) Sydney Ferries? (b) Sydney Buses?

Answer—

Reliability figures for the operations of the State Transit Authority's services, Sydney Buses, Sydney Ferries and Newcastle Buses and Ferries are published in the STA's Annual Report. This report is available on the internet by visiting www.sydneybuses.nsw.gov.au On time running (reliability) figures for Sydney Buses for the period 1996/97 to 1999/00 have been as follows: 97.5% (96/97), 97.2% (97/98), 97.1% (98/99), 97.4% (99/00). This equates to an average over the period of 97.3% on time running. For Sydney Ferries, the on time running figures as published in the Annual Report are as follows: 99.5% (96/97), 98.6% (97/98), 98.4% (98/99), 99.5% (99/00). This equates to an average over the period of 99% on time running. It remains amongst the highest priorities of the State Transit Authority to provide excellent customer service, particularly in terms of on time running and service reliability. 2608 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS Wednesday 30 May 2001

*1907 SPIT HILL BARRIER—Mr Hazzard to Minister for Transport, and Minister for Roads—

When do you anticipate honouring your promise to put a barrier on to the lane separation median strip on Spit Hill, Mosman?

Answer—

An assessment of suitable options for a central median barrier is underway and expected to be completed shortly. Due to geometrical constraints of the road at this site, and with regard to road safety, the RTA could not support the installation of an existing RTA (standard) barrier system at this site. An investigation and assessment of alternative crash tested barrier systems was required. The assessment of suitable options involves the simulation of safety barriers to be developed by the RTA in consultation with industry experts. If the results of the simulation suggest that one or more of the systems developed is a viable option for the Spit Bends, a full scale crash testing may be carried out as required. In addition, the RTA is researching information on a moveable barrier that will be compared with other options.

*1908 CLOSURE OF HIGH SCHOOL—Mr Debnam to Minister for Education and Training—

In relation to the closure of Vaucluse High School: (1) Who prepared the Government’s presentation slides used by Mr P. Hourigan to brief the 3rd April meeting of the Vaucluse High P&C and will the Minister immediately make available the data upon which the slides were based ? (2) Will written submissions make a difference to the Minister’s proposal ? (3) What are the Department’s projections for student numbers at the combined Vaucluse / Dover Heights school for the next ten years ? (4) What process will be used to ensure teachers are retained based on merit ? (5) What is the planned student capacity of the Dover Heights site ? (6) How will the Department manage future expansion of student numbers beyond the capacity of the Dover Heights site ? (7) What is the effect of the Minister’s proposal on teacher/pupil ratios for each student year over the next ten years ? (8) Has the Minister considered a Senior / Junior school system for Vaucluse / Dover Heights and if so, what was the result of that review ? (9) Why is the Minister not attending community consultation meetings ? (10) What detailed information can the Minister provide about the conditions of proposed sale for the Vaucluse site and the process to be followed ? (11) What detailed information can the Minister provide about the budgets of each school over the period of transition and the budget of the proposed combined school over the following three years? (12) What demographic data has been used to develop the Minister’s proposal ? (13) What is the capacity of the Vaucluse site during the transition period ? (14) Which students/years will be transferred from Dover Heights to Vaucluse during the transition period ? (15) What is the basis of allocation of announced funding to affected schools across Sydney, under the Minister’s proposal, and will the financial modelling be available to parents and the P&Cs? (16) Why have parents not been surveyed on their attitude to co-ed versus single sex schools and the issue of where to accommodate “challenging” students ? (17) Will consultation at public meetings make a difference to the Minister’s proposal ? (18) Has the Government considered retaining the Vaucluse High site as a second campus for future expansion ? (19) What is the detailed plan for facilities and services at each school over the transition period ? (20) Is it true the Minister has ruled out any negotiation over school closures ? (21) What is the announced $6 million funding to cover ? 2609 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS Wednesday 30 May 2001

(22) What is the State Government’s allocation of funding to private versus public schools in the Vaucluse/Dover Heights area ? (23) Who is on the Minister’s project team and who is making the decisions ? (24) Which community groups are being briefed by the Minister’s project team ? (25) What will happen to “Pathways” courses during & after the transition period ? (26) What is the condition of the Vaucluse school buildings and, if repairs are required, is there an estimate of repairs costs ?

Answer—

(1) Officers of the Department of Education and Training prepared the presentation. Data is made available at community consultation meetings. (2) All submissions will be considered in developing a final proposal. (3) It is projected that enrolments across the two schools will decline from some 825 students in 2001 to 587 by 2008. This projection is based on current enrolment trends and apparent retention rates Meaningful projections for beyond this time will require the use of 2001 census data. (4) Discussions are being held with the NSW Teachers Federation in relation to this matter. (5) 1,200 students. (6) It is not anticipated that enrolment numbers will grow to such an extent that the site would be unable to accommodate anticipated increases. (7) There will be no change to current statewide pupil/teacher ratios. (8) Yes. However, this option was rejected because the numbers of students forming the senior campus would be insufficient to make the arrangement viable in the long term. The current proposal provides the greatest opportunity for the long term viability of public education in the area. (9) A Project Team of District Superintendents, experienced school principals and other senior officers of the Department of Education and Training has been established to attend consultation meetings and discussions with small groups of students, staff, parents and community members. (10) No school sites would be sold to non-government schools (with the possible exception of the French and German schools, which do not teach in English and do not compete with the NSW government school system). (11) Normal arrangements for school global budgets would apply, including transitional financial arrangements to be discussed and established between school principals, District Superintendents and other senior officers of the Department of Education and Training. (12) The Department of Education and Training uses a wide range of statistics and information including data from the Australian Bureau of Statistics, Medicare, the Department of Urban Affairs and Planning and actual school enrolments. (13) The capacity of the Vaucluse High School site will be sufficient to meet the demands of the various phases of the transitional period. (14) Transition arrangements for individual schools will be discussed and established with the school’s community after the announcement of the final plan for inner Sydney schools. (15) The details of the nature of expenditure at each school site will be discussed with the school’s community following the announcement of the final plan for inner Sydney schools. The relative need for upgrades and additional facilities at other inner Sydney schools will be considered in determining the quantum of funding available for Dover Heights High School. (16) Parents have made known their concern for the provision of support for students who experience difficulty with traditional classroom arrangements, during the Department’s market research activities. School principals have also argued strongly for more appropriate arrangements to be made for these students. (17) Yes. (18) Yes. (19) A detailed plan will be developed in consultation with the schools following the announcement of the final plan for inner Sydney schools. (20) The Building the Future proposal as a whole is a draft plan. It is a proposal for future Government action, not a final decision. The words “not-negotiable” do not detract from the fact that the plan as a 2610 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS Wednesday 30 May 2001

whole is a draft. The proposed closures are within the context of the draft plan as a whole. If the Government proceeds with the plan as a whole, it will be those schools that close and not some other set of schools. Part of what was intended by my statement was to rule out speculation during the consultation process that other schools would also be closed. My statement also sought to underline the fact that the draft proposal goes together as a package. It is not based on considering individual schools in isolation from one another. (21) The Building the Future draft proposal would spend $6 million on new and improved facilities such as a new gymnasium, media and communications workshops, improved design and materials technology workshops, improved information and communications infrastructure, performance workshop, fitness workshop, improved library and senior study facilities and improved catering facilities. (22) There are no data available to support this level of comparison. (23) The Project Team is headed by Mr Jack Baseley, District Superintendent, Port Jackson and is made up of District Superintendents, experienced school principals and other senior officers of the Department of Education and Training. The final decision will be mine. (24) Local discussions are being held for parents, staff, students and the wider community. Discussions have also occurred with the Federation of Parents and Citizens Associations, the NSW Teachers Federation and the Aboriginal Education Consultative Group. (25) Pathways courses would continue during the transitional period. The nature of the curriculum in the new secondary college will be discussed and established with the school community at a later time. (26) Expenditure on regular ongoing building maintenance is not part of the draft proposal. Any repairs to Vaucluse High School during the transitional period would be funded under normal capital maintenance arrangements.

10 APRIL 2001

(Paper No. 86)

*1909 CHATSWOOD STATION—Mr Collins to the Minister for Transport, and Minister for Roads—

(1) Has a review of train station upgrades been conducted since July 1999 ? (2) Has the priority status of the Chatswood Station in terms of disabled access changed since 1999 ? (3) If the priority is still listed as high, as stated by the Parliamentary Secretary in correspondence on 16 December 1999, why has a lift still not been installed ? (4) Will funding for a lift at Chatswood Station be made available in the next budget ?

Answer—

(1) Yes. (2) Access facilities will be incorporated into the upgrade of Chatswood station which will be undertaken as part of the Parramatta Rail Link project. On 25 March 2001 the Government restated its commitment to this project, including funding of $1,4 billion, with State 1 to include the Epping to Chatswood section. (3) to (4) See (2) above.

*1910 HOSPITAL MERGERS—Mr Collins to the Minister for Health—

(1) What plan has been proposed by the Department of Health to merge the management and administration of the Prince of Wales Hospital with the Royal Hospital for Women ? (2) Do you guarantee the retention of a separate and dedicated tertiary level centre of excellence for Women’s health in NSW at Randwick, to which site the Royal Hospital for Women was relocated with stand-alone status ? (3) Will it retain the existing title and, if not, what do you propose to change it to? 2611 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS Wednesday 30 May 2001

Answer—

(1) No such plan has been proposed by the Department of Health. (2) The Royal Hospital for Women will remain as a separate entity. (3) There are no plans to change the existing tittle.

*1911 ASBESTOS REMOVAL—Mr Collins to the Deputy Premier, Minister for Urban Affairs and Planning, Minister for Aboriginal Affairs, and Minister for Housing—

(1) Are you aware of recent modifications to housing in the Cabramatta area? (2) Have many of these houses revealed the use of asbes tos in their construction? (3) Have contractors working on these houses strictly followed procedures for the removal of asbestos? (4) Can you guarantee the safety of workers on these projects and the residents whose homes have been modified?

Answer—

(1) Large numbers of dwellings across the State are being repaired and upgraded. The works include some modifications. Public housing in the Cabramatta area has been included in recent works. (2) A significant proportion of public and private housing throughout Australia was constructed with asbestos cement materials. It was commonly used for many years as external cladding and to clad internal 'wet' areas such as bathrooms, kitchens and laundries. These are the 'fibro' homes that are so common. The material was in use until well into the 1980's. The asbestos content of asbestos cement products is widely recognised and is not hazardous while contained in the intact product. It is recognised as a risk to health if released through inappropriate exposure by cutting, drilling or breaking the products. Safe work practices have been established to manage this risk. (3) Contracts entered into by the Department of Housing require contractors to prepare and implement safe work method statements in relation to asbestos and other matters The Department has been consulting with WorkCover to raise the consciousness of the contracting industry in relation to implementation of the protective measures. A training and induction program focussed on the issue is being developed and will be matched with auditing of compliance. Currently available information is being reviewed with a view to supplementation. (4) Contracts entered into by the Department of Housing require contractors to prepare and implement safe work method statements in relation to asbestos and other matters.

*1912 KENDALL PUBLIC SCHOOL—Mr Stoner to the Minister for Education and Training—

Given your statement late last year that the Government has always indicated that the refurbishment of Kendall Public School would be a priority following the relocation of secondary students to the new Camden Haven High School: (1) When will the funding be allocated for the refurbishment? (2) When will consultation with the school and community regarding planning for the refurbishment commence?

Answer—

(1) This project is listed for inclusion in a forward Capital Works Program. (2) Initial consultation and development of concept plans for the redevelopment of the school has commenced. Department of Education and Training officers will visit the school during term two, 2001 to discuss the current draft concept plans. 2612 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS Wednesday 30 May 2001

*1913 NARWEE POLICE OPERATION—Ms Seaton to the Minister for Police—

(1) Was a police operation conducted at the Narwee Hotel, Narwee, at 6.15pm on Friday 6 April? (2) How many officers were involved in this operation? (3) How many police dogs were involved in this operation? (4) Who was the officer in charge of the operation? (5) How many people were interviewed by the police at the hotel as a result of this operation? (6) Were any charges laid during the operation? (7) Is this standard practice for female persons of interest to be searched, including lifting of shirts and opening of trousers in view of male police officers? (8) How many male police officers were involved in observing this search? (9) Was the person of interest accompanied by female police officers? (10) If so, why was it necessary for male police officers to observe this procedure? (11) Were male officers present, and allowed to remain during the searching of a woman which involved her standing in a public area of the carpark, with the clothing being removed and lifted, while torches were shone on her, particularly on her bare torso? (12) Why was the search conducted in view of the hotel patrons and drive-through patrons of the hotel and hotel staff? (13) What was the purpose of requiring approximately 12 officers to observe the searching of a female person in the carpark? (14) Was any officer ordered to supervise the table and personal belongings of the person of interest when they were conducted outside the hotel for interview? (15) If not, how can the integrity of any potential evidence be guaranteed by police? (16) Is it normal practice for police dogs to be trained to seek out and take food from hotel patrons during a search? (17) Did the police take a sausage sandwich from a patron in the course of the operation? (18) Would a trained police dog that sought such food normally be allowed to take and eat it by its handler? (19) If so, does this compromise the dog’s ability to conduct a search? (20) Was the training of this dog considered adequate? (21) Will this dog continue to be used in police operations? (22) Did the executive officer in charge of the operation refuse on the first request to identify himself? (23) Why did the officer not have a business card or official identification with which to identify himself to a complainant? (24) Are you satisfied that this operation was conducted professionally and within all required procedures?

Answer—

(1) Yes. (2) 31. (3) 1. (4) Detective Inspector Galletta, Crime Manager, Hurstville Local Area Command. (5) 4. (6) Yes. (7) No. (8) None. (9) Yes. (10) See 8. (11) No. I am advised that the search was conducted out of the public view and that the female person’s clothing was not removed and her torso was not exposed. (12) I am advised that the search was conducted out of public view. (13) See 8. (14) No. I am advised that the person of interest was in possession of her personal belongings. 2613 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS Wednesday 30 May 2001

(15) See 14. (16) No. (17) No. (18) No. (19) See 18. (20) Yes. (21) Yes. (22) No. (23) I am advised that the officer produced his official police identification. (24) Yes.

*1914 RTA BIN—Mr Torbay to the Minister for Transport, and Minister for Roads—

What action is being taken to replace the RTA garbage bin previously located outside 5232 New England Highway, Llangothlin?

Answer—

Previously garbage bins were erected beside the New England Highway at inappropriate locations that were not designated roadside rest areas. The RTA’s function is to provide litter collection facilities for the travelling public at these roadside rest areas. The RTA is not responsible for providing a rubbish collection service for commercial premises or a litter service for towns. Commercial premises should provide their own bins and arrange disposal through the local Council.

*1915 COUNTRY ENERGY—Mr Torbay to the Minister for Information Technology, Minister for Energy, Minister for Forestry, and Minister for Western Sydney—

What service standards can be expected in the distribution area after the merger creating Country Energy?

Answer—

Country Energy will be one of the largest country-based businesses in NSW. The merged business will have a customer base of about 70,000 premises, an annual turnover in excess of $1 billion and will employ almost 2,500 staff. The merger is designed to achieve a stronger and viable electricity distribution business. The merger will ensure service standards are maintained and improved throughout country NSW. Country Energy will maintain a decentralised organisational structure and will conform to all licensing and regulatory obligations.

*1916 POLICE NUMBERS IN BURRINJUCK—Ms Hodgkinson to the Minister for Police—

(1) How many authorised positions for Police Officers are located at the following Police Stations: (a) Binalong? (b) Taralga? (c) Goulburn? (d) Tarago? (e) Collector? (f) Gunning? (g) Marulan? (h) Yass? (i) Bigga? (j) Crookwell? 2614 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS Wednesday 30 May 2001

(k) Tuena? (l) Boorowa? (m) Gundagai? (n) Tumut? (o) Talbingo? (p) Jugiong? (q) Adelong? (r) Batlow? (2) How many of these positions are actually filled by police officers who are available for duty?

Answer—

(1) to (2) Police are allocated to Local Area Commands, not individual Police Stations. The deployment of staff at individual Police Stations may vary on a daily basis according to community policing needs. The Honourable Member may care to note that the actual strength of the Southern Rivers Region as at 2 April 2001 was 669. This figure compares favourably with actual strength of 614 under the previous Government for the equivalent region in 1994.

*1917 BLOWERING RESERVOIR—Ms Hodgkinson to the Minister for Agriculture, and Minister for Land

(1) With reference to the Minister’s answer to my Question on Notice 1639 what specific action has the Department of Land and Water Conservation taken to minimise the environmental impacts on the Tumut River from releases from the Blowering reservoir? (2) Specifically which “representatives of a broad range of community stakeholder groups” has the Department met with? (3) When did these meetings occur?

Answer—

(1) Restoration works on the Tumut River, to meet the needs of the local community and to minimise the environmental impacts from releases from the Blowering Reservoir, are contained in the Tumut River Management Strategy 2000. This Report was endorsed by the Tumut River Advisory Committee in 1996. The Department of Land and Water Conservation is responsible for implementation of the works contained in the Strategy. To date the Department has: provided landholders with native trees and shrubs, as a replacement for the willow tree, for planting along the riverbank in appropriate areas to assist in bank stabilisation; constructed rock protection works in severe areas of erosion to stabilise the riverbanks; and, in appropriate areas, incorporated rock groynes in these works as an in-stream fish refuge; restricted the flows through the Blowering Reservoir to 9,000 megalitres per day; and depending on seasonal conditions the flow is further reduced to minimise any environmental impacts on the river; and engaged a consultant to report on the impact of works carried out on the river on platypus habitats. (2) and (3) Representatives of the Department have been attending regular meetings of the Tumut River Landowner’s Association for many years and when necessary have met with individual landowners to discuss specific issues as the need arises. Other community stakeholder groups to have discussed Tumut River issues with the Department include the various representatives of the Tumut River Advisory Committee being the Tumut River Land Owners Association, Tumut and Gundagai Shire Councils, local recreational users of the river, the Tumut Region Tourism Association, the Snowy Mountains Aboriginal Elders, the Snowy Mountains Hydro-Electric Authority, NSW Fisheries and State Water’s Murrumbidgee Customer Service Committee. The Advisory Committee has met bi- annually since 1997 .In February 2001, the Department met with the Murrumbidgee River Management Committee and representatives of local businesses, the Tumut River Land Owners Association, Tumut Shire Council, the Murrumbidgee Catchment Management Board, the Committee for the Rehabilitation of the Tumut River, the Tumut Acclimatisation Society, the 2615 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS Wednesday 30 May 2001

Tumut Fly Fishers, the local canoe club, the Aboriginal Community and the Gilmore Landcare Group to discuss Tumut River issues. Both my Office and the Department were represented at the public meeting held in Tumut in March last year convened by the Tumut River Land Owners Association. I understand that you were one of the speakers at that meeting. Finally, in April last year, the Department facilitated a meeting between the Agribusiness Taskforce’s “Expert Panel”, representatives of the Land Owners Association and the Murrumbidgee Catchment Management Board. Part of the Taskforce’s brief was to make a qualitative assessment of the environmental health of the Tumut River and its riparian zone below the Blowering Dam.

*1918 RAILWAY JOBS IN GOULBURN—Ms Hodgkinson to the Minister for Transport, and Minister for

(1) How many full time staff were employed by FreightCorp in Goulburn from 1 January 1999 to 1 December 1999? (2) How many full time staff were employed by FreightCorp in Goulburn from 1 January 2000 to 1 December 2000? (3) How many full time staff were employed by FreightCorp in Goulburn on 30 March 2001? (4) How many full time staff were employed at the Rail Services Australia workshops in Goulburn from 1 January 1999 to 1 December 1999? (5) How many full time staff were employed at the Rail Services Australia workshops in Goulburn from 1 January 2000 to 1 December 2000? (6) How many full time staff were employed at the Rail Services Australia workshops in Goulburn on 30 March 2001?

Answer—

(1) 84. (2) 77. (3) 73. (4) 45. (5) 37. (6) 37.

*1919 LEVEL CROSSINGS COUNCIL—Mr O'Farrell to the Minister for Transport, and Minister for Roads—

(1) On what dates did the Level Crossings Strategic Council meet in 1999, 2000 and 2001? (2) Who are the members of the Council and what are their qualifications? (3) What recommendations has the Council made since 1999? (4) If recommendations have been made by the Council since 1999, what steps have been made to implement them?

Answer—

(1) 1999 · 11 March · 11 June · 18 August · 11 November 2000 · 10 February · 11 May (The remaining meetings for 2000 did not take place due to members being seconded for duties at the Olympic and Paralympic Games) 2001 2616 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS Wednesday 30 May 2001

· 22 March · 26 April (The council is meeting monthly until June 2001 at which time it will decide whether to recommence quarterly meetings). (2) The members of the Level Crossing Strategy Council are: · Michael Deegan, director General, Department of Transport (Chair); · John Hopman, director, Capital Projects, Department of Transport; · Pat Romano, Senior Manager, Interchange Infrastructure, Capital Projects, Department of Transport; · Michael Petrie, Strategy Officer, Transport Safety Bureau, Department of Transport (Secretary); · Guy Creber, Project Controller, Capital Projects, Department of Transport; · John Osland, Project Controller, Capital Projects, Department of Transport; · Steven Ford, Transport Infrastructure Safety Officer, Transport Safety Bureau Department of Transport; · Paul Forward, Chief Executive Officer, Roads and Traffic Authority; · Chris Ford, Manager, Network and Bus Efficiency, Roads and Traffic Authority; · Chris Moran, Manager, Network and Bus Efficiency, Roads and Traffic Authority; · Bob Picone, Manager, Bus Priority and Access, Roads and Traffic Authority; · John Cowling, Chief Executive Officer, Rail Infrastructure corporation; · Bruce Lord, Freight Infrastructure Manager, Rail Infrastructure Corporation and · David Anderson, roads and Transport Policy Officer, Local Government and Shires Associations. (In the past, each organisation on the Council would send a maximum of two representatives, senior officers with responsibility for oversighting or evaluating crossing upgrades. The two most recent meetings have required the attendance of additional persons. In future, these persons will sit on the Council’s Working Group). (3) The Council is primarily a deliberative and consultative body and as such, makes few recommendations. Since 1999, the council has made the following: (a) Level Crossing signs on closed lines should be removed and replaced by rough surface signs; (b) Fold down signs should be used on historical rail lines, eg. Michelago; (c) to assist the night time visibility of freight trains at Level Crossings, reflective strips should be fixed on all freight trains; (d) Establish a new standard model for assessing safety levels at crossings to assist in allocating priority to upgrade works; (e) Responsible agencies should develop and implement a five year Level Crossing works program to follow on from the program that was completed midway through 2000; and (f) There should be a Working Group to actively progress and implement the Council’s five-year works program. (4) (a) The removal of Level Crossings signs on closed lines has been completed; (b) The introduction of fold-down signs on historical rail lines is being implemented; (c) Reflective strips have been placed on almost all rolling stock owned by FreightCorp; (d) RTA and RIC are compiling data for use in the new statistical model developed for the purposes of allocating priority to crossing upgrades; (e) In 200, a five year Level Crossing works program was decided upon; (f) The Working Group has commenced operation and is oversighting upgrade projects scheduled for completion in 2000/2001.

*1920 FINANCIAL INSTITUTIONS DUTY—Mr Debnam to the Minister for Education and Training, representing the Treasurer, Minister for State Development and Vice-President of the Executive Council— 2617 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS Wednesday 30 May 2001

In relation to Financial Institutions Duty (FID): What were FID collections in 1998/99 and 1999/00 for the General Government Sector and the consolidated State Sector?

Answer—

Financial Institutions Duty collections for the General Government sector were $557m and $602m for 1998-99 and 1999-00 respectively. Individual stamp duties are not reported on a Consolidated State Sector basis.

*1921 FISCAL TRANSPARENCY—Mr Debnam to the Minister for Education and Training, representing the Treasurer, Minister for State Development and Vice-President of the Executive Council—

(1) Is Treasury liaising with Access Economics to help prepare a league table of state governments’ fiscal reporting standards based on criteria published by the International Monetary Fund (IMF)? (2) Has Treasury indicated to Access Economics whether it currently fails to meet any of the best practice criteria set out by the IMF in publications such as its “Manual on Fiscal Transparency” and if so, which ones ? (3) Is Treasury satisfied that it complies with best practice measures relating to: (a) Off balance sheet commitments and liabilities? (b) Financial health and reporting of State Owned Corporations? (c) Relevant, audited Performance Budgeting? (d) Independent scrutiny of economic forecasts and assumptions? (e) Guaranteed calendar dates for the release of fiscal information? (f) Adherence to the General Government Debt Elimination Act?

Answer—

(1) No. (2) No. (3) (a) Yes, information in regard to the States expenditure commitments, guarantees and contingent liabilities are disclosed in the Consolidated Financial Statements Of The NSW Total State Sector, 1999-2000, Notes 18 and 19. (b) Yes, the NSW Government’s Commercial Policy Framework and corporatisation model have established best practice regarding the financial monitoring and reporting of State Owned Corporations (SOCs) in Australia. (c) Yes, Treasury has recently released the policy paper The Financial Management Framework for the General Government Sector (TPP00-4, NSW Treasury, December 2000). This describes how Treasury proposes to consolidate and advance recent financial management reforms and facilitate further improvements in Government program and service delivery through improvements to both resource allocation and agency resource management. Development and Implementation of the Framework are intended to move New South Wales towards best practice program and service delivery. (d) Yes, economic forecasts and assumptions are published annually in the Budget Papers and updated in the Half-Yearly Review, and are therefore available for scrutiny by anyone who wishes to scrutinise them, independent or otherwise. (e) Yes, the Budget coverage, presentation and contents is set out in the General Government Debt Elimination Amendment Act 1999. The Act clearly defines the calendar dates for release of fiscal information. (f) Yes, a report on adherence to the principles and targets in the General Government Debt Elimination Act is adequately covered in the annual NSW Budget Papers (specifically Budget Paper No.2, Chapter 1). A review of the Act, including consideration of these principles and targets, will be submitted to Parliament by December 2001 in accordance with clause 29, Part 6 of the Act. 2618 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS Wednesday 30 May 2001

*1922 CROWN PROPERTY PORTFOLIO—LEASES—Mr Debnam to the Minister for Education and Training, representing the Treasurer, Minister for State Development and Vice-President of the Executive Council—

In relation to the Crown Property Portfolio: (1) What is the detailed explanation for the failure of sub-lease income at Governor Macquarie Tower and the State Bank Centre to meet head lease commitments? (2) What has he done to rectify the lease income shortfall referred to in (1) above? (3) Are the qualified audit opinions supplied by the Auditor-General in the last two financial years indicative of mismanagement of the Portfolio? (4) What is the budgeted operating surplus/deficit of the Crown Property Portfolio both before and after abnormal items for 2000/01? Answer—

(1) The Fahey Government signed a 12-year lease for space in Governor Macquarie Tower in late 1994, with the lease becoming effective on January 1, 1995. As part of the CBD Accommodation Strategy, several agencies have been relocated from Governor Macquarie Tower to cheaper rental accommodation. The space vacated by these agencies is planned to be backfilled with private sector tenants until lease expiry on 31 December 2006. Two floors, levels 21 and 23, were vacated in October 2000 and February 2001, respectively. A sub-lease has been signed for Level 23 and is about to be signed for the sub-lease of Level 21. It is anticipated that the remaining six floors and the retail area will be vacated in early 2002, when alternative accommodation will be ready for occupation. Marketing of these six floors has already begun and the space has been viewed by a number of prospective tenants. The income from the sub leases is lower than the head lease commitment, however this is temporary and was anticipated in the strategy. The income is lower because: · of the limited tenure that is available to offer any sub lessee, ie 2001-2006; · the fact that no option past that date is available, and; · sub-lease rents already negotiated are not subject to the disputed rental review effective from 1/1/01. From the date of the next rent review, 1/1/03, there will be no shortfall because lease provisions require sub lease rents to match head lease rents from this date. The NSW Government became responsible for the State Bank Centre lease under a complex arrangement of leases and sub leases, following sale of the State Bank. The sub-lease income is lower because the head lease: · was originally negotiated between the Bank and Perpetual Trustees, trustee for the owners, at the peak of the property market in January 1990; · this established a level of rent well in excess of the rent rate set between the State Bank and the NSW Government on a sub-sub lease basis in 1994, by which time the market had fallen, and; · the head lease contains a “ratchet” clause which does not allow the rent to reduce on rent review dates. Under the arrangements, established during the Fahey government, until such time as the market rent for the building reaches head lease rental, there will continue to be a shortfall in income. (2) As stated above, there will be no shortfall in relation to Governor Macquarie Tower from the date of the next rent review, 1/1/03. Marketing of the floors yet to be vacated has begun. Due to the inherited arrangements with the State Bank Centre, until such time as the market rent for the building reaches head lease rental, there is little that can be done to rectify the shortfall, apart from filling any vacated sub tenancies as quickly as possible and at market rates. (3) From time to time, Treasury has had differences of opinion with the Audit Office in relation to various matters including whether leases are finance leases or operating leases. These differences are usually resolved after negotiation with the Audit Office and often over a period of time. To have a difference of opinion is not mismanagement. 2619 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS Wednesday 30 May 2001

(4) The budgeted operating surplus of the Crown Property Portfolio for 2000- 01 is $13.2 m. It is envisaged that there will be no abnormal items during 2000-01.

*1923 DENTAL CARE CRITERIA—Mr J. H. Turner to the Minister for Health—

(1) Have the criteria for treatment at Dental Clinics conducted by the Department of Health changed? (2) If so, what were the criteria before the change? (3) If so, what are the criteria now? (4) Will the Clinic perform root therapy? (5) If not, why not? (6) Did the Dental Clinic perform root therapy prior to any changes to criteria occurring? (7) Will the Dental Clinic perform fillings of teeth? (8) If not, why not?

Answer—

(1) Yes (2) The criteria varied between and within the Area Health Services. (3) Standardised access for treatment on the basis of priority medical/dental emergency, serious health and dental problems, and socio dental risk factors. (4) Yes (5) N/A (6) Yes (7) Yes (8) N/A

*1924 CONSERVATORIUM ARTEFACTS—Mr Richardson to the Deputy Premier, Minister for Urban Affairs and Planning, Minister for Aboriginal Affairs, and Minister for Housing—

(1) Can the Minister give details of the 10,000 artefacts discovered at the Conservatorium of Music site and in particular which of these will be placed on display in the Conservatorium’s Heritage Project? (2) What is the estimated value of these artefacts? (3) Are these artefacts unique or are there similar items held in other Government or private collections?

Answer—

(1) The artefacts discovered to date are generally from the early cistern and the later Government House Dump. The total number of artefacts found at the Conservatorium site is currently being sampled and assessed by the site archaeologists in accordance with standard archaeological practices. On completion of this process, the Heritage Council will be briefed and a number of artefacts will be selected for public display. (2) and (3) Collections such as these, which include many items unique to the site, are priceless in providing a valuable insight into the life of the early colony.

*1925 PERMISSIVE OCCUPANCIES—Mr Webb to the Attorney General, Minister for the Environment, Minister for Emergency Services and Minister Assisting the Premier on the Arts—

(1) In relation to a letter dated 27 March 2001 addressed to people who are having their Permissive Occupancies resumed, wherein they are asked to respond whether they wish to take up an 18 month transitional grazing option or continue grazing on part of a PO that is not affected, by 6 April 2001, do you think that less than ten days is a sufficient time to respond? (2) Will you give notice extending the time available for landholders to respond? 2620 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS Wednesday 30 May 2001

(3) Will landholders wishing to take up the option, but who respond after the 6th April be considered? (4) Do you consider that less than ten days is a reasonable consultation period allowing adequate time for PO holders to act on this matter? (5) Is it a fact that many of the Permissive Occupancy Holders didn’t receive the letter until just before or in fact after the closing date of 6th of April?

Answer—

(1) I am advised that the National Parks and Wildlife Service (NPWS) sought to ensure that the Permissive Occupancy holders affected by the National Park Estate (Southern Region Reservations) Act 2000 were notified in writing in September 2000 that they would lose their annual permit. Following initial contact, NPWS staff have consulted with affected permit holders through onsite inspections and numerous telephone conversations. During this consultation phase permit holders have indicated whether they wish to accept or reject the offer of an additional 18 months rent-free transitional grazing period. A significant proportion have decided to accept the offer but between 10-15% have decided to cancel their permits once gazettal occurred in January 2001. The purpose of the 18 month phase-out period was to allow permit holders to adjust to the new legislation and where possible to evaluate alternative grazing options as required. (2) Yes. (3) Yes. (4) Consultation on the options has extended over a period of 6 months for most permit holders. The letter of 6 April was not the first notification to permit holders. (5) I am unable to confirm how effective the postal system was in this case.

*1926 SENIORS TRAVEL—Mr Webb to the Minister for Transport, and Minister for Roads—

(1) When can I expect a response to my letter to the Premier dated the 17th August to which the Premier responded to me that he had referred the matter to you, which was confirmed by your office on the 14th of September 2000, regarding travel concessions for pensioners and seniors? (2) Why are pensioners and senior card holders living in my electorate not entitled to the same concession fares as their counterparts living in the greater Sydney metropolitan area?

Answer—

(1) A response has been forwarded to your office. (2) The Government provides pensioners with a range of public transport concessions. While the pensioner Excursion Ticket is currently unavailable private bus services, pensioners do have entitlement to half fare concessions on these services. Holders of the Penisoner Concession Card or the NSW Senior Card may purchase the Pensioner Excursion Ticket for use on the CityRail network, which includes stations extending from Sydney to Newcastle, Karuah, Dungog, Muswellbrook and Scone in the north, Bathurst to the west and Moss Vale and Goulburn to the south. Pensioners are also entitled to half fare concession tickets on Countrylink rail services, the Countrylink Excursion Ticket for journeys up to 129 kilometres and annually, four free single rail journey vouchers to anywhere in the State. However, the anomalies and inequities associated with some current transport concessions, including those for pensioners and Senior’s Card holders are recognised. The Public Transport Authority (PTA) is reviewing current transport concessions and arrangements. The review process has included consultation with the community and peak bodies. 2621 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS Wednesday 30 May 2001

*1927 HEPTACHLOR BAN—Mr Armstrong to the Minister for the Environment, Minister for Emergency Services, Minister for Corrective Services, and Minister Assisting the Premier on the Arts—

(1) Does your Department keep records on white ant infestations? (2) Are regular surveys done in order to monitor white and damage to buildings in NSW? (3) If so, have the surveys indicated an increase in white ant activity in buildings in any particular geographical region in NSW in the past five years? (4) Have you had requests from the building industry or any of its segments, home owners or Government Departments including your own, for advice on white ant activity? (5) Since the banning of heptachlor has there been an upsurge in complaints against the increase of white ant activity in buildings in NSW?

Answer—

The EPA does not collect statistics on white ant activity in buildings in NSW. The responsible New South Wales agency is State Forests. This is a matter for the Minister for Information Technology, Minister for Energy, Minister for Forestry and Minister for Western Sydney.

*1928 NURSING VACANCIES—Mr Armstrong to the Minister for Health—

Could you explain why the number of registered nurse vacancies in the Greater Murray Area Health Service is five times higher than the Mid Western Area Health Service?

Answer—

There are more hospitals per head of population in Greater Murray Area Health Service than in the Mid Western Area Health Service.

*1929 SYDNEY WATER CATCHMENT ACT—Mr Webb to the Deputy Premier, Minister for Urban Affairs and Planning, Minister for Aboriginal Affairs, and Minister for Housing—

(1) How can the Sydney Water Catchment Act (sec53) be legal if in fact it is inconsistent with the Environmental Planning and Assessment Act (sec51) and the inconsistencies have not been resolved? (2) Do you consider that issues addressed by the Sydney Catchment Authority’s “Sustaining the Catchment, Safe Drinking Water Draft Regional Environmental Plan”, are more significant than the objectives of the Environmental Planning and Assessment Act?

Answer—

(1) Parliament can fetter any existing legislative discretion by passing another Act of Parliament. In this case the mandatory requirements of the Sydney Water Catchment Management Act which came into force in 1998 override the Minister's discretion in the Environmental Planning and Assessment Act (1979). (2) The issues addressed by this Plan are consistent with the objects of the Environmental Planning and Assessment Act.

*1930 EPA AMENDMENTS—Ms Moore to the Deputy Premier, Minister for Urban Affairs and Planning, Minister for Aboriginal Affairs, and Minister for Housing—

Concerning amendments to the Environmental Planning and Assessment Act 1979 providing for commercial and residential developers to make contributions toward affordable housing: 2622 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS Wednesday 30 May 2001

(1) Will it be mandatory for developers to make contributions in areas where the level of affordable housing need has been identified through objective benchmarks? (2) When will the draft State Environmental Planning Policy (SEPP) be made public, given the Government’s commitment last year to NCOSS and NSW Shelter that it would act quickly? (3) Is the basis of the SEPP still the agreed proposals provided by the Advisory Committee to the Department of Urban Affairs and Planning to assist in the preparation of the SEPP?

Answer—

(1) to (3) My Department is still finalising the form the SEPP will take. A draft SEPP will be made available to the Advisory Committee for comment before it is put on public exhibition. It is anticipated a draft will be available for exhibition by the middle of this year.

*1931 GAMING STRATEGIES—Ms Moore to the Minister for Gaming and Racing, and Minister Assisting the Premier on Hunter Development—

What consideration is being given to the following strategies, suggested by NCOSS in conjunction with the review of gaming machine taxes, to reduce the negative impact of gaming machines on NSW communities: (1) Applying extra charges to clubs and hotels when any machine exceeds a set benchmark each quarter? (2) Limiting times when machines are available to users? (3) Limiting the maximum monetary level for playing a machine? (4) Enhancing the currently available tax credits to clubs which can participate in the Community Development and Support Expenditure Scheme? (5) Amending the Environmental Planning and Assessment Act to require local councils to use a broad range of social impact criteria in assessing Development Applications that contain expansions or establishment of new gaming facilities? (6) Prohibiting hotel owners from purchasing another hotel licence to establish a gambling facility, especially in rural areas?

Answer—

(1) On 19 April 2001, the Premier announced a three month freeze on the number of poker machines in hotels. The decision to place a three month freeze on hoteliers followed media speculation about the Government’s gaming reform package. The Government expects to make an announcement on the gaming reform package within this three month period. (2) As for (1) (3) As for (1) (4) As for (1) (5) As for (1) (6) As for (1)

*1932 HELPLINE PERFORMANCE INDICATORS—Ms Moore to the Minister for Community Services, Minister for Ageing, Minister for Disability Services, and Minister for Women—

Concerning the development of effective performance indicators for the operation of the Department of Community Services Helpline: (1) When will consultation about performance indicators occur with government and non-government organisations that have mandatory reporting requirements? (2) Will the performance indicators include a commitment to answering 85 per cent of calls (public and mandatory notifiers) within two minutes? (3) What action is being taken on the NCOSS recommendations for improving the proposed performance indicators so that: 2623 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS Wednesday 30 May 2001

(a) Where a call is a report, a DOCS Helpline caseworker will contact the reporter within 15 minutes? (b) Non-Government Organisations (NGO) mandatory notifiers are provided with a guaranteed alternative means of contact? (c) Urgent matters referred to CSCs include adequate and appropriate levels of information to enable them to prioritise action? (4) What action is being taken to include in the additional performance indicators suggested by NCOSS: (a) all mandatory notifiers directly connected to a caseworker? (b) where an NGE is already involved in a case, the Helpline will contact the NGO and negotiate action to avoid an inappropriate response? (c) 80 per cent of requests for assistance are confirmed as appropriate referrals? (d) an indicator for missed reports (eg, calls not answered) should be developed. (5) How frequently will the Helpline’s performance against the indicators be reported and made publicly available? (6) Will the Community Services Commission be empowered to investigate complaints made by consumers of the Helpline? (7) Will staffing levels for the Helpline be increased if the performance indicators are not met with current staffing levels? (8) Will the final Charter be ready for implementation no later than 31 May 2001?

Answer—

(1) and (2) DoCS is currently developing performance indicators for the Helpline. Consultation with NCOSS, DoCS staff and others, over the development of performance indicators will occur as considered appropriate. (3) and (4) Continuous improvements are being made to systems to reduce caller waiting times. The risk and safety assessments, which are undertaken by Helpline staff, assist in the prioritisation of all cases before they are transferred to the Community Services Centres. (5) Information on the Helpline’s performance will appear in the Department’s Annual Report. (6) Apparent inconsistencies in the drafting of the legislation governing the Community Services Commission (CSC) have created jurisdictional barriers to the CSC dealing with complaint matters involving DoCS’ statutory functions. Until the matter of the CSC’s jurisdiction is resolved complaints about DoCS’ statutory functions can be dealt with by the Ombudsman or through the Department’s own internal complaint systems. (7) Staffing levels have been steadily increased at the Helpline, as required. (8) Refer to answer above in (1).

11 APRIL 2001

(Paper No. 87)

*1933 RAIL LINK DELAY—Mr Collins to the Minister for Education and Training—

(1) What happens to the plans for Chatswood High School now that the rail line will be delayed? (2) Are the key Ku-ring-gai campus completion dates dependent on the rail link? (3) Are course improvements and changes dependent on the rail link?

Answer—

(1) Any transition arrangements for Chatswood High School will be discussed and established with the school’s community after the announcement of the final plan for inner Sydney schools. (2) Any relocation of Chatswood High School to the University of Technology’s 2624 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS Wednesday 30 May 2001

Ku-ring-gai site will be subject to suitable transport arrangements being discussed with the school community. (3) No.

*1934 CHATSWOOD HIGH TRANSITION—Mr Collins to the Minister for Education and Tr

(1) Is there a transition plan for Chatswood High over this period of time to show future parents and students that the school will be viable during this transition period? (2) What assistance will the Department of Education provide to help the school deal with these issues?

Answer—

(1) Transition arrangements for individual schools will be discussed and established with the school’s community after the announcement of the final plan for inner Sydney schools. (2) Transition arrangements, including financial arrangements, will be discussed and established between the school Principal, the District Superintendent and other senior officers of the Department of Education and Training.

*1935 CHATSWOOD HIGH COMMUNITY—Mr Collins to the Minister for Education and Training—

How is Chatswood High to maintain its current strong community spirit and move it to a new school?

Answer—

The proposed relocation of Chatswood High School to the University of Technology’s Ku-ring-gai site will provide the school and its students with access to state-of-the-art facilities, wider curriculum choice and opportunities for older students to pursue university courses while still at school. These improvements alone should serve to build upon the currently strong community spirit of Chatswood High School

*1936 LAND TAX—Ms Seaton to the Premier, Minister for the Arts, and Minister for Citizenship—

(1) How do you account for the difference in unimproved capital value on current rate notices and land tax assessments with values according to the Office of State Revenue? (2) Why are properties with an unimproved capital value according to the Valuer General of $108,000 for the years 1990, 1991 and 1992 assessed for land tax which has a threshold of $160,000? (3) Why are Strata Title unit holders not advised directly of changes in assessable value? (4) Are you confident that body corporate office bearers always distributed information to Strata Title holders in a reliable manner? (5) Why are land tax assessments being issued in 2001 for land tax on properties for the years 1990, 1991, 1992? (6) Why were these assessments and claims not issued at the time? (7) How much revenue is collected from the 100% penalty for ‘late’ land tax payments? (8) How many properties attracted such a penalty in: 1990 1994 1998 1991 1995 1999 1992 1996 2000 1993 1997 2001 and what was the penalty revenue in each of these years?

Answer—

(1) A general valuation of land within Council areas occurs on a cyclical basis of up to four years. These General Valuations are the basis of the rate notices issued by Local Councils. A determination of the 2625 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS Wednesday 30 May 2001

land values for land tax purposes is undertaken by the Valuer General on an annual basis for the Office of State Revenue. Therefore, in most cases, land values used for land tax are more current than those used for council rates. (3) Before 1993, values for land tax were created by an artificial mechanism rather than (4) by actually valuing the land every year. Land values produced by the Valuer-General as irregularly as every six years were adjusted year- by-year using a so-called “equalisation factor” until the land was valued again by the Valuer- General. This annual adjustment produced a land value for tax purposes. As a result there were differences between land values produced occasionally by the Valuer-General and land values on which land tax was based. This mechanism were replaced by annual land valuations in 1993. (3) The Valuer-General is responsible for providing notices of land values to all owners of land, under the Valuation of Land Act. I am advised that land valuations are issued to the body corporate of Strata Plan and not to individual unit holders, as rates and taxes are appointed according to unit entitlement. The valuation of land in a strata plan not only incorporates the unit entitlement of the owners but the common property as well. (4) Overall, body corporate officers do operate in a reliable manner. (5) Improved compliance activities have identified persons liable to land tax who have not lodged appropriate returns. (6) The landowners did not lodge returns with the Chief Commissioner of State Revenue, as required under the Land Tax Management Act. (7) There is no flat 100% penalty late land tax payments. (8) In view of answer to question 7 – not applicable.

*1937 KING STREET WHARF—Mr Debnam to the Minister for Transport, and Minister for Roads—

In relation to the King Street Wharf Development and your answer to Question on Notice number 1667: (1) What is the contracted schedule for payments to the Waterways Authority, detailing month, year and amount? (2) What is the contracted schedule for the handover of infrastructure to the Waterways Authority, detailing month, year and amount? (3) Are there any contracted circumstances under which taxpayers will not receive $61.2 million? (4) What is the nature of the indexation adjustment referred to in your answer to Question on Notice number 1667? (a) Is it an indexation to inflation? (b) Over what period of time does the indexation apply? (5) Given that the delays in the sale or lease of parts of the development could have implications for taxpayers, is the Waterways Authority monitoring the progress of sales and leases?

Answer—

(1) At this time, the details of scheduled payments are considered commercial-in-confidence. (2) The details of the scheduled handover of infrastructure are considered commercial-in- confidence at this time. (3) No. (4) (a) No. (b) The indexation adjustment will apply until all monies are received. (5) The Waterways Authority monitors the progress of the project development but not that of sales and leases, which are matters for the developer. The taxpayers’ position is always protected by maintaining the Net Present Value of the cash payments. 2626 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS Wednesday 30 May 2001

*1938 PAYROLL TAX—Mr Debnam to the Minister for Education and Training, representing the Treasurer, Minister for State Development and Vice-President of the Executive Council—

In relation to the payroll tax threshold: (1) How many firms are currently paying payroll tax and how many were paying payroll tax on 1 January 1996 when the threshold was last adjusted? (2) Are the figures presented in Table 3.3. of the Treasury Research Paper 99-3, “The Case for Payroll Tax” still current and if not, what are the up to date figures? (3) What would be the revenue impact of raising the payroll tax threshold to: (a) $650,000? (b) $700,000? (c) $750,000? (d) $800,000?

Answer—

(1) In 1999-2000 there were 22,200 clients paying payroll tax. On 1 January 1996 there were 18,623 clients paying payroll tax. (2) The figures presented in Table 3.3 of the Treasury Research Paper 99-3, "The Case for Payroll Tax" have not been re-estimated. (3) The revenue cost of raising the threshold to: (a) $650,000 is $56 million. (b) $700,000 is $112 million. (c) $750,000 is $168 million. (d) $800,000 is $223 million.

*1939 LAPTOP THEFT—Mr Debnam to the Minister for Police—

In relation to stolen laptop computers: (1) How many laptop computers were reported stolen to the NSW Police in calendar years 1997, 1998, 1999 and 2000? (2) How many laptop computers were recovered by NSW Police in calendar years 1997, 1998, 1999 and 2000? (3) In calendar years 1997, 1998, 1999 and 2000, how many incidents reported to NSW Police involved assault and the theft of a laptop computer or intimidation and the theft of a laptop computer?

Answer—

(1) 1997-3650 1998-5638 1999-7274 2000-10522 Laptop computers, like mobile phones, are easy targets for thieves if not properly secured. Police actively remind people to take appropriate action to secure personal items and office equipment. For example, the Police Service is introducing initiatives such as the “CBD Office Theft Prevention Campaign”, which involves police working with the business community to raise awareness of office theft and educate businesses and employees about prevention measures that they can adopt. (2) I have been advised by the Deputy Commissioner (Field Operations) that it cannot be accurately determined from the COPS database how many laptop computers were physically recovered for the years in question. (3) There is no specific offence category of “assault and the theft of a laptop computer” or “intimidation and the theft of a laptop computer.” 2627 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS Wednesday 30 May 2001

*1940 POLICE CRASH INVESTIGATION UNITS—Ms Hodgkinson to the Minister for

(1) How many Crash Investigation Units does the NSW Police Service possess? (2) In what Regional Commands are these units located? (3) By Regional Command area how many traffic accidents, requiring investigation by a Crash Investigation Unit, have occurred during: (a) 1995? (b) 1996? (c) 1997? (d) 1998? (e) 1999? (f) 2000?

Answer—

(1) 10 (2) Regional Commands may establish Crash Investigation Units, where the needs of a Region indicate that such a unit is required. (3) I am advised that the NSW Police Service in not able to provide the breakdown requested.

*1941 EMERGENCY POWER FOR CROOKWELL HOSPITAL—Ms Hodgkinson to the Minister for

(1) Is the Minister aware that during an 11 hour blackout in late January the emergency power system at Crookwell Hospital failed to function? (2) When did Crookwell Hospital first become aware that its emergency power system was not functioning? (3) How often was the emergency power system tested? (4) What procedures are in place within the Southern Area Health Service to ensure proper maintenance of emergency power equipment in the service’s hospitals? (5) Why did these procedures fail? (6) What action will the Minister now take to ensure that a similar situation does not occur again?

Answer—

(1) Yes. (2) 24 January 2001. (3) Every six months in line with the manufacturers recommendations. (4) Maintenance staff undertake checks and preventative maintenance. (5) These procedures did not fail. (6) Southern Area Health Service is in the process of sourcing an appropriate generator for Crookwell Hospital.

*1942 BUS SEAT BELTS—Mr O'Farrell to the Minister for Transport, and Minister for Roads—

(1) What is the Department of Transport’s estimate of the cost of installing seat belts on buses carrying school children in NSW? (2) Does the Government have plans to fund the installation of seat belts on these buses? (3) Why won’t the Minister agree to an inquiry by StaySafe into the issue of seat belts on school buses? 2628 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS Wednesday 30 May 2001

Answer—

(1) In 1994/95 dollar, the independent safety consultant recommended that the estimated total cost for fitting the fleet of buses in NSW that may be used to carry school children, with effective three- point lap/sash restraint systems would be over $200 million. (2) to (3) No. In 1994, the Department of Transport engaged an independent safety consultant to consider this matter. The consultant’s report supports the Department’s position and based on the consistently high safety record of travel on board school buses, recommended against the compulsory fitting of seat belts. A key issue in safety management is to ensure that funds are directed towards measures that achieve the greatest safety benefit. The consultant concluded that a better use of funds would be to direct them to reducing road trauma and the prevention of accidents rather than installing seat belts on buses. The NSW School Student Transport Scheme has a budget of $402M which is already the most generous in Australia and could not sustain any further increases without considering the budgetary effects of any changes in policy. Nevertheless, the Government has introduced a number of measures to improve the safety of school bus travel and continues to review current measures to ensure they remain appropriate,. As part of this commitment, all new buses manufactured since August 1997 are required to be fitted with specially designed seats with extra padding, improved padding on interior rails and stanchions, improved marrow systems and door safety systems, and the maximum speed of school buses with standing passengers has been restricted to 80Km/hr.

*1943 CABCHARGE—Mr O'Farrell to the Minister for Transport, and Minister for Roads—

What was the total amount of expenditure on Cabcharge for the Minister and his staff in : (a) 1997/98? (b) 1998/99? (c) 1999/2000?

Answer—

I refer the Honourable Member to my answer to Question on Notice 1272.

*1944 CABCHARGE—Mr O'Farrell to the Minister for Transport, and Minister for Roads—

(1) Does the Minister and his staff use taxis in the course of their work? (2) Are the costs of this taxi use met by taxpayers? (3) Which agency within the transport portfolio meets the cost of the taxi travel by the Minister and his staff?

Answer—

(1) to (3) The information sought in this question has already been provided to the Honourable Member in answer to Question on Notice 1272.

*1945 ERROL FLYNN DRIVE—Ms Moore to the Minister for Transport, and Minister for Roads—

Concerning the “no left turn” ban between 10.00pm and 6.00am at the Lang Road exit to the Fox entertainment complex, established to protect the Centennial Park residential precinct from large volumes of late night traffic from the Fox entertainment centre: (1) Is Error Flynn Drive, Moore Park a public road? (2) If not, why has a publicly accessible private road been permitted on public land? (3) Is the “no left turn” ban between 10.00pm and 6.00am from Error Flynn Drive to Lang Road intended to be legally enforceable? 2629 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS Wednesday 30 May 2001

(4) What Government Authority has responsibility for ensuring that signage and signalling at the intersection are sufficient to make the provision unambiguous and enforceable? (5) What Government Authority has responsibility for the operation of the traffic lights at the intersection of Errol Flynn Drive and Lang Road? (6) What data has the Roads and Traffic Authority obtained concerning the problem of drivers not obeying the turn ban? (7) Is the Minister aware that the Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister for Police has stated that a permanent red left turn arrow during the ban period would be beneficial to police and road users? (8) What are the “safety grounds” for which the Roads and Traffic Authority have not implemented a red turn arrow, referred to in a letter dated 15 March 2001 from the Parliamentary Secretary for Roads? (9) Is the Roads and Traffic Authority technically able to implement a red left turn arrow on the signals full-time during the ban period of 10.00pm to 6.00am? (10) Why has this evening red turn arrow provision, recommended by police and local residents, not been implemented?

Answer—

(1) Yes. (2) N/A. (3) Yes. (4) The Roads and Traffic Authority (RTA). (5) The RTA. (6) Nil. Enforcement of road rules is a matter for the Police. (7) Yes. However, Sydney Buses provide a service from Fox Studios to the east. It would be an offence for bus drivers to turn left contrary to a red signal. To permit buses to effect the turn, “No Left turn, 2200-0600, Buses Excepted” signs were provided. (8) The provision of permanent red arrows from 2200 to 0600 hours could be misinterpreted by motorists that a green arrow would eventually be displayed during the signal cycle. They may be encouraged to wait in the left lane and turn left through the red arrow when the green arrow is not displayed. The Austroads Guide to Traffic Engineering Practice states in part that “The red arrow signal should generally not be left on to supplement the action of the restriction sign”. (9) Yes. (10) See (7) and (8). Currently there are four separate signs indicating “No Left Turn between 10:00pm- 06:00am, Buses Excepted” for the left turn exit at Fox Studios onto Lang Road.

*1946 SEPP 64—Ms Moore to the Deputy Premier, Minister for Urban Affairs and Planning, Minister for Aboriginal Affairs, and Minister for Housing—

Concerning State Environmental Planning Policy 64 – Advertising and Signage, gazetted on 16 March 2001: (1) What consultation was undertaken with residents in local communities in the preparation of this policy? (2) What changes were made as a result of concerns expressed by residents in local communities about inappropriate advertising? (3) How will the policy provide protection for the amenity of residents living in inner city areas with a high proportion of mixed residential and business zonings? (4) How will this policy apply to existing advertising that breaches the policy, such as advertising which is already in a prohibited location, in excess of prescribed size, or in without a 15 year maximum time limit? (5) Is the Minister aware that a previous application for advertising on the Eastern Distributor was opposed by the RTA as “not keeping with the intent of the Parkway design and with regard to urban design and aesthetics” (letter of the Parliamentary Secretary for Roads, 16/10/2000)? 2630 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS Wednesday 30 May 2001

(6) What individuals or corporate bodies asked for the Eastern Distributor to be excluded from the prohibition on tollway advertising? (7) Why has the Eastern Distributor been excluded from prohibition on tollway advertising? (8) What legal sanctions apply to local councils or advertisers breaching this policy? (9) Does this policy permit the display of political campaign posters during election periods? (10) If so, what consent process and restrictions will apply for political campaign posters to be legally displayed during election periods?

Answer—

(1) Submissions from the public, community groups and organisations were called for and received as part of the review of outdoor advertising. A major recommendation of the review was that a State environmental Planning Policy be prepared to cover outdoor advertising. A workshop including representatives from the public and community groups was held to further explore the issues raised in submissions. (2) The Policy was developed as a result of extensive consultations with the community. (3) The Policy requires all signage to comply with the objectives of the Policy and the assessment criteria attached to the Policy. It requires compliance with specific provisions for larger signs and particular kinds of signs. (4) The Policy does not apply to advertising in place before 16 March 2001.The Department of Urban Affairs and Planning is working with the advertising industry to develop ways to remove both illegal advertisements and poorly designed and located advertisements. (5) I am not aware of the specific letter, however I am aware of the issue regarding advertising on the Eastern Distributor. (6) The Roads and Traffic Authority. (7) The Eastern Distributor has been excluded from the prohibition on tollway advertising because there is an existing Agreement in place between Airport Motorways Ltd. and the Roads and Traffic Authority. This agreement allows Airport Motorway Ltd. to erect advertising on the Eastern Distributor subject to the approval of the Roads and Traffic Authority and development consent from South Sydney Council. This Agreement is valid for 48 years. (8) Any person may bring proceedings in the Land and Environment Court for an order to remedy a breach of the Policy. The court may require the demolition of an advertisement that is in breach of Policy. (9) The Policy does not apply to election material. Election material including posters is covered by the Parliamentary Electorate sand Elections Act,1912. (10)Not applicable.

*1947 ROSE BAY LAC—Ms Moore to the Minister for Police—

Concerning staffing numbers at the Rose Bay Local Area Command: (1) What was the actual number of police officers at the Command, as at: (a) 30/6/97? (b) 30/6/98? (c) 30/6/99? (d) 30/6/00? (e) 31/3/01? (2) For each of these answers in 1, how many of the officers we re employed full-time (as opposed to part-time) in the Command? (3) For each of these answers in 1, how many of the officers were employed on a permanent (as opposed to a temporary or casual) basis in the Command? (4) For each of these answers in 1, how many of the officers were actually on duty (as opposed to on leave or acting in a position outside the Command)? (5) For each of the answers in 1, how many of the officers were placed permanently at the Command (as opposed to on temporary transfer from other Commands)? 2631 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS Wednesday 30 May 2001

(6) For each of the answers in 1, how many of the officers were assigned to administrative duties in the police station: (a) Full-time? (b) Part-time? (7) During each shift on the dates in 1, what is the number of police officers that were on duty in the Rose Bay Local Area Command?

Answer—

(1) (a) The Rose Bay Local Area Command had not been established at this date. (b) to (e) I am advised that the NSW Police Service’s Workforce and Careers Directorate does not conduct audits of Local Area Command numbers on a daily basis. I am further advised that it is not possible to provide details of the exact number of police officers assigned to the Rose Bay Local Area Command on the dates specified by the Member for Bligh. (2) to (6) See response to question 1. (7) I am advised that the publication of roster information, including shift details, may prejudice the ability of the Service to perform its law enforcement, crime prevention and public safety functions, as this information could be used by criminal elements to plan the times of the day they commit offences.

*1948 COSMOS SOCCER TEAM—Mr Webb to the Minister for Fair Trading, Minister for Corrective Services, and Minister for Sport and Recreation—

(1) Are you aware that in the Southern Dis tricts and on the Far South Coast of NSW, and in Canberra, there are many thousands of aspiring and participating junior soccer players? (2) How could the NSW Government support the Canberra and districts based Cosmos Soccer Team to remain in the National League?

Answer—

(1) I am advised by the Department of Sport and Recreation that there are over 6000 junior soccer players in the Southern Districts of NSW, including the Far South Coast. (2) The NSW Government does not fund any National Soccer League Clubs.

*1949 SNOWY BUS RUN—Mr Webb to the Minister for Transport, and Minister for Roads—

(1) Are there any grants or subsidies available to protect a summer transport bus run operating between Canberra and the Snowy Mountains during its establishment phase? (2) Are there any Country link concessions or subsidies available for services operating via the Alpine Way between Cooma and Albury, which are both Country link destinations?

Answer—

(1) to (2) In New South Wales the long distance coach transport industry is deregulated, with individual companies able to set fares and services in accordance with their commercial policies. The Government does not provide concession funding for these services.

*1950 NORTH COAST COMMUNITY HOUSING COMPANY—Mr Humpherson to the Deputy Premier, Minister for Urban Affairs and Planning, Minister for Aboriginal Affairs, and Minister for Housing—

(1) Was the North Coast Community Housing Company (NCCHC) car damaged in an accident by Brett Alan Broomfield on July 23, 1999 being driven for private use? (2) (a) Did Mr Broomfield have a valid driving license at the time? (b) How old was he at the time? 2632 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS Wednesday 30 May 2001

(3) (a) Why was he allowed access to the car? Who allowed the use? (b) What is their relationship? (4) Did police issue him with an infringement notice for driving whilst unlicensed? (5) Did a report by KPMG find that Mr Broomfield was unlicensed? (6) Did the insurance claim disclose that the driver was unlicensed? (7) If not, was the claim fraudulent? (8) If so, what action have you taken? (9) Will you move to discipline the staff members responsible for the car and/or insurance claim? (10) Was the one-off payment to the insurance company by NCCHC of $21,032 related to the car write- off? (11) Was this an attempt to cover-up the insurance claim and cost? (12) Did the board move to expel a member, Mr Diehl, because he was so concerned about the management of the matter? (13) Will you move against the NCCHC and either dismiss them or remove all housing from their control? (14) What was the value of the damage to the other car? Who paid for the damage?

Answer—

North Coast Community Housing Company (NCCHC) is an independent incorporated organisation, which receives funds from the NSW Government. The specific details about how vehicles are leased and human resource matters are handled are determined by that Company.

*1951 OLYMPICS VEHICLES—Ms Hodgkinson to the Minister for Education and Training, representing the Treasurer, Minister for State Development and Vice-President of the Executive Council—

(1) How many vehicles were supplied for Olympics related travel in Sydney by SOCOG in 2000? (2) Was a reconciliation performed on which vehicles were used and which vehicles have been returned? (3) If the answer to (2) above is yes, are there any vehicles which have not yet been returned according to that reconciliation? (4) What are the makes and model numbers of each vehicle which was used for Olympics related travel? (5) What are the makes and model numbers for those vehicles not yet returned in relation to (3) above?

Answer—

(1) SOCOG obtained 4720 vehicles under sponsorship arrangements for Games services. (2) Yes. (3) One vehicle, which was recorded as being returned is now missing. The matter has been referred to the Police. (4) 3,135 of the vehicles were Holden Commodore sedans and station wagons. Other vehicles included 185 utilities, 135 four-wheel drive vehicles, 519 vans and mini-vans (including 350 wheelchair modified vehicles), 90 trucks, 56 motorbikes, 300 golf carts and 300 other sedans. (5) The missing vehicle is a Holden Commodore utility.

*1952 KANOWAR AVENUE, EAST KILLARA—Mr Humpherson to the Minister for Agriculture, and Minister for Land and Water Conservation—

(1) When did you approve an Aboriginal Land Council claim for a portion of land off the end of Kanowar Avenue, Killara East? (2) In considering the application, did you take into account the resolved position of Ku-ring-gai Council to zone the land as open space? 2633 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS Wednesday 30 May 2001

(3) Did Ku-ring-gai Council resolve to commence zoning the land to open space due to its identification as environmentally valuable prior to a claim by the Aboriginal Lands Council for the land? (4) On what date was the land claim lodged? (5) What form was the claim in? (6) Did the lodged claim contain any newspaper cutting or other reference to any intention by Ku-ring-gai Council to rezone what was then Crown land? (7) Why did the pre-determined purpose of the land being identified for use as open space not preclude the granting of the claim?

Answer—

(1) Claim 6039 was granted on 25 October 2000. (2) Yes (3) Yes (4) Claim 6039 was lodged with the Aboriginal Land Rights Registrar on 20 December 1996. (5) The claim was made in writing as required by the provisions of Section 36(4) of the Aboriginal Land Rights Act 1983. (6) No (7) The criteria for determining claimable Crown land is contained in the Aboriginal Land Rights Act. Under the criteria, a claim in respect of land that is needed or likely to be needed for an essential public purpose, when the claim was made, must be refused. While open space could possibly be considered an essential public purpose in certain circumstances, the land contained in Claim 6039 could not be sustained as being so needed, particularly as it adjoined the open space area of Garigal National Park.

*1953 PARKWAY AVENUE INTERSECTION—Mr J. H. Turner to the Minister for Transport, and Minister

(1) Is there a proposal to alter the intersection of Parkway Avenue and Stewart Avenue, Hamilton? (2) If so, is the Roads and Traffic Authority (RTA) involved in any way with the proposal? (3) If so, in what way is the RTA involved in the proposal? (4) If so, did the RTA undertake to be involved in community consultation in regard to any such proposal? (5) If not, why not? (6) Has the RTA, Hunter Region, received submissions by way of written submissions and electronic submissions including e-mail and phone calls? (7) If so, how many submissions have been received? (8) If so, how many of those submissions has the RTA responded to? (9) If they have not been responded to, why haven’t they been responded to? (10) If they have not been responded to, will they be responded to? (11) If so, when? (12) If not, why not? (13) If there is a proposal to alter the intersection of Parkway Avenue and Stewart Avenue, what is the proposal of the RTA? (14) When will any work be undertaken? (15) Who will carry out such work? (16) What is the value of such work? (17) When will such work be completed?

Answer—

(1) Yes. (2) Yes. 2634 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS Wednesday 30 May 2001

(3) The RTA is involved in the development of options and consultation with the community. (4) The RTA has conducted two public displays of options, attended a Community Forum Meeting and an on-site meeting with Newcastle City Council and residents and provided a presentation to Council. (5) N/A. (6) Yes. (7) 120 submissions have been received. (8) All submissions have been acknowledged. The issues raised by the community are still under consideration. Notification of the outcome will be sent once a determination for the intersection has been made. (9) N/A. (10) and (11) See (8). (12) N/A. (13) Two options are currently under consideration. One to install traffic signals and one to install right turn bays with some banned movements. (14) Work is scheduled to commence mid 2001. (15) This is to be decided once a determination for the intersection has been made. (16) The cost will be dependent on the work to be carried out. (17) Completion is due late 2001.

*1954 DRAFT WILDERNESS DECLARATION OPTIONS—Mr Webb to the Minister for the Environment, Minister for Emergency Services, Minister for Corrective Services, and Minister Assisting the Premier on the Arts—

(1) How many options are now on public exhibition in respect of draft wilderness areas proposed to be adopted? (2) Why is there no option on display for no new wilderness declarations? (3) Will you circulate such an option for public display and comment?

Answer—

(1) The Southern Wilderness Assessment Report is currently on public exhibition until Monday 28 May 2001. The wilderness areas proposed for declaration are divided into four sections (Morton- Budawang Section, Far South Coast Section, Southern Kosciuszko Section and Northern Kosciuszko/South-West Slopes Section), each with three options. (2) Any individual or interest group is entitled to submit the view that there should be no new wilderness declarations. (3) See answer to Question 2.

*1955 RESPITE BED USE—Mr Hazzard to the Minister for Community Services, Minister for Ageing, Minister for Disability Services, and Minister for Women—

How many people with disabilities are occupying respite beds whilst they await permanent placement as at: (a) 1 May 1997? (b) 1 May 1998? (c) 1 May 1999? (d) 1 May 2000? (e) 1 March 2001? 2635 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS Wednesday 30 May 2001

Answer—

(a) and (b) In March 1997, the Community Services Commission undertook a study investigating the usage of respite care beds in NSW. This study identified that there were 149 respite beds occupied by people who had been in respite continuously for 90 days or more at the time the survey was undertaken. This study was released as part of a larger report in December 1998. (c) and (d) Accurate figures are not available for 1999 and 2000. During this period and into 2001 the Government has undertaken a number of major initiatives supported by Budget allocations that have lead to improvements in the provision of respite care. These are summarised as follows: · $4.6 million additional recurrent and $1.1 million one-off for new, additional respite care services in 1999/2000; · a further $6.5 million recurrent for new respite services in 2000/2001; · an additional $30.4 million recurrent in 2000/2001 to develop long term support options for individuals identified as being in crisis as at January 2000 and those identified as being at risk under the new Service Access System(SAS); and · $1.1 million one-off to assist families who were unable to access centre based respite during the peak summer holiday period November 2000 to March 2001. The provision of these funds has established 67 new non-government respite services across the State that offer flexible respite options, eg in home, holidays, weekends away, recreation, day and emergency respite, 24 hour out of home care and overnight stays. Of these 67 new services, 11 were community partnership programs where local communities and services have contributed resources of their own to the new service. (e) The Department of Ageing, Disability and Home Care (DADHC) reports that as at 1 March 2001: · 87 individuals were occupying respite care centre places beyond an initially agreed respite period; · there are also 46 individuals who have been supported long term as permanent residents in large residential centres and who are now included in the current Phase 1 of the Government’s devolution program due for completion in 2003. This group includes individuals who were inappropriately nominated as individuals in respite services by the Community Services Commission’s in their 1998 report; and · DADHC is in the process of identifying long-term supports in community-based accommodation for all these individuals, a process that cannot be rushed and has to be carried forward with due consideration being given to each individual’s support needs

*1956 CHILDREN AT RISK—Mr Hazzard to the Minister for Community Services, Minister for Ageing, Minister for Disability Services, and Minister for Women—

How many reports of children at risk were “unallocated” at each Community Services Centre throughout New South Wales in the months of: (a) February and March 2000; and (b) February and March 2001?

Answer—

The term “unallocated” is both misleading and open to misinterpretation as every report received by DoCS is assessed and prioritised. As with any human service agency case loads are prioritised on a daily basis by CSCs and these priorities may change depending on the nature of risk assessments. It is therefore not possible to provide the type of data you have requested. 2636 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS Wednesday 30 May 2001

*1957 MINISTERIAL TRAVEL—Mr Hazzard to the Minister for Community Services, Minister for Ageing, Minister for Disability Services, and Minister for Women—

(1) Please detail each trip you have taken in the last 2 years: (a) In New South Wales? (b) In Australia? (c) Overseas? (2) Please specify: (a) Dates of departure and return? (b) Places visited? (c) Name of accommodation used? (d) Total costs broken down into travel, accommodation, entertainment? (e) Persons travelling with you?

Answer—

(1) and (2) All official travel undertaken by the Minister is undertaken in accordance with NSW Government policies.

*1958 TRAIN SECURITY—Mrs Chikarovski to the Minister for Transport, and Minister for Roads—

(1) Was there an instance of vandalism on the 9.43pm Rockdale to Kirrawee service on Saturday 24 February 2001 reported to CityRail Staff? (2) If so, did the train stop for approximately 15 minutes at Mortdale and were police informed? (3) Was the automatic ticket machine at Kirrawee Station damaged on the same night and was this captured on CCTV? (4) Were a group of approximately 12 Asian youths suspected to have been involved in this incident? (5) Has CityRail received reports that security guards are not regularly patrolling trains and that they turn a blind eye to instances of anti-social behaviour on trains such as drinking, feet on seats and using foul language? (6) Will CityRail undertake to conduct random spot-checks to ensure that the Security Guards are properly performing their duties?

Answer—

I am advised by the State Rail Authority of the following: (1) and (2) I am advised that there was an alleged incident on this service. (3) No. CityRail confirms that the ticket machine was in normal working order. There is no record of an incident of vandalism against the ticket vending machine at Kirrawee station taking place. (4) No - there was no record of an incident of vandalism against the ticket vending machine at Kirrawee station taking place. (5) All reports/complaints are investigated and dealt with in a professional manner. (6) This is already CityRail policy.

*1959 TRAIN SECURITY—Mrs Chikarovski to the Minister for Police—

(1) Were police contacted at approximately 9.55pm on Saturday 24 February 2001 by CityRail Security Guards at Mortdale about an incidence of vandalism on a train stopped at Mortdale? (2) If so, what was the police response? (3) Were police also contacted about a gang of Asian youths engaged in acts of vandalism at Kirrawee Station and its surrounds on the same evening? (4) Are there regular reports on Saturday nights of this type of disturbance occurring on trains to the Cronulla area? 2637 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS Wednesday 30 May 2001

(5) If so, will the Minister be ordering the deployment of extra policing resources to the area to enhance the safety of the local community?

Answer—

(1) I have been advised that no record of the incident having been reported to police has been found. (2) Does not arise (3) I have been advised that police officers attended Kirrawee Station on the evening of 24 February 2001 and spoke to several young people but found no evidence of any vandalism or damage having been caused by those young people. (4) I have been advised that police records do not indicate a significant or regular problem on trains or at stations in the Cronulla area. (5) This Government has brought the number of police deployed in New South Wales to record high levels. The deployment of particular police resources to particular areas is an operational issue determined by officers of the Police Service.

*1960 GREAT SOUTHERN ENERGY—Ms Seaton to the Minister for Information Technology, Minister for Energy, Minister for Forestry, and Minister for Western Sydney—

(1) Is it normal practice for Great Southern Energy to be the source of design information, design certification, inspection and approval of completed works, connection of completed works to the asset, approval of employees to work on the asset, quality control, for all works contestable under private contract? (2) Does GSE have a competitive advantage over private sector contractors when competing for contracts, as a result of being in possession of knowledge and internal advice as to criteria for successful tenders? (3) Can you guarantee that when GSE is competing with private sector providers, in-confidence competitors’ information is not available to GSE tender teams? (4) Are there strict and enforceable time-limits observed by GSE in the supply of necessary information and approvals to private sector contractors in the course of a private sector contractor delivering their service to a client? What penalties apply to GSE if those time limits are not met? (5) Who polices GSE’s performance and accountability? What avenues for redress exist for private sector contractors unsatisfied with the performance of GSE? (6) Is there any independent assessment of GSE’s own technical designs? (7) Does GSE fully reflect the costs of it’s operation in the project costs it offers for tenders? Will the Minister guarantee there is no cross subsidy within GSE to create artificially lower contract-supply costs? (8) Has GSE ever initiated contact with a client of a private contractor, based on information available to it when GSE supplies design information to the private sector for jobs being quoted on by private sector providers? (9) Have serious defects been identified in any GSE supplied and built infrastructure? If so, where?

Answer—

(1) The Independent Pricing and Regulatory Tribunal of NSW (IPART) has responsibility for the requirements relating to the separation of contestable and non-contestable activities, and the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) has responsibility for the control of anti-competitive practices. As contestable works relate to future network assets, Great Southern Energy (GSE) and all of the electricity distributors in NSW are the source of design information, design certification, inspection and approval of completed works for all contestable network work. This is reasonable as the distributors take over ownership and responsibility for the safety and performance of these network assets when they are connected to the network. 2638 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS Wednesday 30 May 2001

Connection of the completed contestable works to GSE’s network may be done by any person authorised by the distributor to make such connections. Quality control and employee issues for service providers accredited to carry out contestable works are covered by the accreditation scheme administered by the Electricity Association of New South Wales under the Association’s Code of Practice - Contestable Works. (2) No. GSE has internally separated the departments covering design information and field works to ensure that there is no unfair competition, in accordance with IPART and ACCC requirements. (3) As mentioned in the answer to question 2, separate departments in GSE handle these items. Commercially sensitive information is retained in the design information department and, as a matter of policy, is not made available to the field works people, in order to conform with IPART and ACCC requirements. (4) GSE endeavours to meet the time limits set out in the Electricity Association of NSW Code of Practice - Contestable Works as follows: “Provide to the customer within 14 days of application, or as otherwise agreed, the appropriate design information, standards and specifications necessary to undertake the works.” The Code of Practice has a section on dispute resolution which may be invoked by the customer or accredited service provider in the event that these time limits are not adhered to. (5) GSE’s performance is monitored by several bodies. GSE is accountable to the Independent Pricing and Regulatory Tribunal of NSW (IPART) on issues relating to the separation of contestable and non-contestable activities. GSE is accountable to the Electricity Association of NSW for issues relating to accreditation. GSE is accountable to the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) for any anti-competitive practices. GSE is accountable to the Ministry of Energy and Utilities on network issues, such as safety relating to the contestable works. Avenues for redress are available via the relevant dispute resolution process through the Electricity Association of NSW, the Energy & Water Ombudsman NSW and the ACCC. (6) The process of design certification for contestable works is currently being reviewed by GSE and it is planned that all designers, including accredited service providers, will operate under a common self-certification system. The level of self-certification will be based on design experience, quality of submissions and number of approved designs. (7) GSE’s quoted prices for its contestable construction jobs are set in accordance with normal commercial principles as GSE is a State Owned Corporation. GSE has established a framework whereby all accounts associated with contestable works are separated (ring fenced) from accounts for non-contestable works. No cross-subsidies are permitted, and these accounts are audited regularly to ensure that full separation is maintained in practice and that IPART and ACCC requirements are met. (8) GSE has advised that, to the best of its knowledge, it has not approached any clients based on information available from the private sector provider, and that it only supplies quotes to customers or accredited private sector designers when requested by them. (9) Inspections by GSE of GSE works have located minor defects and non-compliance notices were issued for rectification as per the code of practice. No serious defects were recorded.

12 APRIL 2001

(Paper No. 88)

*1961 BEECROFT CENTRAL SERVICE—Mr O'Farrell to the Minister for Transport, and Minister for Roads—

(1) Was the 7.43am service from Beecroft to Central cancelled on 3 April 2001? (2) If so, why was it cancelled? (3) What information was given to commuters concerning the reasons for the cancellation? 2639 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS Wednesday 30 May 2001

(4) Will commuters normally catching this service be offered compensation for the inconvenience they experienced as a result of the cancellation of this service?

Answer—

I am advised by the State Rail Authority of the following: (1) Yes. (2) The service was cancelled due to a mechanical defect. (3) A message advising that the service was cancelled was relayed to stations along the line and staff were asked to communicate this to passengers. (4) CityRail is committed to improving customer service. CityRail’s Customer Service Commitment can be found on the Cityrail website.

*1962 POLICE IN KINGS CROSS—Mr Collins to the Minister for Police—

(1) During the Sydney 2000 Olympics, were police numbers reduced across most of the State in order to boost police available to manage Olympic crowds? (2) As part of Olympic planning, were police numbers reduced over a six week period in problematic areas such as Kings Cross? (3) Were sniffer dogs used in the Kings Cross area in order to boost police presence in the Kings Cross area over the same six week period? (4) Did the increased use of sniffer dogs reduce obvious drug trafficking over the six week period? (5) As a result of this operation, will the Police Department use sniffer dogs more extensively in areas where drug trafficking is a major problem such as Kings Cross and Cabramatta? (6) If so, what are the details of these plans?

Answer—

(1) to (2) The Police Service made arrangements to maximise the availability of police for normal policing activities across the State during the Olympics. (3) to (6) The deployment of police resources to particular areas is an operational issue determined by officers of the Police Service. Drug detection dogs are a statewide resource assigned to complement and support the needs of Local Area Commands for drug detection operations.

*1963 MOTOR VEHICLE SPEED ENFORCEMENT—Mr Mills to the Minister for Police—

(1) What are the reasons for the Police Service changing their long-standing practice in motor vehicle speed enforcement by: (a) advising print media in advance the locations where speed enforcement operations will occur; and (b) endorsing publication in radio call-back programs of listener advice of speed enforcement locations? (2) What road safety benefits, if any, have been identified by the Police Service to flow from publication of the location of police speed enforcement operations?

Answer—

(1) and (2) Police take a pro-active approach by advising motorists of these locations and the fact that enforcement will be taking place. Not only does this bring the risks of the site to public attention, but it also places the motorists on notice that if they ignore the warning, they can expect to be detected. I am advised that the results indicate the incidence of speeding at these locations has decreased, achieving the aim of preventing speeding at critical locations prone to road trauma. 2640 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS Wednesday 30 May 2001

Other methods of speed enforcement are continually being used, including mobile radar, laser based devices and speed checks. Motorists can therefore be subject to speed enforcement on any occasion and at any location in addition to the nominated sites.

*1964 DAMON COOPER—Mr Hartcher to the Attorney General, Minister for the Environment, Minister for Emergency Services, and Minister Assisting the Premier on the Arts—

(1) Has the Attorney General received a petition from 1,225 people expressing concern at the continued imprisonment of Damon Cooper, while the person who carried out the killing is a free man? (2) Will the Attorney General institute an inquiry into the circumstances of the death of Alan Hall and the conviction of Damon Cooper? (3) If not, why not?

Answer—

(1) Yes. (2) No. (3) A petition under s.474B of the Crimes Act 1900 on behalf of Mr Cooper for an inquiry into his conviction was fully considered and was rejected by the Governor in Council on 16 February 2000 on the grounds set out in s.474C(3)(a)(i) of the Act, that is, that the matters raised had already been fully dealt with in the proceedings giving rise to the conviction or sentence or in the proceedings on appeal from the conviction or sentence. Mr Cooper's Solicitors, Conditsis & Associates, were fully informed of the grounds for the refusal.

*1965 OFFENCES IN BOGGABILLA—Mr Hartcher to the Minister for Police—

(1) How many incidences of the following offences were committed in 2000 and 1999 respectively in the town of Boggabilla for the following offences: (a) theft of motor vehicle; (b) break and enter (dwelling); (c) entering without permission; (d) violence (including threats of violence, intimidation and assault)? (2) Of these incidences, how many were recidivist offences? (3) Is the Minister for Police aware that one offender in the town of Boggabilla has been arrested 27 times, charged with more than 60 offences, and is still free? (4) Please advise what action, if any, the Minister for Police will take to ensure the community of Boggabilla no longer has to deal with high levels of property crime and violence.

Answer—

(1) to (2) The Bureau of Crime Statistics and Research is the appropriate body to provide this information to the Honourable Member. (3) I am advised by the Deputy Commissioner that the offender in question was recently sentenced to 15 months imprisonment. (4) I am advised by the Deputy Commissioner that crime trends in Boggabilla are monitored by the Barwon LAC Crime Management Unit, which works closely with local police in developing effective crime prevention and reduction strategies. A number of successful joint operations have also been conducted with the Queensland Police Service.

*1966 PERFORMANCE MEASUREMENT—Mr Debnam to the Minister for Education and Training, representing the Treasurer, Minister for State Development and Vice-President of the Executive Council—

In relation to government policy on performance measurement in the General Government sector: 2641 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS Wednesday 30 May 2001

(1) (a) Are performance indicators in Annual Reports and the Budget Papers scrutinised by the Auditor-General in the same way as financial information? (b) If not, which additional powers does he intend to grant the Auditor-General to verify the integrity of performance measurements? (2) Does he intend granting authority to a body other than the Auditor-General to examine the appropriateness and relevance of performance indicators used by general government agencies or will the agencies themselves have sole discretion to nominate their own indicators? (3) Has the delay in implementing aspects of the 1998 working paper, “Fundamental Review of NSW Financial and Annual Reporting Legislation” led to the adoption of inappropriate performance indicators by some general government agencies?

Answer—

(1) (a) No (b) The Treasury’s working paper “ Fundamental Review of NSW Financial and Annual Reporting Legislation” proposes that the scope of an annual financial statement audit should be broadened to allow the Auditor-General to have the power to check the accuracy of Key performance indicators. (2) No. (3) No. Work has been undertaken in establishing an enhanced Financial Management Framework for General Government agencies. An outline of these development is contained in the Treasury document “The Financial Management Framework for the Government Sector” released in December 2000.

*1967 COUNCIL ON THE COST AND QUALITY OF GOVERNMENT—Mr Debnam to the Premier, Minister for the Arts, and Minister for Citizenship—

In relation to the Council on the Cost and Quality of Government: (1) What Service Efforts and Accomplishments reports have been undertaken and/or published by the Council in 2000/01? (2) What other reports or studies have been undertaken and/or published by the Council in 2000/01? (3) Which recommendations of the Council or its predecessor have been implemented in 2000/01?

Answer—

A copy of the Annual Report and Council information pamphlet, containing information on the activities of the council was distributed to all Ministers, Members of Parliament and Chief Executives in December 2000. In addition, the Council’s Website has been upgraded and all current documents are available on it. Considerable interest both in Australia and overseas has been generated in the council’s upgraded methodologies and processes judging by the number of visits to its Internet site. In the last month, the Council web site recorded 41,597 hits from over 40 different nations. Programs Reviews are conducted under the auspices of the Budget Committee of Cabinet. Council reports therefore are covered by the custom and practice of Cabinet confidentiality.

*1968 BUS ROUTES—Mr Debnam to the Minister for Transport, and Minister for Roads—

In relation to bus routes servicing the eastern suburbs: (1) In 1999/00 and 1998/99, what was the total revenue obtained from the operation of each of the following bus routes: (a) 321; (b) 361; (c) 365; (d) 366; (e) 380; 2642 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS Wednesday 30 May 2001

(f) 382; and (g) 389? (2) In 1999/00 and 1998/99, what was the average per journey and total number of passengers for each of the following bus routes : (a) 321; (b) 361; (c) 365; (d) 366; (e) 380; (f) 382; and (g) 389.

Answer—

(1) Bus Route 1999/00 - $ 1998/99 - $ 321 236,709 276,625 361 377,941 390,873 365 332,693 318,725 366 13,286 12,089 380 13,219,890 12,678,989 382 518,861 475,905 389 5,772,106 531,481 (2) Bus Route 1999/00 Passengers 1998/99 Passengers Total Average Total Average 321 163,064 14.11 177,909 15.39 361 234,110 3.67 254,905 14.85 365 199,699 13.64 199,515 13.6 366 8,366 2.47 8,026 2.37 380 8,293.447 49.33 8,358,519 53.24 382 331,373 38.04 320,087 36.74 389 3,610,578 48.95 3,622,343 49.2

*1969 MARKET RENT—Mr Humpherson to the Deputy Premier, Minister for Urban Affairs and Planning, Minister for Aboriginal Affairs, and Minister for Housing—

How many Department of Housing tenants were paying full market rent as at 31 March 2001 by region?

Answer—

I am advised that less than %10 of tenants were paying full market rent as at 31 March 2001.

*1970 BROXBOURNE ST, WESTMEAD—Mr Humpherson to the Deputy Premier, Minister for Urban Affairs and Planning, Minister for Aboriginal Affairs, and Minister for Housing—

(1) Is 19 Broxbourne Street, Westmead a Department of Housing property? (2) When was it vacated? (3) What will it cost to repair?

Answer—

(1) No (2) N/a (3) N/a 2643 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS Wednesday 30 May 2001

*1971 CAR REGISTRATION—Mr Humpherson to the Minister for Transport, and Minister for Roads—

(1) Which brand and type of car has NSW registration plate A11 09Z? (2) In what year was this vehicle first registered? (3) In what suburb (and postcode) is the vehicle registered? (4) Are there any unpaid infringement notices against the vehicle registration? (5) Does the registered owner(s) have a current NSW driver’s license?

(1) to (5) Answers to Mr Humpherson’s Questions on Notice cannot be provided due to Clause 18 of The Privacy and Personal Information Protection Act 1998 which limits the disclosure of personal information collected by public sector agencies. This information can be obtained under Freedom of Information, provided that consent is granted by the customer whose information is being sought.

*1972 CHATHAM ROAD, WEST RYDE—Mr Humpherson to the Minister for Fair Trading, Minister for Corrective Services, and Minister for Sport and Recreation—

(1) Is 37 Chatham Road, West Ryde owned by the Department of Corrective Services? (2) Is it operating as a ‘half way house’? (3) If so – for how long? (4) Have you received any complaints? (5) How many former offenders can it accommodate at any time? (6) How long do they stay there? (7) What is the policy for locating half way homes in the community and do you notify local residents of your intent in advance? (8) When was it purchased and for how much? (9) How much did redevelopment and/or refurbishment cost?

Answer—

(1) No. (2) to (6) Not applicable. (7) The Department of Corrective Services does not operate half-way houses in the community. (8) to (9) Not applicable.

*1973 GREATER MURRAY HEALTH SERVICE VEHICLES—Mr Glachan to the Minister for Health—

In relation to the Greater Murray Health Service: (1) How many cars are owned or leased by the service and what type of vehicles are they? (2) What total distance is travelled each year by those vehicles? (3) How many drivers are authorised to drive those vehicles? (4) How many vehicles are at the disposal of Government Appointed Board Members? (5) What has been the cost to the service of vehicle operation over this past three financial years? (6) How many accidents have the service’s owned or leased vehicles been involved in and what was the cost to the service of these accidents?

Answer—

(1) The Greater Murray Area Health Service owns 23 buses and12 trucks. It also leases 286 sedans/station wagons, 19 utilities and 4 ambulances. (2) 7,158,696 kilometres in the year 2000. 2644 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS Wednesday 30 May 2001

(3) All appropriately licensed Greater Murray Area Health Service employees are eligible drivers upon approved application. (4) Only the vehicle allocated under SES employment conditions to the Chief Executive Officer who is an ex-officio member of the Board. There are no dedicated vehicles for Board Members. Board Members have access to vehicles on approved applications for Area Health Service duties. (5) The total cost to service vehicles over the past three years is $6,301,873. (6) In 2000, there were 84 accidents. For 1999/00, the cost of accidents and repairs submitted for claims against insurance or carried out by the service totalled $150,000.

*1974 MIRANDA LAC—Mr Kerr to the Minister for Police—

What are the names of the Local Area Commanders appointed to Miranda Local Area Command since 1 August 1997?

Answer—

Superintendent Henry Karpik Acting Superintendent Stewart McNeice Acting Superintendent Laurie Pettiford Superintendent Frank Ryan Acting Superintendent Reg Mahoney I am advised that recruitment action to permanently fill the position is currently underway.

*1975 JOYNER STREET, WESTMEAD—Mr Humpherson to the Deputy Premier, Minister for Urban Affairs and Planning, Minister for Aboriginal Affairs, and Minister for Housing—

(1) How many complaints regarding maintenance need have been received by the Department of Housing by the tenant at 11 Joyner Street, Westmead? (2) Maintenance repairs have been requested and when were these requests made? (3) What maintenance repairs have been completed by the Department following the tenants requests? (4) Is there a leaking sewer under the house causing damp and mould and settlement of walls and cracking? (5) Is the damp and mould a source of health problems for this family including young children?

Answer—

I am advised that: (1) Current tenancy commenced on 27 March 2000 and since that time 19 requests for maintenance to be carried out have been received. (2) 27/3/00 Repair gas leak. Completed 16/4/00 Ease stuck window. Completed 16/4/00 Renew 4 light battens. Completed 24/4/00 Repair Gar Hot Water System. Completed 18/5/00 Renew spout in kitchen. Completed 10/6/00 Re-washer tap. Completed 10/6/00 Repair rangehood. Completed 14/7/00 Renew shower rose. Completed 4/8/00 Ceiling mouldy. Tenant advised to clean down with sugar soap 14/8/00 Repair water leak at meter Completed 6/9/00 Repair power point. Completed 28/9/00 Clear sewer choke. Completed 3/10/00 Renew bath spout. Completed 17/10/00 Repair roof tiles. Completed 13/1/01 Renew light baton. Completed 2645 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS Wednesday 30 May 2001

16/1/01 Re-ram loose fence posts. Completed 27/3/01 Technical Inspection. Bath enamel scratched by contractor. NFA 6/4/01 Technical Inspection. Kitchen floor board was need of maintenance and was placed on planned maintenance for 2001/2002 16/5/01 Repair water leak at meter. Completed. (3) Refer to (2) above. (4) Apart from a sewer choke in September 2000 there has been no report of the sewer line leaking under the house nor reports or complaints about settlement cracks in the dwelling. (5) The tenant has not submitted any medical documentation at all during the course of this tenancy.

*1976 PERISHER STP CATCH BALANCE POND—Mr Webb to the Attorney General, Minister for the Environment, Minister for Emergency Services, and Minister Assisting the Premier on the Arts—

In regard to my question to you (number 1604), where I incorrectly named the piece of sewerage infrastructure associated with the Perisher STP as a holding dam: (1) Are you satisfied about the integrity of the Perisher STP Catch Balance Pond? (2) What is the designed role of the Catch Balance Pond in the treatment of sewage at Perisher? (3) What is the designed life of the waterproof membrane lining that separates effluent from ground water? (4) If the pond plays an integral role in sewage treatment at perisher, what mechanisms are in place to prevent future sewage spills into Perisher Creek in the event of overload or breakdown in the treatment and storage system? (5) Do you acknowledge that reporting mechanisms for sewage spills aren’t going to prevent effluent spills into alpine creeks and rivers and are like “closing the gate after the horse has bolted”?

(1) The Department of Public Works and Services has designed numerous pond structures for sewage treatment purposes across the State and the independent geotechnical firm Pells, Sullivan and Meynick have assessed the Catch/Balance Pond for stability and the ability to separate effluent from groundwater and have no concerns. (2) (a) To provide buffer storage, to intercept any loss of sludge from the Aeration Tanks, in the event of a process malfunction (b) To provide a balancing storage, to attenuate the intermittent flow of effluent from the Aeration Tanks, into a more even flow through the UV Disinfection Station (c) To provide a facility for post-dosing of alum, to reduce phosphorus levels in the effluent. (3) Advice from Anthony Fontana of GSE, supplier of the liner for the Perisher STP Catch Pond, is that it should have an indefinite life as it is protected by the concrete on top. However, he suggests that the life of the liner should be at least 50 years, which is what is assumed in design of concrete structures for treatment works. (4) The mechanisms in place to prevent future sewage spills into Perisher Creek in the event of overload or breakdown of the sewerage system are as follows: Pump Stations (a) Power Supply Automatic standby power supply (ie. diesel generator) in the event of mains failure. (b) Pumps Automatic standby pump, in the event of failure of the duty pump. Additional standby pump, in the event of failure of the automatic standby pump. (c) Control System Automatic standby start and stop, in the event of failure of the level controller. (d) Hydraulic 2646 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS Wednesday 30 May 2001

Overflow tanks, to provide emergency storage, in the event of failure of any of the above standby facilities. (e) Lightning Protection Lightning protection and earthing system, to protect electrical switchgear and controls, in the event of lightning strike. Alarm System Telemetry alarm monitoring system to warn of high flows. Treatment Plant (a) Power Supply Automatic standby power supply (ie. diesel generator), in the event of mains failure. In-line UPS (Uninterruptable Power Supply) with battery back-up to provide continuous filtered 24 volt power to the PLC (Programmable Logic Control) and instrumentation and controls. Normal standby 24 volt power supply unit. (b) Pumps (Inlet Pump Station) Automatic standby pump, in the event of failure of the duty pump. Additional manual standby pump, in the event of failure of the automatic standby pump. (c) Control System (Inlet Pump Station) Automatic standby start and stop, in the event of failure of the level controller. (d) Hydraulic Overflow line from Inlet Pump Station to 1 x 2000 EP (Equivalent Person) Aeration Tank, in the event of failure of any of the above automatic standby facilities [NB. Contract awarded for an additional overflow line to 1 x 4000 EP Aeration Tank] Overflow outlet from Catch/Balance Pond, above design top water level, to prevent scouring of the embankment, in the event of blockage or restriction at the UV Disinfection Station. (e) Aeration Blowers Automatic standby blowers, in the event of failure of any of the duty blowers. Manual changeover to direct drive, in the event of failure of the variable speed drive unit. (f) Lightning Protection Lightning protection and earthing system to protect electrical switchgear and controls, in the event of lightning strike. (g) Alarm System Telemetry alarm monitoring system to warn of: · High levels in the Inlet Pump Station, Aeration Tanks Catch/Balance Pond. · Malfunction of mechanical/electrical equipment such as pumps, aeration blowers, automatic valves, 24 volt power supply, PLC etc. (h) Programme Input Programmable panels to allow programming of operating parameters in the event of failure of the SCADA (Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition) system. (5) No.

*1977 TEACHER HOUSING—Mr Webb to the Minister for Education and Training—

Of the 1553 dwellings held in the Teacher Housing Authorities portfolio: (1) How many are in: (a) Queanbeyan? (b) Other centres in the Monaro electorate? (2) What is the classification of these dwellings, villa units, houses or residences? (3) How many beds are involved? (4) What is the number of beds that are currently occupied? (5) Is there a shortfall? (6) Are the existing dwellings all furnished? (7) Will they continue to be furnished? (8) If not, then why not? 2647 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS Wednesday 30 May 2001

(9) Do travel reimbursements adequately cover the costs of buying basic furniture and essential household appliances and transporting them to the dwelling?

Answer—

(1) (a) Nil. (b) 33. (2) The Teacher Housing Authority of NSW (THA) classifies its dwellings as either houses or villa units. There are 23 houses and 10 villa units in the Monaro electorate. (3) Houses are 2, 3 or 4 bedroom configuration. Villa units have 2 bedrooms. There are 76 bedrooms in THA houses and 20 bedrooms in villa units in the Monaro electorate. (4) There are currently 9 dwellings (25 bedrooms) vacant. (5) The THA has no outstanding demand from teachers for accommodation in the electorate. (6) THA houses are not (and have never been) furnished by the Authority. Last year the THA changed its policy and no longer provides or replaces furniture in villa units. However, the “grandfather” provisions of the new policy provide for the retention of the furniture in existing villa units until it becomes unserviceable. In the Monaro electorate: · The new policy has no impact on the four tenants in furnished villa units who had existing leases at the time the policy changed (September 1, 2000). · Two tenants have entered into leases for villa units on an unfurnished basis (even though furniture is still in the units) since September 1, 2000. · Four villa units are presently vacant. (7) The THA is presently reviewing the policy on providing furniture in villa units. Continuation of the present policy is conditional on the results of the review. (8) See (7) above. (9) The Department of Education and Training does, in certain instances , provide a relocation subsidy to teachers on first employment or re-employment. This includes a per kilometre rate for motor vehicle travel and assistance in terms of removal expenses. Teachers who are transferred at Departmental expense may also be provided with monetary assistance to defray the cost of personal transport and removal expenses associated with their relocation. These provisions are not designed to cover the costs of buying basic furniture and essential household appliances.

*1978 GALSTON ROAD FUNDS—Mr O'Doherty to the Minister for Transport, and Minister for Roads—

Will the Minister ensure funds are available in the coming budget for work to begin on much needed improvements to Galston Road?

Answer—

Consideration will be given to the funding of this project in the forthcoming State Budget. However, the Government must base its funding decisions on an objective priority basis.

*1979 GALSTON ROAD PROPOSALS—Mr O'Doherty to the Minister for Transport, and Minister for

Will the Minister ensure that the Galston Road improvement proposals, promised by his department for March, are released without delay?

Answer— 2648 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS Wednesday 30 May 2001

A plan showing the proposed improvements will be exhibited in Hornsby Library during May 2001. The display will be advertised in the local newspaper seeking community comments on the proposed work.

*1980 CITY EAST POLICE STATIONS—Ms Moore to the Minister for Police—

Concerning the future of police stations in the City East region: (1) Who owns the land and buildings for the Police Stations/Shopfronts at: (a) Bondi, Hastings Parade; (b) Broadway, Regent Street; (c) City of Sydney, Day Street; (d) Kings Cross, Elizabeth Bay Road; (e) Malabar, Anzac Parade; (f) Maroubra, Maroubra Road; (g) Mascot, Botany Road; (h) Paddington, Jersey Road; (i) Pyrmont, Harris Street; (j) Randwick, Alison Road; (k) Redfern, Turner Street; (l) Rose Bay, Wunulla Road; (m) Surry Hills, Goulburn Street; (n) The Rocks, George Street; (o) Town Hall, George Street; (p) Waverley, Bronte Road; and (q) Woolloomooloo, Cathedral Street. (2) What is the estimated value for each of the Government owned Police Stations/Shopfronts in question 1? (3) Which of these properties have been identified in NSW Police Service documentation for possible sale by the owner? (4) What is the nature of the proposals for the properties identified in 3?

Answer—

(1) I am advised that several of these properties are owned by the NSW Police Service while others are leased. (2) I am advised that for commercial reasons the Police Service does not comment on the estimated value of properties. (3) to (4) As the Honourable is aware the Government will not endorse any proposal for City East unless there is a guaranteed increase in the number of police on the streets fighting crime, quicker response times and better working conditions for frontline police.

*1981 BOWNING DEVIATION—Ms Hodgkinson to the Minister for Transport, and Minister for Roads—

(1) Is the Minister aware of the significant safety concerns of the Yass Shire Council regarding the Roads and Traffic Authority’s proposal to allow B-Double traffic through the village of Bowning? (2) Will the Minister give a commitment that he will not declare Bowning Village a B-double route?

Answer—

(1) Yes. (2) The Burley Griffin Way through the village of Bowning will not be designated a B-Double route until such time as the Roads and Traffic Authority (RTA), in consultation with Yass Shire Council, assess that the travelling conditions conform to the RTA guidelines for approving B-Double routes. Various options to provide B-Doubles trucks with safe movements at the Bowning Bridge and 2649 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS Wednesday 30 May 2001

adjacent road junction are being investigated, including a proposal discussed by Yass Council for the installation of traffic signals to control a single lane operation.

*1982 CONDITION 41—Ms Moore to the Deputy Premier, Minister for Urban Affairs and Planning, Minister for Aboriginal Affairs, and Minister for Housing—

Given that approval Condition 41 for the Eastern Distributor tollway project required that “All affected property (including any affected buildings, structures, lawns, trees, sheds, gardens etc.) shall be fully restored to at least the condition it was in prior to disturbance at no cost to the owner(s)…”: (1) What action has been taken by the Minister or his Department to ensure that persons with a right to make claim under Condition 41 are aware of their right and the process for making a claim? (2) How many complaints has the Minister received that Condition 41 has not been complied with by the project’s construction company, and that homes or property remain damaged or have been

(3) How many of the complaints received by the Minister have been resolved to the satisfaction of the complainant? (4) How many complaints are still being investigated? (5) What process is being used to review these complaints to ensure that Condition 41 is being fully complied with? (6) Has the Minister obtained advice and assessment about all complaints that is fully independent from information provided by the project’s proponent, operator or construction company? (7) If not, what assurance does the Minister have that there is no conflict of interest in the advice provided by bodies that may be required to pay for compensation or restitution? (8) What further avenues of review are available for persons who remain unsatisfied that Condition 41 has not been effectively enforced as a result of the Minister’s initial review?

(1) The Conditions of Approval for the Eastern Distributor are publicly available and DUAP can provide advice on their interpretation if necessary. (2) 19. (3) 12. (4) 7. (5) Whilst not explicitly stipulated in the condition, the process is for the complainant to write to the RTA, and if not satisfied with RTA's internal process, then write to DUAP. DUAP follows up the RTA on a monthly basis regarding outstanding claims and pursues all unresolved claims. I am advised that the RTA has also an independent review process. (6) DUAP has independently reviewed each complaint. (7) Not Applicable. (8) Independent mediation services are available and can be facilitated by DUAP.

*1983 STREET POLICE—Ms Moore to the Minister for Police—

Given statements by various senior personnel in the NSW Police Service that the “revised service delivery model” will put 200 to 230 extra police on the streets in the City East Region: (1) What duties are these officers currently performing which prevent them from being “on the

(2) What police stations or other facilities are these officers currently working in? (3) What number of police from each facility identified in (2) above will be freed up to be “on the streets” if the “revised service delivery model” is implemented? (4) How will the work currently being done by these officers be undertaken following the implementation of a revised service delivery model? (5) Is it correct that there are approximately 2,500 police engaged full-time on police station duties in 507 police stations across NSW, for an average of 4.9 officers in each police station? 2650 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS Wednesday 30 May 2001

(6) If so, why is this average substantially lower than the average of over 35 police per station to be freed up for street duty by the proposed closure of up to six police stations in the City East Region? What alternatives to station closures are being explored to free up police from duties that prevent them from being “on the street”?

Answer—

(1) to (6) The Honourable Member may be assured that the Government will not endorse any restructuring plan unless it increases policing of local crime, decreases police response times to local crime and improves working conditions for frontline police.

29 MAY 2001

(Paper No. 89)

1984 OVINE JOHNE'S DISEASE PROGRAM—Mr Armstrong to Minister for Agriculture, and Minister for

(1) What has been the success or otherwise of the State Government’s decision to impose a levy on all NSW sheep producers towards the National Ovine Johne’s Disease Program. (2) How many sheep producers were sent notices to pay the voluntary levy? (3) What percentage of sheep producers paid the levy? (4) What percentage of the collected levy has been spent on the Ovine Johne’s Disease Program? (5) How has the money been allocated under the Ovine Johne’s Disease Program? (6) What action will be taken to recover the OJD levy from eligible sheep producers who fail or refuse to pay the levy?

1985 UNFILLED POSITIONS—Mr Armstrong to Minister for Agriculture, and Minister for Land and Water

(1) What is number of all positions – permanent, casual and part-time that remain unfilled within the NSW Department of Agriculture as at 30 December 2000?

1986 AVOS—Mr Armstrong to Minister for Police—

(1) How many AVOs were issued in NSW in 2000? (2) How many AVOs were issued in NSW in 1999? (3) How many AVOs were issued in 2000 in the following Local Area Commands: (a) Griffith Local Area Command? (b) Cootamundra Local Area Command? (c) Wagga Wagga Local Area Command? (d) Lachlan Local Area Command? (e) Canobolas Local Area Command?

1987 SCOTTS CREEK VENT—Mr Collins to Minister for Information Technology, Minister for Energy, Minister for Forestry, and Minister for Western Sydney—

(1) In view of the Scotts Creek’s vent’s immediate proximity to Glenaeon School’s playground, is the Minister aware that highly qualified experts have advised that particular people, especially children 2651 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS Wednesday 30 May 2001

and the aged, could be adversely affected by the vent emissions- eg those with severe asthma, or those on medication which suppresses their immune system? (2) Is the Minister aware that the Glenaeon School is trying to fulfil its duty of care to these children by removing them from the vicinity when the vent is active, but that Sydney Water has said that as a matter of principle it will not notify the school when the Scotts Creek vent is operating? Is the Minister aware that as a result the School is having to ring Sydney Water at least once a day to ask whether the vent is operating the vent is operating, and has no guarantee that appropriate staff will always be available to answer the question, or that the vent will not start operating at some later stage in the day? Does the Minister agree that the onus should not be on the school to ring Sydney Water every day to determine whether the vent is operating? (3) Will the Minister direct Sydney Water to notify the Glenaeon school directly, or a nominated school officer if outside school hours, when the Scotts Creek vent is about to operate so that the school can fulfil its duty of care? (4) Will the Minister direct Sydney Water to take action so that pregnant, immune-suppressed or otherwise medically sensitive residents can know when the vent is operating and can therefore choose to remove themselves from the vicinity? (5) Will the Minister direct Sydney Water to install a flashing light or other visual indication on the Scotts Creek vent so that bushwalkers and residents can remove themselves from the area to avoid exposure to the emissions? (6) Now that extra filters have been installed on the Scotts Creek vent, largely as a result of Mediation between Sydney Water and the community, will the Glenaeon School, which is non-profit organisation, and Willoughby Council be reimbursed for their expenses incurred in that Mediation? (7) Is the Minister aware that several families have withdrawn their children from Glenaeon School because of the Scotts Creek vent and in particular because of Sydney Water’s refusal to commit to informing the school that the vent will be operating? Will Glenaeon School, a non-profit educational establishment, be compensated for loss of income from students leaving the school because of the vent?

1988 HEALTH EFFECTS FROM NORTHSIDE STORAGE TUNNEL VENT—Mr Collins to Minister for

(1) The Health Department convened a Panel of Experts to examine to health effects of emissions from the Northside Storage Tunnel vent at Scotts Creek. (a) Can the Minister explain why the opinions of that Health Panel have been accepted by the State Government given that they did not meet the most fundamental of the three of their Terms of Reference, ie that its advice be “evidence based”? (b) Can the Minister explain why the Health Department has been unable to produce any documents showing how they were briefed on the workings of the Northside Storage Tunnel, the Scotts Creek vent and filter system? (2) During Mediation, a different health panel was convened, which in the interests of impartiality was briefed jointly by Sydney Water and the community in Mediation? If not, why not? (3) Can the Minister expla in why the Expert Health panel did not examine the effects of possible toxins in gaseous emissions from trade waste and any other chemical dumps into the sewer?

1989 SCOTTS CREEK VENT—Mr Collins to Deputy Premier, Minister for Urban Affairs and Planning, Minister for Aboriginal Affairs, and Minister for Housing—

(1) The Northside Storage Tunnel operating conditions are currently being assessed by DUAP, through the approval process for the Environmental Operations Managements Plan (OEMP)? Will the Minister support the community’s calls for controls on the operations of the Scotts Creek vent to be incorporated into the OEMP? 2652 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS Wednesday 30 May 2001

In particular, will the Minister insist that the conditions include the following:

(a) Notification of the Glenaeon School when the vent is about to operate so children whose parents believe they may be sensitive to emissions can be removed from the vicinity? (b) A flashing light or other indication that the vent is about to operating, so that bushwalkers and others can avoid exposure to the emissions? (as recommended by the Waterways Advisory panel final report?) (c) Monitoring for legionella growth in the filters as recommended by the Legislative Council Standing Committee report? (d) Monitoring for other pathogens in the emissions as recommended by the Legislative Council Standing Committee report? (e) Monitoring for gaseous emissions from trade waste and any other chemical dumps into the sewer? (f) Maintenance of the final filters at least to the appropriate Australian Standard? (2) The Northside Storage Tunnel Community Liaison Committees were disbanded by Sydney Water before the Tunnel was commissioned, leaving the Community Liaison Committees be re-formed for at least another year until it is established that the vent facilities are satisfactory?

1990 POLICE CITIZENS YOUTH CLUBS —Ms Seaton to Minister for Police—

(1) Have you or any officers of the NSW Police Service discussed the possible handing over of Police Citizens Youth Clubs (PCYC) from Police Service to local government? (2) Which PCYC are planned to be cut from Police Service management? (3) How police resources be stripped from PCYC in any handovers to councils? (4) How many councils have been approached regrading changes to the management and ownership of PCYC? (5) Which councils have been approached about such changes?

1991 SYDNEY CATCHMENT AUTHORITY —Ms Seaton to Attorney General, Minister for the Environment, Minister for Emergency Services, and Minister Assisting the Premier on the Arts—

Regarding the opening of the Sydney Catchment Authority Office in (a) Moss Vale (b) Goulburn (1) How many community members were invited? (2) How many staff members from SCA HQ in Penrith attended? (3) How many State-government media officers were involved? (4) What was the cost of catering for the functions? (5) What was the cost in lost productivity of State agency staff? (6) Why have you refused to locate all SCA staff within the catchment?

1992 GRAFFITI—Mr Piccoli to Premier, Minister for the Arts, and Minister for Citizenship—

I relation to the Government’s 3 million Graffiti Solutions Program:

(1) Is the Government considering a ban on the sale of spray paint to children under sixteen years of age? (2) If not, why not? (3) Does the Government view such a ban as an extreme measure? 2653 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS Wednesday 30 May 2001

1993 GUN CONTROL—Mr Piccoli to Premier, Minister for the Arts, and Minister for Citizenship—

(1) How much funding does the NSW Government provide to the National Coalition for Gun Control? (2) Has the NSW Government provided any grants or any funding of any kind to the Coalition for Gun Control?

1994 EXEMPTIONS TO CHEQUE CASHING RESTRICTIONS—Mr Oakeshott to Minister for Gaming and Racing, and Minister Assisting the Premier on Hunter Development—

(1) How many registered clubs and hotels in NSW have been granted exemptions to cheque cashing restrictions? (2) What have been the list of reasons for the exemptions?

1995 SPEECH THERAPY—Mr Torbay to Minister for Health—

Can the Minister advise what action has been taken to maintain speech therapy services in the Glen Innes area?

1996 FISH FINGERLINGS—Mr Torbay to Minister for Local Government, Minister for Regional Development, and Minister for Rural Affairs, representing the Minister for Mineral Resources and Minister for Fisheries—

Can the Minister indicate why no fish fingerlings were released in the New England area with one exception (Pindari Dam) in the 1999-2000 year? How does this occur in light of the Recreational Fishing Licence Fee that is supposed to be used for restocking? 1997 NEW ENGLAND REGION—Mr Torbay to Minister for Local Government, Minister for Regional Development, and Minister for Rural Affairs, representing the Minister for Mineral Resources and Minister for Fisheries—

(1) Why is it necessary to have a NSW Fishing Licence to carry fishing gear in NSW to fish in Queensland? (2) What fish fingerlings were released in the New England region in the 1999-2000 season and where were they released?

1998 CCTV STATISTICS—Mr Kerr to Attorney General, Minister for the Environment, Minister for Emergency Services, and Minister Assisting the Premier on the Arts—

What statistics are kept of the number of times Closed Circuit Television data has led to the successful identification and conviction of a suspect?

1999 KURNELL LAND—Mr Kerr to Deputy Premier, Minister for Urban Affairs and Planning, Minister for Aboriginal Affairs, and Minister for Housing—

Who owns the area of land zoned 6(a) with boundaries of the Caltex Oil Refinery, Reserve Road, Cook Street and the Botany Bay National Park at Kurnell?

2000 CHARGING FACILITIES—Mr Kerr to Minister for Police—

(1) Are there full charging facilities at Cronulla Police Station? (2) What are these facilities? (3) In the event of an offender being arrested in Kurnell where would that offender be charged? 2654 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS Wednesday 30 May 2001

2001 GRANTS COMMISSION INQUIRY—Mr Debnam to Minister for Education and Training, representing the Treasurer, Minister for State Development and Vice-President of the Executive Council—

In relation to the review of the Commonwealth Grants Commission announced in your 26 March press release, “States Form Alliance to Reform Commonwealth-State Financial Relations”: (1) Which “high-profile, credible and experienced person” has been chosen to chair the inquiry? (2) Who else will form part of the inquiry committee? (3) What are the terms of reference of the announced inquiry? (4) When will the inquiry formally commence and when will a report and/or set of recommendations be produced?

2002 PREMIER'S DEPARTMENT WEBSITE—Mr Debnam to Premier, Minister for the Arts, and Minister for Citizenship—

In relation to the Premier’s Department website: (1) How is the indicator of visitor numbers that appears at the bottom of the Premier’s Department home page computed? (2) What data is collected on the characteristics of visitors to the Premier’s Department website and what is done with it? (3) Does the website allow data to be collected on: (a) The number of visits to specific parts of the site? (b) The number of repeat visits to specific parts of the site? (c) The domain name and/or server of visitors to the website? (d) The location of visitors to the website? (e) The email address of visitors to the website?

2003 GOVERNMENT CHARGES—Mr Debnam to Minister for Education and Training, representing the Treasurer, Minister for State Development and Vice-President of the Executive Council—

In relation to CPI linked increases in government charges: (1) In advice prepared for the Statutory and Other Offices Remuneration Tribunal’s 2000 determination on Senior Executive Service remuneration, did NSW Treasury forecast that “the Consumer Price Index for Sydney will be 3 percent but will reach 6 percent because of the GST”? (2) Is he aware of the Commonwealth Treasurer’s press release of 24 April 2001 which states that the one-off inflationary impact from The New Tax System was around 3 percentage points? (3) Is he aware of the RBA’s May 2001 “Statement on Monetary Policy” which states that of 6 percent inflation for the year to March, around 3 percentage points are likely to be the effect of the GST and other tax measures? (4) Given the above, why, in Treasury Circular 01/09, “Consumer Price Index Discount Factor for the Impact of Indirect Tax Reform”, has he applied a GST discount factor of just 2.5 percentage points and why has his own assessment departed from that of NSW Treasury, Commonwealth Treasury and the RBA?

2004 POWER POLE INSPECTIONS—Ms Hodgkinson to Minister for Information Technology, Minister for Energy, Minister for Forestry, and Minister for Western Sydney—

(1) How many power poles are there within the area formerly covered by Great Southern Energy? (2) In the last five years how many of these power poles have failed? (3) What was the location and cause of each of these failures? 2655 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS Wednesday 30 May 2001

(4) How much property and stock damage was caused by fires resulting from these failures? (5) What is the estimated cost to Country Energy of conducting the industry standard inspections of these power poles every 4.5 years? (6) What would be the additional cost of conducting inspections at intervals of (a) 3 years? (b) 2 years?

2005 FUNDING OF ASTRONOMICAL OBSERVATORIES—Ms Hodgkinson to Minister for Education and Training—

(1) Under what Department of Education funding allocation was the 1998 grant of $10,000 to the University of Western Sydney to assist with the setting up of a telescope for astronomical observations made available? (2) Was the grant arranged by the former Member for Campbelltown, the Hon M. Knight?

2006 BRUNGLE MEMORIAL HALL—Ms Hodgkinson to Minister for Local Government, Minister for Regional Development, and Minister for Rural Affairs—

Under what funding arrangements did the Department of Local Government provide a grant of $2, 000 to the Tumut Shire Council for the Brungle Memorial Hall during 1985?

2007 OFFICIAL OVERSEAS TRAVEL—Mr Hazzard to Minister for Community Services, Minister for Ageing, Minister for Disability Services, and Minister for Women—

In relation to the overseas trip taken by you in May 2001: (1) What was the itinerary (specify each point of arrival, departure and overnight stay)? (2) What was the total cost, including all government officials travelling with you? (3) Who travelled with you from the Ministry or your Departments? (4) Specify what class of travel by air and the total cost of each journey? (5) Specify each hotel at which you stayed and the cost thereof? (This question relates only to your travel as a Minister and seeks no information on private travel or private persons accompanying you.)

2008 UNALLOCATED CASES—Mr Hazzard to Minister for Community Services, Minister for Ageing, Minister for Disability Services, and Minister for Women—

(1) When did you last seek advice or briefing from your Department as to the number of reports of child abuse that are categorized as “unallocated”? (2) What details were given to you (specify the numbers advised to you) in the last 12 months? (3) If you have not received any information regarding unallocated cases, when will you ask for such information?

2009 SEWERAGE PROVISION—Mr O'Doherty to Minister for Information Technology, Minister for Energy, Minister for Forestry, and Minister for Western Sydney—

In view of the recommendation of the Regulation Review Committee, will you now commit to funding in the short term and provide a timetable for sewerage provision at Brooklyn/Dangar Island, Cowan and Mt Kuring-gai industrial area? 2656 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS Wednesday 30 May 2001

2010 CLOSURE OF WAKEHURST PARKWAY—Mr Brogden to Minister for Transport, and Minister for Roads—

(1) On how many occasions has the Wakehurst Parkway been closed due to flooding since 1 January 2001? (2) On how many occasions was the Wakehurst Parkway closed due to flooding in 2000, 1999 and 1998?

2011 AVALON POLICE STATION—Mr Brogden to Minister for Police—

(1) Is the Avalon Police Station staffed and open? (2) If so, when? (3) If so, how often? (4) If so, how many Police are on duty on these occasions? (5) If so, how many civilian staff are on duty?

2012 MONA VALE POLICE STATION—Mr Brogden to Minister for Police—

(1) What are the hours of operation of the Mona Vale Police Station? (2) Is the station ever unattended? (3) How many Police are on duty at the Station? 2013 NPWS AIRCRAFT—Ms Seaton to Attorney General, Minister for the Environment, Minister for Emergency Services, and Minister Assisting the Premier on the Arts—

(1) Does the National Parks and Wildlife Service own, lease or operate any aircraft or helicopters? (2) How many trips have been taken in NSW by NPWS officers on such aircraft since 1 January 2001? (3) Where are these aircraft based? (4) How many trips were conducted in the Kosciuszko, Namadgi or other southern area National Parks? (5) When were these trips conducted, who were the passengers and what was the purpose of the trip?

2014 FUEL PRICE—Mr Souris to Minister for Fair Trading, Minister for Corrective Services, and Minister for Sport and Recreation—

(1) Is he aware of the FuelWatch website run by the Western Australian Ministry of Fair Trading’s Petroleum Pricing Unit which “not only informs the community for fuel prices in advance, but monitors the compliance of fuel retailers to ensure a better deal for WA motorists”? (2) Does he plan to develop a similar website in NSW? (3) If not, why not? (4) What measures have been implemented to bring transparency to the wholesale and retail sectors of the fuel industry in NSW for the benefit of the NSW motoring public?

2015 GENETICALLY MODIFIED ORGANISMS—Mr Souris to Minister for Agriculture, and Minister for Land and Water Conservation—

(1) Is he aware of the proposed trials of genetically modified canola in NSW in 2001? (2) Will the NSW Department of Agriculture monitor trials of genetically modified canola in NSW? (3) If not, why not? (4) Does he support the concept of GMO free zones within NSW? (5) If not, why not? 2657 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS Wednesday 30 May 2001

(6) Will the trials of genetically modified canola in NSW restrict the establishment of GMO free zones in NSW? (7) How will the NSW Department of Agriculture protect primary producers in NSW from any consumer backlash against genetically modified food products?

2016 DEMOUNTABLE CLASSROOMS—Mr Stoner to Minister for Education and Training—

As at 30/4/01, how many demountables were in use in NSW public schools?

2017 VEHICLE ACCIDENTS—Mr Humpherson to Minister for Health—

What was the registration number of the North Coast Community Company vehicle which was involved in an accident on 23rd July 1999?

2018 PRIVATE RENTALS—Mr Humpherson to Deputy Premier, Minister for Urban Affairs and Planning, Minister for Aboriginal Affairs, and Minister for Housing—

(1) How many properties does the Department manage in each Local Government area (including community housing and Aboriginal housing)? (2) Does the Department of Housing own any properties which it rents/leases on the private rental market? If so how many in each Local Government area? (3) If owned, why are these retained in public ownership?

2019 WAITING TIMES—Mr Humpherson to Deputy Premier, Minister for Urban Affairs and Planning, Minister for Aboriginal Affairs, and Minister for Housing—

(1) How long has the person waiting longest on any waiting list been waiting? (2) Why aren’t records kept of how many households were placed in public housing by region (as per your answer to question 1617)? (3) Why do you not know how many households received rental assistance by region in 1999/2000 (as per your answer to question 1617)? (4) Why do you not know what the value of assistance is for rental assistance, as per your answer to question 1617? If you do know, what is it? (5) What are the average and median waiting times for (non-crisis) Department of Housing by region?

2020 FOX COMPLEX DEVELOPMENT CONSENT—Ms Moore to Deputy Premier, Minister for Urban Affairs and Planning, Minister for Aboriginal Affairs, and Minister for Housing—

Concerning Development Applications (DA) assessed by the Department of Urban Affairs and Planning related to the Fox complex at Moore Park: (1) What is the DA number, brief description and date of application of all DAs received by the Department from Fox? (2) Which of these DAs were advertised for public consultation and what were the dates of advertisements? (3) Which of these DAs have received consent and what was the date of consent? (4) Which of these DAs have been refused consent and what was the date of refusal? (5) Which of these development consents included conditions as a result of public comment/consultation and what is the nature of the conditions? 2658 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS Wednesday 30 May 2001

2021 MAINTENANCE CONTRACTS—Ms Moore to Minister for Education and Training—

Concerning maintenance for Government schools in New South Wales: (1) What standards govern maintenance contracts and contractors of State government schools? (2) How often does the Department of Education review maintenance contracts and contractors against standards set? (3) What mechanisms exist to ensure that standards set by the Department are enforced?

2022 SCHOOL TOILETS—Ms Moore to Minister for Education and Training—

Concerning toilets in Government schools in New South Wales: (1) Does the Department of Education have guidelines which recommend the number of toilets to be made available in relation to the number of students in a school? (2) Are there any schools in New South Wales which do not meet the requirements for toilet facilities? (3) What mechanisms exist to ensure that all schools meet the departmental requirements?

2023 POLICE PROMOTIONS SYSTEM—Mr Tink to Minister for Police—

(1) How many complaints has the NSW Police Service received from concerned members of the Police Service regarding the Police promotions system? (2) How did the NSW Police Service deal with these complaints? (3) How much has it cost in time and money to deal with these complaints?

2024 JUDGE PHELAN—Mr Tink to Attorney General, Minister for the Environment, Minister for Emergency Services, and Minister Assisting the Premier on the Arts—

(1) When was a complaint from Mr. Scott Tucker against His Honour Judge P. Phelan of the District Court received by the Judicial Commission of New South Wales? (2) As at 30 September 1997 when Judge Phelan retired as a Judge of the District Court what specific steps had been taken by the Commission to investigate Mr. Tucker’s complaint? (3) What if any steps were taken under Section 18(1) of the Act to conduct a preliminary examination of Mr. Tucker’s complaint? (4) What if any inquiries did the Commis sion undertake under Section 18 (2) of the Act in relation to Mr. Tucker’s complaint? (5) In relation to Section 19 of the Act did the Commission classify the complaint as minor or did the Commission classify the complaint as serious? (6) In relation to Section 21 of the Act was the complaint referred to the Conduct Division and if so when did this occur and if not, why not? Or alternatively was the complaint referred to the relative Head of Jurisdiction under Section 21(2) of the Act and if so when did this occur? (7) Under Section 23(1) of the Act was the complaint examined by the Conduct Division and if so when? (8) Under Section 23(2) of the Act did the Conduct Division initiate any investigations into the subject matter of complaint? (9) What was the precise substance of the advice that the Commission received as to the resignation of Judge Phelan effective from 30 September 1997? (10) Was Judge Phelan the subject of any other complaint or complaints at the time of his retirement? If so, what were they? 2659 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS Wednesday 30 May 2001

2025 JURY INTIMIDATION—Mr Tink to Attorney General, Minister for the Environment, Minister for Emergency Services, and Minister Assisting the Premier on the Arts—

Since 1 July 2000, how many jurors have complained of any form of intimidation, threat or duress during or following the jury service?

2026 PEAK PERIOD CANBERRA—SYDNEY SERVICE—Mr Webb to Minister for Transport, and

Why is it that Countrylink does not provide an additional carriage or carriages to the existing three on the Canberra-Queanbeyan-Sydney service at Easter, Christmas and other historic or well-known peak periods to cater for the increased demand from the public?

2027 PENSIONER CONCESSION COUNTRYLINK BOOKINGS—Mr Webb to Minister for Transport, and

Can the Minister advise why elderly constituents in receipt of pensioner concession cards are required to travel up to 150 kilometre round journeys to book a ticket for travel on Countrylink services whereas previously this information was relayed and acceptable via a telephone booking?

2028 FIREARMS REGISTRY—Mr Webb to Minister for Police—

(1) In view of the fact that a 28 day cooling off period applies in respect to permits to acquire firearms, why does it then take the Registry in excess of 44 days to process a simple permit request? (2) Why can’t the Firearms Registry process permits to acquire within the cooling off period and simply schedule the print run to occur at the end of this period? (3) Where an application is sent to Peakhurst, and then is redirected to Murwillumbah, why is receipt at Murwillumbah taken as being the date that starts the 28 day cooling off period, as opposed to the date that it reached Peakhurst? (4) What attempts have been made to speed up and improve telephone communications at the Firearms Registry? (5) The Firearms Registry relocated to Northern NSW some time ago. Why then are revised forms which indicate the correct address not available? (6) Have all NSW gun shops been advised of the change of address of the Firearms Registry?

2029 CAPITAL ASSISTANCE DEVELOPMENT PROGRAMME—Mr Hazzard to Deputy Premier, Minister for Urban Affairs and Planning, Minister for Aboriginal Affairs, and Minister for Housing—

How much has been spent on specific programmes under the Capital Assistance Development Programme in the last 12 months? (Specify individual work undertaken and the cost.)

2030 NATIONAL COALITION FOR GUN CONTROL—Mr Maguire to Attorney General, Minister for the Environment, Minister for Emergency Services, and Minister Assisting the Premier on the Arts—

(1) Is it correct that in New South Wales in recent years, a device known as a “laser pointer” which transmits a passive laser beam “dot” similar to that of a “red-dot” assault rifle sight, was made a prohibited device in public, the use of which was deemed an assault upon the targeted person? 2660 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS Wednesday 30 May 2001

(2) Could the actions of a group known as the National Coalition for Gun Control in Martin Place, Sydney, on Friday last 27th April 2001, by projecting a red cross-hair similar to a laser red dot onto numerous passers-by, constitute an illegal act? (3) If the above question is answered in the affirmative, and a breach of the law has occurred, why did the City of Sydney Council issue a permit, and should they be pursued and prosecuted?

2031 KYEAMBA INTERSECTION—Mr Maguire to Minister for Transport, and Minister for Roads—

(1) Has the RTA conducted an audit of all intersections on the single carriageway on the Hume Highway? (2) Were there safety issues identified? (3) If so, will you provide details of the issues identified? (4) Is the Tumbarumba/Wagga Wagga intersection at Kyeamba one of the identified problems? (5) What action have you taken to prioritise funding for the Kyeamba intersection?

2032 MANNUS CORRECTIONAL CENTRE—Mr Maguire to Minister for Fair Trading, Minister for Corrective Services, and Minister for Sport and Recreation—

When will Mannus Correctional Centres infrastructure be improved to allow an increase in prisoners? What is the scheduled completion date for Building Works at Mannus Correctional Centre?

2033 F3 WIDENING—Mr J. H. Turner to Minister for Transport, and Minister for Roads—

(1) Has an environmental assessment been carried out concerning the widening of the F3 to three lanes from the Hawkesbury Bridge to Calga? (2) If so, when was it carried out and completed? (3) If so, who carried out the assessment? (4) If it has not been carried out or completed, when will it be carried out or completed? (5) If it has not been carried out or completed, has the Roads and Traffic Authority (RTA) or the Minister contracted with any party to carry out the assessment? (6) If so, when? (7) If not, why not? (8) If the assessment has been carried out, has the assessment been published? (9) If so, where can the assessment be inspected? (10) If so, has the assessment been made available to the Federal Minister for Transport or his Department? (11) If so, when? (12) If not, why not? (13) Has the design work for the widening of the F3 to three lanes from the Hawkesbury Bridge to Calga been completed? (14) If so, when was it completed? (15) If so, who carried out the work? (16) If so, is the design work available for inspection? (17) If so, where? (18) If the design work has been completed, has a copy been made available to the Federal Minister for Transport or his Department? (19) If so, when? (20) If not, why not? (21) If the design work is not completed, when will it be completed? 2661 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS Wednesday 30 May 2001

(22) If the design work is not completed, has the RTA or the Minister contracted with any party to carry out such design work? (23) If so, with whom? (24) Have construction tenders been obtained for the widening of the F3 to three lanes from the Hawkesbury Bridge to Calga? (25) If so, when were they received by the Minister or the RTA? (26) If so, who tendered? (27) If so, what were the tenders? (28) If not, why not? (29) If not, when will such tenders be called? (30) If not, when will such tender close? (31) If construction tenders have been received have details been made available to the Federal Minister for Transport or his Department? (32) If so, when? (33) If not, why not? (34) Is there a requirement to submit a construction proposal report to the Federal Minister for Transport or his Department concerning the widening of the F3? (35) If so, has the report been prepared? (36) If so, who prepared the report? (37) If so has a copy of the report been made available to the Federal Minister for Transport? (38) If so when? (39) If not, why not? (40) If the report has not been prepared who will be responsible for preparing the report? (41) If the report has not been prepared when will the report be prepared? (42) If the report has been prepared, when will such report be made available to the Federal Minister for Transport or his Department? (43) Are there questions concerning environmental clearances pertinent to the widening of the F3 to three lanes from the Hawkesbury Bridge to Calga? (44) What are those concerns? (45) Have all of those concerns been resolved? (46) If so, by whom? (47) If so, when? (48) If not, why not? (49) If partly resolved, what questions of environmental clearances remain unresolved? (50) If so, why? (51) If so, when will all questions be resolved? (52) What funds have been received from the Federal Government for the widening of the F3 to three lanes from the Hawkesbury Bridge to Calga? (53) When were these monies received? (54) Has the Minister or his Department properly assessed the amount of money needed to complete the planning of the widening of the F3 to three lanes from the Hawkesbury Bridge to Calga? (55) If so, who assessed the amount of money needed? (56) How was the assessment made? (57) Has the RTA undertaken a study concerning the upgrade of the F3 to three lanes from the Hawkesbury Bridge to Calga? (58) If so, what was the date of that report? (59) If so, did that report indicate a lead-time before any construction could occur? (60) If so, what was that lead time? (61) Has the NSW Department of Urban Planning given approval for the widening of the F3 to three lanes from the Hawkesbury Bridge to Calga? (62) If so, when? (63) If not, why not? (64) If not, when is it expected such approval will be given? 2662 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS Wednesday 30 May 2001

2034 MANNING BASE HOSPITAL—CORONARY CARE UNIT—Mr J. H. Turner to Minister for Health—

(1) What are the number of patients that have been admitted to Manning Base Hospital’s (MBH) Coronary Care Unit (CCU) for the years 1995, 1996, 1997, 1998, 1999, 2000 and 2001 to date from: · Forster · Tuncurry · Failford area · Pacific Palms and area · Smiths Lake · Green Point · Coomba Park · Seal Rocks? (2) How many of the patients who were admitted to MBH CCU for the above years did not reside in the areas mentioned in question 1 above, but were on short term stays in such areas. (eg. holidays makers or families on visits to family members or business visits, but not limited to those categories)? (3) How many patients were admitted generally to MBH from the areas mentioned in question 1 for the years mentioned in question 1, including patients admitted to the CCU? (4) What was the total number of patients admitted generally to MBH from all areas for the years mentioned in question 1? (5) How many patients were admitted as outpatients at the emergency centre at MBH from the areas mentioned in question 1 for the years mentioned in question 1 including patients admitted to the CCU? (6) How many patients admitted as outpatients at the emergency centre in accordance with question 5 were then admitted as in-patients? (7) How many of the patients admitted in the terms of questions 1 and 2 held private health insurance and how many were private patients? (8) Were any admitted under any other classification of health cover? (9) If so, how many and what was the health cover? (10) How many services have been provided by the ambulance station at Tuncurry to take patients from the areas mentioned in question 1, to the MBH for the years mentioned in question 1? (11) What is the total cost to the ambulance service, including ambulance personnel and paramedic costs – but not limited to those costs - to stabilise and transfer a patient to the CCU at MBH from each of the areas mentioned in question 1 for the years mentioned in question 1? (12) What is the average time from ambulance call out from Tuncurry Ambulance Station to stabilisation, to arrival at the CCU at MBH, of patients mentioned in question 1? (13) What is the distance from each of the areas mentioned in question 1 that the Tuncurry ambulance has to travel to convey a patient to the MBH, including the distance of any trip south of Tuncurry and the return to MBH, for example, Pacific Palms or Coomba Park – but not limited to those areas? (14) Is it an established practice that doctors and public heath departments encourage the calling of ambulances if chest pain is evident in patients? (15) If so, why? (16) Does modern therapy for myocardial infarct or coronary occlusion require patients to be given therapy that dissolves clots in coronary arteries? (17) If so, what is the best practice time for the delivery for that therapy? (18) What is the likely outcome for patients if they are not treated in accordance with the best practice time limit for myocardial infarct or coronary occlusion? (19) What is the time that it takes at MBH for thrombolytic therapy to be undertaken for patients with chest pains admitted from the areas in question 1 for patients seen by: · Hospital specialist emergency physician; · Registrars; 2663 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS Wednesday 30 May 2001

· Interns? (20) What private hospitals in NSW are authorised by the Department of Health to provide emergency Services? (21) Are such private hospitals mentioned in question 20 above authorised to provide emergency services to public patients? (22) If so, are the hospitals mentioned in question 20 above authorised to undertake thrombolytic therapy on patients with chest pains? (23) If not, why not? (24) Is there a criteria or application process for private hospitals to be approved to provide emergency services to public patients? (25) If so, what is the criteria or application process?

2035 OLD BAR PUBLIC SCHOOL—Mr J. H. Turner to Minister for Education and Training—

(1) What is the number of demountable classrooms presently at Old Bar Public School? (2) Is it anticipated that there will be more demountable classrooms installed at the school? (3) If so, why? (4) If so, when? (5) If so, at what cost will the demountable be relocated to Old Bar School, installed, renovated and made fit for teaching? (6) If so, how long will it take any new demountable to become operative? (7) How many demountable classrooms have been replaced at Old Bar Public School since 1990? (8) Why were they replaced? (9) Does the environment in which the school is located, ie behind sand dunes at Old Bar Beach, contribute to the deterioration of demountables? (10) If so, how? (11) With demountables located on the Old Bar Public School site since 1997, what repairs have been necessary to such demountables and why? (12) Since 1997 have any demountables been deemed as structurally unsound? (13) If so, how many? (14) If so, why? (15) Have there been reports of major leaks to any demountables? (16) If so, how many reports have been made? (17) If there is leaking in demountables, has it the potential to cause health problems or other problems associated with Occupational Health and Safety concerns? (18) If so, how? (19) If so, why are they allowed to continue? (20) Has any report of the presence of mould in the demountables been recorded? (21) If so, on how many occasions? (22) If so, why is mould growing in the demountables? (23) If so, does mould constitute a health hazard for students and staff? (24) Has your Department appraised itself of advice from the United States Environment Protection Agency that damp areas may lead to mould and bacteria that can cause allergic reactions and asthma and spread infectious diseases? (25) Why has no preventative action been taken to stop the exacerbation of mould? (26) Is any testing being carried out at the school to ascertain the effect of mould on students and staff? (27) If so, what tests? (28) If not, why not? (29) Is the library contained in a demountable? (30) If so have any library books and resources been destroyed and damaged as a result of leaking or other intrusive activities? (31) If so, how many books have been destroyed? (32) If so, what resources have been destroyed? 2664 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS Wednesday 30 May 2001

(33) If so, what is the value of the books and resources destroyed? (34) If so, what action has been taken to rectify the situation? (35) If nothing has been done, why not? (36) Have officers from the Department of Education and Training, Properties Department, consulted with or been made aware of strategies by the Greater Taree City Council concerning population growth in the Old Bar area? (37) If so, what have they done about the information received as far as providing anticipated accommodation for students from the Old Bar area at Old Bar Public School? (38) If nothing, why not? (39) Have any applications for building programs been lodged with the Department of Education and Training? (40) If so, when was the last application submitted? (41) If so, what is the current position in relation to that application? (42) Is Old Bar Public School classified as having a Code 14 entitlement? (43) If so, does the core entitlement of this code mean that there should be between 11 to 17 permanent classrooms, a permanent library and a permanent administration block? (44) What is the number of permanent classrooms/library/administration block currently on the site? (45) If less than the core entitlement, why? (46) If less than the core entitlement, when will the core entitlement be met?

______Authorised by the Parliament of New South Wales