Page 105 - Week 02 - Wednesday, 24 May 1989
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the Asbestos Branch. Mr McKenry was asked, "Is asbestos insulation in ACT homes a health risk?", and he replied, "However, there is no evidence to link exposure to asbestos in Canberra homes to any medical illness".
I ask: what is the latest estimate of the total cost of asbestos removal, including the cost of the asbestos survey now under way; is Mr McKenry's view, as quoted, the view of the Government; and if it is the view of the Government, how does the Minister justify any expenditure on asbestos removal?
MRS GRASSBY: I will get back to you as to whether Mr McKenry has anything to do with the Government. I do not know the gentleman. I did not read the article, but cost-wise in current funding arrangements established with the Commonwealth Government the ACT was to meet the first $10m; the cost was then to be shared. That amounted to $20m, we thought at that stage, on a one for one basis, with the Commonwealth and the ACT sharing the remainder of the cost.
At the moment work on one house has just been started. If anybody at the Assembly would like to go and see it, we would be very happy to arrange for a visit. The asbestos survey of Canberra homes is over 80 per cent completed and it indicates that 1,300 homes would need to be treated. The asbestos removal program is now expected to cost about $45m, with the ACT putting up a sum of $25m and the Commonwealth $20m.
MR HUMPHRIES: I ask a supplementary question. Assuming for one moment, Minister, that Mr McKenry is indeed the General Manager of the Asbestos Branch under this Administration, can you tell me whether that view, as stated, is the Government's view?
MRS GRASSBY: I did not read the article and perhaps I could get back to the member about that? I suspect that Mr McKenry is saying that there will be no danger - and that is why I suggest that members should take a look at what is being done - to the people whose house is being treated, because they will be moved out of the house at the time the work is done, and no danger to the people around because of the way in which the house is covered during the work. I suggest Mr Humphries looks at what is being done. I had a look at the house a week ago. People were moved out and steps were taken to make sure that nobody in houses around would be affected while the material was being taken out. In addition, great care was taken of the people's furniture and of their home. I was very impressed with the whole set-up, and I am quite happy to arrange for anybody in the Assembly to look at it.
MR BERRY: Mr Speaker ----
MR SPEAKER: Minister Berry, I draw your attention to the standing orders, which preclude questions from Ministers at this time.
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