Page 660 - Week 02 - Thursday, 17 February 2005
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(1) (a) rainfall loss and changes in rainfall patterns in areas affecting A.C.T. water catchments, (b) amount of loss in our water storage caused by increased evaporation and wind caused by climate change and (c) population capacity of existing and mooted water storage as a result of rainfall loss and evaporation loss due to climate change;
(2) When will the Government announce a mitigation strategy or strategies to address this significant threat to the A.C.T.’s water security given an expected loss of water supply and increasing drought and climate change.
Mr Stanhope: The answer to the member’s question is as follows:
(1) In October 2003 the CSIRO released a report, commissioned by ACTEW, entitled Climate change projections and the effects on water demand for the Australian Capital Territory. The report is publicly available on the ACT Government Think water, act water website. I am advised that ACTEW have taken into account the CSIRO’s findings on climate change in their assessment of the ACT’s need for an augmented water supply.
(2) The Government’s April 2004 Think water, act water strategy incorporates variables for long-term climate change. It provides for consumption targets and water saving measures to offset, among other factors, the anticipated effects of climate change and prolonged drought.
Water—sprinkling systems
(Question No 52)
Mrs Dunne asked the Treasurer, upon notice, on 9 December 2004:
(1) Will the Government put in place the same program over Christmas that it did last year that allowed those travelling away from Christmas to program electronic sprinkling systems to come on while they were away;
(2) If so, when will this program come into effect and conclude; if not, why not.
Mr Quinlan: The answer to the member’s question is as follows:
I am responding to this question in my capacity as the acting Chief Minister as this matter now falls under this portfolio of responsibilities.
(1) ACTEW, as the utility responsible for administering the water restrictions scheme, have issued a general exemption to allow the limited use of automated sprinkler systems over the Christmas period.
(2) The general exemption commenced on 18 December 2004 and will continue until 30 January 2005, subject to water supply conditions.
Education—therapy services
(Question No 53)
Mrs Dunne asked the Minister for Education and Training, upon notice, on 9 December 2004:
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