Page 3094 - Week 09 - Thursday, 21 September 2006
Next page . . . . Previous page . . . . Speeches . . . . Contents . . . . Debates(HTML) . . . . PDF . . . .
(2) The Wells Station site office was established on 3 April 2006.
Environment—roadside carcasses
(Question No 1191)
Dr Foskey asked the Minister for the Territory and Municipal Services, upon notice, on 23 August 2006:
Regarding roadside carcasses:
(1) What is the ACT Government’s policy regarding the removal of roadside carcasses;
(2) Is this a longstanding policy or one based on funding savings from the 2006-07 budget;
(3) What health and scenic issues has the ACT Government taken into account in formulating this approach.
Mr Hargreaves: The answer to the member’s question is as follows:
(1) The removal of roadside carcasses is a function undertaken by rangers from Environment and Recreation as a component of the Urban Wildlife Program. Carcasses in locations adjoining the suburbs, in prominent public thoroughfares or those that may pose a traffic or health hazard, receive top priority for removal.
It is important to note that seasonal conditions impacting on the abundance and distribution of pasture are a key influence on Eastern Grey Kangaroo behaviour. The ongoing dry period we are experiencing in the Canberra region may be causing kangaroos to move over greater distances in search of food and water. As much of their habitat in the urban environment is dissected by main roads, it is not unusual for carcass numbers to increase at this time of the year.
(2) This is a longstanding policy.
(3) The sight of a dead animal on a roadside is an unfortunate reminder of the risk that vehicles and wildlife on roads present to each other. Anecdotal evidence suggests that the actual presence of animal carcasses may be the most powerful and effective reminder to motorists that they need to be watchful of wildlife when driving on our roads in the “bush capital”. However, the timely removal of carcasses ensures that health risks, for example through the transmission of hydatids to humans or other animals, are minimised.
Disability ACT
(Question No 1192)
Mrs Burke asked the Minister for Disability and Community Services, upon notice, on 23 August 2006:
(1) How many Disability ACT staff are anticipated to continue working in the Disability Group Homes after the trial has concluded on the use of community sector support in the Group Homes;
Next page . . . . Previous page . . . . Speeches . . . . Contents . . . . Debates(HTML) . . . . PDF . . . .