Page 5825 - Week 14 - Tuesday, 7 December 2010
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process, the process leading up to the commencement of that work, including an examination of the nature of the contamination and the work that led to the project proceeding. That is as appropriate.
In relation to the second part of the member’s question, obviously the extent of the contamination was brought to my attention in the last week or so. I do not have the exact time in front of me. I am happy to advise the Assembly, though, that this information was shared with me, and indeed the Chief Minister, and I was provided with a briefing yesterday.
MR SPEAKER: Mr Seselja, a supplementary question?
MR SESELJA: Thank you, Mr Speaker. Minister, why were you provided with a briefing after this matter had first hit the papers? Would you describe the actions of ACTPLA in relation to this toxic waste dump as competent?
MR BARR: There are a number of assertions and comments in that supplementary question that are, I think, a little over the top. It is not emotive; it is not a toxic waste dump. That sort of language, I think, reflects a desire from the Leader of the Opposition to overhype this particular issue.
The member will be aware that, in fact, pretty much every house built in the Australian Capital Territory prior to the mid-1980s will contain asbestos. To suggest, in the way that the member has, that this particular site is a toxic waste dump is a pretty poor reflection on the state of the Leader of the Opposition’s mind. If his only contribution to this debate is to make observations like that then he deserves to be condemned.
MS LE COUTEUR: A supplementary, Mr Speaker?
MR SPEAKER: Yes, Ms Le Couteur.
MS LE COUTEUR: Minister, what is the future for the north Weston pond site? Are you considering not building a pond, relocating a pond, or what?
MR BARR: Those matters will obviously be considered by the government in due course, taking advice from various sources. Of course I remind members that the project has now moved beyond the planning stage into the delivery stage and is a project being delivered by Territory and Municipal Services and Land and Property Services. The ACT Planning and Land Authority will obviously be involved in providing advice to government in relation to options for a way forward in relation to this project. We will take that advice and make decisions in due course.
MRS DUNNE: Supplementary question, Mr Speaker?
MR SPEAKER: Yes, Mrs Dunne.
MRS DUNNE: Minister, what assurances can you give to buyers that their blocks are safe and fit for habitation?
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