Desalination Plant

A question put forward to the Hon. P. HOLLOWAY (Minister for Police, Minister for Mineral Resources Development, Minister for Urban Development and Planning) regarding contamination and the desalination plant.

The Hon. J.M.A. LENSINK (14:50): When will the information as to the extent of contamination on that site be made public?

The Hon. P. HOLLOWAY (Minister for Police, Minister for Mineral Resources Development, Minister for Urban Development and Planning) (14:50): I did indicate something about the site, that is, that the exact site has not been determined. That is subject to negotiation between the government and Exxon Mobil.

Obviously, not all of the site at Port Stanvac is contaminated; there is a significant buffer area around it. There will have to be negotiations between Exxon Mobil and the state government in relation to the exact site. Regardless of the exact site, work can begin on the environmental assessment process.

Obviously, a significant study will need to be undertaken—the level is to be determined by DAC, but it will undoubtedly be a comprehensive statement—and that can get underway regardless of the exact site. There are obviously other issues involved with the Port Stanvac site which will need to be further considered as to what happens ultimately to the rest of that site.