Question Time

EDWARDSTOWN GROUNDWATER CONTAMINATION

Mrs REDMOND (Heysen—Leader of the Opposition) (14:07): My question is to the Minister for Environment and Conservation. When did he first become aware of the groundwater contamination at the former Hills Industries site in Edwardstown?

The Hon. P. CAICA (Colton—Minister for Environment and Conservation, Minister for the River Murray, Minister for Water) (14:08): I thank the Leader of the Opposition for her question. I was advised of groundwater contamination emanating from the Hills site on Thursday last week. I was on Eyre Peninsula visiting, amongst others, the very good NRM officers over there and, indeed, hosted by the outstanding local member, Mr Treloar. I was made aware of that on Thursday and had a meeting the following day with the EPA and, from there, prepared for cabinet the information that is required, and then announced it to parliament, as you would be aware, yesterday.