CHILD PROTECTION

Mr PISONI (Unley) (15:20): My question is to the Minister for Education and Child Development. Has she sought a briefing or advice from the former education minister (the Premier) as to why the school and the department didn't advise parents of child sex abuse in the western suburbs primary school?

The Hon. G. PORTOLESI (Hartley—Minister for Education and Child Development) (15:20): I haven't hidden the fact that, of course, the Premier and I have had discussion in relation to this matter; it would be irresponsible not to. I have established an independent inquiry—

Mr Pisoni interjecting:

The SPEAKER: Order!

The Hon. G. PORTOLESI: —an independent inquiry—

Mr Pisoni: Told the media he didn't even remember it.

The SPEAKER: Order!

The Hon. G. PORTOLESI: —an independent inquiry—

Mr Pisoni: Doesn't recall.

The SPEAKER: Member for Unley, order!

The Hon. G. PORTOLESI: —and the statements made by the Premier are completely consistent with the statements I am making in this place. I don't understand why they are getting so excited.

Of course, I am going to undertake various lines of inquiry—that is my job—but, more importantly, I am arranging for a person independent of me, independent of my department, independent of SAPOL, to provide me with important advice on what actually did transpire in relation to this matter. The most important thing is, as I am advised, the man in question was removed from the care of children—that is the most important thing.