Essential Services Commission

Mr TARZIA (Hartley) (14:32): My question is to the Treasurer. Does the Treasurer think there was a conflict of interest for the then ESCOSA acting CEO to conduct an internal review of an FOI determination made by the acting CEO's wife?

The Hon. A. KOUTSANTONIS (West Torrens—Treasurer, Minister for Finance, Minister for State Development, Minister for Mineral Resources and Energy, Minister for Small Business) (14:32): It's a matter for ESCOSA; but I have to say that it is probably not the member for Hartley's finest hour in asking that question. I don't believe any public servant acts in a way where a conflict would arise without it being declared. I note that Mr Kerin has made comments today saying that he thinks the two individuals involved are fine public servants and that he holds them in the highest regard.

I have complete confidence in the independence of ESCOSA. Can I just say that over the last three days the opposition has been accusing the government of interfering in the independence of ESCOSA. The function of the FOI processing in ESCOSA is independent of government, and now I am receiving questions about whether or not I should interfere with that process and direct how these matters are managed. It is a matter for ESCOSA. I know the chief executive of ESCOSA. He is a man of high integrity and, quite frankly, I know he finds these questions offensive as, I understand, does the person who wrote the letter of resignation. Quite frankly, I think this matter should just pass before us.

Mr Tarzia: Supplementary, sir.

Mr Gardner interjecting:

The SPEAKER: The member for Morialta is warned a second and final time. The member for Hartley.