Jackman, Mr M.

Dr McFETRIDGE (Morphett) (14:55): My question is to the Minister for Emergency Services. On what basis was Mr Malcolm Jackman approached to become the new head of SAFECOM and were any other applicants considered? Yesterday the Minister for Defence Industries said:

Mr Jackman has taken an opportunity to serve with the Minister for Emergency Services in a very important role where the government needs him.

The Hon. A. PICCOLO (Light—Minister for Disabilities, Minister for Police, Minister for Correctional Services, Minister for Emergency Services, Minister for Road Safety) (14:55): I thank the honourable member for the question. I can advise the house that Mr Jackman's name came up during the recruitment process for the commissioner for the emergency services. At that time he did not meet the strict criteria for that position. When the position of CE, given his background, became available I was happy to have the people approach and discuss it with him.

Being an existing member of the government, in terms of the Public Service, I had discussions with the Commissioner for Public Sector Employment regarding the processes of approaching him, and I did.

The SPEAKER: The member for Morphett, supplementary.