Personal Explanation

Nyrstar Chemical Leaks

The Hon. T.J. WHETSTONE (Chaffey—Minister for Primary Industries and Regional Development) (17:58): I seek leave to make a personal explanation.

Leave granted.

The Hon. T.J. WHETSTONE: In an answer to a question from the member for Port Adelaide today, I said forensic analysis of two trumpeter fish showed no signs of heavy metal contamination. I have reviewed the briefing provided to me on 7 February 2019, which advised that inspections on 5 February indicated that the water quality in the creek was at adequate levels with heavy metal concentrations below environmental trigger values.

The reference to heavy metals was not regarding the fish but the water. The briefing did not contain information regarding the outcome of forensic analysis of the fish. The EPA is leading the investigation into the incident.

At 17:59 the house adjourned until Tuesday 12 November 2019 at 11:00.