THE WOOLSHED

The Hon. J.M.A. LENSINK (15:16): My questions are directed to the Minister for Mental Health and Substance Abuse:

1. Will the minister confirm that The Woolshed was directed by her department to sell some 25 cows (in the middle of a drought) because it needed the money?

2. Is the minister aware that the site is now a fire risk because they cannot keep the grass down?

The Hon. G.E. GAGO (Minister for Environment and Conservation, Minister for Mental Health and Substance Abuse, Minister Assisting the Minister for Health) (15:17): I thank the honourable member for her question. I am not aware of the sale of any cows, but I am happy to look into that most important matter and bring a response to the chamber. I am sure everyone is hanging on the answer to that question. I am happy to put the agency's resources to work to find out about cows.

However, I would imagine that, during a period of significant drought, probably (if there are 25 cows) it would be quite difficult to feed them at that particular time. I will put the agency's precious resources to work and find an answer to this most important question, and I will bring back a response. In terms of fire, we know that fire risk assessments are completed and, to the best of my knowledge, The Woolshed, as with all of our other services and facilities, complies with requirements.

Members interjecting:

The PRESIDENT: Order!