SA WATER

The Hon. J.A. DARLEY (14:41): I seek leave to make a brief explanation before asking the Minister for Water and the River Murray a question regarding SA Water pipes.

Leave granted.

The Hon. J.A. DARLEY: I understand that 70 per cent of the state's reticulated water piping infrastructure is composed of asbestos fibre light pipe and that these water mains are maintained by SA Water's major contractor, Allwater. Given the recent controversy surrounding the Telstra contractors who were exposed to asbestos when undertaking work for the NBN, can the minister advise what precautions are taken to protect the public and employees of Allwater when work is done on the mains and exposure to fractured asbestos may occur?

The Hon. I.K. HUNTER (Minister for Sustainability, Environment and Conservation, Minister for Water and the River Murray, Minister for Aboriginal Affairs and Reconciliation) (14:41): I thank the honourable member for his most excellent question. I will take it on notice and bring back a response at the earliest possible moment.