Disability Services

The Hon. K.J. MAHER (Leader of the Opposition) (14:51): Supplementary arising from the answer: has the minister even asked or sought advice about whether Ann Marie Smith was a client of her department over the last two years?

The PRESIDENT: Minister, I'm not really sure how that's a supplementary question arising out of your answer; however, you can answer it if you choose.

The Hon. J.M.A. LENSINK (Minister for Human Services) (14:51): I'm happy to respond, thank you, Mr President. At a committee, which may or may not have been reported publicly, there were some matters canvassed with the acting CE of the department which relate to the fact that, having learned of this terrible death and that it had been declared a major crime, by going back to State Records and doing a very thorough search the department has retrieved all those records. They are now with the police and I am advised that I am unable to comment on them.