Eyre Peninsula Desalination Project

The Hon. N.J. CENTOFANTI (Leader of the Opposition) (14:33): Supplementary: as the Minister for Primary Industries, will you commit to formally writing to the Treasurer and to the Minister for Water advocating for some of that tax revenue for primary industries to be used to fund the EP Desal Project?

The Hon. C.M. SCRIVEN (Minister for Primary Industries and Regional Development, Minister for Forest Industries) (14:34): I thank the member for the supplementary question. I think I have already answered the fact that, as the report becomes available, issues around funding will be addressed. It's appropriate for that process to continue.

Members interjecting:

The PRESIDENT: Order! Minister, please continue and conclude your remarks.

The Hon. C.M. SCRIVEN: I would imagine that, if I were to write such a letter, the question would come back, asking: 'What quantum of funding are you seeking?', 'What would the location be?' and so on. Given that is a decision that is being worked through with SA Water and the steering committee, as I have just outlined in my previous answer, it would be a very unusual way to go about trying to secure funding before all the details are even evident of what is required. However, I think the answer that I have given has addressed the tenet of what the member is asking, and I look forward to seeing some further outcomes from the minister in the other place who has responsibility.