Eyre Peninsula Desalination Project

The Hon. N.J. CENTOFANTI (Leader of the Opposition) (14:31): Supplementary: as minister for fisheries, do you not think you have the responsibility to have direct contact with and listen to the concerns of the aquaculture industry that has the potential to be affected by your government's decision?

The Hon. C.M. SCRIVEN (Minister for Primary Industries and Regional Development, Minister for Forest Industries) (14:31): I think that the industries are keen to engage around the science in regard to the concerns around impacts to aquaculture. As I just outlined, the scientific reports have indicated that there won't be the level of impacts that were feared. I think it's also worth pointing out that those opposite are clearly happy to have an additional $150 million on the taxpayer bill, which is what it would be if the proposed Sleaford West site was instead chosen.

Members interjecting:

The PRESIDENT: Order!

The Hon. C.M. SCRIVEN: So I hear that those opposite are saying an extra $150 million is absolutely okay with them. I guess that does indicate their level of fiscal responsibility.