Bee Deaths

The Hon. N.J. CENTOFANTI (Leader of the Opposition) (14:26): My question is to the Minister for Primary Industries and Regional Development on the topic of bee deaths in the Riverland. Given the fact that investigations into the incidents to date have been internal in that the department have investigated themselves, and given the minister believes that the department has nothing to hide, my questions to the minister are:

1. Why won't the minister commit to an independent review in order to ensure confidence in the fruit fly eradication program?

2. Has the minister now met with affected apiarists in the Riverland on this important issue?

The Hon. C.M. SCRIVEN (Minister for Primary Industries and Regional Development, Minister for Forest Industries) (14:27): If the honourable member has any additional evidence that could be investigated, she is welcome to provide that. I think it is unfortunate that she continues to undermine the fruit fly eradication program in the Riverland, despite the answers that have been given repeatedly in this place—

Members interjecting:

The PRESIDENT: Order!

The Hon. C.M. SCRIVEN: —in addition to those that have been given repeatedly in writing, which outline what has occurred.

Members interjecting:

The PRESIDENT: Order!

The Hon. C.M. SCRIVEN: I certainly think those opposite should reflect on the impact of their constant raising of this issue without any additional evidence.

Members interjecting:

The PRESIDENT: Order!

The Hon. C.M. SCRIVEN: No additional evidence; the same question week after week. If she has any additional evidence—

Members interjecting:

The PRESIDENT: Order!

The Hon. C.M. SCRIVEN: —she is welcome to provide that. She hasn't done so.