House of Assembly - Fifty-Second Parliament, Second Session (52-2)
2012-11-27 Daily Xml

Contents

CHILD PROTECTION

Mr PISONI (Unley) (15:17): My question is to the Minister for Education and Child Development. Now that the Debelle inquiry into the rape of an eight year old at a state school has commenced, can the minister guarantee that Mr Debelle has all of the following powers: to compel witnesses to give evidence, to take evidence on oath and to subpoena documents?

The Hon. J.R. RAU (Enfield—Deputy Premier, Attorney-General, Minister for Planning, Minister for Business Services and Consumers) (15:17): I think this question was asked last week and the answer is the same as it was last week.

Mr PISONI: Point of order, Madam Speaker. The answer from last week was that Mr Debelle would have what he requires. I am asking specifically what he has received.

The SPEAKER: I am not sure if the Attorney-General understands what you are saying, but I don't.

The Hon. J.R. RAU: The position was made fairly clear. Have you seen one of these?

Members interjecting:

The SPEAKER: Order!

The Hon. J.R. RAU: The situation is that Mr Debelle has whatever Mr Debelle requires.

Mr PISONI: The question was: is he able to subpoena documents, take evidence on oath—

Members interjecting:

The SPEAKER: Order! Thank you.

Mr PISONI: Has he required those powers?

The SPEAKER: I believe the Attorney has answered that question, member for Unley.

Members interjecting:

The SPEAKER: Order!