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Legislative Council - Fifty-First Parliament, Second Session (51-2)
2008-04-08 Daily Xml
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METROPOLITAN FIRE SERVICE

The Hon. S.G. WADE (14:38): I seek leave to make a brief explanation before asking the Minister for Emergency Services a question relating to the use of MFS vehicles and equipment.

Leave granted.

The Hon. S.G. WADE: On 22 November 2007, the Leader of the Opposition (Hon. David Ridgway) brought to the attention of the council the fact that on that day MFS officers in uniform, accompanied by a fire service vehicle, were handing out campaign leaflets in the federal seat of Adelaide. I am aware that MFS officers in uniform were also campaigning in other seats in what was the final week of the federal election campaign.

The Hon. Mr Ridgway asked the minister whether she supported the use of official government emergency services uniforms and equipment as an endorsement of a political party during election campaigns. In response, the minister undertook to raise the matter with the chief officer of the MFS for investigation—that was four months ago.

My questions are: has the minister received a report on the investigation; what was the outcome; and what action has the minister taken to ensure that MFS vehicles, equipment and stations are not used for political purposes?

The Hon. CARMEL ZOLLO (Minister for Emergency Services, Minister for Correctional Services, Minister for Road Safety, Minister Assisting the Minister for Multicultural Affairs) (14:39): It is interesting that the honourable member opposite is no longer supporting the UFU and the very hard working MFS.

An honourable member interjecting:

The Hon. CARMEL ZOLLO: Well, a day, or even an hour, can be a long time in politics. I do recall the question being asked of me on that day in relation to alleged MFS firefighters handing out pamphlets. Clearly, it is something that is part of healthy industrial relations, if you like. The UFU is a very active union. I remember also raising the issue during a verbal briefing with the chief officer of the MFS, and he assured me that all responsible action would be taken.

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