Legislative Council - Fifty-First Parliament, Third Session (51-3)
2008-09-10 Daily Xml

Contents

NUCLEAR WASTE STORAGE FACILITY

The Hon. J.M.A. LENSINK (15:03): I have a supplementary question. What contingencies does the government have in the case of a similar future event where there might be some nuclear waste contamination in rubbish?

The Hon. P. HOLLOWAY (Minister for Mineral Resources Development, Minister for Urban Development and Planning, Minister for Small Business) (15:03): As I understand it, there are various repositories where radioactive waste has been placed, one of which is Radium Hill, which is under my control as the Minister for Mineral Resources Development. However, I repeat that in this particular case the issue does not arise. In relation to radioactive material and general radioactive storage, that is really a question for my colleague the minister in another place. I am sure the honourable member is aware that we have had a long debate in relation to that subject.

As I understand it, this state accepts its responsibilities to dispose of any radioactive waste, and that is a matter that is under investigation by the government at present. I think my former colleague answered a question on that matter not all that long ago within this parliament. However, that is a theoretical question; it is not a question that is related in any way to what was proposed to be buried at Hawker.