Legislative Council - Fifty-Second Parliament, Second Session (52-2)
2012-04-04 Daily Xml

Contents

FRUIT FLY

The Hon. J.S.L. DAWKINS (14:39): Will the minister guarantee that more than 3 per cent of those infringing these laws regarding fruit fly will receive a fine rather than a warning this current weekend?

The Hon. G.E. GAGO (Minister for Agriculture, Food and Fisheries, Minister for Forests, Minister for Regional Development, Minister for Tourism, Minister for the Status of Women) (14:39): I thank the honourable member for his question. Indeed, I have requested information from the agency as to why there is such a low rate. I know that the office is very keen to have a major emphasis on information and education, and I think that is a very good strategy. However, I for one am very keen to see a clear message sent out to those people who do flout these important biosecurity measures, and a fine is something that often works very well to help change people's behaviour.