John Williams (NSW, National Party) Share this | Hansard source

I wish to say in my statement that this is a very controversial issue. It was raised prior to the state election in New South Wales of 26 March. The then shadow minister handling this portfolio on this issue was the Hon. Duncan Gay, now Minister for Roads and Ports. Mr Gay put his coalition policy forward, which was endorsed by the Greens in the New South Wales parliament, prior to the election. The Greens supported the coalition and the National Party-led policy that the states are responsible on this very issue about exploration and mining rights. It was a very protective way the National Party put that policy forward, supported by the Greens in the New South Wales parliament. We have an inquiry into this under the Rural Affairs and Transport Committee. Senator Brown would probably like to have two to waste more taxpayers' money, because he does not understand budgets. We see that as a waste of money. The issue is being handled by the Rural Affairs and Transport Committee led by Senator Heffernan as chair. The inquiry will be carried out. We know how important it is to protect these areas, especially the underground water in these very prime agricultural areas. We support the inquiry totally. There is one running now. I have told you, Mr Deputy President, about the National Party in the New South Wales parliament in conjunction with our coalition partners led by Premier Barry O'Farrell and the policy announced prior to the election that was supported by the Greens in the New South Wales parliament. This is simply a political wedge by Senator Brown, trying to cause trouble. We support the inquiry and we will go with the inquiry that is already established.