❓ A WA parliamentary question probes Homeswest's handling of potential health risks from Alcoa's Wagerup Refinery emissions for rental applicants in Yarloop, focusing on information provision and legal implications. The response confirms the practice and cites legal advice.
AnsweredQoN 2979Legislative Council
QuestionView source ↗
I refer to the process through which members of the community make application to Homeswest for a Homeswest rental property in Yarloop -
(1) Is the Minister aware that applicants for Homeswest rental properties in Yarloop receive a letter from Homeswest’s Regional Manager for the SouthWest, informing them of possible health impacts from Alcoa’s Wagerup Refinery emissions, including possible increased risks of cancer, and that the letter refers applicants to Alcoa as the only source of further information?
(2) Is the Minister aware that applicants are also required to sign a form in front of a witness, indicating they are aware of the possible health risks involved in choosing to live within the environment surrounding Alcoa’s Wagerup Refinery?
(3) Can the Minister explain what are the intended legal effects of the letter and the form that applicants are required to sign?
(4) Can the Minister explain why Homeswest refer applicants to Alcoa for more information, and choose not to refer them to the Department for Health or the Department of Environment (DoE), a competent authority?
(5) Has Homeswest sought advice from the Department for Health or the DoE as to the appropriateness of continuing to rent properties in Yarloop?
(6) If yes, what advice has been given and can the Minister table any relevant documentation?
(1) Is the Minister aware that applicants for Homeswest rental properties in Yarloop receive a letter from Homeswest’s Regional Manager for the SouthWest, informing them of possible health impacts from Alcoa’s Wagerup Refinery emissions, including possible increased risks of cancer, and that the letter refers applicants to Alcoa as the only source of further information?
(2) Is the Minister aware that applicants are also required to sign a form in front of a witness, indicating they are aware of the possible health risks involved in choosing to live within the environment surrounding Alcoa’s Wagerup Refinery?
(3) Can the Minister explain what are the intended legal effects of the letter and the form that applicants are required to sign?
(4) Can the Minister explain why Homeswest refer applicants to Alcoa for more information, and choose not to refer them to the Department for Health or the Department of Environment (DoE), a competent authority?
(5) Has Homeswest sought advice from the Department for Health or the DoE as to the appropriateness of continuing to rent properties in Yarloop?
(6) If yes, what advice has been given and can the Minister table any relevant documentation?
AnswerView source ↗
Answered
5 April 2006
Responded by
Parliamentary Secretary representing the Minister for Housing and Works
Response time
125 days
(1) - (5) The Department of Housing and Works has confirmed it provides an information letter advising applicants that concerns have been raised by the community about potential health risks and that these concerns are being investigated. The letter refers the applicant to Aloca for " further specific information". The letter provides for the applicant to acknowledge receipt of the letter and the information it contains. The provision of the letter and its contents are based on advice from the State Solicitor in relation to the Department's duty of care as a landlord under the Residential Tenancies Act. (6) Not applicable.
(6) Not applicable.
(6) Not applicable.
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