❓ A WA parliamentary question on notice regarding the Department of Water's strategic plan, new executive positions, and perceived value for money. The Minister's response addresses structural issues and a review of the plan, putting a hold on filling positions.
AnsweredQoN 21Legislative Assembly
QuestionView source ↗
DEPARTMENT OF WATER — STRATEGIC PLAN
I refer to the minister’s quivering and incoherent response to questions about advertised new positions in the Department of Water during a Paul Murray radio interview last week. (1) Has the strategic plan for the Department of Water been concluded; and, if so, will the minister table a copy of that report in this house? (2) If it is not concluded, why have nine new executive positions for the department been advertised? (3) Can the minister explain to the house how taxpayers are getting what he describes as “value for money” in the expenditure of $1.265 million on nine new water bureaucrats? (4) Does the minister now accept that the Department of Water has not functioned properly since his disgraced predecessor terminated the highly competent and well-regarded director general, Mr Kim Taylor? Mr D.T. Redman : What sort of question is that? Mr F.M. LOGAN : It is a good question. It is a question his predecessor would not answer. The SPEAKER : Order! Member for Cockburn, I have just given you the question. Mr W.R. MARMION
I refer to the minister’s quivering and incoherent response to questions about advertised new positions in the Department of Water during a Paul Murray radio interview last week. (1) Has the strategic plan for the Department of Water been concluded; and, if so, will the minister table a copy of that report in this house? (2) If it is not concluded, why have nine new executive positions for the department been advertised? (3) Can the minister explain to the house how taxpayers are getting what he describes as “value for money” in the expenditure of $1.265 million on nine new water bureaucrats? (4) Does the minister now accept that the Department of Water has not functioned properly since his disgraced predecessor terminated the highly competent and well-regarded director general, Mr Kim Taylor? Mr D.T. Redman : What sort of question is that? Mr F.M. LOGAN : It is a good question. It is a question his predecessor would not answer. The SPEAKER : Order! Member for Cockburn, I have just given you the question. Mr W.R. MARMION
AnswerView source ↗
I thank the member for Cockburn for the question. (1)–(4) Indeed, water is an important issue, and having a proper structure in place is paramount to delivering water. Certainty of supply is important for everyone in Western Australia so that when they turn on a tap, they get water. We need to make sure — Mr D.A. Templeman interjected. The SPEAKER : Member for Mandurah, I formally call you to order for the first time today. Mr D.A. Templeman : Please send me out after that performance! The SPEAKER : I know that you are sorry, member for Mandurah, but I am formally calling you to order for the second time. Mr W.R. MARMION : Thank you, Mr Speaker. This government inherited a shambolic structure from the previous government, which had combined the Office of Water Regulation and the Water and Rivers Commission to form the Department of Water, and we have a problem with that. I am concerned that, with the structure we have at the moment, there are some overlaps and some gaps. As the new Minister for Water, I will make sure that all the gaps are filled, and I want to make sure that the things that are not happening in water at the moment do happen—such as water management plans. There are some gaps between what the Water Corporation does and what the Department of Water provides. In answer to the member’s question, I have gone through the strategic plan with the acting director general. The current structure has five directors and the new plan cuts that down to four directors. So, there are some efficiencies with the structure. If we add up the value of those positions, there is no increase in the cost. Mr F.M. Logan : Has the plan been concluded yet, minister? Mr W.R. MARMION : In terms of the advertisement, I have put a hold on filling those positions until I am comfortable with the structure and am positive that it addresses any gaps or overlaps with the other agencies involved in looking after water, such as the Water Corporation, Aqwest in Bunbury, the Busselton Water Board and the Economic Regulation Authority. I want to make sure that all these agencies are working together to ensure that taxpayers get value for money. In terms of the structure, there are also a number of reports that I am reviewing, and I will be considering the ERA review initiated by the previous government. It made some very interesting recommendations that I would like to examine. I have had some discussions already with the ERA. Of course, there has been the Economic Audit Committee report. There are a number of issues with water and I want to make sure that we have a structure in place that delivers the best value for money to the people of Western Australia.
(1) Has the strategic plan for the Department of Water been concluded; and, if so, will the minister table a copy of that report in this house? (2) If it is not concluded, why have nine new executive positions for the department been advertised? (3) Can the minister explain to the house how taxpayers are getting what he describes as “value for money” in the expenditure of $1.265 million on nine new water bureaucrats? (4) Does the minister now accept that the Department of Water has not functioned properly since his disgraced predecessor terminated the highly competent and well-regarded director general, Mr Kim Taylor? Mr D.T. Redman : What sort of question is that? Mr F.M. LOGAN : It is a good question. It is a question his predecessor would not answer. The SPEAKER : Order! Member for Cockburn, I have just given you the question. Mr W.R. MARMION replied: I thank the member for Cockburn for the question. (1)–(4) Indeed, water is an important issue, and having a proper structure in place is paramount to delivering water. Certainty of supply is important for everyone in Western Australia so that when they turn on a tap, they get water. We need to make sure — Mr D.A. Templeman interjected. The SPEAKER : Member for Mandurah, I formally call you to order for the first time today. Mr D.A. Templeman : Please send me out after that performance! The SPEAKER : I know that you are sorry, member for Mandurah, but I am formally calling you to order for the second time. Mr W.R. MARMION : Thank you, Mr Speaker. This government inherited a shambolic structure from the previous government, which had combined the Office of Water Regulation and the Water and Rivers Commission to form the Department of Water, and we have a problem with that. I am concerned that, with the structure we have at the moment, there are some overlaps and some gaps. As the new Minister for Water, I will make sure that all the gaps are filled, and I want to make sure that the things that are not happening in water at the moment do happen—such as water management plans. There are some gaps between what the Water Corporation does and what the Department of Water provides. In answer to the member’s question, I have gone through the strategic plan with the acting director general. The current structure has five directors and the new plan cuts that down to four directors. So, there are some efficiencies with the structure. If we add up the value of those positions, there is no increase in the cost. Mr F.M. Logan : Has the plan been concluded yet, minister? Mr W.R. MARMION : In terms of the advertisement, I have put a hold on filling those positions until I am comfortable with the structure and am positive that it addresses any gaps or overlaps with the other agencies involved in looking after water, such as the Water Corporation, Aqwest in Bunbury, the Busselton Water Board and the Economic Regulation Authority. I want to make sure that all these agencies are working together to ensure that taxpayers get value for money. In terms of the structure, there are also a number of reports that I am reviewing, and I will be considering the ERA review initiated by the previous government. It made some very interesting recommendations that I would like to examine. I have had some discussions already with the ERA. Of course, there has been the Economic Audit Committee report. There are a number of issues with water and I want to make sure that we have a structure in place that delivers the best value for money to the people of Western Australia.
(2) If it is not concluded, why have nine new executive positions for the department been advertised? (3) Can the minister explain to the house how taxpayers are getting what he describes as “value for money” in the expenditure of $1.265 million on nine new water bureaucrats? (4) Does the minister now accept that the Department of Water has not functioned properly since his disgraced predecessor terminated the highly competent and well-regarded director general, Mr Kim Taylor? Mr D.T. Redman : What sort of question is that? Mr F.M. LOGAN : It is a good question. It is a question his predecessor would not answer. The SPEAKER : Order! Member for Cockburn, I have just given you the question. Mr W.R. MARMION replied: I thank the member for Cockburn for the question. (1)–(4) Indeed, water is an important issue, and having a proper structure in place is paramount to delivering water. Certainty of supply is important for everyone in Western Australia so that when they turn on a tap, they get water. We need to make sure — Mr D.A. Templeman interjected. The SPEAKER : Member for Mandurah, I formally call you to order for the first time today. Mr D.A. Templeman : Please send me out after that performance! The SPEAKER : I know that you are sorry, member for Mandurah, but I am formally calling you to order for the second time. Mr W.R. MARMION : Thank you, Mr Speaker. This government inherited a shambolic structure from the previous government, which had combined the Office of Water Regulation and the Water and Rivers Commission to form the Department of Water, and we have a problem with that. I am concerned that, with the structure we have at the moment, there are some overlaps and some gaps. As the new Minister for Water, I will make sure that all the gaps are filled, and I want to make sure that the things that are not happening in water at the moment do happen—such as water management plans. There are some gaps between what the Water Corporation does and what the Department of Water provides. In answer to the member’s question, I have gone through the strategic plan with the acting director general. The current structure has five directors and the new plan cuts that down to four directors. So, there are some efficiencies with the structure. If we add up the value of those positions, there is no increase in the cost. Mr F.M. Logan : Has the plan been concluded yet, minister? Mr W.R. MARMION : In terms of the advertisement, I have put a hold on filling those positions until I am comfortable with the structure and am positive that it addresses any gaps or overlaps with the other agencies involved in looking after water, such as the Water Corporation, Aqwest in Bunbury, the Busselton Water Board and the Economic Regulation Authority. I want to make sure that all these agencies are working together to ensure that taxpayers get value for money. In terms of the structure, there are also a number of reports that I am reviewing, and I will be considering the ERA review initiated by the previous government. It made some very interesting recommendations that I would like to examine. I have had some discussions already with the ERA. Of course, there has been the Economic Audit Committee report. There are a number of issues with water and I want to make sure that we have a structure in place that delivers the best value for money to the people of Western Australia.
(3) Can the minister explain to the house how taxpayers are getting what he describes as “value for money” in the expenditure of $1.265 million on nine new water bureaucrats? (4) Does the minister now accept that the Department of Water has not functioned properly since his disgraced predecessor terminated the highly competent and well-regarded director general, Mr Kim Taylor? Mr D.T. Redman : What sort of question is that? Mr F.M. LOGAN : It is a good question. It is a question his predecessor would not answer. The SPEAKER : Order! Member for Cockburn, I have just given you the question. Mr W.R. MARMION replied: I thank the member for Cockburn for the question. (1)–(4) Indeed, water is an important issue, and having a proper structure in place is paramount to delivering water. Certainty of supply is important for everyone in Western Australia so that when they turn on a tap, they get water. We need to make sure — Mr D.A. Templeman interjected. The SPEAKER : Member for Mandurah, I formally call you to order for the first time today. Mr D.A. Templeman : Please send me out after that performance! The SPEAKER : I know that you are sorry, member for Mandurah, but I am formally calling you to order for the second time. Mr W.R. MARMION : Thank you, Mr Speaker. This government inherited a shambolic structure from the previous government, which had combined the Office of Water Regulation and the Water and Rivers Commission to form the Department of Water, and we have a problem with that. I am concerned that, with the structure we have at the moment, there are some overlaps and some gaps. As the new Minister for Water, I will make sure that all the gaps are filled, and I want to make sure that the things that are not happening in water at the moment do happen—such as water management plans. There are some gaps between what the Water Corporation does and what the Department of Water provides. In answer to the member’s question, I have gone through the strategic plan with the acting director general. The current structure has five directors and the new plan cuts that down to four directors. So, there are some efficiencies with the structure. If we add up the value of those positions, there is no increase in the cost. Mr F.M. Logan : Has the plan been concluded yet, minister? Mr W.R. MARMION : In terms of the advertisement, I have put a hold on filling those positions until I am comfortable with the structure and am positive that it addresses any gaps or overlaps with the other agencies involved in looking after water, such as the Water Corporation, Aqwest in Bunbury, the Busselton Water Board and the Economic Regulation Authority. I want to make sure that all these agencies are working together to ensure that taxpayers get value for money. In terms of the structure, there are also a number of reports that I am reviewing, and I will be considering the ERA review initiated by the previous government. It made some very interesting recommendations that I would like to examine. I have had some discussions already with the ERA. Of course, there has been the Economic Audit Committee report. There are a number of issues with water and I want to make sure that we have a structure in place that delivers the best value for money to the people of Western Australia.
(4) Does the minister now accept that the Department of Water has not functioned properly since his disgraced predecessor terminated the highly competent and well-regarded director general, Mr Kim Taylor? Mr D.T. Redman : What sort of question is that? Mr F.M. LOGAN : It is a good question. It is a question his predecessor would not answer. The SPEAKER : Order! Member for Cockburn, I have just given you the question. Mr W.R. MARMION replied: I thank the member for Cockburn for the question. (1)–(4) Indeed, water is an important issue, and having a proper structure in place is paramount to delivering water. Certainty of supply is important for everyone in Western Australia so that when they turn on a tap, they get water. We need to make sure — Mr D.A. Templeman interjected. The SPEAKER : Member for Mandurah, I formally call you to order for the first time today. Mr D.A. Templeman : Please send me out after that performance! The SPEAKER : I know that you are sorry, member for Mandurah, but I am formally calling you to order for the second time. Mr W.R. MARMION : Thank you, Mr Speaker. This government inherited a shambolic structure from the previous government, which had combined the Office of Water Regulation and the Water and Rivers Commission to form the Department of Water, and we have a problem with that. I am concerned that, with the structure we have at the moment, there are some overlaps and some gaps. As the new Minister for Water, I will make sure that all the gaps are filled, and I want to make sure that the things that are not happening in water at the moment do happen—such as water management plans. There are some gaps between what the Water Corporation does and what the Department of Water provides. In answer to the member’s question, I have gone through the strategic plan with the acting director general. The current structure has five directors and the new plan cuts that down to four directors. So, there are some efficiencies with the structure. If we add up the value of those positions, there is no increase in the cost. Mr F.M. Logan : Has the plan been concluded yet, minister? Mr W.R. MARMION : In terms of the advertisement, I have put a hold on filling those positions until I am comfortable with the structure and am positive that it addresses any gaps or overlaps with the other agencies involved in looking after water, such as the Water Corporation, Aqwest in Bunbury, the Busselton Water Board and the Economic Regulation Authority. I want to make sure that all these agencies are working together to ensure that taxpayers get value for money. In terms of the structure, there are also a number of reports that I am reviewing, and I will be considering the ERA review initiated by the previous government. It made some very interesting recommendations that I would like to examine. I have had some discussions already with the ERA. Of course, there has been the Economic Audit Committee report. There are a number of issues with water and I want to make sure that we have a structure in place that delivers the best value for money to the people of Western Australia.
Mr D.T. Redman : What sort of question is that? Mr F.M. LOGAN : It is a good question. It is a question his predecessor would not answer. The SPEAKER : Order! Member for Cockburn, I have just given you the question. Mr W.R. MARMION replied: I thank the member for Cockburn for the question. (1)–(4) Indeed, water is an important issue, and having a proper structure in place is paramount to delivering water. Certainty of supply is important for everyone in Western Australia so that when they turn on a tap, they get water. We need to make sure — Mr D.A. Templeman interjected. The SPEAKER : Member for Mandurah, I formally call you to order for the first time today. Mr D.A. Templeman : Please send me out after that performance! The SPEAKER : I know that you are sorry, member for Mandurah, but I am formally calling you to order for the second time. Mr W.R. MARMION : Thank you, Mr Speaker. This government inherited a shambolic structure from the previous government, which had combined the Office of Water Regulation and the Water and Rivers Commission to form the Department of Water, and we have a problem with that. I am concerned that, with the structure we have at the moment, there are some overlaps and some gaps. As the new Minister for Water, I will make sure that all the gaps are filled, and I want to make sure that the things that are not happening in water at the moment do happen—such as water management plans. There are some gaps between what the Water Corporation does and what the Department of Water provides. In answer to the member’s question, I have gone through the strategic plan with the acting director general. The current structure has five directors and the new plan cuts that down to four directors. So, there are some efficiencies with the structure. If we add up the value of those positions, there is no increase in the cost. Mr F.M. Logan : Has the plan been concluded yet, minister? Mr W.R. MARMION : In terms of the advertisement, I have put a hold on filling those positions until I am comfortable with the structure and am positive that it addresses any gaps or overlaps with the other agencies involved in looking after water, such as the Water Corporation, Aqwest in Bunbury, the Busselton Water Board and the Economic Regulation Authority. I want to make sure that all these agencies are working together to ensure that taxpayers get value for money. In terms of the structure, there are also a number of reports that I am reviewing, and I will be considering the ERA review initiated by the previous government. It made some very interesting recommendations that I would like to examine. I have had some discussions already with the ERA. Of course, there has been the Economic Audit Committee report. There are a number of issues with water and I want to make sure that we have a structure in place that delivers the best value for money to the people of Western Australia.
Mr F.M. LOGAN : It is a good question. It is a question his predecessor would not answer. The SPEAKER : Order! Member for Cockburn, I have just given you the question. Mr W.R. MARMION replied: I thank the member for Cockburn for the question. (1)–(4) Indeed, water is an important issue, and having a proper structure in place is paramount to delivering water. Certainty of supply is important for everyone in Western Australia so that when they turn on a tap, they get water. We need to make sure — Mr D.A. Templeman interjected. The SPEAKER : Member for Mandurah, I formally call you to order for the first time today. Mr D.A. Templeman : Please send me out after that performance! The SPEAKER : I know that you are sorry, member for Mandurah, but I am formally calling you to order for the second time. Mr W.R. MARMION : Thank you, Mr Speaker. This government inherited a shambolic structure from the previous government, which had combined the Office of Water Regulation and the Water and Rivers Commission to form the Department of Water, and we have a problem with that. I am concerned that, with the structure we have at the moment, there are some overlaps and some gaps. As the new Minister for Water, I will make sure that all the gaps are filled, and I want to make sure that the things that are not happening in water at the moment do happen—such as water management plans. There are some gaps between what the Water Corporation does and what the Department of Water provides. In answer to the member’s question, I have gone through the strategic plan with the acting director general. The current structure has five directors and the new plan cuts that down to four directors. So, there are some efficiencies with the structure. If we add up the value of those positions, there is no increase in the cost. Mr F.M. Logan : Has the plan been concluded yet, minister? Mr W.R. MARMION : In terms of the advertisement, I have put a hold on filling those positions until I am comfortable with the structure and am positive that it addresses any gaps or overlaps with the other agencies involved in looking after water, such as the Water Corporation, Aqwest in Bunbury, the Busselton Water Board and the Economic Regulation Authority. I want to make sure that all these agencies are working together to ensure that taxpayers get value for money. In terms of the structure, there are also a number of reports that I am reviewing, and I will be considering the ERA review initiated by the previous government. It made some very interesting recommendations that I would like to examine. I have had some discussions already with the ERA. Of course, there has been the Economic Audit Committee report. There are a number of issues with water and I want to make sure that we have a structure in place that delivers the best value for money to the people of Western Australia.
The SPEAKER : Order! Member for Cockburn, I have just given you the question. Mr W.R. MARMION replied: I thank the member for Cockburn for the question. (1)–(4) Indeed, water is an important issue, and having a proper structure in place is paramount to delivering water. Certainty of supply is important for everyone in Western Australia so that when they turn on a tap, they get water. We need to make sure — Mr D.A. Templeman interjected. The SPEAKER : Member for Mandurah, I formally call you to order for the first time today. Mr D.A. Templeman : Please send me out after that performance! The SPEAKER : I know that you are sorry, member for Mandurah, but I am formally calling you to order for the second time. Mr W.R. MARMION : Thank you, Mr Speaker. This government inherited a shambolic structure from the previous government, which had combined the Office of Water Regulation and the Water and Rivers Commission to form the Department of Water, and we have a problem with that. I am concerned that, with the structure we have at the moment, there are some overlaps and some gaps. As the new Minister for Water, I will make sure that all the gaps are filled, and I want to make sure that the things that are not happening in water at the moment do happen—such as water management plans. There are some gaps between what the Water Corporation does and what the Department of Water provides. In answer to the member’s question, I have gone through the strategic plan with the acting director general. The current structure has five directors and the new plan cuts that down to four directors. So, there are some efficiencies with the structure. If we add up the value of those positions, there is no increase in the cost. Mr F.M. Logan : Has the plan been concluded yet, minister? Mr W.R. MARMION : In terms of the advertisement, I have put a hold on filling those positions until I am comfortable with the structure and am positive that it addresses any gaps or overlaps with the other agencies involved in looking after water, such as the Water Corporation, Aqwest in Bunbury, the Busselton Water Board and the Economic Regulation Authority. I want to make sure that all these agencies are working together to ensure that taxpayers get value for money. In terms of the structure, there are also a number of reports that I am reviewing, and I will be considering the ERA review initiated by the previous government. It made some very interesting recommendations that I would like to examine. I have had some discussions already with the ERA. Of course, there has been the Economic Audit Committee report. There are a number of issues with water and I want to make sure that we have a structure in place that delivers the best value for money to the people of Western Australia.
Mr W.R. MARMION replied: I thank the member for Cockburn for the question. (1)–(4) Indeed, water is an important issue, and having a proper structure in place is paramount to delivering water. Certainty of supply is important for everyone in Western Australia so that when they turn on a tap, they get water. We need to make sure — Mr D.A. Templeman interjected. The SPEAKER : Member for Mandurah, I formally call you to order for the first time today. Mr D.A. Templeman : Please send me out after that performance! The SPEAKER : I know that you are sorry, member for Mandurah, but I am formally calling you to order for the second time. Mr W.R. MARMION : Thank you, Mr Speaker. This government inherited a shambolic structure from the previous government, which had combined the Office of Water Regulation and the Water and Rivers Commission to form the Department of Water, and we have a problem with that. I am concerned that, with the structure we have at the moment, there are some overlaps and some gaps. As the new Minister for Water, I will make sure that all the gaps are filled, and I want to make sure that the things that are not happening in water at the moment do happen—such as water management plans. There are some gaps between what the Water Corporation does and what the Department of Water provides. In answer to the member’s question, I have gone through the strategic plan with the acting director general. The current structure has five directors and the new plan cuts that down to four directors. So, there are some efficiencies with the structure. If we add up the value of those positions, there is no increase in the cost. Mr F.M. Logan : Has the plan been concluded yet, minister? Mr W.R. MARMION : In terms of the advertisement, I have put a hold on filling those positions until I am comfortable with the structure and am positive that it addresses any gaps or overlaps with the other agencies involved in looking after water, such as the Water Corporation, Aqwest in Bunbury, the Busselton Water Board and the Economic Regulation Authority. I want to make sure that all these agencies are working together to ensure that taxpayers get value for money. In terms of the structure, there are also a number of reports that I am reviewing, and I will be considering the ERA review initiated by the previous government. It made some very interesting recommendations that I would like to examine. I have had some discussions already with the ERA. Of course, there has been the Economic Audit Committee report. There are a number of issues with water and I want to make sure that we have a structure in place that delivers the best value for money to the people of Western Australia.
I thank the member for Cockburn for the question. (1)–(4) Indeed, water is an important issue, and having a proper structure in place is paramount to delivering water. Certainty of supply is important for everyone in Western Australia so that when they turn on a tap, they get water. We need to make sure — Mr D.A. Templeman interjected. The SPEAKER : Member for Mandurah, I formally call you to order for the first time today. Mr D.A. Templeman : Please send me out after that performance! The SPEAKER : I know that you are sorry, member for Mandurah, but I am formally calling you to order for the second time. Mr W.R. MARMION : Thank you, Mr Speaker. This government inherited a shambolic structure from the previous government, which had combined the Office of Water Regulation and the Water and Rivers Commission to form the Department of Water, and we have a problem with that. I am concerned that, with the structure we have at the moment, there are some overlaps and some gaps. As the new Minister for Water, I will make sure that all the gaps are filled, and I want to make sure that the things that are not happening in water at the moment do happen—such as water management plans. There are some gaps between what the Water Corporation does and what the Department of Water provides. In answer to the member’s question, I have gone through the strategic plan with the acting director general. The current structure has five directors and the new plan cuts that down to four directors. So, there are some efficiencies with the structure. If we add up the value of those positions, there is no increase in the cost. Mr F.M. Logan : Has the plan been concluded yet, minister? Mr W.R. MARMION : In terms of the advertisement, I have put a hold on filling those positions until I am comfortable with the structure and am positive that it addresses any gaps or overlaps with the other agencies involved in looking after water, such as the Water Corporation, Aqwest in Bunbury, the Busselton Water Board and the Economic Regulation Authority. I want to make sure that all these agencies are working together to ensure that taxpayers get value for money. In terms of the structure, there are also a number of reports that I am reviewing, and I will be considering the ERA review initiated by the previous government. It made some very interesting recommendations that I would like to examine. I have had some discussions already with the ERA. Of course, there has been the Economic Audit Committee report. There are a number of issues with water and I want to make sure that we have a structure in place that delivers the best value for money to the people of Western Australia.
(1)–(4) Indeed, water is an important issue, and having a proper structure in place is paramount to delivering water. Certainty of supply is important for everyone in Western Australia so that when they turn on a tap, they get water. We need to make sure — Mr D.A. Templeman interjected. The SPEAKER : Member for Mandurah, I formally call you to order for the first time today. Mr D.A. Templeman : Please send me out after that performance! The SPEAKER : I know that you are sorry, member for Mandurah, but I am formally calling you to order for the second time. Mr W.R. MARMION : Thank you, Mr Speaker. This government inherited a shambolic structure from the previous government, which had combined the Office of Water Regulation and the Water and Rivers Commission to form the Department of Water, and we have a problem with that. I am concerned that, with the structure we have at the moment, there are some overlaps and some gaps. As the new Minister for Water, I will make sure that all the gaps are filled, and I want to make sure that the things that are not happening in water at the moment do happen—such as water management plans. There are some gaps between what the Water Corporation does and what the Department of Water provides. In answer to the member’s question, I have gone through the strategic plan with the acting director general. The current structure has five directors and the new plan cuts that down to four directors. So, there are some efficiencies with the structure. If we add up the value of those positions, there is no increase in the cost. Mr F.M. Logan : Has the plan been concluded yet, minister? Mr W.R. MARMION : In terms of the advertisement, I have put a hold on filling those positions until I am comfortable with the structure and am positive that it addresses any gaps or overlaps with the other agencies involved in looking after water, such as the Water Corporation, Aqwest in Bunbury, the Busselton Water Board and the Economic Regulation Authority. I want to make sure that all these agencies are working together to ensure that taxpayers get value for money. In terms of the structure, there are also a number of reports that I am reviewing, and I will be considering the ERA review initiated by the previous government. It made some very interesting recommendations that I would like to examine. I have had some discussions already with the ERA. Of course, there has been the Economic Audit Committee report. There are a number of issues with water and I want to make sure that we have a structure in place that delivers the best value for money to the people of Western Australia.
Mr D.A. Templeman interjected. The SPEAKER : Member for Mandurah, I formally call you to order for the first time today. Mr D.A. Templeman : Please send me out after that performance! The SPEAKER : I know that you are sorry, member for Mandurah, but I am formally calling you to order for the second time. Mr W.R. MARMION : Thank you, Mr Speaker. This government inherited a shambolic structure from the previous government, which had combined the Office of Water Regulation and the Water and Rivers Commission to form the Department of Water, and we have a problem with that. I am concerned that, with the structure we have at the moment, there are some overlaps and some gaps. As the new Minister for Water, I will make sure that all the gaps are filled, and I want to make sure that the things that are not happening in water at the moment do happen—such as water management plans. There are some gaps between what the Water Corporation does and what the Department of Water provides. In answer to the member’s question, I have gone through the strategic plan with the acting director general. The current structure has five directors and the new plan cuts that down to four directors. So, there are some efficiencies with the structure. If we add up the value of those positions, there is no increase in the cost. Mr F.M. Logan : Has the plan been concluded yet, minister? Mr W.R. MARMION : In terms of the advertisement, I have put a hold on filling those positions until I am comfortable with the structure and am positive that it addresses any gaps or overlaps with the other agencies involved in looking after water, such as the Water Corporation, Aqwest in Bunbury, the Busselton Water Board and the Economic Regulation Authority. I want to make sure that all these agencies are working together to ensure that taxpayers get value for money. In terms of the structure, there are also a number of reports that I am reviewing, and I will be considering the ERA review initiated by the previous government. It made some very interesting recommendations that I would like to examine. I have had some discussions already with the ERA. Of course, there has been the Economic Audit Committee report. There are a number of issues with water and I want to make sure that we have a structure in place that delivers the best value for money to the people of Western Australia.
The SPEAKER : Member for Mandurah, I formally call you to order for the first time today. Mr D.A. Templeman : Please send me out after that performance! The SPEAKER : I know that you are sorry, member for Mandurah, but I am formally calling you to order for the second time. Mr W.R. MARMION : Thank you, Mr Speaker. This government inherited a shambolic structure from the previous government, which had combined the Office of Water Regulation and the Water and Rivers Commission to form the Department of Water, and we have a problem with that. I am concerned that, with the structure we have at the moment, there are some overlaps and some gaps. As the new Minister for Water, I will make sure that all the gaps are filled, and I want to make sure that the things that are not happening in water at the moment do happen—such as water management plans. There are some gaps between what the Water Corporation does and what the Department of Water provides. In answer to the member’s question, I have gone through the strategic plan with the acting director general. The current structure has five directors and the new plan cuts that down to four directors. So, there are some efficiencies with the structure. If we add up the value of those positions, there is no increase in the cost. Mr F.M. Logan : Has the plan been concluded yet, minister? Mr W.R. MARMION : In terms of the advertisement, I have put a hold on filling those positions until I am comfortable with the structure and am positive that it addresses any gaps or overlaps with the other agencies involved in looking after water, such as the Water Corporation, Aqwest in Bunbury, the Busselton Water Board and the Economic Regulation Authority. I want to make sure that all these agencies are working together to ensure that taxpayers get value for money. In terms of the structure, there are also a number of reports that I am reviewing, and I will be considering the ERA review initiated by the previous government. It made some very interesting recommendations that I would like to examine. I have had some discussions already with the ERA. Of course, there has been the Economic Audit Committee report. There are a number of issues with water and I want to make sure that we have a structure in place that delivers the best value for money to the people of Western Australia.
Mr D.A. Templeman : Please send me out after that performance! The SPEAKER : I know that you are sorry, member for Mandurah, but I am formally calling you to order for the second time. Mr W.R. MARMION : Thank you, Mr Speaker. This government inherited a shambolic structure from the previous government, which had combined the Office of Water Regulation and the Water and Rivers Commission to form the Department of Water, and we have a problem with that. I am concerned that, with the structure we have at the moment, there are some overlaps and some gaps. As the new Minister for Water, I will make sure that all the gaps are filled, and I want to make sure that the things that are not happening in water at the moment do happen—such as water management plans. There are some gaps between what the Water Corporation does and what the Department of Water provides. In answer to the member’s question, I have gone through the strategic plan with the acting director general. The current structure has five directors and the new plan cuts that down to four directors. So, there are some efficiencies with the structure. If we add up the value of those positions, there is no increase in the cost. Mr F.M. Logan : Has the plan been concluded yet, minister? Mr W.R. MARMION : In terms of the advertisement, I have put a hold on filling those positions until I am comfortable with the structure and am positive that it addresses any gaps or overlaps with the other agencies involved in looking after water, such as the Water Corporation, Aqwest in Bunbury, the Busselton Water Board and the Economic Regulation Authority. I want to make sure that all these agencies are working together to ensure that taxpayers get value for money. In terms of the structure, there are also a number of reports that I am reviewing, and I will be considering the ERA review initiated by the previous government. It made some very interesting recommendations that I would like to examine. I have had some discussions already with the ERA. Of course, there has been the Economic Audit Committee report. There are a number of issues with water and I want to make sure that we have a structure in place that delivers the best value for money to the people of Western Australia.
The SPEAKER : I know that you are sorry, member for Mandurah, but I am formally calling you to order for the second time. Mr W.R. MARMION : Thank you, Mr Speaker. This government inherited a shambolic structure from the previous government, which had combined the Office of Water Regulation and the Water and Rivers Commission to form the Department of Water, and we have a problem with that. I am concerned that, with the structure we have at the moment, there are some overlaps and some gaps. As the new Minister for Water, I will make sure that all the gaps are filled, and I want to make sure that the things that are not happening in water at the moment do happen—such as water management plans. There are some gaps between what the Water Corporation does and what the Department of Water provides. In answer to the member’s question, I have gone through the strategic plan with the acting director general. The current structure has five directors and the new plan cuts that down to four directors. So, there are some efficiencies with the structure. If we add up the value of those positions, there is no increase in the cost. Mr F.M. Logan : Has the plan been concluded yet, minister? Mr W.R. MARMION : In terms of the advertisement, I have put a hold on filling those positions until I am comfortable with the structure and am positive that it addresses any gaps or overlaps with the other agencies involved in looking after water, such as the Water Corporation, Aqwest in Bunbury, the Busselton Water Board and the Economic Regulation Authority. I want to make sure that all these agencies are working together to ensure that taxpayers get value for money. In terms of the structure, there are also a number of reports that I am reviewing, and I will be considering the ERA review initiated by the previous government. It made some very interesting recommendations that I would like to examine. I have had some discussions already with the ERA. Of course, there has been the Economic Audit Committee report. There are a number of issues with water and I want to make sure that we have a structure in place that delivers the best value for money to the people of Western Australia.
Mr W.R. MARMION : Thank you, Mr Speaker. This government inherited a shambolic structure from the previous government, which had combined the Office of Water Regulation and the Water and Rivers Commission to form the Department of Water, and we have a problem with that. I am concerned that, with the structure we have at the moment, there are some overlaps and some gaps. As the new Minister for Water, I will make sure that all the gaps are filled, and I want to make sure that the things that are not happening in water at the moment do happen—such as water management plans. There are some gaps between what the Water Corporation does and what the Department of Water provides. In answer to the member’s question, I have gone through the strategic plan with the acting director general. The current structure has five directors and the new plan cuts that down to four directors. So, there are some efficiencies with the structure. If we add up the value of those positions, there is no increase in the cost. Mr F.M. Logan : Has the plan been concluded yet, minister? Mr W.R. MARMION : In terms of the advertisement, I have put a hold on filling those positions until I am comfortable with the structure and am positive that it addresses any gaps or overlaps with the other agencies involved in looking after water, such as the Water Corporation, Aqwest in Bunbury, the Busselton Water Board and the Economic Regulation Authority. I want to make sure that all these agencies are working together to ensure that taxpayers get value for money. In terms of the structure, there are also a number of reports that I am reviewing, and I will be considering the ERA review initiated by the previous government. It made some very interesting recommendations that I would like to examine. I have had some discussions already with the ERA. Of course, there has been the Economic Audit Committee report. There are a number of issues with water and I want to make sure that we have a structure in place that delivers the best value for money to the people of Western Australia.
This government inherited a shambolic structure from the previous government, which had combined the Office of Water Regulation and the Water and Rivers Commission to form the Department of Water, and we have a problem with that. I am concerned that, with the structure we have at the moment, there are some overlaps and some gaps. As the new Minister for Water, I will make sure that all the gaps are filled, and I want to make sure that the things that are not happening in water at the moment do happen—such as water management plans. There are some gaps between what the Water Corporation does and what the Department of Water provides. In answer to the member’s question, I have gone through the strategic plan with the acting director general. The current structure has five directors and the new plan cuts that down to four directors. So, there are some efficiencies with the structure. If we add up the value of those positions, there is no increase in the cost. Mr F.M. Logan : Has the plan been concluded yet, minister? Mr W.R. MARMION : In terms of the advertisement, I have put a hold on filling those positions until I am comfortable with the structure and am positive that it addresses any gaps or overlaps with the other agencies involved in looking after water, such as the Water Corporation, Aqwest in Bunbury, the Busselton Water Board and the Economic Regulation Authority. I want to make sure that all these agencies are working together to ensure that taxpayers get value for money. In terms of the structure, there are also a number of reports that I am reviewing, and I will be considering the ERA review initiated by the previous government. It made some very interesting recommendations that I would like to examine. I have had some discussions already with the ERA. Of course, there has been the Economic Audit Committee report. There are a number of issues with water and I want to make sure that we have a structure in place that delivers the best value for money to the people of Western Australia.
In answer to the member’s question, I have gone through the strategic plan with the acting director general. The current structure has five directors and the new plan cuts that down to four directors. So, there are some efficiencies with the structure. If we add up the value of those positions, there is no increase in the cost. Mr F.M. Logan : Has the plan been concluded yet, minister? Mr W.R. MARMION : In terms of the advertisement, I have put a hold on filling those positions until I am comfortable with the structure and am positive that it addresses any gaps or overlaps with the other agencies involved in looking after water, such as the Water Corporation, Aqwest in Bunbury, the Busselton Water Board and the Economic Regulation Authority. I want to make sure that all these agencies are working together to ensure that taxpayers get value for money. In terms of the structure, there are also a number of reports that I am reviewing, and I will be considering the ERA review initiated by the previous government. It made some very interesting recommendations that I would like to examine. I have had some discussions already with the ERA. Of course, there has been the Economic Audit Committee report. There are a number of issues with water and I want to make sure that we have a structure in place that delivers the best value for money to the people of Western Australia.
Mr F.M. Logan : Has the plan been concluded yet, minister? Mr W.R. MARMION : In terms of the advertisement, I have put a hold on filling those positions until I am comfortable with the structure and am positive that it addresses any gaps or overlaps with the other agencies involved in looking after water, such as the Water Corporation, Aqwest in Bunbury, the Busselton Water Board and the Economic Regulation Authority. I want to make sure that all these agencies are working together to ensure that taxpayers get value for money. In terms of the structure, there are also a number of reports that I am reviewing, and I will be considering the ERA review initiated by the previous government. It made some very interesting recommendations that I would like to examine. I have had some discussions already with the ERA. Of course, there has been the Economic Audit Committee report. There are a number of issues with water and I want to make sure that we have a structure in place that delivers the best value for money to the people of Western Australia.
Mr W.R. MARMION : In terms of the advertisement, I have put a hold on filling those positions until I am comfortable with the structure and am positive that it addresses any gaps or overlaps with the other agencies involved in looking after water, such as the Water Corporation, Aqwest in Bunbury, the Busselton Water Board and the Economic Regulation Authority. I want to make sure that all these agencies are working together to ensure that taxpayers get value for money. In terms of the structure, there are also a number of reports that I am reviewing, and I will be considering the ERA review initiated by the previous government. It made some very interesting recommendations that I would like to examine. I have had some discussions already with the ERA. Of course, there has been the Economic Audit Committee report. There are a number of issues with water and I want to make sure that we have a structure in place that delivers the best value for money to the people of Western Australia.
In terms of the structure, there are also a number of reports that I am reviewing, and I will be considering the ERA review initiated by the previous government. It made some very interesting recommendations that I would like to examine. I have had some discussions already with the ERA. Of course, there has been the Economic Audit Committee report. There are a number of issues with water and I want to make sure that we have a structure in place that delivers the best value for money to the people of Western Australia.
(1) Has the strategic plan for the Department of Water been concluded; and, if so, will the minister table a copy of that report in this house? (2) If it is not concluded, why have nine new executive positions for the department been advertised? (3) Can the minister explain to the house how taxpayers are getting what he describes as “value for money” in the expenditure of $1.265 million on nine new water bureaucrats? (4) Does the minister now accept that the Department of Water has not functioned properly since his disgraced predecessor terminated the highly competent and well-regarded director general, Mr Kim Taylor? Mr D.T. Redman : What sort of question is that? Mr F.M. LOGAN : It is a good question. It is a question his predecessor would not answer. The SPEAKER : Order! Member for Cockburn, I have just given you the question. Mr W.R. MARMION replied: I thank the member for Cockburn for the question. (1)–(4) Indeed, water is an important issue, and having a proper structure in place is paramount to delivering water. Certainty of supply is important for everyone in Western Australia so that when they turn on a tap, they get water. We need to make sure — Mr D.A. Templeman interjected. The SPEAKER : Member for Mandurah, I formally call you to order for the first time today. Mr D.A. Templeman : Please send me out after that performance! The SPEAKER : I know that you are sorry, member for Mandurah, but I am formally calling you to order for the second time. Mr W.R. MARMION : Thank you, Mr Speaker. This government inherited a shambolic structure from the previous government, which had combined the Office of Water Regulation and the Water and Rivers Commission to form the Department of Water, and we have a problem with that. I am concerned that, with the structure we have at the moment, there are some overlaps and some gaps. As the new Minister for Water, I will make sure that all the gaps are filled, and I want to make sure that the things that are not happening in water at the moment do happen—such as water management plans. There are some gaps between what the Water Corporation does and what the Department of Water provides. In answer to the member’s question, I have gone through the strategic plan with the acting director general. The current structure has five directors and the new plan cuts that down to four directors. So, there are some efficiencies with the structure. If we add up the value of those positions, there is no increase in the cost. Mr F.M. Logan : Has the plan been concluded yet, minister? Mr W.R. MARMION : In terms of the advertisement, I have put a hold on filling those positions until I am comfortable with the structure and am positive that it addresses any gaps or overlaps with the other agencies involved in looking after water, such as the Water Corporation, Aqwest in Bunbury, the Busselton Water Board and the Economic Regulation Authority. I want to make sure that all these agencies are working together to ensure that taxpayers get value for money. In terms of the structure, there are also a number of reports that I am reviewing, and I will be considering the ERA review initiated by the previous government. It made some very interesting recommendations that I would like to examine. I have had some discussions already with the ERA. Of course, there has been the Economic Audit Committee report. There are a number of issues with water and I want to make sure that we have a structure in place that delivers the best value for money to the people of Western Australia.
(2) If it is not concluded, why have nine new executive positions for the department been advertised? (3) Can the minister explain to the house how taxpayers are getting what he describes as “value for money” in the expenditure of $1.265 million on nine new water bureaucrats? (4) Does the minister now accept that the Department of Water has not functioned properly since his disgraced predecessor terminated the highly competent and well-regarded director general, Mr Kim Taylor? Mr D.T. Redman : What sort of question is that? Mr F.M. LOGAN : It is a good question. It is a question his predecessor would not answer. The SPEAKER : Order! Member for Cockburn, I have just given you the question. Mr W.R. MARMION replied: I thank the member for Cockburn for the question. (1)–(4) Indeed, water is an important issue, and having a proper structure in place is paramount to delivering water. Certainty of supply is important for everyone in Western Australia so that when they turn on a tap, they get water. We need to make sure — Mr D.A. Templeman interjected. The SPEAKER : Member for Mandurah, I formally call you to order for the first time today. Mr D.A. Templeman : Please send me out after that performance! The SPEAKER : I know that you are sorry, member for Mandurah, but I am formally calling you to order for the second time. Mr W.R. MARMION : Thank you, Mr Speaker. This government inherited a shambolic structure from the previous government, which had combined the Office of Water Regulation and the Water and Rivers Commission to form the Department of Water, and we have a problem with that. I am concerned that, with the structure we have at the moment, there are some overlaps and some gaps. As the new Minister for Water, I will make sure that all the gaps are filled, and I want to make sure that the things that are not happening in water at the moment do happen—such as water management plans. There are some gaps between what the Water Corporation does and what the Department of Water provides. In answer to the member’s question, I have gone through the strategic plan with the acting director general. The current structure has five directors and the new plan cuts that down to four directors. So, there are some efficiencies with the structure. If we add up the value of those positions, there is no increase in the cost. Mr F.M. Logan : Has the plan been concluded yet, minister? Mr W.R. MARMION : In terms of the advertisement, I have put a hold on filling those positions until I am comfortable with the structure and am positive that it addresses any gaps or overlaps with the other agencies involved in looking after water, such as the Water Corporation, Aqwest in Bunbury, the Busselton Water Board and the Economic Regulation Authority. I want to make sure that all these agencies are working together to ensure that taxpayers get value for money. In terms of the structure, there are also a number of reports that I am reviewing, and I will be considering the ERA review initiated by the previous government. It made some very interesting recommendations that I would like to examine. I have had some discussions already with the ERA. Of course, there has been the Economic Audit Committee report. There are a number of issues with water and I want to make sure that we have a structure in place that delivers the best value for money to the people of Western Australia.
(3) Can the minister explain to the house how taxpayers are getting what he describes as “value for money” in the expenditure of $1.265 million on nine new water bureaucrats? (4) Does the minister now accept that the Department of Water has not functioned properly since his disgraced predecessor terminated the highly competent and well-regarded director general, Mr Kim Taylor? Mr D.T. Redman : What sort of question is that? Mr F.M. LOGAN : It is a good question. It is a question his predecessor would not answer. The SPEAKER : Order! Member for Cockburn, I have just given you the question. Mr W.R. MARMION replied: I thank the member for Cockburn for the question. (1)–(4) Indeed, water is an important issue, and having a proper structure in place is paramount to delivering water. Certainty of supply is important for everyone in Western Australia so that when they turn on a tap, they get water. We need to make sure — Mr D.A. Templeman interjected. The SPEAKER : Member for Mandurah, I formally call you to order for the first time today. Mr D.A. Templeman : Please send me out after that performance! The SPEAKER : I know that you are sorry, member for Mandurah, but I am formally calling you to order for the second time. Mr W.R. MARMION : Thank you, Mr Speaker. This government inherited a shambolic structure from the previous government, which had combined the Office of Water Regulation and the Water and Rivers Commission to form the Department of Water, and we have a problem with that. I am concerned that, with the structure we have at the moment, there are some overlaps and some gaps. As the new Minister for Water, I will make sure that all the gaps are filled, and I want to make sure that the things that are not happening in water at the moment do happen—such as water management plans. There are some gaps between what the Water Corporation does and what the Department of Water provides. In answer to the member’s question, I have gone through the strategic plan with the acting director general. The current structure has five directors and the new plan cuts that down to four directors. So, there are some efficiencies with the structure. If we add up the value of those positions, there is no increase in the cost. Mr F.M. Logan : Has the plan been concluded yet, minister? Mr W.R. MARMION : In terms of the advertisement, I have put a hold on filling those positions until I am comfortable with the structure and am positive that it addresses any gaps or overlaps with the other agencies involved in looking after water, such as the Water Corporation, Aqwest in Bunbury, the Busselton Water Board and the Economic Regulation Authority. I want to make sure that all these agencies are working together to ensure that taxpayers get value for money. In terms of the structure, there are also a number of reports that I am reviewing, and I will be considering the ERA review initiated by the previous government. It made some very interesting recommendations that I would like to examine. I have had some discussions already with the ERA. Of course, there has been the Economic Audit Committee report. There are a number of issues with water and I want to make sure that we have a structure in place that delivers the best value for money to the people of Western Australia.
(4) Does the minister now accept that the Department of Water has not functioned properly since his disgraced predecessor terminated the highly competent and well-regarded director general, Mr Kim Taylor? Mr D.T. Redman : What sort of question is that? Mr F.M. LOGAN : It is a good question. It is a question his predecessor would not answer. The SPEAKER : Order! Member for Cockburn, I have just given you the question. Mr W.R. MARMION replied: I thank the member for Cockburn for the question. (1)–(4) Indeed, water is an important issue, and having a proper structure in place is paramount to delivering water. Certainty of supply is important for everyone in Western Australia so that when they turn on a tap, they get water. We need to make sure — Mr D.A. Templeman interjected. The SPEAKER : Member for Mandurah, I formally call you to order for the first time today. Mr D.A. Templeman : Please send me out after that performance! The SPEAKER : I know that you are sorry, member for Mandurah, but I am formally calling you to order for the second time. Mr W.R. MARMION : Thank you, Mr Speaker. This government inherited a shambolic structure from the previous government, which had combined the Office of Water Regulation and the Water and Rivers Commission to form the Department of Water, and we have a problem with that. I am concerned that, with the structure we have at the moment, there are some overlaps and some gaps. As the new Minister for Water, I will make sure that all the gaps are filled, and I want to make sure that the things that are not happening in water at the moment do happen—such as water management plans. There are some gaps between what the Water Corporation does and what the Department of Water provides. In answer to the member’s question, I have gone through the strategic plan with the acting director general. The current structure has five directors and the new plan cuts that down to four directors. So, there are some efficiencies with the structure. If we add up the value of those positions, there is no increase in the cost. Mr F.M. Logan : Has the plan been concluded yet, minister? Mr W.R. MARMION : In terms of the advertisement, I have put a hold on filling those positions until I am comfortable with the structure and am positive that it addresses any gaps or overlaps with the other agencies involved in looking after water, such as the Water Corporation, Aqwest in Bunbury, the Busselton Water Board and the Economic Regulation Authority. I want to make sure that all these agencies are working together to ensure that taxpayers get value for money. In terms of the structure, there are also a number of reports that I am reviewing, and I will be considering the ERA review initiated by the previous government. It made some very interesting recommendations that I would like to examine. I have had some discussions already with the ERA. Of course, there has been the Economic Audit Committee report. There are a number of issues with water and I want to make sure that we have a structure in place that delivers the best value for money to the people of Western Australia.
Mr D.T. Redman : What sort of question is that? Mr F.M. LOGAN : It is a good question. It is a question his predecessor would not answer. The SPEAKER : Order! Member for Cockburn, I have just given you the question. Mr W.R. MARMION replied: I thank the member for Cockburn for the question. (1)–(4) Indeed, water is an important issue, and having a proper structure in place is paramount to delivering water. Certainty of supply is important for everyone in Western Australia so that when they turn on a tap, they get water. We need to make sure — Mr D.A. Templeman interjected. The SPEAKER : Member for Mandurah, I formally call you to order for the first time today. Mr D.A. Templeman : Please send me out after that performance! The SPEAKER : I know that you are sorry, member for Mandurah, but I am formally calling you to order for the second time. Mr W.R. MARMION : Thank you, Mr Speaker. This government inherited a shambolic structure from the previous government, which had combined the Office of Water Regulation and the Water and Rivers Commission to form the Department of Water, and we have a problem with that. I am concerned that, with the structure we have at the moment, there are some overlaps and some gaps. As the new Minister for Water, I will make sure that all the gaps are filled, and I want to make sure that the things that are not happening in water at the moment do happen—such as water management plans. There are some gaps between what the Water Corporation does and what the Department of Water provides. In answer to the member’s question, I have gone through the strategic plan with the acting director general. The current structure has five directors and the new plan cuts that down to four directors. So, there are some efficiencies with the structure. If we add up the value of those positions, there is no increase in the cost. Mr F.M. Logan : Has the plan been concluded yet, minister? Mr W.R. MARMION : In terms of the advertisement, I have put a hold on filling those positions until I am comfortable with the structure and am positive that it addresses any gaps or overlaps with the other agencies involved in looking after water, such as the Water Corporation, Aqwest in Bunbury, the Busselton Water Board and the Economic Regulation Authority. I want to make sure that all these agencies are working together to ensure that taxpayers get value for money. In terms of the structure, there are also a number of reports that I am reviewing, and I will be considering the ERA review initiated by the previous government. It made some very interesting recommendations that I would like to examine. I have had some discussions already with the ERA. Of course, there has been the Economic Audit Committee report. There are a number of issues with water and I want to make sure that we have a structure in place that delivers the best value for money to the people of Western Australia.
Mr F.M. LOGAN : It is a good question. It is a question his predecessor would not answer. The SPEAKER : Order! Member for Cockburn, I have just given you the question. Mr W.R. MARMION replied: I thank the member for Cockburn for the question. (1)–(4) Indeed, water is an important issue, and having a proper structure in place is paramount to delivering water. Certainty of supply is important for everyone in Western Australia so that when they turn on a tap, they get water. We need to make sure — Mr D.A. Templeman interjected. The SPEAKER : Member for Mandurah, I formally call you to order for the first time today. Mr D.A. Templeman : Please send me out after that performance! The SPEAKER : I know that you are sorry, member for Mandurah, but I am formally calling you to order for the second time. Mr W.R. MARMION : Thank you, Mr Speaker. This government inherited a shambolic structure from the previous government, which had combined the Office of Water Regulation and the Water and Rivers Commission to form the Department of Water, and we have a problem with that. I am concerned that, with the structure we have at the moment, there are some overlaps and some gaps. As the new Minister for Water, I will make sure that all the gaps are filled, and I want to make sure that the things that are not happening in water at the moment do happen—such as water management plans. There are some gaps between what the Water Corporation does and what the Department of Water provides. In answer to the member’s question, I have gone through the strategic plan with the acting director general. The current structure has five directors and the new plan cuts that down to four directors. So, there are some efficiencies with the structure. If we add up the value of those positions, there is no increase in the cost. Mr F.M. Logan : Has the plan been concluded yet, minister? Mr W.R. MARMION : In terms of the advertisement, I have put a hold on filling those positions until I am comfortable with the structure and am positive that it addresses any gaps or overlaps with the other agencies involved in looking after water, such as the Water Corporation, Aqwest in Bunbury, the Busselton Water Board and the Economic Regulation Authority. I want to make sure that all these agencies are working together to ensure that taxpayers get value for money. In terms of the structure, there are also a number of reports that I am reviewing, and I will be considering the ERA review initiated by the previous government. It made some very interesting recommendations that I would like to examine. I have had some discussions already with the ERA. Of course, there has been the Economic Audit Committee report. There are a number of issues with water and I want to make sure that we have a structure in place that delivers the best value for money to the people of Western Australia.
The SPEAKER : Order! Member for Cockburn, I have just given you the question. Mr W.R. MARMION replied: I thank the member for Cockburn for the question. (1)–(4) Indeed, water is an important issue, and having a proper structure in place is paramount to delivering water. Certainty of supply is important for everyone in Western Australia so that when they turn on a tap, they get water. We need to make sure — Mr D.A. Templeman interjected. The SPEAKER : Member for Mandurah, I formally call you to order for the first time today. Mr D.A. Templeman : Please send me out after that performance! The SPEAKER : I know that you are sorry, member for Mandurah, but I am formally calling you to order for the second time. Mr W.R. MARMION : Thank you, Mr Speaker. This government inherited a shambolic structure from the previous government, which had combined the Office of Water Regulation and the Water and Rivers Commission to form the Department of Water, and we have a problem with that. I am concerned that, with the structure we have at the moment, there are some overlaps and some gaps. As the new Minister for Water, I will make sure that all the gaps are filled, and I want to make sure that the things that are not happening in water at the moment do happen—such as water management plans. There are some gaps between what the Water Corporation does and what the Department of Water provides. In answer to the member’s question, I have gone through the strategic plan with the acting director general. The current structure has five directors and the new plan cuts that down to four directors. So, there are some efficiencies with the structure. If we add up the value of those positions, there is no increase in the cost. Mr F.M. Logan : Has the plan been concluded yet, minister? Mr W.R. MARMION : In terms of the advertisement, I have put a hold on filling those positions until I am comfortable with the structure and am positive that it addresses any gaps or overlaps with the other agencies involved in looking after water, such as the Water Corporation, Aqwest in Bunbury, the Busselton Water Board and the Economic Regulation Authority. I want to make sure that all these agencies are working together to ensure that taxpayers get value for money. In terms of the structure, there are also a number of reports that I am reviewing, and I will be considering the ERA review initiated by the previous government. It made some very interesting recommendations that I would like to examine. I have had some discussions already with the ERA. Of course, there has been the Economic Audit Committee report. There are a number of issues with water and I want to make sure that we have a structure in place that delivers the best value for money to the people of Western Australia.
Mr W.R. MARMION replied: I thank the member for Cockburn for the question. (1)–(4) Indeed, water is an important issue, and having a proper structure in place is paramount to delivering water. Certainty of supply is important for everyone in Western Australia so that when they turn on a tap, they get water. We need to make sure — Mr D.A. Templeman interjected. The SPEAKER : Member for Mandurah, I formally call you to order for the first time today. Mr D.A. Templeman : Please send me out after that performance! The SPEAKER : I know that you are sorry, member for Mandurah, but I am formally calling you to order for the second time. Mr W.R. MARMION : Thank you, Mr Speaker. This government inherited a shambolic structure from the previous government, which had combined the Office of Water Regulation and the Water and Rivers Commission to form the Department of Water, and we have a problem with that. I am concerned that, with the structure we have at the moment, there are some overlaps and some gaps. As the new Minister for Water, I will make sure that all the gaps are filled, and I want to make sure that the things that are not happening in water at the moment do happen—such as water management plans. There are some gaps between what the Water Corporation does and what the Department of Water provides. In answer to the member’s question, I have gone through the strategic plan with the acting director general. The current structure has five directors and the new plan cuts that down to four directors. So, there are some efficiencies with the structure. If we add up the value of those positions, there is no increase in the cost. Mr F.M. Logan : Has the plan been concluded yet, minister? Mr W.R. MARMION : In terms of the advertisement, I have put a hold on filling those positions until I am comfortable with the structure and am positive that it addresses any gaps or overlaps with the other agencies involved in looking after water, such as the Water Corporation, Aqwest in Bunbury, the Busselton Water Board and the Economic Regulation Authority. I want to make sure that all these agencies are working together to ensure that taxpayers get value for money. In terms of the structure, there are also a number of reports that I am reviewing, and I will be considering the ERA review initiated by the previous government. It made some very interesting recommendations that I would like to examine. I have had some discussions already with the ERA. Of course, there has been the Economic Audit Committee report. There are a number of issues with water and I want to make sure that we have a structure in place that delivers the best value for money to the people of Western Australia.
I thank the member for Cockburn for the question. (1)–(4) Indeed, water is an important issue, and having a proper structure in place is paramount to delivering water. Certainty of supply is important for everyone in Western Australia so that when they turn on a tap, they get water. We need to make sure — Mr D.A. Templeman interjected. The SPEAKER : Member for Mandurah, I formally call you to order for the first time today. Mr D.A. Templeman : Please send me out after that performance! The SPEAKER : I know that you are sorry, member for Mandurah, but I am formally calling you to order for the second time. Mr W.R. MARMION : Thank you, Mr Speaker. This government inherited a shambolic structure from the previous government, which had combined the Office of Water Regulation and the Water and Rivers Commission to form the Department of Water, and we have a problem with that. I am concerned that, with the structure we have at the moment, there are some overlaps and some gaps. As the new Minister for Water, I will make sure that all the gaps are filled, and I want to make sure that the things that are not happening in water at the moment do happen—such as water management plans. There are some gaps between what the Water Corporation does and what the Department of Water provides. In answer to the member’s question, I have gone through the strategic plan with the acting director general. The current structure has five directors and the new plan cuts that down to four directors. So, there are some efficiencies with the structure. If we add up the value of those positions, there is no increase in the cost. Mr F.M. Logan : Has the plan been concluded yet, minister? Mr W.R. MARMION : In terms of the advertisement, I have put a hold on filling those positions until I am comfortable with the structure and am positive that it addresses any gaps or overlaps with the other agencies involved in looking after water, such as the Water Corporation, Aqwest in Bunbury, the Busselton Water Board and the Economic Regulation Authority. I want to make sure that all these agencies are working together to ensure that taxpayers get value for money. In terms of the structure, there are also a number of reports that I am reviewing, and I will be considering the ERA review initiated by the previous government. It made some very interesting recommendations that I would like to examine. I have had some discussions already with the ERA. Of course, there has been the Economic Audit Committee report. There are a number of issues with water and I want to make sure that we have a structure in place that delivers the best value for money to the people of Western Australia.
(1)–(4) Indeed, water is an important issue, and having a proper structure in place is paramount to delivering water. Certainty of supply is important for everyone in Western Australia so that when they turn on a tap, they get water. We need to make sure — Mr D.A. Templeman interjected. The SPEAKER : Member for Mandurah, I formally call you to order for the first time today. Mr D.A. Templeman : Please send me out after that performance! The SPEAKER : I know that you are sorry, member for Mandurah, but I am formally calling you to order for the second time. Mr W.R. MARMION : Thank you, Mr Speaker. This government inherited a shambolic structure from the previous government, which had combined the Office of Water Regulation and the Water and Rivers Commission to form the Department of Water, and we have a problem with that. I am concerned that, with the structure we have at the moment, there are some overlaps and some gaps. As the new Minister for Water, I will make sure that all the gaps are filled, and I want to make sure that the things that are not happening in water at the moment do happen—such as water management plans. There are some gaps between what the Water Corporation does and what the Department of Water provides. In answer to the member’s question, I have gone through the strategic plan with the acting director general. The current structure has five directors and the new plan cuts that down to four directors. So, there are some efficiencies with the structure. If we add up the value of those positions, there is no increase in the cost. Mr F.M. Logan : Has the plan been concluded yet, minister? Mr W.R. MARMION : In terms of the advertisement, I have put a hold on filling those positions until I am comfortable with the structure and am positive that it addresses any gaps or overlaps with the other agencies involved in looking after water, such as the Water Corporation, Aqwest in Bunbury, the Busselton Water Board and the Economic Regulation Authority. I want to make sure that all these agencies are working together to ensure that taxpayers get value for money. In terms of the structure, there are also a number of reports that I am reviewing, and I will be considering the ERA review initiated by the previous government. It made some very interesting recommendations that I would like to examine. I have had some discussions already with the ERA. Of course, there has been the Economic Audit Committee report. There are a number of issues with water and I want to make sure that we have a structure in place that delivers the best value for money to the people of Western Australia.
Mr D.A. Templeman interjected. The SPEAKER : Member for Mandurah, I formally call you to order for the first time today. Mr D.A. Templeman : Please send me out after that performance! The SPEAKER : I know that you are sorry, member for Mandurah, but I am formally calling you to order for the second time. Mr W.R. MARMION : Thank you, Mr Speaker. This government inherited a shambolic structure from the previous government, which had combined the Office of Water Regulation and the Water and Rivers Commission to form the Department of Water, and we have a problem with that. I am concerned that, with the structure we have at the moment, there are some overlaps and some gaps. As the new Minister for Water, I will make sure that all the gaps are filled, and I want to make sure that the things that are not happening in water at the moment do happen—such as water management plans. There are some gaps between what the Water Corporation does and what the Department of Water provides. In answer to the member’s question, I have gone through the strategic plan with the acting director general. The current structure has five directors and the new plan cuts that down to four directors. So, there are some efficiencies with the structure. If we add up the value of those positions, there is no increase in the cost. Mr F.M. Logan : Has the plan been concluded yet, minister? Mr W.R. MARMION : In terms of the advertisement, I have put a hold on filling those positions until I am comfortable with the structure and am positive that it addresses any gaps or overlaps with the other agencies involved in looking after water, such as the Water Corporation, Aqwest in Bunbury, the Busselton Water Board and the Economic Regulation Authority. I want to make sure that all these agencies are working together to ensure that taxpayers get value for money. In terms of the structure, there are also a number of reports that I am reviewing, and I will be considering the ERA review initiated by the previous government. It made some very interesting recommendations that I would like to examine. I have had some discussions already with the ERA. Of course, there has been the Economic Audit Committee report. There are a number of issues with water and I want to make sure that we have a structure in place that delivers the best value for money to the people of Western Australia.
The SPEAKER : Member for Mandurah, I formally call you to order for the first time today. Mr D.A. Templeman : Please send me out after that performance! The SPEAKER : I know that you are sorry, member for Mandurah, but I am formally calling you to order for the second time. Mr W.R. MARMION : Thank you, Mr Speaker. This government inherited a shambolic structure from the previous government, which had combined the Office of Water Regulation and the Water and Rivers Commission to form the Department of Water, and we have a problem with that. I am concerned that, with the structure we have at the moment, there are some overlaps and some gaps. As the new Minister for Water, I will make sure that all the gaps are filled, and I want to make sure that the things that are not happening in water at the moment do happen—such as water management plans. There are some gaps between what the Water Corporation does and what the Department of Water provides. In answer to the member’s question, I have gone through the strategic plan with the acting director general. The current structure has five directors and the new plan cuts that down to four directors. So, there are some efficiencies with the structure. If we add up the value of those positions, there is no increase in the cost. Mr F.M. Logan : Has the plan been concluded yet, minister? Mr W.R. MARMION : In terms of the advertisement, I have put a hold on filling those positions until I am comfortable with the structure and am positive that it addresses any gaps or overlaps with the other agencies involved in looking after water, such as the Water Corporation, Aqwest in Bunbury, the Busselton Water Board and the Economic Regulation Authority. I want to make sure that all these agencies are working together to ensure that taxpayers get value for money. In terms of the structure, there are also a number of reports that I am reviewing, and I will be considering the ERA review initiated by the previous government. It made some very interesting recommendations that I would like to examine. I have had some discussions already with the ERA. Of course, there has been the Economic Audit Committee report. There are a number of issues with water and I want to make sure that we have a structure in place that delivers the best value for money to the people of Western Australia.
Mr D.A. Templeman : Please send me out after that performance! The SPEAKER : I know that you are sorry, member for Mandurah, but I am formally calling you to order for the second time. Mr W.R. MARMION : Thank you, Mr Speaker. This government inherited a shambolic structure from the previous government, which had combined the Office of Water Regulation and the Water and Rivers Commission to form the Department of Water, and we have a problem with that. I am concerned that, with the structure we have at the moment, there are some overlaps and some gaps. As the new Minister for Water, I will make sure that all the gaps are filled, and I want to make sure that the things that are not happening in water at the moment do happen—such as water management plans. There are some gaps between what the Water Corporation does and what the Department of Water provides. In answer to the member’s question, I have gone through the strategic plan with the acting director general. The current structure has five directors and the new plan cuts that down to four directors. So, there are some efficiencies with the structure. If we add up the value of those positions, there is no increase in the cost. Mr F.M. Logan : Has the plan been concluded yet, minister? Mr W.R. MARMION : In terms of the advertisement, I have put a hold on filling those positions until I am comfortable with the structure and am positive that it addresses any gaps or overlaps with the other agencies involved in looking after water, such as the Water Corporation, Aqwest in Bunbury, the Busselton Water Board and the Economic Regulation Authority. I want to make sure that all these agencies are working together to ensure that taxpayers get value for money. In terms of the structure, there are also a number of reports that I am reviewing, and I will be considering the ERA review initiated by the previous government. It made some very interesting recommendations that I would like to examine. I have had some discussions already with the ERA. Of course, there has been the Economic Audit Committee report. There are a number of issues with water and I want to make sure that we have a structure in place that delivers the best value for money to the people of Western Australia.
The SPEAKER : I know that you are sorry, member for Mandurah, but I am formally calling you to order for the second time. Mr W.R. MARMION : Thank you, Mr Speaker. This government inherited a shambolic structure from the previous government, which had combined the Office of Water Regulation and the Water and Rivers Commission to form the Department of Water, and we have a problem with that. I am concerned that, with the structure we have at the moment, there are some overlaps and some gaps. As the new Minister for Water, I will make sure that all the gaps are filled, and I want to make sure that the things that are not happening in water at the moment do happen—such as water management plans. There are some gaps between what the Water Corporation does and what the Department of Water provides. In answer to the member’s question, I have gone through the strategic plan with the acting director general. The current structure has five directors and the new plan cuts that down to four directors. So, there are some efficiencies with the structure. If we add up the value of those positions, there is no increase in the cost. Mr F.M. Logan : Has the plan been concluded yet, minister? Mr W.R. MARMION : In terms of the advertisement, I have put a hold on filling those positions until I am comfortable with the structure and am positive that it addresses any gaps or overlaps with the other agencies involved in looking after water, such as the Water Corporation, Aqwest in Bunbury, the Busselton Water Board and the Economic Regulation Authority. I want to make sure that all these agencies are working together to ensure that taxpayers get value for money. In terms of the structure, there are also a number of reports that I am reviewing, and I will be considering the ERA review initiated by the previous government. It made some very interesting recommendations that I would like to examine. I have had some discussions already with the ERA. Of course, there has been the Economic Audit Committee report. There are a number of issues with water and I want to make sure that we have a structure in place that delivers the best value for money to the people of Western Australia.
Mr W.R. MARMION : Thank you, Mr Speaker. This government inherited a shambolic structure from the previous government, which had combined the Office of Water Regulation and the Water and Rivers Commission to form the Department of Water, and we have a problem with that. I am concerned that, with the structure we have at the moment, there are some overlaps and some gaps. As the new Minister for Water, I will make sure that all the gaps are filled, and I want to make sure that the things that are not happening in water at the moment do happen—such as water management plans. There are some gaps between what the Water Corporation does and what the Department of Water provides. In answer to the member’s question, I have gone through the strategic plan with the acting director general. The current structure has five directors and the new plan cuts that down to four directors. So, there are some efficiencies with the structure. If we add up the value of those positions, there is no increase in the cost. Mr F.M. Logan : Has the plan been concluded yet, minister? Mr W.R. MARMION : In terms of the advertisement, I have put a hold on filling those positions until I am comfortable with the structure and am positive that it addresses any gaps or overlaps with the other agencies involved in looking after water, such as the Water Corporation, Aqwest in Bunbury, the Busselton Water Board and the Economic Regulation Authority. I want to make sure that all these agencies are working together to ensure that taxpayers get value for money. In terms of the structure, there are also a number of reports that I am reviewing, and I will be considering the ERA review initiated by the previous government. It made some very interesting recommendations that I would like to examine. I have had some discussions already with the ERA. Of course, there has been the Economic Audit Committee report. There are a number of issues with water and I want to make sure that we have a structure in place that delivers the best value for money to the people of Western Australia.
This government inherited a shambolic structure from the previous government, which had combined the Office of Water Regulation and the Water and Rivers Commission to form the Department of Water, and we have a problem with that. I am concerned that, with the structure we have at the moment, there are some overlaps and some gaps. As the new Minister for Water, I will make sure that all the gaps are filled, and I want to make sure that the things that are not happening in water at the moment do happen—such as water management plans. There are some gaps between what the Water Corporation does and what the Department of Water provides. In answer to the member’s question, I have gone through the strategic plan with the acting director general. The current structure has five directors and the new plan cuts that down to four directors. So, there are some efficiencies with the structure. If we add up the value of those positions, there is no increase in the cost. Mr F.M. Logan : Has the plan been concluded yet, minister? Mr W.R. MARMION : In terms of the advertisement, I have put a hold on filling those positions until I am comfortable with the structure and am positive that it addresses any gaps or overlaps with the other agencies involved in looking after water, such as the Water Corporation, Aqwest in Bunbury, the Busselton Water Board and the Economic Regulation Authority. I want to make sure that all these agencies are working together to ensure that taxpayers get value for money. In terms of the structure, there are also a number of reports that I am reviewing, and I will be considering the ERA review initiated by the previous government. It made some very interesting recommendations that I would like to examine. I have had some discussions already with the ERA. Of course, there has been the Economic Audit Committee report. There are a number of issues with water and I want to make sure that we have a structure in place that delivers the best value for money to the people of Western Australia.
In answer to the member’s question, I have gone through the strategic plan with the acting director general. The current structure has five directors and the new plan cuts that down to four directors. So, there are some efficiencies with the structure. If we add up the value of those positions, there is no increase in the cost. Mr F.M. Logan : Has the plan been concluded yet, minister? Mr W.R. MARMION : In terms of the advertisement, I have put a hold on filling those positions until I am comfortable with the structure and am positive that it addresses any gaps or overlaps with the other agencies involved in looking after water, such as the Water Corporation, Aqwest in Bunbury, the Busselton Water Board and the Economic Regulation Authority. I want to make sure that all these agencies are working together to ensure that taxpayers get value for money. In terms of the structure, there are also a number of reports that I am reviewing, and I will be considering the ERA review initiated by the previous government. It made some very interesting recommendations that I would like to examine. I have had some discussions already with the ERA. Of course, there has been the Economic Audit Committee report. There are a number of issues with water and I want to make sure that we have a structure in place that delivers the best value for money to the people of Western Australia.
Mr F.M. Logan : Has the plan been concluded yet, minister? Mr W.R. MARMION : In terms of the advertisement, I have put a hold on filling those positions until I am comfortable with the structure and am positive that it addresses any gaps or overlaps with the other agencies involved in looking after water, such as the Water Corporation, Aqwest in Bunbury, the Busselton Water Board and the Economic Regulation Authority. I want to make sure that all these agencies are working together to ensure that taxpayers get value for money. In terms of the structure, there are also a number of reports that I am reviewing, and I will be considering the ERA review initiated by the previous government. It made some very interesting recommendations that I would like to examine. I have had some discussions already with the ERA. Of course, there has been the Economic Audit Committee report. There are a number of issues with water and I want to make sure that we have a structure in place that delivers the best value for money to the people of Western Australia.
Mr W.R. MARMION : In terms of the advertisement, I have put a hold on filling those positions until I am comfortable with the structure and am positive that it addresses any gaps or overlaps with the other agencies involved in looking after water, such as the Water Corporation, Aqwest in Bunbury, the Busselton Water Board and the Economic Regulation Authority. I want to make sure that all these agencies are working together to ensure that taxpayers get value for money. In terms of the structure, there are also a number of reports that I am reviewing, and I will be considering the ERA review initiated by the previous government. It made some very interesting recommendations that I would like to examine. I have had some discussions already with the ERA. Of course, there has been the Economic Audit Committee report. There are a number of issues with water and I want to make sure that we have a structure in place that delivers the best value for money to the people of Western Australia.
In terms of the structure, there are also a number of reports that I am reviewing, and I will be considering the ERA review initiated by the previous government. It made some very interesting recommendations that I would like to examine. I have had some discussions already with the ERA. Of course, there has been the Economic Audit Committee report. There are a number of issues with water and I want to make sure that we have a structure in place that delivers the best value for money to the people of Western Australia.
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