❓ Question regarding the 12 million-tonne export cap at Geraldton Port and its impact on mining companies, particularly in light of Oakajee's delayed construction. The Premier's response avoids directly answering the questions, instead criticising the questioner's stance on Oakajee.
AnsweredQoN 883Legislative Assembly
QuestionView source ↗
GERALDTON PORT — EXPORT CAP
I refer to documents obtained under freedom of information legislation that show that during the Premier’s visit to China, Chinese companies expressed significant concern about the export cap he has imposed on the Geraldton port, particularly given the time frames for the construction of Oakajee. (1) Given that companies with approved projects need to export 20 million tonnes per annum of iron ore through the Geraldton port, is the Premier reviewing the 12 million-tonne cap that is limiting the growth in the mid-west? (2) If no to (1), which company currently planning to export through Geraldton port will be prevented from doing so? (3) Can the Premier confirm the latest advice that a start date for Oakajee of 2014 is not commercially realistic? Mr C.J. BARNETT
I refer to documents obtained under freedom of information legislation that show that during the Premier’s visit to China, Chinese companies expressed significant concern about the export cap he has imposed on the Geraldton port, particularly given the time frames for the construction of Oakajee. (1) Given that companies with approved projects need to export 20 million tonnes per annum of iron ore through the Geraldton port, is the Premier reviewing the 12 million-tonne cap that is limiting the growth in the mid-west? (2) If no to (1), which company currently planning to export through Geraldton port will be prevented from doing so? (3) Can the Premier confirm the latest advice that a start date for Oakajee of 2014 is not commercially realistic? Mr C.J. BARNETT
AnswerView source ↗
(1)-(3) We know that the member for Armadale opposes Oakajee; that is a given. Several members interjected. Mr E.S. Ripper : That is the first thing you say. Ms A.J.G. MacTiernan : That is what you used to say during the Kingstream debate. Mr C.J. BARNETT : That is because the member for Armadale continually opposes Oakajee. Every question she has asked about Oakajee has been negative. She has continually tried to undermine the project. She continually contacts her colleagues in Canberra and suggests that the state and the commonwealth should not be supporting this project. Ms A.J.G. MacTiernan : That is not true. Mr C.J. BARNETT : That is what she does. Ms A.J.G. MacTiernan : That is just not true. Mr C.J. BARNETT : That is why she does not stand up for Western Australia. She continually tries to undermine that project. Indeed, some newer members may not realise that this is the member for Armadale’s second attempt to undermine the project. Yes, the first attempt with Kingstream did not work out; I concede that. The solution of the member for Armadale was to spend more than $100 million deepening the port of Geraldton. Ms A.J.G. MacTiernan : What a good move that was. Mr C.J. BARNETT : What a good thing! Not even a laden panamax ship can get into Geraldton harbour. Ms A.J.G. MacTiernan : That is not what the industry needs. The SPEAKER : Order! Members may not like the answer being given. Member for Armadale, I will give you leave to ask a supplementary if you want to ask another question. Mr C.J. BARNETT : More than $100 million — Ms A.J.G. MacTiernan : You just don’t get that project. The SPEAKER : Order! I formally call the member for the second time. Mr C.J. BARNETT : More than $100 million of taxpayers’ money has been spent on deepening the harbour. Ms R. Saffioti interjected. Mr C.J. BARNETT : Yes, by deepening the Geraldton harbour. It is a better harbour now of course because it is deeper. But not even a panamax vessel can get in there. Ms A.J.G. MacTiernan : Yes, but the industry is started. Mr C.J. BARNETT : Most of the world commodity trade has moved beyond panamax to capesize, and even super-capesize vehicles now being built. Ms A.J.G. MacTiernan : Not for this product. Mr C.J. BARNETT : Geraldton port is totally inadequate for development of the mineral province of the mid-west. Ms A.J.G. MacTiernan : You don’t understand the product. Mr C.J. BARNETT : I am explaining some background for our members who are interested in the failings of the Labor government and the squandering of more than $100 million of taxpayers’ money. This government is quite determined to proceed with Oakajee. But, boy, did the former Labor government leave us a difficult handover? This former minister basically set up a competition between Japan and China to bid for the project. I am trying very hard, because it is very difficult, to bring this project — Mr E.S. Ripper : Answer the question Mr C.J. BARNETT : That is exactly what I am doing, Leader of the Opposition. Mr E.S. Ripper : You’re not. Mr C.J. BARNETT : You need to listen as you listened attentively to the Minister for Police. Mr E.S. Ripper : His was a better answer! Mr C.J. BARNETT : I agree! I am working very hard to try to bring Oakajee to fruition and to bring it as the first large-scale infrastructure mining project that is genuinely Australian, Japanese and Chinese. That will be a first for this nation and a first for the Asia-Pacific region. To do that we need to ensure not only that the Oakajee deepwater harbour is built but also that people contract to use it. There will be a transition and during that transition some volume of iron ore will go out through the port of Geraldton. About five million or six million tonnes are going out at present. We imposed a cap at 12 million tonnes as part of the Oakajee development agreement. Representations have been made by Gindalbie about how it can work in a transition for initial tonnages through Geraldton. Because it is looking at around 30 million tonnes a year, it is committed to Oakajee. We are working with Gindalbie, and that arrangement is basically resolved. Gindalbie is about to start construction. We have not only the arrangement for the port—both transitional use of Geraldton and long-term use of Oakajee—but also sorted out environmental issues about banded-iron formations, something that members opposite could not deal with. We have dealt with it. The other project the member for Armadale was probably talking about is Asia Iron—I think I have the right company—which is looking at a slurry pipeline project. In other words, it wants to pump a sort of sludge, or liquid iron ore, in a solution and then dry it out and load it. I think that project has a way to go, but we wish Asia Iron well and we are helping them. We have relaxed the constraint to allow Asia Iron to use Geraldton port. Ms A.J.G. MacTiernan : How many tonnes will be allowed? Mr C.J. BARNETT : I will not quote the figures; I will probably get them wrong. I do not have that information off the top of my head. Mr E.S. Ripper : Well done, member for Armadale. Several members interjected. Mr C.J. BARNETT : I am trying to answer the question. Asia Iron has been given a right to use Geraldton port for the first stage of its production. It is my opinion that that is probably not the most economical way of developing its project; it would probably do better financially and in volume if it combined with Gindalbie and used rail transport. However, that is up to Asia Iron and its backers. It can develop to a certain tonnage. I will let the member know the exact tonnage; I cannot remember it right now. Geraldton port can accommodate Asia Iron’s needs. I have to say that I was a little disappointed in the way Asia Iron conducted its affairs; nevertheless, we have made sure there is no impediment or constraint at Geraldton harbour to Asia Iron proceeding with its project if it can get the necessary financing. I have urged the company privately, and now I do so publicly, to look at more efficient ways of transporting that iron ore.
(1) Given that companies with approved projects need to export 20 million tonnes per annum of iron ore through the Geraldton port, is the Premier reviewing the 12 million-tonne cap that is limiting the growth in the mid-west? (2) If no to (1), which company currently planning to export through Geraldton port will be prevented from doing so? (3) Can the Premier confirm the latest advice that a start date for Oakajee of 2014 is not commercially realistic? Mr C.J. BARNETT replied: (1)-(3) We know that the member for Armadale opposes Oakajee; that is a given. Several members interjected. Mr E.S. Ripper : That is the first thing you say. Ms A.J.G. MacTiernan : That is what you used to say during the Kingstream debate. Mr C.J. BARNETT : That is because the member for Armadale continually opposes Oakajee. Every question she has asked about Oakajee has been negative. She has continually tried to undermine the project. She continually contacts her colleagues in Canberra and suggests that the state and the commonwealth should not be supporting this project. Ms A.J.G. MacTiernan : That is not true. Mr C.J. BARNETT : That is what she does. Ms A.J.G. MacTiernan : That is just not true. Mr C.J. BARNETT : That is why she does not stand up for Western Australia. She continually tries to undermine that project. Indeed, some newer members may not realise that this is the member for Armadale’s second attempt to undermine the project. Yes, the first attempt with Kingstream did not work out; I concede that. The solution of the member for Armadale was to spend more than $100 million deepening the port of Geraldton. Ms A.J.G. MacTiernan : What a good move that was. Mr C.J. BARNETT : What a good thing! Not even a laden panamax ship can get into Geraldton harbour. Ms A.J.G. MacTiernan : That is not what the industry needs. The SPEAKER : Order! Members may not like the answer being given. Member for Armadale, I will give you leave to ask a supplementary if you want to ask another question. Mr C.J. BARNETT : More than $100 million — Ms A.J.G. MacTiernan : You just don’t get that project. The SPEAKER : Order! I formally call the member for the second time. Mr C.J. BARNETT : More than $100 million of taxpayers’ money has been spent on deepening the harbour. Ms R. Saffioti interjected. Mr C.J. BARNETT : Yes, by deepening the Geraldton harbour. It is a better harbour now of course because it is deeper. But not even a panamax vessel can get in there. Ms A.J.G. MacTiernan : Yes, but the industry is started. Mr C.J. BARNETT : Most of the world commodity trade has moved beyond panamax to capesize, and even super-capesize vehicles now being built. Ms A.J.G. MacTiernan : Not for this product. Mr C.J. BARNETT : Geraldton port is totally inadequate for development of the mineral province of the mid-west. Ms A.J.G. MacTiernan : You don’t understand the product. Mr C.J. BARNETT : I am explaining some background for our members who are interested in the failings of the Labor government and the squandering of more than $100 million of taxpayers’ money. This government is quite determined to proceed with Oakajee. But, boy, did the former Labor government leave us a difficult handover? This former minister basically set up a competition between Japan and China to bid for the project. I am trying very hard, because it is very difficult, to bring this project — Mr E.S. Ripper : Answer the question Mr C.J. BARNETT : That is exactly what I am doing, Leader of the Opposition. Mr E.S. Ripper : You’re not. Mr C.J. BARNETT : You need to listen as you listened attentively to the Minister for Police. Mr E.S. Ripper : His was a better answer! Mr C.J. BARNETT : I agree! I am working very hard to try to bring Oakajee to fruition and to bring it as the first large-scale infrastructure mining project that is genuinely Australian, Japanese and Chinese. That will be a first for this nation and a first for the Asia-Pacific region. To do that we need to ensure not only that the Oakajee deepwater harbour is built but also that people contract to use it. There will be a transition and during that transition some volume of iron ore will go out through the port of Geraldton. About five million or six million tonnes are going out at present. We imposed a cap at 12 million tonnes as part of the Oakajee development agreement. Representations have been made by Gindalbie about how it can work in a transition for initial tonnages through Geraldton. Because it is looking at around 30 million tonnes a year, it is committed to Oakajee. We are working with Gindalbie, and that arrangement is basically resolved. Gindalbie is about to start construction. We have not only the arrangement for the port—both transitional use of Geraldton and long-term use of Oakajee—but also sorted out environmental issues about banded-iron formations, something that members opposite could not deal with. We have dealt with it. The other project the member for Armadale was probably talking about is Asia Iron—I think I have the right company—which is looking at a slurry pipeline project. In other words, it wants to pump a sort of sludge, or liquid iron ore, in a solution and then dry it out and load it. I think that project has a way to go, but we wish Asia Iron well and we are helping them. We have relaxed the constraint to allow Asia Iron to use Geraldton port. Ms A.J.G. MacTiernan : How many tonnes will be allowed? Mr C.J. BARNETT : I will not quote the figures; I will probably get them wrong. I do not have that information off the top of my head. Mr E.S. Ripper : Well done, member for Armadale. Several members interjected. Mr C.J. BARNETT : I am trying to answer the question. Asia Iron has been given a right to use Geraldton port for the first stage of its production. It is my opinion that that is probably not the most economical way of developing its project; it would probably do better financially and in volume if it combined with Gindalbie and used rail transport. However, that is up to Asia Iron and its backers. It can develop to a certain tonnage. I will let the member know the exact tonnage; I cannot remember it right now. Geraldton port can accommodate Asia Iron’s needs. I have to say that I was a little disappointed in the way Asia Iron conducted its affairs; nevertheless, we have made sure there is no impediment or constraint at Geraldton harbour to Asia Iron proceeding with its project if it can get the necessary financing. I have urged the company privately, and now I do so publicly, to look at more efficient ways of transporting that iron ore.
(2) If no to (1), which company currently planning to export through Geraldton port will be prevented from doing so? (3) Can the Premier confirm the latest advice that a start date for Oakajee of 2014 is not commercially realistic? Mr C.J. BARNETT replied: (1)-(3) We know that the member for Armadale opposes Oakajee; that is a given. Several members interjected. Mr E.S. Ripper : That is the first thing you say. Ms A.J.G. MacTiernan : That is what you used to say during the Kingstream debate. Mr C.J. BARNETT : That is because the member for Armadale continually opposes Oakajee. Every question she has asked about Oakajee has been negative. She has continually tried to undermine the project. She continually contacts her colleagues in Canberra and suggests that the state and the commonwealth should not be supporting this project. Ms A.J.G. MacTiernan : That is not true. Mr C.J. BARNETT : That is what she does. Ms A.J.G. MacTiernan : That is just not true. Mr C.J. BARNETT : That is why she does not stand up for Western Australia. She continually tries to undermine that project. Indeed, some newer members may not realise that this is the member for Armadale’s second attempt to undermine the project. Yes, the first attempt with Kingstream did not work out; I concede that. The solution of the member for Armadale was to spend more than $100 million deepening the port of Geraldton. Ms A.J.G. MacTiernan : What a good move that was. Mr C.J. BARNETT : What a good thing! Not even a laden panamax ship can get into Geraldton harbour. Ms A.J.G. MacTiernan : That is not what the industry needs. The SPEAKER : Order! Members may not like the answer being given. Member for Armadale, I will give you leave to ask a supplementary if you want to ask another question. Mr C.J. BARNETT : More than $100 million — Ms A.J.G. MacTiernan : You just don’t get that project. The SPEAKER : Order! I formally call the member for the second time. Mr C.J. BARNETT : More than $100 million of taxpayers’ money has been spent on deepening the harbour. Ms R. Saffioti interjected. Mr C.J. BARNETT : Yes, by deepening the Geraldton harbour. It is a better harbour now of course because it is deeper. But not even a panamax vessel can get in there. Ms A.J.G. MacTiernan : Yes, but the industry is started. Mr C.J. BARNETT : Most of the world commodity trade has moved beyond panamax to capesize, and even super-capesize vehicles now being built. Ms A.J.G. MacTiernan : Not for this product. Mr C.J. BARNETT : Geraldton port is totally inadequate for development of the mineral province of the mid-west. Ms A.J.G. MacTiernan : You don’t understand the product. Mr C.J. BARNETT : I am explaining some background for our members who are interested in the failings of the Labor government and the squandering of more than $100 million of taxpayers’ money. This government is quite determined to proceed with Oakajee. But, boy, did the former Labor government leave us a difficult handover? This former minister basically set up a competition between Japan and China to bid for the project. I am trying very hard, because it is very difficult, to bring this project — Mr E.S. Ripper : Answer the question Mr C.J. BARNETT : That is exactly what I am doing, Leader of the Opposition. Mr E.S. Ripper : You’re not. Mr C.J. BARNETT : You need to listen as you listened attentively to the Minister for Police. Mr E.S. Ripper : His was a better answer! Mr C.J. BARNETT : I agree! I am working very hard to try to bring Oakajee to fruition and to bring it as the first large-scale infrastructure mining project that is genuinely Australian, Japanese and Chinese. That will be a first for this nation and a first for the Asia-Pacific region. To do that we need to ensure not only that the Oakajee deepwater harbour is built but also that people contract to use it. There will be a transition and during that transition some volume of iron ore will go out through the port of Geraldton. About five million or six million tonnes are going out at present. We imposed a cap at 12 million tonnes as part of the Oakajee development agreement. Representations have been made by Gindalbie about how it can work in a transition for initial tonnages through Geraldton. Because it is looking at around 30 million tonnes a year, it is committed to Oakajee. We are working with Gindalbie, and that arrangement is basically resolved. Gindalbie is about to start construction. We have not only the arrangement for the port—both transitional use of Geraldton and long-term use of Oakajee—but also sorted out environmental issues about banded-iron formations, something that members opposite could not deal with. We have dealt with it. The other project the member for Armadale was probably talking about is Asia Iron—I think I have the right company—which is looking at a slurry pipeline project. In other words, it wants to pump a sort of sludge, or liquid iron ore, in a solution and then dry it out and load it. I think that project has a way to go, but we wish Asia Iron well and we are helping them. We have relaxed the constraint to allow Asia Iron to use Geraldton port. Ms A.J.G. MacTiernan : How many tonnes will be allowed? Mr C.J. BARNETT : I will not quote the figures; I will probably get them wrong. I do not have that information off the top of my head. Mr E.S. Ripper : Well done, member for Armadale. Several members interjected. Mr C.J. BARNETT : I am trying to answer the question. Asia Iron has been given a right to use Geraldton port for the first stage of its production. It is my opinion that that is probably not the most economical way of developing its project; it would probably do better financially and in volume if it combined with Gindalbie and used rail transport. However, that is up to Asia Iron and its backers. It can develop to a certain tonnage. I will let the member know the exact tonnage; I cannot remember it right now. Geraldton port can accommodate Asia Iron’s needs. I have to say that I was a little disappointed in the way Asia Iron conducted its affairs; nevertheless, we have made sure there is no impediment or constraint at Geraldton harbour to Asia Iron proceeding with its project if it can get the necessary financing. I have urged the company privately, and now I do so publicly, to look at more efficient ways of transporting that iron ore.
(3) Can the Premier confirm the latest advice that a start date for Oakajee of 2014 is not commercially realistic? Mr C.J. BARNETT replied: (1)-(3) We know that the member for Armadale opposes Oakajee; that is a given. Several members interjected. Mr E.S. Ripper : That is the first thing you say. Ms A.J.G. MacTiernan : That is what you used to say during the Kingstream debate. Mr C.J. BARNETT : That is because the member for Armadale continually opposes Oakajee. Every question she has asked about Oakajee has been negative. She has continually tried to undermine the project. She continually contacts her colleagues in Canberra and suggests that the state and the commonwealth should not be supporting this project. Ms A.J.G. MacTiernan : That is not true. Mr C.J. BARNETT : That is what she does. Ms A.J.G. MacTiernan : That is just not true. Mr C.J. BARNETT : That is why she does not stand up for Western Australia. She continually tries to undermine that project. Indeed, some newer members may not realise that this is the member for Armadale’s second attempt to undermine the project. Yes, the first attempt with Kingstream did not work out; I concede that. The solution of the member for Armadale was to spend more than $100 million deepening the port of Geraldton. Ms A.J.G. MacTiernan : What a good move that was. Mr C.J. BARNETT : What a good thing! Not even a laden panamax ship can get into Geraldton harbour. Ms A.J.G. MacTiernan : That is not what the industry needs. The SPEAKER : Order! Members may not like the answer being given. Member for Armadale, I will give you leave to ask a supplementary if you want to ask another question. Mr C.J. BARNETT : More than $100 million — Ms A.J.G. MacTiernan : You just don’t get that project. The SPEAKER : Order! I formally call the member for the second time. Mr C.J. BARNETT : More than $100 million of taxpayers’ money has been spent on deepening the harbour. Ms R. Saffioti interjected. Mr C.J. BARNETT : Yes, by deepening the Geraldton harbour. It is a better harbour now of course because it is deeper. But not even a panamax vessel can get in there. Ms A.J.G. MacTiernan : Yes, but the industry is started. Mr C.J. BARNETT : Most of the world commodity trade has moved beyond panamax to capesize, and even super-capesize vehicles now being built. Ms A.J.G. MacTiernan : Not for this product. Mr C.J. BARNETT : Geraldton port is totally inadequate for development of the mineral province of the mid-west. Ms A.J.G. MacTiernan : You don’t understand the product. Mr C.J. BARNETT : I am explaining some background for our members who are interested in the failings of the Labor government and the squandering of more than $100 million of taxpayers’ money. This government is quite determined to proceed with Oakajee. But, boy, did the former Labor government leave us a difficult handover? This former minister basically set up a competition between Japan and China to bid for the project. I am trying very hard, because it is very difficult, to bring this project — Mr E.S. Ripper : Answer the question Mr C.J. BARNETT : That is exactly what I am doing, Leader of the Opposition. Mr E.S. Ripper : You’re not. Mr C.J. BARNETT : You need to listen as you listened attentively to the Minister for Police. Mr E.S. Ripper : His was a better answer! Mr C.J. BARNETT : I agree! I am working very hard to try to bring Oakajee to fruition and to bring it as the first large-scale infrastructure mining project that is genuinely Australian, Japanese and Chinese. That will be a first for this nation and a first for the Asia-Pacific region. To do that we need to ensure not only that the Oakajee deepwater harbour is built but also that people contract to use it. There will be a transition and during that transition some volume of iron ore will go out through the port of Geraldton. About five million or six million tonnes are going out at present. We imposed a cap at 12 million tonnes as part of the Oakajee development agreement. Representations have been made by Gindalbie about how it can work in a transition for initial tonnages through Geraldton. Because it is looking at around 30 million tonnes a year, it is committed to Oakajee. We are working with Gindalbie, and that arrangement is basically resolved. Gindalbie is about to start construction. We have not only the arrangement for the port—both transitional use of Geraldton and long-term use of Oakajee—but also sorted out environmental issues about banded-iron formations, something that members opposite could not deal with. We have dealt with it. The other project the member for Armadale was probably talking about is Asia Iron—I think I have the right company—which is looking at a slurry pipeline project. In other words, it wants to pump a sort of sludge, or liquid iron ore, in a solution and then dry it out and load it. I think that project has a way to go, but we wish Asia Iron well and we are helping them. We have relaxed the constraint to allow Asia Iron to use Geraldton port. Ms A.J.G. MacTiernan : How many tonnes will be allowed? Mr C.J. BARNETT : I will not quote the figures; I will probably get them wrong. I do not have that information off the top of my head. Mr E.S. Ripper : Well done, member for Armadale. Several members interjected. Mr C.J. BARNETT : I am trying to answer the question. Asia Iron has been given a right to use Geraldton port for the first stage of its production. It is my opinion that that is probably not the most economical way of developing its project; it would probably do better financially and in volume if it combined with Gindalbie and used rail transport. However, that is up to Asia Iron and its backers. It can develop to a certain tonnage. I will let the member know the exact tonnage; I cannot remember it right now. Geraldton port can accommodate Asia Iron’s needs. I have to say that I was a little disappointed in the way Asia Iron conducted its affairs; nevertheless, we have made sure there is no impediment or constraint at Geraldton harbour to Asia Iron proceeding with its project if it can get the necessary financing. I have urged the company privately, and now I do so publicly, to look at more efficient ways of transporting that iron ore.
Mr C.J. BARNETT replied: (1)-(3) We know that the member for Armadale opposes Oakajee; that is a given. Several members interjected. Mr E.S. Ripper : That is the first thing you say. Ms A.J.G. MacTiernan : That is what you used to say during the Kingstream debate. Mr C.J. BARNETT : That is because the member for Armadale continually opposes Oakajee. Every question she has asked about Oakajee has been negative. She has continually tried to undermine the project. She continually contacts her colleagues in Canberra and suggests that the state and the commonwealth should not be supporting this project. Ms A.J.G. MacTiernan : That is not true. Mr C.J. BARNETT : That is what she does. Ms A.J.G. MacTiernan : That is just not true. Mr C.J. BARNETT : That is why she does not stand up for Western Australia. She continually tries to undermine that project. Indeed, some newer members may not realise that this is the member for Armadale’s second attempt to undermine the project. Yes, the first attempt with Kingstream did not work out; I concede that. The solution of the member for Armadale was to spend more than $100 million deepening the port of Geraldton. Ms A.J.G. MacTiernan : What a good move that was. Mr C.J. BARNETT : What a good thing! Not even a laden panamax ship can get into Geraldton harbour. Ms A.J.G. MacTiernan : That is not what the industry needs. The SPEAKER : Order! Members may not like the answer being given. Member for Armadale, I will give you leave to ask a supplementary if you want to ask another question. Mr C.J. BARNETT : More than $100 million — Ms A.J.G. MacTiernan : You just don’t get that project. The SPEAKER : Order! I formally call the member for the second time. Mr C.J. BARNETT : More than $100 million of taxpayers’ money has been spent on deepening the harbour. Ms R. Saffioti interjected. Mr C.J. BARNETT : Yes, by deepening the Geraldton harbour. It is a better harbour now of course because it is deeper. But not even a panamax vessel can get in there. Ms A.J.G. MacTiernan : Yes, but the industry is started. Mr C.J. BARNETT : Most of the world commodity trade has moved beyond panamax to capesize, and even super-capesize vehicles now being built. Ms A.J.G. MacTiernan : Not for this product. Mr C.J. BARNETT : Geraldton port is totally inadequate for development of the mineral province of the mid-west. Ms A.J.G. MacTiernan : You don’t understand the product. Mr C.J. BARNETT : I am explaining some background for our members who are interested in the failings of the Labor government and the squandering of more than $100 million of taxpayers’ money. This government is quite determined to proceed with Oakajee. But, boy, did the former Labor government leave us a difficult handover? This former minister basically set up a competition between Japan and China to bid for the project. I am trying very hard, because it is very difficult, to bring this project — Mr E.S. Ripper : Answer the question Mr C.J. BARNETT : That is exactly what I am doing, Leader of the Opposition. Mr E.S. Ripper : You’re not. Mr C.J. BARNETT : You need to listen as you listened attentively to the Minister for Police. Mr E.S. Ripper : His was a better answer! Mr C.J. BARNETT : I agree! I am working very hard to try to bring Oakajee to fruition and to bring it as the first large-scale infrastructure mining project that is genuinely Australian, Japanese and Chinese. That will be a first for this nation and a first for the Asia-Pacific region. To do that we need to ensure not only that the Oakajee deepwater harbour is built but also that people contract to use it. There will be a transition and during that transition some volume of iron ore will go out through the port of Geraldton. About five million or six million tonnes are going out at present. We imposed a cap at 12 million tonnes as part of the Oakajee development agreement. Representations have been made by Gindalbie about how it can work in a transition for initial tonnages through Geraldton. Because it is looking at around 30 million tonnes a year, it is committed to Oakajee. We are working with Gindalbie, and that arrangement is basically resolved. Gindalbie is about to start construction. We have not only the arrangement for the port—both transitional use of Geraldton and long-term use of Oakajee—but also sorted out environmental issues about banded-iron formations, something that members opposite could not deal with. We have dealt with it. The other project the member for Armadale was probably talking about is Asia Iron—I think I have the right company—which is looking at a slurry pipeline project. In other words, it wants to pump a sort of sludge, or liquid iron ore, in a solution and then dry it out and load it. I think that project has a way to go, but we wish Asia Iron well and we are helping them. We have relaxed the constraint to allow Asia Iron to use Geraldton port. Ms A.J.G. MacTiernan : How many tonnes will be allowed? Mr C.J. BARNETT : I will not quote the figures; I will probably get them wrong. I do not have that information off the top of my head. Mr E.S. Ripper : Well done, member for Armadale. Several members interjected. Mr C.J. BARNETT : I am trying to answer the question. Asia Iron has been given a right to use Geraldton port for the first stage of its production. It is my opinion that that is probably not the most economical way of developing its project; it would probably do better financially and in volume if it combined with Gindalbie and used rail transport. However, that is up to Asia Iron and its backers. It can develop to a certain tonnage. I will let the member know the exact tonnage; I cannot remember it right now. Geraldton port can accommodate Asia Iron’s needs. I have to say that I was a little disappointed in the way Asia Iron conducted its affairs; nevertheless, we have made sure there is no impediment or constraint at Geraldton harbour to Asia Iron proceeding with its project if it can get the necessary financing. I have urged the company privately, and now I do so publicly, to look at more efficient ways of transporting that iron ore.
(1)-(3) We know that the member for Armadale opposes Oakajee; that is a given. Several members interjected. Mr E.S. Ripper : That is the first thing you say. Ms A.J.G. MacTiernan : That is what you used to say during the Kingstream debate. Mr C.J. BARNETT : That is because the member for Armadale continually opposes Oakajee. Every question she has asked about Oakajee has been negative. She has continually tried to undermine the project. She continually contacts her colleagues in Canberra and suggests that the state and the commonwealth should not be supporting this project. Ms A.J.G. MacTiernan : That is not true. Mr C.J. BARNETT : That is what she does. Ms A.J.G. MacTiernan : That is just not true. Mr C.J. BARNETT : That is why she does not stand up for Western Australia. She continually tries to undermine that project. Indeed, some newer members may not realise that this is the member for Armadale’s second attempt to undermine the project. Yes, the first attempt with Kingstream did not work out; I concede that. The solution of the member for Armadale was to spend more than $100 million deepening the port of Geraldton. Ms A.J.G. MacTiernan : What a good move that was. Mr C.J. BARNETT : What a good thing! Not even a laden panamax ship can get into Geraldton harbour. Ms A.J.G. MacTiernan : That is not what the industry needs. The SPEAKER : Order! Members may not like the answer being given. Member for Armadale, I will give you leave to ask a supplementary if you want to ask another question. Mr C.J. BARNETT : More than $100 million — Ms A.J.G. MacTiernan : You just don’t get that project. The SPEAKER : Order! I formally call the member for the second time. Mr C.J. BARNETT : More than $100 million of taxpayers’ money has been spent on deepening the harbour. Ms R. Saffioti interjected. Mr C.J. BARNETT : Yes, by deepening the Geraldton harbour. It is a better harbour now of course because it is deeper. But not even a panamax vessel can get in there. Ms A.J.G. MacTiernan : Yes, but the industry is started. Mr C.J. BARNETT : Most of the world commodity trade has moved beyond panamax to capesize, and even super-capesize vehicles now being built. Ms A.J.G. MacTiernan : Not for this product. Mr C.J. BARNETT : Geraldton port is totally inadequate for development of the mineral province of the mid-west. Ms A.J.G. MacTiernan : You don’t understand the product. Mr C.J. BARNETT : I am explaining some background for our members who are interested in the failings of the Labor government and the squandering of more than $100 million of taxpayers’ money. This government is quite determined to proceed with Oakajee. But, boy, did the former Labor government leave us a difficult handover? This former minister basically set up a competition between Japan and China to bid for the project. I am trying very hard, because it is very difficult, to bring this project — Mr E.S. Ripper : Answer the question Mr C.J. BARNETT : That is exactly what I am doing, Leader of the Opposition. Mr E.S. Ripper : You’re not. Mr C.J. BARNETT : You need to listen as you listened attentively to the Minister for Police. Mr E.S. Ripper : His was a better answer! Mr C.J. BARNETT : I agree! I am working very hard to try to bring Oakajee to fruition and to bring it as the first large-scale infrastructure mining project that is genuinely Australian, Japanese and Chinese. That will be a first for this nation and a first for the Asia-Pacific region. To do that we need to ensure not only that the Oakajee deepwater harbour is built but also that people contract to use it. There will be a transition and during that transition some volume of iron ore will go out through the port of Geraldton. About five million or six million tonnes are going out at present. We imposed a cap at 12 million tonnes as part of the Oakajee development agreement. Representations have been made by Gindalbie about how it can work in a transition for initial tonnages through Geraldton. Because it is looking at around 30 million tonnes a year, it is committed to Oakajee. We are working with Gindalbie, and that arrangement is basically resolved. Gindalbie is about to start construction. We have not only the arrangement for the port—both transitional use of Geraldton and long-term use of Oakajee—but also sorted out environmental issues about banded-iron formations, something that members opposite could not deal with. We have dealt with it. The other project the member for Armadale was probably talking about is Asia Iron—I think I have the right company—which is looking at a slurry pipeline project. In other words, it wants to pump a sort of sludge, or liquid iron ore, in a solution and then dry it out and load it. I think that project has a way to go, but we wish Asia Iron well and we are helping them. We have relaxed the constraint to allow Asia Iron to use Geraldton port. Ms A.J.G. MacTiernan : How many tonnes will be allowed? Mr C.J. BARNETT : I will not quote the figures; I will probably get them wrong. I do not have that information off the top of my head. Mr E.S. Ripper : Well done, member for Armadale. Several members interjected. Mr C.J. BARNETT : I am trying to answer the question. Asia Iron has been given a right to use Geraldton port for the first stage of its production. It is my opinion that that is probably not the most economical way of developing its project; it would probably do better financially and in volume if it combined with Gindalbie and used rail transport. However, that is up to Asia Iron and its backers. It can develop to a certain tonnage. I will let the member know the exact tonnage; I cannot remember it right now. Geraldton port can accommodate Asia Iron’s needs. I have to say that I was a little disappointed in the way Asia Iron conducted its affairs; nevertheless, we have made sure there is no impediment or constraint at Geraldton harbour to Asia Iron proceeding with its project if it can get the necessary financing. I have urged the company privately, and now I do so publicly, to look at more efficient ways of transporting that iron ore.
Several members interjected. Mr E.S. Ripper : That is the first thing you say. Ms A.J.G. MacTiernan : That is what you used to say during the Kingstream debate. Mr C.J. BARNETT : That is because the member for Armadale continually opposes Oakajee. Every question she has asked about Oakajee has been negative. She has continually tried to undermine the project. She continually contacts her colleagues in Canberra and suggests that the state and the commonwealth should not be supporting this project. Ms A.J.G. MacTiernan : That is not true. Mr C.J. BARNETT : That is what she does. Ms A.J.G. MacTiernan : That is just not true. Mr C.J. BARNETT : That is why she does not stand up for Western Australia. She continually tries to undermine that project. Indeed, some newer members may not realise that this is the member for Armadale’s second attempt to undermine the project. Yes, the first attempt with Kingstream did not work out; I concede that. The solution of the member for Armadale was to spend more than $100 million deepening the port of Geraldton. Ms A.J.G. MacTiernan : What a good move that was. Mr C.J. BARNETT : What a good thing! Not even a laden panamax ship can get into Geraldton harbour. Ms A.J.G. MacTiernan : That is not what the industry needs. The SPEAKER : Order! Members may not like the answer being given. Member for Armadale, I will give you leave to ask a supplementary if you want to ask another question. Mr C.J. BARNETT : More than $100 million — Ms A.J.G. MacTiernan : You just don’t get that project. The SPEAKER : Order! I formally call the member for the second time. Mr C.J. BARNETT : More than $100 million of taxpayers’ money has been spent on deepening the harbour. Ms R. Saffioti interjected. Mr C.J. BARNETT : Yes, by deepening the Geraldton harbour. It is a better harbour now of course because it is deeper. But not even a panamax vessel can get in there. Ms A.J.G. MacTiernan : Yes, but the industry is started. Mr C.J. BARNETT : Most of the world commodity trade has moved beyond panamax to capesize, and even super-capesize vehicles now being built. Ms A.J.G. MacTiernan : Not for this product. Mr C.J. BARNETT : Geraldton port is totally inadequate for development of the mineral province of the mid-west. Ms A.J.G. MacTiernan : You don’t understand the product. Mr C.J. BARNETT : I am explaining some background for our members who are interested in the failings of the Labor government and the squandering of more than $100 million of taxpayers’ money. This government is quite determined to proceed with Oakajee. But, boy, did the former Labor government leave us a difficult handover? This former minister basically set up a competition between Japan and China to bid for the project. I am trying very hard, because it is very difficult, to bring this project — Mr E.S. Ripper : Answer the question Mr C.J. BARNETT : That is exactly what I am doing, Leader of the Opposition. Mr E.S. Ripper : You’re not. Mr C.J. BARNETT : You need to listen as you listened attentively to the Minister for Police. Mr E.S. Ripper : His was a better answer! Mr C.J. BARNETT : I agree! I am working very hard to try to bring Oakajee to fruition and to bring it as the first large-scale infrastructure mining project that is genuinely Australian, Japanese and Chinese. That will be a first for this nation and a first for the Asia-Pacific region. To do that we need to ensure not only that the Oakajee deepwater harbour is built but also that people contract to use it. There will be a transition and during that transition some volume of iron ore will go out through the port of Geraldton. About five million or six million tonnes are going out at present. We imposed a cap at 12 million tonnes as part of the Oakajee development agreement. Representations have been made by Gindalbie about how it can work in a transition for initial tonnages through Geraldton. Because it is looking at around 30 million tonnes a year, it is committed to Oakajee. We are working with Gindalbie, and that arrangement is basically resolved. Gindalbie is about to start construction. We have not only the arrangement for the port—both transitional use of Geraldton and long-term use of Oakajee—but also sorted out environmental issues about banded-iron formations, something that members opposite could not deal with. We have dealt with it. The other project the member for Armadale was probably talking about is Asia Iron—I think I have the right company—which is looking at a slurry pipeline project. In other words, it wants to pump a sort of sludge, or liquid iron ore, in a solution and then dry it out and load it. I think that project has a way to go, but we wish Asia Iron well and we are helping them. We have relaxed the constraint to allow Asia Iron to use Geraldton port. Ms A.J.G. MacTiernan : How many tonnes will be allowed? Mr C.J. BARNETT : I will not quote the figures; I will probably get them wrong. I do not have that information off the top of my head. Mr E.S. Ripper : Well done, member for Armadale. Several members interjected. Mr C.J. BARNETT : I am trying to answer the question. Asia Iron has been given a right to use Geraldton port for the first stage of its production. It is my opinion that that is probably not the most economical way of developing its project; it would probably do better financially and in volume if it combined with Gindalbie and used rail transport. However, that is up to Asia Iron and its backers. It can develop to a certain tonnage. I will let the member know the exact tonnage; I cannot remember it right now. Geraldton port can accommodate Asia Iron’s needs. I have to say that I was a little disappointed in the way Asia Iron conducted its affairs; nevertheless, we have made sure there is no impediment or constraint at Geraldton harbour to Asia Iron proceeding with its project if it can get the necessary financing. I have urged the company privately, and now I do so publicly, to look at more efficient ways of transporting that iron ore.
Mr E.S. Ripper : That is the first thing you say. Ms A.J.G. MacTiernan : That is what you used to say during the Kingstream debate. Mr C.J. BARNETT : That is because the member for Armadale continually opposes Oakajee. Every question she has asked about Oakajee has been negative. She has continually tried to undermine the project. She continually contacts her colleagues in Canberra and suggests that the state and the commonwealth should not be supporting this project. Ms A.J.G. MacTiernan : That is not true. Mr C.J. BARNETT : That is what she does. Ms A.J.G. MacTiernan : That is just not true. Mr C.J. BARNETT : That is why she does not stand up for Western Australia. She continually tries to undermine that project. Indeed, some newer members may not realise that this is the member for Armadale’s second attempt to undermine the project. Yes, the first attempt with Kingstream did not work out; I concede that. The solution of the member for Armadale was to spend more than $100 million deepening the port of Geraldton. Ms A.J.G. MacTiernan : What a good move that was. Mr C.J. BARNETT : What a good thing! Not even a laden panamax ship can get into Geraldton harbour. Ms A.J.G. MacTiernan : That is not what the industry needs. The SPEAKER : Order! Members may not like the answer being given. Member for Armadale, I will give you leave to ask a supplementary if you want to ask another question. Mr C.J. BARNETT : More than $100 million — Ms A.J.G. MacTiernan : You just don’t get that project. The SPEAKER : Order! I formally call the member for the second time. Mr C.J. BARNETT : More than $100 million of taxpayers’ money has been spent on deepening the harbour. Ms R. Saffioti interjected. Mr C.J. BARNETT : Yes, by deepening the Geraldton harbour. It is a better harbour now of course because it is deeper. But not even a panamax vessel can get in there. Ms A.J.G. MacTiernan : Yes, but the industry is started. Mr C.J. BARNETT : Most of the world commodity trade has moved beyond panamax to capesize, and even super-capesize vehicles now being built. Ms A.J.G. MacTiernan : Not for this product. Mr C.J. BARNETT : Geraldton port is totally inadequate for development of the mineral province of the mid-west. Ms A.J.G. MacTiernan : You don’t understand the product. Mr C.J. BARNETT : I am explaining some background for our members who are interested in the failings of the Labor government and the squandering of more than $100 million of taxpayers’ money. This government is quite determined to proceed with Oakajee. But, boy, did the former Labor government leave us a difficult handover? This former minister basically set up a competition between Japan and China to bid for the project. I am trying very hard, because it is very difficult, to bring this project — Mr E.S. Ripper : Answer the question Mr C.J. BARNETT : That is exactly what I am doing, Leader of the Opposition. Mr E.S. Ripper : You’re not. Mr C.J. BARNETT : You need to listen as you listened attentively to the Minister for Police. Mr E.S. Ripper : His was a better answer! Mr C.J. BARNETT : I agree! I am working very hard to try to bring Oakajee to fruition and to bring it as the first large-scale infrastructure mining project that is genuinely Australian, Japanese and Chinese. That will be a first for this nation and a first for the Asia-Pacific region. To do that we need to ensure not only that the Oakajee deepwater harbour is built but also that people contract to use it. There will be a transition and during that transition some volume of iron ore will go out through the port of Geraldton. About five million or six million tonnes are going out at present. We imposed a cap at 12 million tonnes as part of the Oakajee development agreement. Representations have been made by Gindalbie about how it can work in a transition for initial tonnages through Geraldton. Because it is looking at around 30 million tonnes a year, it is committed to Oakajee. We are working with Gindalbie, and that arrangement is basically resolved. Gindalbie is about to start construction. We have not only the arrangement for the port—both transitional use of Geraldton and long-term use of Oakajee—but also sorted out environmental issues about banded-iron formations, something that members opposite could not deal with. We have dealt with it. The other project the member for Armadale was probably talking about is Asia Iron—I think I have the right company—which is looking at a slurry pipeline project. In other words, it wants to pump a sort of sludge, or liquid iron ore, in a solution and then dry it out and load it. I think that project has a way to go, but we wish Asia Iron well and we are helping them. We have relaxed the constraint to allow Asia Iron to use Geraldton port. Ms A.J.G. MacTiernan : How many tonnes will be allowed? Mr C.J. BARNETT : I will not quote the figures; I will probably get them wrong. I do not have that information off the top of my head. Mr E.S. Ripper : Well done, member for Armadale. Several members interjected. Mr C.J. BARNETT : I am trying to answer the question. Asia Iron has been given a right to use Geraldton port for the first stage of its production. It is my opinion that that is probably not the most economical way of developing its project; it would probably do better financially and in volume if it combined with Gindalbie and used rail transport. However, that is up to Asia Iron and its backers. It can develop to a certain tonnage. I will let the member know the exact tonnage; I cannot remember it right now. Geraldton port can accommodate Asia Iron’s needs. I have to say that I was a little disappointed in the way Asia Iron conducted its affairs; nevertheless, we have made sure there is no impediment or constraint at Geraldton harbour to Asia Iron proceeding with its project if it can get the necessary financing. I have urged the company privately, and now I do so publicly, to look at more efficient ways of transporting that iron ore.
Ms A.J.G. MacTiernan : That is what you used to say during the Kingstream debate. Mr C.J. BARNETT : That is because the member for Armadale continually opposes Oakajee. Every question she has asked about Oakajee has been negative. She has continually tried to undermine the project. She continually contacts her colleagues in Canberra and suggests that the state and the commonwealth should not be supporting this project. Ms A.J.G. MacTiernan : That is not true. Mr C.J. BARNETT : That is what she does. Ms A.J.G. MacTiernan : That is just not true. Mr C.J. BARNETT : That is why she does not stand up for Western Australia. She continually tries to undermine that project. Indeed, some newer members may not realise that this is the member for Armadale’s second attempt to undermine the project. Yes, the first attempt with Kingstream did not work out; I concede that. The solution of the member for Armadale was to spend more than $100 million deepening the port of Geraldton. Ms A.J.G. MacTiernan : What a good move that was. Mr C.J. BARNETT : What a good thing! Not even a laden panamax ship can get into Geraldton harbour. Ms A.J.G. MacTiernan : That is not what the industry needs. The SPEAKER : Order! Members may not like the answer being given. Member for Armadale, I will give you leave to ask a supplementary if you want to ask another question. Mr C.J. BARNETT : More than $100 million — Ms A.J.G. MacTiernan : You just don’t get that project. The SPEAKER : Order! I formally call the member for the second time. Mr C.J. BARNETT : More than $100 million of taxpayers’ money has been spent on deepening the harbour. Ms R. Saffioti interjected. Mr C.J. BARNETT : Yes, by deepening the Geraldton harbour. It is a better harbour now of course because it is deeper. But not even a panamax vessel can get in there. Ms A.J.G. MacTiernan : Yes, but the industry is started. Mr C.J. BARNETT : Most of the world commodity trade has moved beyond panamax to capesize, and even super-capesize vehicles now being built. Ms A.J.G. MacTiernan : Not for this product. Mr C.J. BARNETT : Geraldton port is totally inadequate for development of the mineral province of the mid-west. Ms A.J.G. MacTiernan : You don’t understand the product. Mr C.J. BARNETT : I am explaining some background for our members who are interested in the failings of the Labor government and the squandering of more than $100 million of taxpayers’ money. This government is quite determined to proceed with Oakajee. But, boy, did the former Labor government leave us a difficult handover? This former minister basically set up a competition between Japan and China to bid for the project. I am trying very hard, because it is very difficult, to bring this project — Mr E.S. Ripper : Answer the question Mr C.J. BARNETT : That is exactly what I am doing, Leader of the Opposition. Mr E.S. Ripper : You’re not. Mr C.J. BARNETT : You need to listen as you listened attentively to the Minister for Police. Mr E.S. Ripper : His was a better answer! Mr C.J. BARNETT : I agree! I am working very hard to try to bring Oakajee to fruition and to bring it as the first large-scale infrastructure mining project that is genuinely Australian, Japanese and Chinese. That will be a first for this nation and a first for the Asia-Pacific region. To do that we need to ensure not only that the Oakajee deepwater harbour is built but also that people contract to use it. There will be a transition and during that transition some volume of iron ore will go out through the port of Geraldton. About five million or six million tonnes are going out at present. We imposed a cap at 12 million tonnes as part of the Oakajee development agreement. Representations have been made by Gindalbie about how it can work in a transition for initial tonnages through Geraldton. Because it is looking at around 30 million tonnes a year, it is committed to Oakajee. We are working with Gindalbie, and that arrangement is basically resolved. Gindalbie is about to start construction. We have not only the arrangement for the port—both transitional use of Geraldton and long-term use of Oakajee—but also sorted out environmental issues about banded-iron formations, something that members opposite could not deal with. We have dealt with it. The other project the member for Armadale was probably talking about is Asia Iron—I think I have the right company—which is looking at a slurry pipeline project. In other words, it wants to pump a sort of sludge, or liquid iron ore, in a solution and then dry it out and load it. I think that project has a way to go, but we wish Asia Iron well and we are helping them. We have relaxed the constraint to allow Asia Iron to use Geraldton port. Ms A.J.G. MacTiernan : How many tonnes will be allowed? Mr C.J. BARNETT : I will not quote the figures; I will probably get them wrong. I do not have that information off the top of my head. Mr E.S. Ripper : Well done, member for Armadale. Several members interjected. Mr C.J. BARNETT : I am trying to answer the question. Asia Iron has been given a right to use Geraldton port for the first stage of its production. It is my opinion that that is probably not the most economical way of developing its project; it would probably do better financially and in volume if it combined with Gindalbie and used rail transport. However, that is up to Asia Iron and its backers. It can develop to a certain tonnage. I will let the member know the exact tonnage; I cannot remember it right now. Geraldton port can accommodate Asia Iron’s needs. I have to say that I was a little disappointed in the way Asia Iron conducted its affairs; nevertheless, we have made sure there is no impediment or constraint at Geraldton harbour to Asia Iron proceeding with its project if it can get the necessary financing. I have urged the company privately, and now I do so publicly, to look at more efficient ways of transporting that iron ore.
Mr C.J. BARNETT : That is because the member for Armadale continually opposes Oakajee. Every question she has asked about Oakajee has been negative. She has continually tried to undermine the project. She continually contacts her colleagues in Canberra and suggests that the state and the commonwealth should not be supporting this project. Ms A.J.G. MacTiernan : That is not true. Mr C.J. BARNETT : That is what she does. Ms A.J.G. MacTiernan : That is just not true. Mr C.J. BARNETT : That is why she does not stand up for Western Australia. She continually tries to undermine that project. Indeed, some newer members may not realise that this is the member for Armadale’s second attempt to undermine the project. Yes, the first attempt with Kingstream did not work out; I concede that. The solution of the member for Armadale was to spend more than $100 million deepening the port of Geraldton. Ms A.J.G. MacTiernan : What a good move that was. Mr C.J. BARNETT : What a good thing! Not even a laden panamax ship can get into Geraldton harbour. Ms A.J.G. MacTiernan : That is not what the industry needs. The SPEAKER : Order! Members may not like the answer being given. Member for Armadale, I will give you leave to ask a supplementary if you want to ask another question. Mr C.J. BARNETT : More than $100 million — Ms A.J.G. MacTiernan : You just don’t get that project. The SPEAKER : Order! I formally call the member for the second time. Mr C.J. BARNETT : More than $100 million of taxpayers’ money has been spent on deepening the harbour. Ms R. Saffioti interjected. Mr C.J. BARNETT : Yes, by deepening the Geraldton harbour. It is a better harbour now of course because it is deeper. But not even a panamax vessel can get in there. Ms A.J.G. MacTiernan : Yes, but the industry is started. Mr C.J. BARNETT : Most of the world commodity trade has moved beyond panamax to capesize, and even super-capesize vehicles now being built. Ms A.J.G. MacTiernan : Not for this product. Mr C.J. BARNETT : Geraldton port is totally inadequate for development of the mineral province of the mid-west. Ms A.J.G. MacTiernan : You don’t understand the product. Mr C.J. BARNETT : I am explaining some background for our members who are interested in the failings of the Labor government and the squandering of more than $100 million of taxpayers’ money. This government is quite determined to proceed with Oakajee. But, boy, did the former Labor government leave us a difficult handover? This former minister basically set up a competition between Japan and China to bid for the project. I am trying very hard, because it is very difficult, to bring this project — Mr E.S. Ripper : Answer the question Mr C.J. BARNETT : That is exactly what I am doing, Leader of the Opposition. Mr E.S. Ripper : You’re not. Mr C.J. BARNETT : You need to listen as you listened attentively to the Minister for Police. Mr E.S. Ripper : His was a better answer! Mr C.J. BARNETT : I agree! I am working very hard to try to bring Oakajee to fruition and to bring it as the first large-scale infrastructure mining project that is genuinely Australian, Japanese and Chinese. That will be a first for this nation and a first for the Asia-Pacific region. To do that we need to ensure not only that the Oakajee deepwater harbour is built but also that people contract to use it. There will be a transition and during that transition some volume of iron ore will go out through the port of Geraldton. About five million or six million tonnes are going out at present. We imposed a cap at 12 million tonnes as part of the Oakajee development agreement. Representations have been made by Gindalbie about how it can work in a transition for initial tonnages through Geraldton. Because it is looking at around 30 million tonnes a year, it is committed to Oakajee. We are working with Gindalbie, and that arrangement is basically resolved. Gindalbie is about to start construction. We have not only the arrangement for the port—both transitional use of Geraldton and long-term use of Oakajee—but also sorted out environmental issues about banded-iron formations, something that members opposite could not deal with. We have dealt with it. The other project the member for Armadale was probably talking about is Asia Iron—I think I have the right company—which is looking at a slurry pipeline project. In other words, it wants to pump a sort of sludge, or liquid iron ore, in a solution and then dry it out and load it. I think that project has a way to go, but we wish Asia Iron well and we are helping them. We have relaxed the constraint to allow Asia Iron to use Geraldton port. Ms A.J.G. MacTiernan : How many tonnes will be allowed? Mr C.J. BARNETT : I will not quote the figures; I will probably get them wrong. I do not have that information off the top of my head. Mr E.S. Ripper : Well done, member for Armadale. Several members interjected. Mr C.J. BARNETT : I am trying to answer the question. Asia Iron has been given a right to use Geraldton port for the first stage of its production. It is my opinion that that is probably not the most economical way of developing its project; it would probably do better financially and in volume if it combined with Gindalbie and used rail transport. However, that is up to Asia Iron and its backers. It can develop to a certain tonnage. I will let the member know the exact tonnage; I cannot remember it right now. Geraldton port can accommodate Asia Iron’s needs. I have to say that I was a little disappointed in the way Asia Iron conducted its affairs; nevertheless, we have made sure there is no impediment or constraint at Geraldton harbour to Asia Iron proceeding with its project if it can get the necessary financing. I have urged the company privately, and now I do so publicly, to look at more efficient ways of transporting that iron ore.
Ms A.J.G. MacTiernan : That is not true. Mr C.J. BARNETT : That is what she does. Ms A.J.G. MacTiernan : That is just not true. Mr C.J. BARNETT : That is why she does not stand up for Western Australia. She continually tries to undermine that project. Indeed, some newer members may not realise that this is the member for Armadale’s second attempt to undermine the project. Yes, the first attempt with Kingstream did not work out; I concede that. The solution of the member for Armadale was to spend more than $100 million deepening the port of Geraldton. Ms A.J.G. MacTiernan : What a good move that was. Mr C.J. BARNETT : What a good thing! Not even a laden panamax ship can get into Geraldton harbour. Ms A.J.G. MacTiernan : That is not what the industry needs. The SPEAKER : Order! Members may not like the answer being given. Member for Armadale, I will give you leave to ask a supplementary if you want to ask another question. Mr C.J. BARNETT : More than $100 million — Ms A.J.G. MacTiernan : You just don’t get that project. The SPEAKER : Order! I formally call the member for the second time. Mr C.J. BARNETT : More than $100 million of taxpayers’ money has been spent on deepening the harbour. Ms R. Saffioti interjected. Mr C.J. BARNETT : Yes, by deepening the Geraldton harbour. It is a better harbour now of course because it is deeper. But not even a panamax vessel can get in there. Ms A.J.G. MacTiernan : Yes, but the industry is started. Mr C.J. BARNETT : Most of the world commodity trade has moved beyond panamax to capesize, and even super-capesize vehicles now being built. Ms A.J.G. MacTiernan : Not for this product. Mr C.J. BARNETT : Geraldton port is totally inadequate for development of the mineral province of the mid-west. Ms A.J.G. MacTiernan : You don’t understand the product. Mr C.J. BARNETT : I am explaining some background for our members who are interested in the failings of the Labor government and the squandering of more than $100 million of taxpayers’ money. This government is quite determined to proceed with Oakajee. But, boy, did the former Labor government leave us a difficult handover? This former minister basically set up a competition between Japan and China to bid for the project. I am trying very hard, because it is very difficult, to bring this project — Mr E.S. Ripper : Answer the question Mr C.J. BARNETT : That is exactly what I am doing, Leader of the Opposition. Mr E.S. Ripper : You’re not. Mr C.J. BARNETT : You need to listen as you listened attentively to the Minister for Police. Mr E.S. Ripper : His was a better answer! Mr C.J. BARNETT : I agree! I am working very hard to try to bring Oakajee to fruition and to bring it as the first large-scale infrastructure mining project that is genuinely Australian, Japanese and Chinese. That will be a first for this nation and a first for the Asia-Pacific region. To do that we need to ensure not only that the Oakajee deepwater harbour is built but also that people contract to use it. There will be a transition and during that transition some volume of iron ore will go out through the port of Geraldton. About five million or six million tonnes are going out at present. We imposed a cap at 12 million tonnes as part of the Oakajee development agreement. Representations have been made by Gindalbie about how it can work in a transition for initial tonnages through Geraldton. Because it is looking at around 30 million tonnes a year, it is committed to Oakajee. We are working with Gindalbie, and that arrangement is basically resolved. Gindalbie is about to start construction. We have not only the arrangement for the port—both transitional use of Geraldton and long-term use of Oakajee—but also sorted out environmental issues about banded-iron formations, something that members opposite could not deal with. We have dealt with it. The other project the member for Armadale was probably talking about is Asia Iron—I think I have the right company—which is looking at a slurry pipeline project. In other words, it wants to pump a sort of sludge, or liquid iron ore, in a solution and then dry it out and load it. I think that project has a way to go, but we wish Asia Iron well and we are helping them. We have relaxed the constraint to allow Asia Iron to use Geraldton port. Ms A.J.G. MacTiernan : How many tonnes will be allowed? Mr C.J. BARNETT : I will not quote the figures; I will probably get them wrong. I do not have that information off the top of my head. Mr E.S. Ripper : Well done, member for Armadale. Several members interjected. Mr C.J. BARNETT : I am trying to answer the question. Asia Iron has been given a right to use Geraldton port for the first stage of its production. It is my opinion that that is probably not the most economical way of developing its project; it would probably do better financially and in volume if it combined with Gindalbie and used rail transport. However, that is up to Asia Iron and its backers. It can develop to a certain tonnage. I will let the member know the exact tonnage; I cannot remember it right now. Geraldton port can accommodate Asia Iron’s needs. I have to say that I was a little disappointed in the way Asia Iron conducted its affairs; nevertheless, we have made sure there is no impediment or constraint at Geraldton harbour to Asia Iron proceeding with its project if it can get the necessary financing. I have urged the company privately, and now I do so publicly, to look at more efficient ways of transporting that iron ore.
Mr C.J. BARNETT : That is what she does. Ms A.J.G. MacTiernan : That is just not true. Mr C.J. BARNETT : That is why she does not stand up for Western Australia. She continually tries to undermine that project. Indeed, some newer members may not realise that this is the member for Armadale’s second attempt to undermine the project. Yes, the first attempt with Kingstream did not work out; I concede that. The solution of the member for Armadale was to spend more than $100 million deepening the port of Geraldton. Ms A.J.G. MacTiernan : What a good move that was. Mr C.J. BARNETT : What a good thing! Not even a laden panamax ship can get into Geraldton harbour. Ms A.J.G. MacTiernan : That is not what the industry needs. The SPEAKER : Order! Members may not like the answer being given. Member for Armadale, I will give you leave to ask a supplementary if you want to ask another question. Mr C.J. BARNETT : More than $100 million — Ms A.J.G. MacTiernan : You just don’t get that project. The SPEAKER : Order! I formally call the member for the second time. Mr C.J. BARNETT : More than $100 million of taxpayers’ money has been spent on deepening the harbour. Ms R. Saffioti interjected. Mr C.J. BARNETT : Yes, by deepening the Geraldton harbour. It is a better harbour now of course because it is deeper. But not even a panamax vessel can get in there. Ms A.J.G. MacTiernan : Yes, but the industry is started. Mr C.J. BARNETT : Most of the world commodity trade has moved beyond panamax to capesize, and even super-capesize vehicles now being built. Ms A.J.G. MacTiernan : Not for this product. Mr C.J. BARNETT : Geraldton port is totally inadequate for development of the mineral province of the mid-west. Ms A.J.G. MacTiernan : You don’t understand the product. Mr C.J. BARNETT : I am explaining some background for our members who are interested in the failings of the Labor government and the squandering of more than $100 million of taxpayers’ money. This government is quite determined to proceed with Oakajee. But, boy, did the former Labor government leave us a difficult handover? This former minister basically set up a competition between Japan and China to bid for the project. I am trying very hard, because it is very difficult, to bring this project — Mr E.S. Ripper : Answer the question Mr C.J. BARNETT : That is exactly what I am doing, Leader of the Opposition. Mr E.S. Ripper : You’re not. Mr C.J. BARNETT : You need to listen as you listened attentively to the Minister for Police. Mr E.S. Ripper : His was a better answer! Mr C.J. BARNETT : I agree! I am working very hard to try to bring Oakajee to fruition and to bring it as the first large-scale infrastructure mining project that is genuinely Australian, Japanese and Chinese. That will be a first for this nation and a first for the Asia-Pacific region. To do that we need to ensure not only that the Oakajee deepwater harbour is built but also that people contract to use it. There will be a transition and during that transition some volume of iron ore will go out through the port of Geraldton. About five million or six million tonnes are going out at present. We imposed a cap at 12 million tonnes as part of the Oakajee development agreement. Representations have been made by Gindalbie about how it can work in a transition for initial tonnages through Geraldton. Because it is looking at around 30 million tonnes a year, it is committed to Oakajee. We are working with Gindalbie, and that arrangement is basically resolved. Gindalbie is about to start construction. We have not only the arrangement for the port—both transitional use of Geraldton and long-term use of Oakajee—but also sorted out environmental issues about banded-iron formations, something that members opposite could not deal with. We have dealt with it. The other project the member for Armadale was probably talking about is Asia Iron—I think I have the right company—which is looking at a slurry pipeline project. In other words, it wants to pump a sort of sludge, or liquid iron ore, in a solution and then dry it out and load it. I think that project has a way to go, but we wish Asia Iron well and we are helping them. We have relaxed the constraint to allow Asia Iron to use Geraldton port. Ms A.J.G. MacTiernan : How many tonnes will be allowed? Mr C.J. BARNETT : I will not quote the figures; I will probably get them wrong. I do not have that information off the top of my head. Mr E.S. Ripper : Well done, member for Armadale. Several members interjected. Mr C.J. BARNETT : I am trying to answer the question. Asia Iron has been given a right to use Geraldton port for the first stage of its production. It is my opinion that that is probably not the most economical way of developing its project; it would probably do better financially and in volume if it combined with Gindalbie and used rail transport. However, that is up to Asia Iron and its backers. It can develop to a certain tonnage. I will let the member know the exact tonnage; I cannot remember it right now. Geraldton port can accommodate Asia Iron’s needs. I have to say that I was a little disappointed in the way Asia Iron conducted its affairs; nevertheless, we have made sure there is no impediment or constraint at Geraldton harbour to Asia Iron proceeding with its project if it can get the necessary financing. I have urged the company privately, and now I do so publicly, to look at more efficient ways of transporting that iron ore.
Ms A.J.G. MacTiernan : That is just not true. Mr C.J. BARNETT : That is why she does not stand up for Western Australia. She continually tries to undermine that project. Indeed, some newer members may not realise that this is the member for Armadale’s second attempt to undermine the project. Yes, the first attempt with Kingstream did not work out; I concede that. The solution of the member for Armadale was to spend more than $100 million deepening the port of Geraldton. Ms A.J.G. MacTiernan : What a good move that was. Mr C.J. BARNETT : What a good thing! Not even a laden panamax ship can get into Geraldton harbour. Ms A.J.G. MacTiernan : That is not what the industry needs. The SPEAKER : Order! Members may not like the answer being given. Member for Armadale, I will give you leave to ask a supplementary if you want to ask another question. Mr C.J. BARNETT : More than $100 million — Ms A.J.G. MacTiernan : You just don’t get that project. The SPEAKER : Order! I formally call the member for the second time. Mr C.J. BARNETT : More than $100 million of taxpayers’ money has been spent on deepening the harbour. Ms R. Saffioti interjected. Mr C.J. BARNETT : Yes, by deepening the Geraldton harbour. It is a better harbour now of course because it is deeper. But not even a panamax vessel can get in there. Ms A.J.G. MacTiernan : Yes, but the industry is started. Mr C.J. BARNETT : Most of the world commodity trade has moved beyond panamax to capesize, and even super-capesize vehicles now being built. Ms A.J.G. MacTiernan : Not for this product. Mr C.J. BARNETT : Geraldton port is totally inadequate for development of the mineral province of the mid-west. Ms A.J.G. MacTiernan : You don’t understand the product. Mr C.J. BARNETT : I am explaining some background for our members who are interested in the failings of the Labor government and the squandering of more than $100 million of taxpayers’ money. This government is quite determined to proceed with Oakajee. But, boy, did the former Labor government leave us a difficult handover? This former minister basically set up a competition between Japan and China to bid for the project. I am trying very hard, because it is very difficult, to bring this project — Mr E.S. Ripper : Answer the question Mr C.J. BARNETT : That is exactly what I am doing, Leader of the Opposition. Mr E.S. Ripper : You’re not. Mr C.J. BARNETT : You need to listen as you listened attentively to the Minister for Police. Mr E.S. Ripper : His was a better answer! Mr C.J. BARNETT : I agree! I am working very hard to try to bring Oakajee to fruition and to bring it as the first large-scale infrastructure mining project that is genuinely Australian, Japanese and Chinese. That will be a first for this nation and a first for the Asia-Pacific region. To do that we need to ensure not only that the Oakajee deepwater harbour is built but also that people contract to use it. There will be a transition and during that transition some volume of iron ore will go out through the port of Geraldton. About five million or six million tonnes are going out at present. We imposed a cap at 12 million tonnes as part of the Oakajee development agreement. Representations have been made by Gindalbie about how it can work in a transition for initial tonnages through Geraldton. Because it is looking at around 30 million tonnes a year, it is committed to Oakajee. We are working with Gindalbie, and that arrangement is basically resolved. Gindalbie is about to start construction. We have not only the arrangement for the port—both transitional use of Geraldton and long-term use of Oakajee—but also sorted out environmental issues about banded-iron formations, something that members opposite could not deal with. We have dealt with it. The other project the member for Armadale was probably talking about is Asia Iron—I think I have the right company—which is looking at a slurry pipeline project. In other words, it wants to pump a sort of sludge, or liquid iron ore, in a solution and then dry it out and load it. I think that project has a way to go, but we wish Asia Iron well and we are helping them. We have relaxed the constraint to allow Asia Iron to use Geraldton port. Ms A.J.G. MacTiernan : How many tonnes will be allowed? Mr C.J. BARNETT : I will not quote the figures; I will probably get them wrong. I do not have that information off the top of my head. Mr E.S. Ripper : Well done, member for Armadale. Several members interjected. Mr C.J. BARNETT : I am trying to answer the question. Asia Iron has been given a right to use Geraldton port for the first stage of its production. It is my opinion that that is probably not the most economical way of developing its project; it would probably do better financially and in volume if it combined with Gindalbie and used rail transport. However, that is up to Asia Iron and its backers. It can develop to a certain tonnage. I will let the member know the exact tonnage; I cannot remember it right now. Geraldton port can accommodate Asia Iron’s needs. I have to say that I was a little disappointed in the way Asia Iron conducted its affairs; nevertheless, we have made sure there is no impediment or constraint at Geraldton harbour to Asia Iron proceeding with its project if it can get the necessary financing. I have urged the company privately, and now I do so publicly, to look at more efficient ways of transporting that iron ore.
Mr C.J. BARNETT : That is why she does not stand up for Western Australia. She continually tries to undermine that project. Indeed, some newer members may not realise that this is the member for Armadale’s second attempt to undermine the project. Yes, the first attempt with Kingstream did not work out; I concede that. The solution of the member for Armadale was to spend more than $100 million deepening the port of Geraldton. Ms A.J.G. MacTiernan : What a good move that was. Mr C.J. BARNETT : What a good thing! Not even a laden panamax ship can get into Geraldton harbour. Ms A.J.G. MacTiernan : That is not what the industry needs. The SPEAKER : Order! Members may not like the answer being given. Member for Armadale, I will give you leave to ask a supplementary if you want to ask another question. Mr C.J. BARNETT : More than $100 million — Ms A.J.G. MacTiernan : You just don’t get that project. The SPEAKER : Order! I formally call the member for the second time. Mr C.J. BARNETT : More than $100 million of taxpayers’ money has been spent on deepening the harbour. Ms R. Saffioti interjected. Mr C.J. BARNETT : Yes, by deepening the Geraldton harbour. It is a better harbour now of course because it is deeper. But not even a panamax vessel can get in there. Ms A.J.G. MacTiernan : Yes, but the industry is started. Mr C.J. BARNETT : Most of the world commodity trade has moved beyond panamax to capesize, and even super-capesize vehicles now being built. Ms A.J.G. MacTiernan : Not for this product. Mr C.J. BARNETT : Geraldton port is totally inadequate for development of the mineral province of the mid-west. Ms A.J.G. MacTiernan : You don’t understand the product. Mr C.J. BARNETT : I am explaining some background for our members who are interested in the failings of the Labor government and the squandering of more than $100 million of taxpayers’ money. This government is quite determined to proceed with Oakajee. But, boy, did the former Labor government leave us a difficult handover? This former minister basically set up a competition between Japan and China to bid for the project. I am trying very hard, because it is very difficult, to bring this project — Mr E.S. Ripper : Answer the question Mr C.J. BARNETT : That is exactly what I am doing, Leader of the Opposition. Mr E.S. Ripper : You’re not. Mr C.J. BARNETT : You need to listen as you listened attentively to the Minister for Police. Mr E.S. Ripper : His was a better answer! Mr C.J. BARNETT : I agree! I am working very hard to try to bring Oakajee to fruition and to bring it as the first large-scale infrastructure mining project that is genuinely Australian, Japanese and Chinese. That will be a first for this nation and a first for the Asia-Pacific region. To do that we need to ensure not only that the Oakajee deepwater harbour is built but also that people contract to use it. There will be a transition and during that transition some volume of iron ore will go out through the port of Geraldton. About five million or six million tonnes are going out at present. We imposed a cap at 12 million tonnes as part of the Oakajee development agreement. Representations have been made by Gindalbie about how it can work in a transition for initial tonnages through Geraldton. Because it is looking at around 30 million tonnes a year, it is committed to Oakajee. We are working with Gindalbie, and that arrangement is basically resolved. Gindalbie is about to start construction. We have not only the arrangement for the port—both transitional use of Geraldton and long-term use of Oakajee—but also sorted out environmental issues about banded-iron formations, something that members opposite could not deal with. We have dealt with it. The other project the member for Armadale was probably talking about is Asia Iron—I think I have the right company—which is looking at a slurry pipeline project. In other words, it wants to pump a sort of sludge, or liquid iron ore, in a solution and then dry it out and load it. I think that project has a way to go, but we wish Asia Iron well and we are helping them. We have relaxed the constraint to allow Asia Iron to use Geraldton port. Ms A.J.G. MacTiernan : How many tonnes will be allowed? Mr C.J. BARNETT : I will not quote the figures; I will probably get them wrong. I do not have that information off the top of my head. Mr E.S. Ripper : Well done, member for Armadale. Several members interjected. Mr C.J. BARNETT : I am trying to answer the question. Asia Iron has been given a right to use Geraldton port for the first stage of its production. It is my opinion that that is probably not the most economical way of developing its project; it would probably do better financially and in volume if it combined with Gindalbie and used rail transport. However, that is up to Asia Iron and its backers. It can develop to a certain tonnage. I will let the member know the exact tonnage; I cannot remember it right now. Geraldton port can accommodate Asia Iron’s needs. I have to say that I was a little disappointed in the way Asia Iron conducted its affairs; nevertheless, we have made sure there is no impediment or constraint at Geraldton harbour to Asia Iron proceeding with its project if it can get the necessary financing. I have urged the company privately, and now I do so publicly, to look at more efficient ways of transporting that iron ore.
Ms A.J.G. MacTiernan : What a good move that was. Mr C.J. BARNETT : What a good thing! Not even a laden panamax ship can get into Geraldton harbour. Ms A.J.G. MacTiernan : That is not what the industry needs. The SPEAKER : Order! Members may not like the answer being given. Member for Armadale, I will give you leave to ask a supplementary if you want to ask another question. Mr C.J. BARNETT : More than $100 million — Ms A.J.G. MacTiernan : You just don’t get that project. The SPEAKER : Order! I formally call the member for the second time. Mr C.J. BARNETT : More than $100 million of taxpayers’ money has been spent on deepening the harbour. Ms R. Saffioti interjected. Mr C.J. BARNETT : Yes, by deepening the Geraldton harbour. It is a better harbour now of course because it is deeper. But not even a panamax vessel can get in there. Ms A.J.G. MacTiernan : Yes, but the industry is started. Mr C.J. BARNETT : Most of the world commodity trade has moved beyond panamax to capesize, and even super-capesize vehicles now being built. Ms A.J.G. MacTiernan : Not for this product. Mr C.J. BARNETT : Geraldton port is totally inadequate for development of the mineral province of the mid-west. Ms A.J.G. MacTiernan : You don’t understand the product. Mr C.J. BARNETT : I am explaining some background for our members who are interested in the failings of the Labor government and the squandering of more than $100 million of taxpayers’ money. This government is quite determined to proceed with Oakajee. But, boy, did the former Labor government leave us a difficult handover? This former minister basically set up a competition between Japan and China to bid for the project. I am trying very hard, because it is very difficult, to bring this project — Mr E.S. Ripper : Answer the question Mr C.J. BARNETT : That is exactly what I am doing, Leader of the Opposition. Mr E.S. Ripper : You’re not. Mr C.J. BARNETT : You need to listen as you listened attentively to the Minister for Police. Mr E.S. Ripper : His was a better answer! Mr C.J. BARNETT : I agree! I am working very hard to try to bring Oakajee to fruition and to bring it as the first large-scale infrastructure mining project that is genuinely Australian, Japanese and Chinese. That will be a first for this nation and a first for the Asia-Pacific region. To do that we need to ensure not only that the Oakajee deepwater harbour is built but also that people contract to use it. There will be a transition and during that transition some volume of iron ore will go out through the port of Geraldton. About five million or six million tonnes are going out at present. We imposed a cap at 12 million tonnes as part of the Oakajee development agreement. Representations have been made by Gindalbie about how it can work in a transition for initial tonnages through Geraldton. Because it is looking at around 30 million tonnes a year, it is committed to Oakajee. We are working with Gindalbie, and that arrangement is basically resolved. Gindalbie is about to start construction. We have not only the arrangement for the port—both transitional use of Geraldton and long-term use of Oakajee—but also sorted out environmental issues about banded-iron formations, something that members opposite could not deal with. We have dealt with it. The other project the member for Armadale was probably talking about is Asia Iron—I think I have the right company—which is looking at a slurry pipeline project. In other words, it wants to pump a sort of sludge, or liquid iron ore, in a solution and then dry it out and load it. I think that project has a way to go, but we wish Asia Iron well and we are helping them. We have relaxed the constraint to allow Asia Iron to use Geraldton port. Ms A.J.G. MacTiernan : How many tonnes will be allowed? Mr C.J. BARNETT : I will not quote the figures; I will probably get them wrong. I do not have that information off the top of my head. Mr E.S. Ripper : Well done, member for Armadale. Several members interjected. Mr C.J. BARNETT : I am trying to answer the question. Asia Iron has been given a right to use Geraldton port for the first stage of its production. It is my opinion that that is probably not the most economical way of developing its project; it would probably do better financially and in volume if it combined with Gindalbie and used rail transport. However, that is up to Asia Iron and its backers. It can develop to a certain tonnage. I will let the member know the exact tonnage; I cannot remember it right now. Geraldton port can accommodate Asia Iron’s needs. I have to say that I was a little disappointed in the way Asia Iron conducted its affairs; nevertheless, we have made sure there is no impediment or constraint at Geraldton harbour to Asia Iron proceeding with its project if it can get the necessary financing. I have urged the company privately, and now I do so publicly, to look at more efficient ways of transporting that iron ore.
Mr C.J. BARNETT : What a good thing! Not even a laden panamax ship can get into Geraldton harbour. Ms A.J.G. MacTiernan : That is not what the industry needs. The SPEAKER : Order! Members may not like the answer being given. Member for Armadale, I will give you leave to ask a supplementary if you want to ask another question. Mr C.J. BARNETT : More than $100 million — Ms A.J.G. MacTiernan : You just don’t get that project. The SPEAKER : Order! I formally call the member for the second time. Mr C.J. BARNETT : More than $100 million of taxpayers’ money has been spent on deepening the harbour. Ms R. Saffioti interjected. Mr C.J. BARNETT : Yes, by deepening the Geraldton harbour. It is a better harbour now of course because it is deeper. But not even a panamax vessel can get in there. Ms A.J.G. MacTiernan : Yes, but the industry is started. Mr C.J. BARNETT : Most of the world commodity trade has moved beyond panamax to capesize, and even super-capesize vehicles now being built. Ms A.J.G. MacTiernan : Not for this product. Mr C.J. BARNETT : Geraldton port is totally inadequate for development of the mineral province of the mid-west. Ms A.J.G. MacTiernan : You don’t understand the product. Mr C.J. BARNETT : I am explaining some background for our members who are interested in the failings of the Labor government and the squandering of more than $100 million of taxpayers’ money. This government is quite determined to proceed with Oakajee. But, boy, did the former Labor government leave us a difficult handover? This former minister basically set up a competition between Japan and China to bid for the project. I am trying very hard, because it is very difficult, to bring this project — Mr E.S. Ripper : Answer the question Mr C.J. BARNETT : That is exactly what I am doing, Leader of the Opposition. Mr E.S. Ripper : You’re not. Mr C.J. BARNETT : You need to listen as you listened attentively to the Minister for Police. Mr E.S. Ripper : His was a better answer! Mr C.J. BARNETT : I agree! I am working very hard to try to bring Oakajee to fruition and to bring it as the first large-scale infrastructure mining project that is genuinely Australian, Japanese and Chinese. That will be a first for this nation and a first for the Asia-Pacific region. To do that we need to ensure not only that the Oakajee deepwater harbour is built but also that people contract to use it. There will be a transition and during that transition some volume of iron ore will go out through the port of Geraldton. About five million or six million tonnes are going out at present. We imposed a cap at 12 million tonnes as part of the Oakajee development agreement. Representations have been made by Gindalbie about how it can work in a transition for initial tonnages through Geraldton. Because it is looking at around 30 million tonnes a year, it is committed to Oakajee. We are working with Gindalbie, and that arrangement is basically resolved. Gindalbie is about to start construction. We have not only the arrangement for the port—both transitional use of Geraldton and long-term use of Oakajee—but also sorted out environmental issues about banded-iron formations, something that members opposite could not deal with. We have dealt with it. The other project the member for Armadale was probably talking about is Asia Iron—I think I have the right company—which is looking at a slurry pipeline project. In other words, it wants to pump a sort of sludge, or liquid iron ore, in a solution and then dry it out and load it. I think that project has a way to go, but we wish Asia Iron well and we are helping them. We have relaxed the constraint to allow Asia Iron to use Geraldton port. Ms A.J.G. MacTiernan : How many tonnes will be allowed? Mr C.J. BARNETT : I will not quote the figures; I will probably get them wrong. I do not have that information off the top of my head. Mr E.S. Ripper : Well done, member for Armadale. Several members interjected. Mr C.J. BARNETT : I am trying to answer the question. Asia Iron has been given a right to use Geraldton port for the first stage of its production. It is my opinion that that is probably not the most economical way of developing its project; it would probably do better financially and in volume if it combined with Gindalbie and used rail transport. However, that is up to Asia Iron and its backers. It can develop to a certain tonnage. I will let the member know the exact tonnage; I cannot remember it right now. Geraldton port can accommodate Asia Iron’s needs. I have to say that I was a little disappointed in the way Asia Iron conducted its affairs; nevertheless, we have made sure there is no impediment or constraint at Geraldton harbour to Asia Iron proceeding with its project if it can get the necessary financing. I have urged the company privately, and now I do so publicly, to look at more efficient ways of transporting that iron ore.
Ms A.J.G. MacTiernan : That is not what the industry needs. The SPEAKER : Order! Members may not like the answer being given. Member for Armadale, I will give you leave to ask a supplementary if you want to ask another question. Mr C.J. BARNETT : More than $100 million — Ms A.J.G. MacTiernan : You just don’t get that project. The SPEAKER : Order! I formally call the member for the second time. Mr C.J. BARNETT : More than $100 million of taxpayers’ money has been spent on deepening the harbour. Ms R. Saffioti interjected. Mr C.J. BARNETT : Yes, by deepening the Geraldton harbour. It is a better harbour now of course because it is deeper. But not even a panamax vessel can get in there. Ms A.J.G. MacTiernan : Yes, but the industry is started. Mr C.J. BARNETT : Most of the world commodity trade has moved beyond panamax to capesize, and even super-capesize vehicles now being built. Ms A.J.G. MacTiernan : Not for this product. Mr C.J. BARNETT : Geraldton port is totally inadequate for development of the mineral province of the mid-west. Ms A.J.G. MacTiernan : You don’t understand the product. Mr C.J. BARNETT : I am explaining some background for our members who are interested in the failings of the Labor government and the squandering of more than $100 million of taxpayers’ money. This government is quite determined to proceed with Oakajee. But, boy, did the former Labor government leave us a difficult handover? This former minister basically set up a competition between Japan and China to bid for the project. I am trying very hard, because it is very difficult, to bring this project — Mr E.S. Ripper : Answer the question Mr C.J. BARNETT : That is exactly what I am doing, Leader of the Opposition. Mr E.S. Ripper : You’re not. Mr C.J. BARNETT : You need to listen as you listened attentively to the Minister for Police. Mr E.S. Ripper : His was a better answer! Mr C.J. BARNETT : I agree! I am working very hard to try to bring Oakajee to fruition and to bring it as the first large-scale infrastructure mining project that is genuinely Australian, Japanese and Chinese. That will be a first for this nation and a first for the Asia-Pacific region. To do that we need to ensure not only that the Oakajee deepwater harbour is built but also that people contract to use it. There will be a transition and during that transition some volume of iron ore will go out through the port of Geraldton. About five million or six million tonnes are going out at present. We imposed a cap at 12 million tonnes as part of the Oakajee development agreement. Representations have been made by Gindalbie about how it can work in a transition for initial tonnages through Geraldton. Because it is looking at around 30 million tonnes a year, it is committed to Oakajee. We are working with Gindalbie, and that arrangement is basically resolved. Gindalbie is about to start construction. We have not only the arrangement for the port—both transitional use of Geraldton and long-term use of Oakajee—but also sorted out environmental issues about banded-iron formations, something that members opposite could not deal with. We have dealt with it. The other project the member for Armadale was probably talking about is Asia Iron—I think I have the right company—which is looking at a slurry pipeline project. In other words, it wants to pump a sort of sludge, or liquid iron ore, in a solution and then dry it out and load it. I think that project has a way to go, but we wish Asia Iron well and we are helping them. We have relaxed the constraint to allow Asia Iron to use Geraldton port. Ms A.J.G. MacTiernan : How many tonnes will be allowed? Mr C.J. BARNETT : I will not quote the figures; I will probably get them wrong. I do not have that information off the top of my head. Mr E.S. Ripper : Well done, member for Armadale. Several members interjected. Mr C.J. BARNETT : I am trying to answer the question. Asia Iron has been given a right to use Geraldton port for the first stage of its production. It is my opinion that that is probably not the most economical way of developing its project; it would probably do better financially and in volume if it combined with Gindalbie and used rail transport. However, that is up to Asia Iron and its backers. It can develop to a certain tonnage. I will let the member know the exact tonnage; I cannot remember it right now. Geraldton port can accommodate Asia Iron’s needs. I have to say that I was a little disappointed in the way Asia Iron conducted its affairs; nevertheless, we have made sure there is no impediment or constraint at Geraldton harbour to Asia Iron proceeding with its project if it can get the necessary financing. I have urged the company privately, and now I do so publicly, to look at more efficient ways of transporting that iron ore.
The SPEAKER : Order! Members may not like the answer being given. Member for Armadale, I will give you leave to ask a supplementary if you want to ask another question. Mr C.J. BARNETT : More than $100 million — Ms A.J.G. MacTiernan : You just don’t get that project. The SPEAKER : Order! I formally call the member for the second time. Mr C.J. BARNETT : More than $100 million of taxpayers’ money has been spent on deepening the harbour. Ms R. Saffioti interjected. Mr C.J. BARNETT : Yes, by deepening the Geraldton harbour. It is a better harbour now of course because it is deeper. But not even a panamax vessel can get in there. Ms A.J.G. MacTiernan : Yes, but the industry is started. Mr C.J. BARNETT : Most of the world commodity trade has moved beyond panamax to capesize, and even super-capesize vehicles now being built. Ms A.J.G. MacTiernan : Not for this product. Mr C.J. BARNETT : Geraldton port is totally inadequate for development of the mineral province of the mid-west. Ms A.J.G. MacTiernan : You don’t understand the product. Mr C.J. BARNETT : I am explaining some background for our members who are interested in the failings of the Labor government and the squandering of more than $100 million of taxpayers’ money. This government is quite determined to proceed with Oakajee. But, boy, did the former Labor government leave us a difficult handover? This former minister basically set up a competition between Japan and China to bid for the project. I am trying very hard, because it is very difficult, to bring this project — Mr E.S. Ripper : Answer the question Mr C.J. BARNETT : That is exactly what I am doing, Leader of the Opposition. Mr E.S. Ripper : You’re not. Mr C.J. BARNETT : You need to listen as you listened attentively to the Minister for Police. Mr E.S. Ripper : His was a better answer! Mr C.J. BARNETT : I agree! I am working very hard to try to bring Oakajee to fruition and to bring it as the first large-scale infrastructure mining project that is genuinely Australian, Japanese and Chinese. That will be a first for this nation and a first for the Asia-Pacific region. To do that we need to ensure not only that the Oakajee deepwater harbour is built but also that people contract to use it. There will be a transition and during that transition some volume of iron ore will go out through the port of Geraldton. About five million or six million tonnes are going out at present. We imposed a cap at 12 million tonnes as part of the Oakajee development agreement. Representations have been made by Gindalbie about how it can work in a transition for initial tonnages through Geraldton. Because it is looking at around 30 million tonnes a year, it is committed to Oakajee. We are working with Gindalbie, and that arrangement is basically resolved. Gindalbie is about to start construction. We have not only the arrangement for the port—both transitional use of Geraldton and long-term use of Oakajee—but also sorted out environmental issues about banded-iron formations, something that members opposite could not deal with. We have dealt with it. The other project the member for Armadale was probably talking about is Asia Iron—I think I have the right company—which is looking at a slurry pipeline project. In other words, it wants to pump a sort of sludge, or liquid iron ore, in a solution and then dry it out and load it. I think that project has a way to go, but we wish Asia Iron well and we are helping them. We have relaxed the constraint to allow Asia Iron to use Geraldton port. Ms A.J.G. MacTiernan : How many tonnes will be allowed? Mr C.J. BARNETT : I will not quote the figures; I will probably get them wrong. I do not have that information off the top of my head. Mr E.S. Ripper : Well done, member for Armadale. Several members interjected. Mr C.J. BARNETT : I am trying to answer the question. Asia Iron has been given a right to use Geraldton port for the first stage of its production. It is my opinion that that is probably not the most economical way of developing its project; it would probably do better financially and in volume if it combined with Gindalbie and used rail transport. However, that is up to Asia Iron and its backers. It can develop to a certain tonnage. I will let the member know the exact tonnage; I cannot remember it right now. Geraldton port can accommodate Asia Iron’s needs. I have to say that I was a little disappointed in the way Asia Iron conducted its affairs; nevertheless, we have made sure there is no impediment or constraint at Geraldton harbour to Asia Iron proceeding with its project if it can get the necessary financing. I have urged the company privately, and now I do so publicly, to look at more efficient ways of transporting that iron ore.
Mr C.J. BARNETT : More than $100 million — Ms A.J.G. MacTiernan : You just don’t get that project. The SPEAKER : Order! I formally call the member for the second time. Mr C.J. BARNETT : More than $100 million of taxpayers’ money has been spent on deepening the harbour. Ms R. Saffioti interjected. Mr C.J. BARNETT : Yes, by deepening the Geraldton harbour. It is a better harbour now of course because it is deeper. But not even a panamax vessel can get in there. Ms A.J.G. MacTiernan : Yes, but the industry is started. Mr C.J. BARNETT : Most of the world commodity trade has moved beyond panamax to capesize, and even super-capesize vehicles now being built. Ms A.J.G. MacTiernan : Not for this product. Mr C.J. BARNETT : Geraldton port is totally inadequate for development of the mineral province of the mid-west. Ms A.J.G. MacTiernan : You don’t understand the product. Mr C.J. BARNETT : I am explaining some background for our members who are interested in the failings of the Labor government and the squandering of more than $100 million of taxpayers’ money. This government is quite determined to proceed with Oakajee. But, boy, did the former Labor government leave us a difficult handover? This former minister basically set up a competition between Japan and China to bid for the project. I am trying very hard, because it is very difficult, to bring this project — Mr E.S. Ripper : Answer the question Mr C.J. BARNETT : That is exactly what I am doing, Leader of the Opposition. Mr E.S. Ripper : You’re not. Mr C.J. BARNETT : You need to listen as you listened attentively to the Minister for Police. Mr E.S. Ripper : His was a better answer! Mr C.J. BARNETT : I agree! I am working very hard to try to bring Oakajee to fruition and to bring it as the first large-scale infrastructure mining project that is genuinely Australian, Japanese and Chinese. That will be a first for this nation and a first for the Asia-Pacific region. To do that we need to ensure not only that the Oakajee deepwater harbour is built but also that people contract to use it. There will be a transition and during that transition some volume of iron ore will go out through the port of Geraldton. About five million or six million tonnes are going out at present. We imposed a cap at 12 million tonnes as part of the Oakajee development agreement. Representations have been made by Gindalbie about how it can work in a transition for initial tonnages through Geraldton. Because it is looking at around 30 million tonnes a year, it is committed to Oakajee. We are working with Gindalbie, and that arrangement is basically resolved. Gindalbie is about to start construction. We have not only the arrangement for the port—both transitional use of Geraldton and long-term use of Oakajee—but also sorted out environmental issues about banded-iron formations, something that members opposite could not deal with. We have dealt with it. The other project the member for Armadale was probably talking about is Asia Iron—I think I have the right company—which is looking at a slurry pipeline project. In other words, it wants to pump a sort of sludge, or liquid iron ore, in a solution and then dry it out and load it. I think that project has a way to go, but we wish Asia Iron well and we are helping them. We have relaxed the constraint to allow Asia Iron to use Geraldton port. Ms A.J.G. MacTiernan : How many tonnes will be allowed? Mr C.J. BARNETT : I will not quote the figures; I will probably get them wrong. I do not have that information off the top of my head. Mr E.S. Ripper : Well done, member for Armadale. Several members interjected. Mr C.J. BARNETT : I am trying to answer the question. Asia Iron has been given a right to use Geraldton port for the first stage of its production. It is my opinion that that is probably not the most economical way of developing its project; it would probably do better financially and in volume if it combined with Gindalbie and used rail transport. However, that is up to Asia Iron and its backers. It can develop to a certain tonnage. I will let the member know the exact tonnage; I cannot remember it right now. Geraldton port can accommodate Asia Iron’s needs. I have to say that I was a little disappointed in the way Asia Iron conducted its affairs; nevertheless, we have made sure there is no impediment or constraint at Geraldton harbour to Asia Iron proceeding with its project if it can get the necessary financing. I have urged the company privately, and now I do so publicly, to look at more efficient ways of transporting that iron ore.
Ms A.J.G. MacTiernan : You just don’t get that project. The SPEAKER : Order! I formally call the member for the second time. Mr C.J. BARNETT : More than $100 million of taxpayers’ money has been spent on deepening the harbour. Ms R. Saffioti interjected. Mr C.J. BARNETT : Yes, by deepening the Geraldton harbour. It is a better harbour now of course because it is deeper. But not even a panamax vessel can get in there. Ms A.J.G. MacTiernan : Yes, but the industry is started. Mr C.J. BARNETT : Most of the world commodity trade has moved beyond panamax to capesize, and even super-capesize vehicles now being built. Ms A.J.G. MacTiernan : Not for this product. Mr C.J. BARNETT : Geraldton port is totally inadequate for development of the mineral province of the mid-west. Ms A.J.G. MacTiernan : You don’t understand the product. Mr C.J. BARNETT : I am explaining some background for our members who are interested in the failings of the Labor government and the squandering of more than $100 million of taxpayers’ money. This government is quite determined to proceed with Oakajee. But, boy, did the former Labor government leave us a difficult handover? This former minister basically set up a competition between Japan and China to bid for the project. I am trying very hard, because it is very difficult, to bring this project — Mr E.S. Ripper : Answer the question Mr C.J. BARNETT : That is exactly what I am doing, Leader of the Opposition. Mr E.S. Ripper : You’re not. Mr C.J. BARNETT : You need to listen as you listened attentively to the Minister for Police. Mr E.S. Ripper : His was a better answer! Mr C.J. BARNETT : I agree! I am working very hard to try to bring Oakajee to fruition and to bring it as the first large-scale infrastructure mining project that is genuinely Australian, Japanese and Chinese. That will be a first for this nation and a first for the Asia-Pacific region. To do that we need to ensure not only that the Oakajee deepwater harbour is built but also that people contract to use it. There will be a transition and during that transition some volume of iron ore will go out through the port of Geraldton. About five million or six million tonnes are going out at present. We imposed a cap at 12 million tonnes as part of the Oakajee development agreement. Representations have been made by Gindalbie about how it can work in a transition for initial tonnages through Geraldton. Because it is looking at around 30 million tonnes a year, it is committed to Oakajee. We are working with Gindalbie, and that arrangement is basically resolved. Gindalbie is about to start construction. We have not only the arrangement for the port—both transitional use of Geraldton and long-term use of Oakajee—but also sorted out environmental issues about banded-iron formations, something that members opposite could not deal with. We have dealt with it. The other project the member for Armadale was probably talking about is Asia Iron—I think I have the right company—which is looking at a slurry pipeline project. In other words, it wants to pump a sort of sludge, or liquid iron ore, in a solution and then dry it out and load it. I think that project has a way to go, but we wish Asia Iron well and we are helping them. We have relaxed the constraint to allow Asia Iron to use Geraldton port. Ms A.J.G. MacTiernan : How many tonnes will be allowed? Mr C.J. BARNETT : I will not quote the figures; I will probably get them wrong. I do not have that information off the top of my head. Mr E.S. Ripper : Well done, member for Armadale. Several members interjected. Mr C.J. BARNETT : I am trying to answer the question. Asia Iron has been given a right to use Geraldton port for the first stage of its production. It is my opinion that that is probably not the most economical way of developing its project; it would probably do better financially and in volume if it combined with Gindalbie and used rail transport. However, that is up to Asia Iron and its backers. It can develop to a certain tonnage. I will let the member know the exact tonnage; I cannot remember it right now. Geraldton port can accommodate Asia Iron’s needs. I have to say that I was a little disappointed in the way Asia Iron conducted its affairs; nevertheless, we have made sure there is no impediment or constraint at Geraldton harbour to Asia Iron proceeding with its project if it can get the necessary financing. I have urged the company privately, and now I do so publicly, to look at more efficient ways of transporting that iron ore.
The SPEAKER : Order! I formally call the member for the second time. Mr C.J. BARNETT : More than $100 million of taxpayers’ money has been spent on deepening the harbour. Ms R. Saffioti interjected. Mr C.J. BARNETT : Yes, by deepening the Geraldton harbour. It is a better harbour now of course because it is deeper. But not even a panamax vessel can get in there. Ms A.J.G. MacTiernan : Yes, but the industry is started. Mr C.J. BARNETT : Most of the world commodity trade has moved beyond panamax to capesize, and even super-capesize vehicles now being built. Ms A.J.G. MacTiernan : Not for this product. Mr C.J. BARNETT : Geraldton port is totally inadequate for development of the mineral province of the mid-west. Ms A.J.G. MacTiernan : You don’t understand the product. Mr C.J. BARNETT : I am explaining some background for our members who are interested in the failings of the Labor government and the squandering of more than $100 million of taxpayers’ money. This government is quite determined to proceed with Oakajee. But, boy, did the former Labor government leave us a difficult handover? This former minister basically set up a competition between Japan and China to bid for the project. I am trying very hard, because it is very difficult, to bring this project — Mr E.S. Ripper : Answer the question Mr C.J. BARNETT : That is exactly what I am doing, Leader of the Opposition. Mr E.S. Ripper : You’re not. Mr C.J. BARNETT : You need to listen as you listened attentively to the Minister for Police. Mr E.S. Ripper : His was a better answer! Mr C.J. BARNETT : I agree! I am working very hard to try to bring Oakajee to fruition and to bring it as the first large-scale infrastructure mining project that is genuinely Australian, Japanese and Chinese. That will be a first for this nation and a first for the Asia-Pacific region. To do that we need to ensure not only that the Oakajee deepwater harbour is built but also that people contract to use it. There will be a transition and during that transition some volume of iron ore will go out through the port of Geraldton. About five million or six million tonnes are going out at present. We imposed a cap at 12 million tonnes as part of the Oakajee development agreement. Representations have been made by Gindalbie about how it can work in a transition for initial tonnages through Geraldton. Because it is looking at around 30 million tonnes a year, it is committed to Oakajee. We are working with Gindalbie, and that arrangement is basically resolved. Gindalbie is about to start construction. We have not only the arrangement for the port—both transitional use of Geraldton and long-term use of Oakajee—but also sorted out environmental issues about banded-iron formations, something that members opposite could not deal with. We have dealt with it. The other project the member for Armadale was probably talking about is Asia Iron—I think I have the right company—which is looking at a slurry pipeline project. In other words, it wants to pump a sort of sludge, or liquid iron ore, in a solution and then dry it out and load it. I think that project has a way to go, but we wish Asia Iron well and we are helping them. We have relaxed the constraint to allow Asia Iron to use Geraldton port. Ms A.J.G. MacTiernan : How many tonnes will be allowed? Mr C.J. BARNETT : I will not quote the figures; I will probably get them wrong. I do not have that information off the top of my head. Mr E.S. Ripper : Well done, member for Armadale. Several members interjected. Mr C.J. BARNETT : I am trying to answer the question. Asia Iron has been given a right to use Geraldton port for the first stage of its production. It is my opinion that that is probably not the most economical way of developing its project; it would probably do better financially and in volume if it combined with Gindalbie and used rail transport. However, that is up to Asia Iron and its backers. It can develop to a certain tonnage. I will let the member know the exact tonnage; I cannot remember it right now. Geraldton port can accommodate Asia Iron’s needs. I have to say that I was a little disappointed in the way Asia Iron conducted its affairs; nevertheless, we have made sure there is no impediment or constraint at Geraldton harbour to Asia Iron proceeding with its project if it can get the necessary financing. I have urged the company privately, and now I do so publicly, to look at more efficient ways of transporting that iron ore.
Mr C.J. BARNETT : More than $100 million of taxpayers’ money has been spent on deepening the harbour. Ms R. Saffioti interjected. Mr C.J. BARNETT : Yes, by deepening the Geraldton harbour. It is a better harbour now of course because it is deeper. But not even a panamax vessel can get in there. Ms A.J.G. MacTiernan : Yes, but the industry is started. Mr C.J. BARNETT : Most of the world commodity trade has moved beyond panamax to capesize, and even super-capesize vehicles now being built. Ms A.J.G. MacTiernan : Not for this product. Mr C.J. BARNETT : Geraldton port is totally inadequate for development of the mineral province of the mid-west. Ms A.J.G. MacTiernan : You don’t understand the product. Mr C.J. BARNETT : I am explaining some background for our members who are interested in the failings of the Labor government and the squandering of more than $100 million of taxpayers’ money. This government is quite determined to proceed with Oakajee. But, boy, did the former Labor government leave us a difficult handover? This former minister basically set up a competition between Japan and China to bid for the project. I am trying very hard, because it is very difficult, to bring this project — Mr E.S. Ripper : Answer the question Mr C.J. BARNETT : That is exactly what I am doing, Leader of the Opposition. Mr E.S. Ripper : You’re not. Mr C.J. BARNETT : You need to listen as you listened attentively to the Minister for Police. Mr E.S. Ripper : His was a better answer! Mr C.J. BARNETT : I agree! I am working very hard to try to bring Oakajee to fruition and to bring it as the first large-scale infrastructure mining project that is genuinely Australian, Japanese and Chinese. That will be a first for this nation and a first for the Asia-Pacific region. To do that we need to ensure not only that the Oakajee deepwater harbour is built but also that people contract to use it. There will be a transition and during that transition some volume of iron ore will go out through the port of Geraldton. About five million or six million tonnes are going out at present. We imposed a cap at 12 million tonnes as part of the Oakajee development agreement. Representations have been made by Gindalbie about how it can work in a transition for initial tonnages through Geraldton. Because it is looking at around 30 million tonnes a year, it is committed to Oakajee. We are working with Gindalbie, and that arrangement is basically resolved. Gindalbie is about to start construction. We have not only the arrangement for the port—both transitional use of Geraldton and long-term use of Oakajee—but also sorted out environmental issues about banded-iron formations, something that members opposite could not deal with. We have dealt with it. The other project the member for Armadale was probably talking about is Asia Iron—I think I have the right company—which is looking at a slurry pipeline project. In other words, it wants to pump a sort of sludge, or liquid iron ore, in a solution and then dry it out and load it. I think that project has a way to go, but we wish Asia Iron well and we are helping them. We have relaxed the constraint to allow Asia Iron to use Geraldton port. Ms A.J.G. MacTiernan : How many tonnes will be allowed? Mr C.J. BARNETT : I will not quote the figures; I will probably get them wrong. I do not have that information off the top of my head. Mr E.S. Ripper : Well done, member for Armadale. Several members interjected. Mr C.J. BARNETT : I am trying to answer the question. Asia Iron has been given a right to use Geraldton port for the first stage of its production. It is my opinion that that is probably not the most economical way of developing its project; it would probably do better financially and in volume if it combined with Gindalbie and used rail transport. However, that is up to Asia Iron and its backers. It can develop to a certain tonnage. I will let the member know the exact tonnage; I cannot remember it right now. Geraldton port can accommodate Asia Iron’s needs. I have to say that I was a little disappointed in the way Asia Iron conducted its affairs; nevertheless, we have made sure there is no impediment or constraint at Geraldton harbour to Asia Iron proceeding with its project if it can get the necessary financing. I have urged the company privately, and now I do so publicly, to look at more efficient ways of transporting that iron ore.
Ms R. Saffioti interjected. Mr C.J. BARNETT : Yes, by deepening the Geraldton harbour. It is a better harbour now of course because it is deeper. But not even a panamax vessel can get in there. Ms A.J.G. MacTiernan : Yes, but the industry is started. Mr C.J. BARNETT : Most of the world commodity trade has moved beyond panamax to capesize, and even super-capesize vehicles now being built. Ms A.J.G. MacTiernan : Not for this product. Mr C.J. BARNETT : Geraldton port is totally inadequate for development of the mineral province of the mid-west. Ms A.J.G. MacTiernan : You don’t understand the product. Mr C.J. BARNETT : I am explaining some background for our members who are interested in the failings of the Labor government and the squandering of more than $100 million of taxpayers’ money. This government is quite determined to proceed with Oakajee. But, boy, did the former Labor government leave us a difficult handover? This former minister basically set up a competition between Japan and China to bid for the project. I am trying very hard, because it is very difficult, to bring this project — Mr E.S. Ripper : Answer the question Mr C.J. BARNETT : That is exactly what I am doing, Leader of the Opposition. Mr E.S. Ripper : You’re not. Mr C.J. BARNETT : You need to listen as you listened attentively to the Minister for Police. Mr E.S. Ripper : His was a better answer! Mr C.J. BARNETT : I agree! I am working very hard to try to bring Oakajee to fruition and to bring it as the first large-scale infrastructure mining project that is genuinely Australian, Japanese and Chinese. That will be a first for this nation and a first for the Asia-Pacific region. To do that we need to ensure not only that the Oakajee deepwater harbour is built but also that people contract to use it. There will be a transition and during that transition some volume of iron ore will go out through the port of Geraldton. About five million or six million tonnes are going out at present. We imposed a cap at 12 million tonnes as part of the Oakajee development agreement. Representations have been made by Gindalbie about how it can work in a transition for initial tonnages through Geraldton. Because it is looking at around 30 million tonnes a year, it is committed to Oakajee. We are working with Gindalbie, and that arrangement is basically resolved. Gindalbie is about to start construction. We have not only the arrangement for the port—both transitional use of Geraldton and long-term use of Oakajee—but also sorted out environmental issues about banded-iron formations, something that members opposite could not deal with. We have dealt with it. The other project the member for Armadale was probably talking about is Asia Iron—I think I have the right company—which is looking at a slurry pipeline project. In other words, it wants to pump a sort of sludge, or liquid iron ore, in a solution and then dry it out and load it. I think that project has a way to go, but we wish Asia Iron well and we are helping them. We have relaxed the constraint to allow Asia Iron to use Geraldton port. Ms A.J.G. MacTiernan : How many tonnes will be allowed? Mr C.J. BARNETT : I will not quote the figures; I will probably get them wrong. I do not have that information off the top of my head. Mr E.S. Ripper : Well done, member for Armadale. Several members interjected. Mr C.J. BARNETT : I am trying to answer the question. Asia Iron has been given a right to use Geraldton port for the first stage of its production. It is my opinion that that is probably not the most economical way of developing its project; it would probably do better financially and in volume if it combined with Gindalbie and used rail transport. However, that is up to Asia Iron and its backers. It can develop to a certain tonnage. I will let the member know the exact tonnage; I cannot remember it right now. Geraldton port can accommodate Asia Iron’s needs. I have to say that I was a little disappointed in the way Asia Iron conducted its affairs; nevertheless, we have made sure there is no impediment or constraint at Geraldton harbour to Asia Iron proceeding with its project if it can get the necessary financing. I have urged the company privately, and now I do so publicly, to look at more efficient ways of transporting that iron ore.
Mr C.J. BARNETT : Yes, by deepening the Geraldton harbour. It is a better harbour now of course because it is deeper. But not even a panamax vessel can get in there. Ms A.J.G. MacTiernan : Yes, but the industry is started. Mr C.J. BARNETT : Most of the world commodity trade has moved beyond panamax to capesize, and even super-capesize vehicles now being built. Ms A.J.G. MacTiernan : Not for this product. Mr C.J. BARNETT : Geraldton port is totally inadequate for development of the mineral province of the mid-west. Ms A.J.G. MacTiernan : You don’t understand the product. Mr C.J. BARNETT : I am explaining some background for our members who are interested in the failings of the Labor government and the squandering of more than $100 million of taxpayers’ money. This government is quite determined to proceed with Oakajee. But, boy, did the former Labor government leave us a difficult handover? This former minister basically set up a competition between Japan and China to bid for the project. I am trying very hard, because it is very difficult, to bring this project — Mr E.S. Ripper : Answer the question Mr C.J. BARNETT : That is exactly what I am doing, Leader of the Opposition. Mr E.S. Ripper : You’re not. Mr C.J. BARNETT : You need to listen as you listened attentively to the Minister for Police. Mr E.S. Ripper : His was a better answer! Mr C.J. BARNETT : I agree! I am working very hard to try to bring Oakajee to fruition and to bring it as the first large-scale infrastructure mining project that is genuinely Australian, Japanese and Chinese. That will be a first for this nation and a first for the Asia-Pacific region. To do that we need to ensure not only that the Oakajee deepwater harbour is built but also that people contract to use it. There will be a transition and during that transition some volume of iron ore will go out through the port of Geraldton. About five million or six million tonnes are going out at present. We imposed a cap at 12 million tonnes as part of the Oakajee development agreement. Representations have been made by Gindalbie about how it can work in a transition for initial tonnages through Geraldton. Because it is looking at around 30 million tonnes a year, it is committed to Oakajee. We are working with Gindalbie, and that arrangement is basically resolved. Gindalbie is about to start construction. We have not only the arrangement for the port—both transitional use of Geraldton and long-term use of Oakajee—but also sorted out environmental issues about banded-iron formations, something that members opposite could not deal with. We have dealt with it. The other project the member for Armadale was probably talking about is Asia Iron—I think I have the right company—which is looking at a slurry pipeline project. In other words, it wants to pump a sort of sludge, or liquid iron ore, in a solution and then dry it out and load it. I think that project has a way to go, but we wish Asia Iron well and we are helping them. We have relaxed the constraint to allow Asia Iron to use Geraldton port. Ms A.J.G. MacTiernan : How many tonnes will be allowed? Mr C.J. BARNETT : I will not quote the figures; I will probably get them wrong. I do not have that information off the top of my head. Mr E.S. Ripper : Well done, member for Armadale. Several members interjected. Mr C.J. BARNETT : I am trying to answer the question. Asia Iron has been given a right to use Geraldton port for the first stage of its production. It is my opinion that that is probably not the most economical way of developing its project; it would probably do better financially and in volume if it combined with Gindalbie and used rail transport. However, that is up to Asia Iron and its backers. It can develop to a certain tonnage. I will let the member know the exact tonnage; I cannot remember it right now. Geraldton port can accommodate Asia Iron’s needs. I have to say that I was a little disappointed in the way Asia Iron conducted its affairs; nevertheless, we have made sure there is no impediment or constraint at Geraldton harbour to Asia Iron proceeding with its project if it can get the necessary financing. I have urged the company privately, and now I do so publicly, to look at more efficient ways of transporting that iron ore.
Ms A.J.G. MacTiernan : Yes, but the industry is started. Mr C.J. BARNETT : Most of the world commodity trade has moved beyond panamax to capesize, and even super-capesize vehicles now being built. Ms A.J.G. MacTiernan : Not for this product. Mr C.J. BARNETT : Geraldton port is totally inadequate for development of the mineral province of the mid-west. Ms A.J.G. MacTiernan : You don’t understand the product. Mr C.J. BARNETT : I am explaining some background for our members who are interested in the failings of the Labor government and the squandering of more than $100 million of taxpayers’ money. This government is quite determined to proceed with Oakajee. But, boy, did the former Labor government leave us a difficult handover? This former minister basically set up a competition between Japan and China to bid for the project. I am trying very hard, because it is very difficult, to bring this project — Mr E.S. Ripper : Answer the question Mr C.J. BARNETT : That is exactly what I am doing, Leader of the Opposition. Mr E.S. Ripper : You’re not. Mr C.J. BARNETT : You need to listen as you listened attentively to the Minister for Police. Mr E.S. Ripper : His was a better answer! Mr C.J. BARNETT : I agree! I am working very hard to try to bring Oakajee to fruition and to bring it as the first large-scale infrastructure mining project that is genuinely Australian, Japanese and Chinese. That will be a first for this nation and a first for the Asia-Pacific region. To do that we need to ensure not only that the Oakajee deepwater harbour is built but also that people contract to use it. There will be a transition and during that transition some volume of iron ore will go out through the port of Geraldton. About five million or six million tonnes are going out at present. We imposed a cap at 12 million tonnes as part of the Oakajee development agreement. Representations have been made by Gindalbie about how it can work in a transition for initial tonnages through Geraldton. Because it is looking at around 30 million tonnes a year, it is committed to Oakajee. We are working with Gindalbie, and that arrangement is basically resolved. Gindalbie is about to start construction. We have not only the arrangement for the port—both transitional use of Geraldton and long-term use of Oakajee—but also sorted out environmental issues about banded-iron formations, something that members opposite could not deal with. We have dealt with it. The other project the member for Armadale was probably talking about is Asia Iron—I think I have the right company—which is looking at a slurry pipeline project. In other words, it wants to pump a sort of sludge, or liquid iron ore, in a solution and then dry it out and load it. I think that project has a way to go, but we wish Asia Iron well and we are helping them. We have relaxed the constraint to allow Asia Iron to use Geraldton port. Ms A.J.G. MacTiernan : How many tonnes will be allowed? Mr C.J. BARNETT : I will not quote the figures; I will probably get them wrong. I do not have that information off the top of my head. Mr E.S. Ripper : Well done, member for Armadale. Several members interjected. Mr C.J. BARNETT : I am trying to answer the question. Asia Iron has been given a right to use Geraldton port for the first stage of its production. It is my opinion that that is probably not the most economical way of developing its project; it would probably do better financially and in volume if it combined with Gindalbie and used rail transport. However, that is up to Asia Iron and its backers. It can develop to a certain tonnage. I will let the member know the exact tonnage; I cannot remember it right now. Geraldton port can accommodate Asia Iron’s needs. I have to say that I was a little disappointed in the way Asia Iron conducted its affairs; nevertheless, we have made sure there is no impediment or constraint at Geraldton harbour to Asia Iron proceeding with its project if it can get the necessary financing. I have urged the company privately, and now I do so publicly, to look at more efficient ways of transporting that iron ore.
Mr C.J. BARNETT : Most of the world commodity trade has moved beyond panamax to capesize, and even super-capesize vehicles now being built. Ms A.J.G. MacTiernan : Not for this product. Mr C.J. BARNETT : Geraldton port is totally inadequate for development of the mineral province of the mid-west. Ms A.J.G. MacTiernan : You don’t understand the product. Mr C.J. BARNETT : I am explaining some background for our members who are interested in the failings of the Labor government and the squandering of more than $100 million of taxpayers’ money. This government is quite determined to proceed with Oakajee. But, boy, did the former Labor government leave us a difficult handover? This former minister basically set up a competition between Japan and China to bid for the project. I am trying very hard, because it is very difficult, to bring this project — Mr E.S. Ripper : Answer the question Mr C.J. BARNETT : That is exactly what I am doing, Leader of the Opposition. Mr E.S. Ripper : You’re not. Mr C.J. BARNETT : You need to listen as you listened attentively to the Minister for Police. Mr E.S. Ripper : His was a better answer! Mr C.J. BARNETT : I agree! I am working very hard to try to bring Oakajee to fruition and to bring it as the first large-scale infrastructure mining project that is genuinely Australian, Japanese and Chinese. That will be a first for this nation and a first for the Asia-Pacific region. To do that we need to ensure not only that the Oakajee deepwater harbour is built but also that people contract to use it. There will be a transition and during that transition some volume of iron ore will go out through the port of Geraldton. About five million or six million tonnes are going out at present. We imposed a cap at 12 million tonnes as part of the Oakajee development agreement. Representations have been made by Gindalbie about how it can work in a transition for initial tonnages through Geraldton. Because it is looking at around 30 million tonnes a year, it is committed to Oakajee. We are working with Gindalbie, and that arrangement is basically resolved. Gindalbie is about to start construction. We have not only the arrangement for the port—both transitional use of Geraldton and long-term use of Oakajee—but also sorted out environmental issues about banded-iron formations, something that members opposite could not deal with. We have dealt with it. The other project the member for Armadale was probably talking about is Asia Iron—I think I have the right company—which is looking at a slurry pipeline project. In other words, it wants to pump a sort of sludge, or liquid iron ore, in a solution and then dry it out and load it. I think that project has a way to go, but we wish Asia Iron well and we are helping them. We have relaxed the constraint to allow Asia Iron to use Geraldton port. Ms A.J.G. MacTiernan : How many tonnes will be allowed? Mr C.J. BARNETT : I will not quote the figures; I will probably get them wrong. I do not have that information off the top of my head. Mr E.S. Ripper : Well done, member for Armadale. Several members interjected. Mr C.J. BARNETT : I am trying to answer the question. Asia Iron has been given a right to use Geraldton port for the first stage of its production. It is my opinion that that is probably not the most economical way of developing its project; it would probably do better financially and in volume if it combined with Gindalbie and used rail transport. However, that is up to Asia Iron and its backers. It can develop to a certain tonnage. I will let the member know the exact tonnage; I cannot remember it right now. Geraldton port can accommodate Asia Iron’s needs. I have to say that I was a little disappointed in the way Asia Iron conducted its affairs; nevertheless, we have made sure there is no impediment or constraint at Geraldton harbour to Asia Iron proceeding with its project if it can get the necessary financing. I have urged the company privately, and now I do so publicly, to look at more efficient ways of transporting that iron ore.
Ms A.J.G. MacTiernan : Not for this product. Mr C.J. BARNETT : Geraldton port is totally inadequate for development of the mineral province of the mid-west. Ms A.J.G. MacTiernan : You don’t understand the product. Mr C.J. BARNETT : I am explaining some background for our members who are interested in the failings of the Labor government and the squandering of more than $100 million of taxpayers’ money. This government is quite determined to proceed with Oakajee. But, boy, did the former Labor government leave us a difficult handover? This former minister basically set up a competition between Japan and China to bid for the project. I am trying very hard, because it is very difficult, to bring this project — Mr E.S. Ripper : Answer the question Mr C.J. BARNETT : That is exactly what I am doing, Leader of the Opposition. Mr E.S. Ripper : You’re not. Mr C.J. BARNETT : You need to listen as you listened attentively to the Minister for Police. Mr E.S. Ripper : His was a better answer! Mr C.J. BARNETT : I agree! I am working very hard to try to bring Oakajee to fruition and to bring it as the first large-scale infrastructure mining project that is genuinely Australian, Japanese and Chinese. That will be a first for this nation and a first for the Asia-Pacific region. To do that we need to ensure not only that the Oakajee deepwater harbour is built but also that people contract to use it. There will be a transition and during that transition some volume of iron ore will go out through the port of Geraldton. About five million or six million tonnes are going out at present. We imposed a cap at 12 million tonnes as part of the Oakajee development agreement. Representations have been made by Gindalbie about how it can work in a transition for initial tonnages through Geraldton. Because it is looking at around 30 million tonnes a year, it is committed to Oakajee. We are working with Gindalbie, and that arrangement is basically resolved. Gindalbie is about to start construction. We have not only the arrangement for the port—both transitional use of Geraldton and long-term use of Oakajee—but also sorted out environmental issues about banded-iron formations, something that members opposite could not deal with. We have dealt with it. The other project the member for Armadale was probably talking about is Asia Iron—I think I have the right company—which is looking at a slurry pipeline project. In other words, it wants to pump a sort of sludge, or liquid iron ore, in a solution and then dry it out and load it. I think that project has a way to go, but we wish Asia Iron well and we are helping them. We have relaxed the constraint to allow Asia Iron to use Geraldton port. Ms A.J.G. MacTiernan : How many tonnes will be allowed? Mr C.J. BARNETT : I will not quote the figures; I will probably get them wrong. I do not have that information off the top of my head. Mr E.S. Ripper : Well done, member for Armadale. Several members interjected. Mr C.J. BARNETT : I am trying to answer the question. Asia Iron has been given a right to use Geraldton port for the first stage of its production. It is my opinion that that is probably not the most economical way of developing its project; it would probably do better financially and in volume if it combined with Gindalbie and used rail transport. However, that is up to Asia Iron and its backers. It can develop to a certain tonnage. I will let the member know the exact tonnage; I cannot remember it right now. Geraldton port can accommodate Asia Iron’s needs. I have to say that I was a little disappointed in the way Asia Iron conducted its affairs; nevertheless, we have made sure there is no impediment or constraint at Geraldton harbour to Asia Iron proceeding with its project if it can get the necessary financing. I have urged the company privately, and now I do so publicly, to look at more efficient ways of transporting that iron ore.
Mr C.J. BARNETT : Geraldton port is totally inadequate for development of the mineral province of the mid-west. Ms A.J.G. MacTiernan : You don’t understand the product. Mr C.J. BARNETT : I am explaining some background for our members who are interested in the failings of the Labor government and the squandering of more than $100 million of taxpayers’ money. This government is quite determined to proceed with Oakajee. But, boy, did the former Labor government leave us a difficult handover? This former minister basically set up a competition between Japan and China to bid for the project. I am trying very hard, because it is very difficult, to bring this project — Mr E.S. Ripper : Answer the question Mr C.J. BARNETT : That is exactly what I am doing, Leader of the Opposition. Mr E.S. Ripper : You’re not. Mr C.J. BARNETT : You need to listen as you listened attentively to the Minister for Police. Mr E.S. Ripper : His was a better answer! Mr C.J. BARNETT : I agree! I am working very hard to try to bring Oakajee to fruition and to bring it as the first large-scale infrastructure mining project that is genuinely Australian, Japanese and Chinese. That will be a first for this nation and a first for the Asia-Pacific region. To do that we need to ensure not only that the Oakajee deepwater harbour is built but also that people contract to use it. There will be a transition and during that transition some volume of iron ore will go out through the port of Geraldton. About five million or six million tonnes are going out at present. We imposed a cap at 12 million tonnes as part of the Oakajee development agreement. Representations have been made by Gindalbie about how it can work in a transition for initial tonnages through Geraldton. Because it is looking at around 30 million tonnes a year, it is committed to Oakajee. We are working with Gindalbie, and that arrangement is basically resolved. Gindalbie is about to start construction. We have not only the arrangement for the port—both transitional use of Geraldton and long-term use of Oakajee—but also sorted out environmental issues about banded-iron formations, something that members opposite could not deal with. We have dealt with it. The other project the member for Armadale was probably talking about is Asia Iron—I think I have the right company—which is looking at a slurry pipeline project. In other words, it wants to pump a sort of sludge, or liquid iron ore, in a solution and then dry it out and load it. I think that project has a way to go, but we wish Asia Iron well and we are helping them. We have relaxed the constraint to allow Asia Iron to use Geraldton port. Ms A.J.G. MacTiernan : How many tonnes will be allowed? Mr C.J. BARNETT : I will not quote the figures; I will probably get them wrong. I do not have that information off the top of my head. Mr E.S. Ripper : Well done, member for Armadale. Several members interjected. Mr C.J. BARNETT : I am trying to answer the question. Asia Iron has been given a right to use Geraldton port for the first stage of its production. It is my opinion that that is probably not the most economical way of developing its project; it would probably do better financially and in volume if it combined with Gindalbie and used rail transport. However, that is up to Asia Iron and its backers. It can develop to a certain tonnage. I will let the member know the exact tonnage; I cannot remember it right now. Geraldton port can accommodate Asia Iron’s needs. I have to say that I was a little disappointed in the way Asia Iron conducted its affairs; nevertheless, we have made sure there is no impediment or constraint at Geraldton harbour to Asia Iron proceeding with its project if it can get the necessary financing. I have urged the company privately, and now I do so publicly, to look at more efficient ways of transporting that iron ore.
Ms A.J.G. MacTiernan : You don’t understand the product. Mr C.J. BARNETT : I am explaining some background for our members who are interested in the failings of the Labor government and the squandering of more than $100 million of taxpayers’ money. This government is quite determined to proceed with Oakajee. But, boy, did the former Labor government leave us a difficult handover? This former minister basically set up a competition between Japan and China to bid for the project. I am trying very hard, because it is very difficult, to bring this project — Mr E.S. Ripper : Answer the question Mr C.J. BARNETT : That is exactly what I am doing, Leader of the Opposition. Mr E.S. Ripper : You’re not. Mr C.J. BARNETT : You need to listen as you listened attentively to the Minister for Police. Mr E.S. Ripper : His was a better answer! Mr C.J. BARNETT : I agree! I am working very hard to try to bring Oakajee to fruition and to bring it as the first large-scale infrastructure mining project that is genuinely Australian, Japanese and Chinese. That will be a first for this nation and a first for the Asia-Pacific region. To do that we need to ensure not only that the Oakajee deepwater harbour is built but also that people contract to use it. There will be a transition and during that transition some volume of iron ore will go out through the port of Geraldton. About five million or six million tonnes are going out at present. We imposed a cap at 12 million tonnes as part of the Oakajee development agreement. Representations have been made by Gindalbie about how it can work in a transition for initial tonnages through Geraldton. Because it is looking at around 30 million tonnes a year, it is committed to Oakajee. We are working with Gindalbie, and that arrangement is basically resolved. Gindalbie is about to start construction. We have not only the arrangement for the port—both transitional use of Geraldton and long-term use of Oakajee—but also sorted out environmental issues about banded-iron formations, something that members opposite could not deal with. We have dealt with it. The other project the member for Armadale was probably talking about is Asia Iron—I think I have the right company—which is looking at a slurry pipeline project. In other words, it wants to pump a sort of sludge, or liquid iron ore, in a solution and then dry it out and load it. I think that project has a way to go, but we wish Asia Iron well and we are helping them. We have relaxed the constraint to allow Asia Iron to use Geraldton port. Ms A.J.G. MacTiernan : How many tonnes will be allowed? Mr C.J. BARNETT : I will not quote the figures; I will probably get them wrong. I do not have that information off the top of my head. Mr E.S. Ripper : Well done, member for Armadale. Several members interjected. Mr C.J. BARNETT : I am trying to answer the question. Asia Iron has been given a right to use Geraldton port for the first stage of its production. It is my opinion that that is probably not the most economical way of developing its project; it would probably do better financially and in volume if it combined with Gindalbie and used rail transport. However, that is up to Asia Iron and its backers. It can develop to a certain tonnage. I will let the member know the exact tonnage; I cannot remember it right now. Geraldton port can accommodate Asia Iron’s needs. I have to say that I was a little disappointed in the way Asia Iron conducted its affairs; nevertheless, we have made sure there is no impediment or constraint at Geraldton harbour to Asia Iron proceeding with its project if it can get the necessary financing. I have urged the company privately, and now I do so publicly, to look at more efficient ways of transporting that iron ore.
Mr C.J. BARNETT : I am explaining some background for our members who are interested in the failings of the Labor government and the squandering of more than $100 million of taxpayers’ money. This government is quite determined to proceed with Oakajee. But, boy, did the former Labor government leave us a difficult handover? This former minister basically set up a competition between Japan and China to bid for the project. I am trying very hard, because it is very difficult, to bring this project — Mr E.S. Ripper : Answer the question Mr C.J. BARNETT : That is exactly what I am doing, Leader of the Opposition. Mr E.S. Ripper : You’re not. Mr C.J. BARNETT : You need to listen as you listened attentively to the Minister for Police. Mr E.S. Ripper : His was a better answer! Mr C.J. BARNETT : I agree! I am working very hard to try to bring Oakajee to fruition and to bring it as the first large-scale infrastructure mining project that is genuinely Australian, Japanese and Chinese. That will be a first for this nation and a first for the Asia-Pacific region. To do that we need to ensure not only that the Oakajee deepwater harbour is built but also that people contract to use it. There will be a transition and during that transition some volume of iron ore will go out through the port of Geraldton. About five million or six million tonnes are going out at present. We imposed a cap at 12 million tonnes as part of the Oakajee development agreement. Representations have been made by Gindalbie about how it can work in a transition for initial tonnages through Geraldton. Because it is looking at around 30 million tonnes a year, it is committed to Oakajee. We are working with Gindalbie, and that arrangement is basically resolved. Gindalbie is about to start construction. We have not only the arrangement for the port—both transitional use of Geraldton and long-term use of Oakajee—but also sorted out environmental issues about banded-iron formations, something that members opposite could not deal with. We have dealt with it. The other project the member for Armadale was probably talking about is Asia Iron—I think I have the right company—which is looking at a slurry pipeline project. In other words, it wants to pump a sort of sludge, or liquid iron ore, in a solution and then dry it out and load it. I think that project has a way to go, but we wish Asia Iron well and we are helping them. We have relaxed the constraint to allow Asia Iron to use Geraldton port. Ms A.J.G. MacTiernan : How many tonnes will be allowed? Mr C.J. BARNETT : I will not quote the figures; I will probably get them wrong. I do not have that information off the top of my head. Mr E.S. Ripper : Well done, member for Armadale. Several members interjected. Mr C.J. BARNETT : I am trying to answer the question. Asia Iron has been given a right to use Geraldton port for the first stage of its production. It is my opinion that that is probably not the most economical way of developing its project; it would probably do better financially and in volume if it combined with Gindalbie and used rail transport. However, that is up to Asia Iron and its backers. It can develop to a certain tonnage. I will let the member know the exact tonnage; I cannot remember it right now. Geraldton port can accommodate Asia Iron’s needs. I have to say that I was a little disappointed in the way Asia Iron conducted its affairs; nevertheless, we have made sure there is no impediment or constraint at Geraldton harbour to Asia Iron proceeding with its project if it can get the necessary financing. I have urged the company privately, and now I do so publicly, to look at more efficient ways of transporting that iron ore.
Mr E.S. Ripper : Answer the question Mr C.J. BARNETT : That is exactly what I am doing, Leader of the Opposition. Mr E.S. Ripper : You’re not. Mr C.J. BARNETT : You need to listen as you listened attentively to the Minister for Police. Mr E.S. Ripper : His was a better answer! Mr C.J. BARNETT : I agree! I am working very hard to try to bring Oakajee to fruition and to bring it as the first large-scale infrastructure mining project that is genuinely Australian, Japanese and Chinese. That will be a first for this nation and a first for the Asia-Pacific region. To do that we need to ensure not only that the Oakajee deepwater harbour is built but also that people contract to use it. There will be a transition and during that transition some volume of iron ore will go out through the port of Geraldton. About five million or six million tonnes are going out at present. We imposed a cap at 12 million tonnes as part of the Oakajee development agreement. Representations have been made by Gindalbie about how it can work in a transition for initial tonnages through Geraldton. Because it is looking at around 30 million tonnes a year, it is committed to Oakajee. We are working with Gindalbie, and that arrangement is basically resolved. Gindalbie is about to start construction. We have not only the arrangement for the port—both transitional use of Geraldton and long-term use of Oakajee—but also sorted out environmental issues about banded-iron formations, something that members opposite could not deal with. We have dealt with it. The other project the member for Armadale was probably talking about is Asia Iron—I think I have the right company—which is looking at a slurry pipeline project. In other words, it wants to pump a sort of sludge, or liquid iron ore, in a solution and then dry it out and load it. I think that project has a way to go, but we wish Asia Iron well and we are helping them. We have relaxed the constraint to allow Asia Iron to use Geraldton port. Ms A.J.G. MacTiernan : How many tonnes will be allowed? Mr C.J. BARNETT : I will not quote the figures; I will probably get them wrong. I do not have that information off the top of my head. Mr E.S. Ripper : Well done, member for Armadale. Several members interjected. Mr C.J. BARNETT : I am trying to answer the question. Asia Iron has been given a right to use Geraldton port for the first stage of its production. It is my opinion that that is probably not the most economical way of developing its project; it would probably do better financially and in volume if it combined with Gindalbie and used rail transport. However, that is up to Asia Iron and its backers. It can develop to a certain tonnage. I will let the member know the exact tonnage; I cannot remember it right now. Geraldton port can accommodate Asia Iron’s needs. I have to say that I was a little disappointed in the way Asia Iron conducted its affairs; nevertheless, we have made sure there is no impediment or constraint at Geraldton harbour to Asia Iron proceeding with its project if it can get the necessary financing. I have urged the company privately, and now I do so publicly, to look at more efficient ways of transporting that iron ore.
Mr C.J. BARNETT : That is exactly what I am doing, Leader of the Opposition. Mr E.S. Ripper : You’re not. Mr C.J. BARNETT : You need to listen as you listened attentively to the Minister for Police. Mr E.S. Ripper : His was a better answer! Mr C.J. BARNETT : I agree! I am working very hard to try to bring Oakajee to fruition and to bring it as the first large-scale infrastructure mining project that is genuinely Australian, Japanese and Chinese. That will be a first for this nation and a first for the Asia-Pacific region. To do that we need to ensure not only that the Oakajee deepwater harbour is built but also that people contract to use it. There will be a transition and during that transition some volume of iron ore will go out through the port of Geraldton. About five million or six million tonnes are going out at present. We imposed a cap at 12 million tonnes as part of the Oakajee development agreement. Representations have been made by Gindalbie about how it can work in a transition for initial tonnages through Geraldton. Because it is looking at around 30 million tonnes a year, it is committed to Oakajee. We are working with Gindalbie, and that arrangement is basically resolved. Gindalbie is about to start construction. We have not only the arrangement for the port—both transitional use of Geraldton and long-term use of Oakajee—but also sorted out environmental issues about banded-iron formations, something that members opposite could not deal with. We have dealt with it. The other project the member for Armadale was probably talking about is Asia Iron—I think I have the right company—which is looking at a slurry pipeline project. In other words, it wants to pump a sort of sludge, or liquid iron ore, in a solution and then dry it out and load it. I think that project has a way to go, but we wish Asia Iron well and we are helping them. We have relaxed the constraint to allow Asia Iron to use Geraldton port. Ms A.J.G. MacTiernan : How many tonnes will be allowed? Mr C.J. BARNETT : I will not quote the figures; I will probably get them wrong. I do not have that information off the top of my head. Mr E.S. Ripper : Well done, member for Armadale. Several members interjected. Mr C.J. BARNETT : I am trying to answer the question. Asia Iron has been given a right to use Geraldton port for the first stage of its production. It is my opinion that that is probably not the most economical way of developing its project; it would probably do better financially and in volume if it combined with Gindalbie and used rail transport. However, that is up to Asia Iron and its backers. It can develop to a certain tonnage. I will let the member know the exact tonnage; I cannot remember it right now. Geraldton port can accommodate Asia Iron’s needs. I have to say that I was a little disappointed in the way Asia Iron conducted its affairs; nevertheless, we have made sure there is no impediment or constraint at Geraldton harbour to Asia Iron proceeding with its project if it can get the necessary financing. I have urged the company privately, and now I do so publicly, to look at more efficient ways of transporting that iron ore.
Mr E.S. Ripper : You’re not. Mr C.J. BARNETT : You need to listen as you listened attentively to the Minister for Police. Mr E.S. Ripper : His was a better answer! Mr C.J. BARNETT : I agree! I am working very hard to try to bring Oakajee to fruition and to bring it as the first large-scale infrastructure mining project that is genuinely Australian, Japanese and Chinese. That will be a first for this nation and a first for the Asia-Pacific region. To do that we need to ensure not only that the Oakajee deepwater harbour is built but also that people contract to use it. There will be a transition and during that transition some volume of iron ore will go out through the port of Geraldton. About five million or six million tonnes are going out at present. We imposed a cap at 12 million tonnes as part of the Oakajee development agreement. Representations have been made by Gindalbie about how it can work in a transition for initial tonnages through Geraldton. Because it is looking at around 30 million tonnes a year, it is committed to Oakajee. We are working with Gindalbie, and that arrangement is basically resolved. Gindalbie is about to start construction. We have not only the arrangement for the port—both transitional use of Geraldton and long-term use of Oakajee—but also sorted out environmental issues about banded-iron formations, something that members opposite could not deal with. We have dealt with it. The other project the member for Armadale was probably talking about is Asia Iron—I think I have the right company—which is looking at a slurry pipeline project. In other words, it wants to pump a sort of sludge, or liquid iron ore, in a solution and then dry it out and load it. I think that project has a way to go, but we wish Asia Iron well and we are helping them. We have relaxed the constraint to allow Asia Iron to use Geraldton port. Ms A.J.G. MacTiernan : How many tonnes will be allowed? Mr C.J. BARNETT : I will not quote the figures; I will probably get them wrong. I do not have that information off the top of my head. Mr E.S. Ripper : Well done, member for Armadale. Several members interjected. Mr C.J. BARNETT : I am trying to answer the question. Asia Iron has been given a right to use Geraldton port for the first stage of its production. It is my opinion that that is probably not the most economical way of developing its project; it would probably do better financially and in volume if it combined with Gindalbie and used rail transport. However, that is up to Asia Iron and its backers. It can develop to a certain tonnage. I will let the member know the exact tonnage; I cannot remember it right now. Geraldton port can accommodate Asia Iron’s needs. I have to say that I was a little disappointed in the way Asia Iron conducted its affairs; nevertheless, we have made sure there is no impediment or constraint at Geraldton harbour to Asia Iron proceeding with its project if it can get the necessary financing. I have urged the company privately, and now I do so publicly, to look at more efficient ways of transporting that iron ore.
Mr C.J. BARNETT : You need to listen as you listened attentively to the Minister for Police. Mr E.S. Ripper : His was a better answer! Mr C.J. BARNETT : I agree! I am working very hard to try to bring Oakajee to fruition and to bring it as the first large-scale infrastructure mining project that is genuinely Australian, Japanese and Chinese. That will be a first for this nation and a first for the Asia-Pacific region. To do that we need to ensure not only that the Oakajee deepwater harbour is built but also that people contract to use it. There will be a transition and during that transition some volume of iron ore will go out through the port of Geraldton. About five million or six million tonnes are going out at present. We imposed a cap at 12 million tonnes as part of the Oakajee development agreement. Representations have been made by Gindalbie about how it can work in a transition for initial tonnages through Geraldton. Because it is looking at around 30 million tonnes a year, it is committed to Oakajee. We are working with Gindalbie, and that arrangement is basically resolved. Gindalbie is about to start construction. We have not only the arrangement for the port—both transitional use of Geraldton and long-term use of Oakajee—but also sorted out environmental issues about banded-iron formations, something that members opposite could not deal with. We have dealt with it. The other project the member for Armadale was probably talking about is Asia Iron—I think I have the right company—which is looking at a slurry pipeline project. In other words, it wants to pump a sort of sludge, or liquid iron ore, in a solution and then dry it out and load it. I think that project has a way to go, but we wish Asia Iron well and we are helping them. We have relaxed the constraint to allow Asia Iron to use Geraldton port. Ms A.J.G. MacTiernan : How many tonnes will be allowed? Mr C.J. BARNETT : I will not quote the figures; I will probably get them wrong. I do not have that information off the top of my head. Mr E.S. Ripper : Well done, member for Armadale. Several members interjected. Mr C.J. BARNETT : I am trying to answer the question. Asia Iron has been given a right to use Geraldton port for the first stage of its production. It is my opinion that that is probably not the most economical way of developing its project; it would probably do better financially and in volume if it combined with Gindalbie and used rail transport. However, that is up to Asia Iron and its backers. It can develop to a certain tonnage. I will let the member know the exact tonnage; I cannot remember it right now. Geraldton port can accommodate Asia Iron’s needs. I have to say that I was a little disappointed in the way Asia Iron conducted its affairs; nevertheless, we have made sure there is no impediment or constraint at Geraldton harbour to Asia Iron proceeding with its project if it can get the necessary financing. I have urged the company privately, and now I do so publicly, to look at more efficient ways of transporting that iron ore.
Mr E.S. Ripper : His was a better answer! Mr C.J. BARNETT : I agree! I am working very hard to try to bring Oakajee to fruition and to bring it as the first large-scale infrastructure mining project that is genuinely Australian, Japanese and Chinese. That will be a first for this nation and a first for the Asia-Pacific region. To do that we need to ensure not only that the Oakajee deepwater harbour is built but also that people contract to use it. There will be a transition and during that transition some volume of iron ore will go out through the port of Geraldton. About five million or six million tonnes are going out at present. We imposed a cap at 12 million tonnes as part of the Oakajee development agreement. Representations have been made by Gindalbie about how it can work in a transition for initial tonnages through Geraldton. Because it is looking at around 30 million tonnes a year, it is committed to Oakajee. We are working with Gindalbie, and that arrangement is basically resolved. Gindalbie is about to start construction. We have not only the arrangement for the port—both transitional use of Geraldton and long-term use of Oakajee—but also sorted out environmental issues about banded-iron formations, something that members opposite could not deal with. We have dealt with it. The other project the member for Armadale was probably talking about is Asia Iron—I think I have the right company—which is looking at a slurry pipeline project. In other words, it wants to pump a sort of sludge, or liquid iron ore, in a solution and then dry it out and load it. I think that project has a way to go, but we wish Asia Iron well and we are helping them. We have relaxed the constraint to allow Asia Iron to use Geraldton port. Ms A.J.G. MacTiernan : How many tonnes will be allowed? Mr C.J. BARNETT : I will not quote the figures; I will probably get them wrong. I do not have that information off the top of my head. Mr E.S. Ripper : Well done, member for Armadale. Several members interjected. Mr C.J. BARNETT : I am trying to answer the question. Asia Iron has been given a right to use Geraldton port for the first stage of its production. It is my opinion that that is probably not the most economical way of developing its project; it would probably do better financially and in volume if it combined with Gindalbie and used rail transport. However, that is up to Asia Iron and its backers. It can develop to a certain tonnage. I will let the member know the exact tonnage; I cannot remember it right now. Geraldton port can accommodate Asia Iron’s needs. I have to say that I was a little disappointed in the way Asia Iron conducted its affairs; nevertheless, we have made sure there is no impediment or constraint at Geraldton harbour to Asia Iron proceeding with its project if it can get the necessary financing. I have urged the company privately, and now I do so publicly, to look at more efficient ways of transporting that iron ore.
Mr C.J. BARNETT : I agree! I am working very hard to try to bring Oakajee to fruition and to bring it as the first large-scale infrastructure mining project that is genuinely Australian, Japanese and Chinese. That will be a first for this nation and a first for the Asia-Pacific region. To do that we need to ensure not only that the Oakajee deepwater harbour is built but also that people contract to use it. There will be a transition and during that transition some volume of iron ore will go out through the port of Geraldton. About five million or six million tonnes are going out at present. We imposed a cap at 12 million tonnes as part of the Oakajee development agreement. Representations have been made by Gindalbie about how it can work in a transition for initial tonnages through Geraldton. Because it is looking at around 30 million tonnes a year, it is committed to Oakajee. We are working with Gindalbie, and that arrangement is basically resolved. Gindalbie is about to start construction. We have not only the arrangement for the port—both transitional use of Geraldton and long-term use of Oakajee—but also sorted out environmental issues about banded-iron formations, something that members opposite could not deal with. We have dealt with it. The other project the member for Armadale was probably talking about is Asia Iron—I think I have the right company—which is looking at a slurry pipeline project. In other words, it wants to pump a sort of sludge, or liquid iron ore, in a solution and then dry it out and load it. I think that project has a way to go, but we wish Asia Iron well and we are helping them. We have relaxed the constraint to allow Asia Iron to use Geraldton port. Ms A.J.G. MacTiernan : How many tonnes will be allowed? Mr C.J. BARNETT : I will not quote the figures; I will probably get them wrong. I do not have that information off the top of my head. Mr E.S. Ripper : Well done, member for Armadale. Several members interjected. Mr C.J. BARNETT : I am trying to answer the question. Asia Iron has been given a right to use Geraldton port for the first stage of its production. It is my opinion that that is probably not the most economical way of developing its project; it would probably do better financially and in volume if it combined with Gindalbie and used rail transport. However, that is up to Asia Iron and its backers. It can develop to a certain tonnage. I will let the member know the exact tonnage; I cannot remember it right now. Geraldton port can accommodate Asia Iron’s needs. I have to say that I was a little disappointed in the way Asia Iron conducted its affairs; nevertheless, we have made sure there is no impediment or constraint at Geraldton harbour to Asia Iron proceeding with its project if it can get the necessary financing. I have urged the company privately, and now I do so publicly, to look at more efficient ways of transporting that iron ore.
I am working very hard to try to bring Oakajee to fruition and to bring it as the first large-scale infrastructure mining project that is genuinely Australian, Japanese and Chinese. That will be a first for this nation and a first for the Asia-Pacific region. To do that we need to ensure not only that the Oakajee deepwater harbour is built but also that people contract to use it. There will be a transition and during that transition some volume of iron ore will go out through the port of Geraldton. About five million or six million tonnes are going out at present. We imposed a cap at 12 million tonnes as part of the Oakajee development agreement. Representations have been made by Gindalbie about how it can work in a transition for initial tonnages through Geraldton. Because it is looking at around 30 million tonnes a year, it is committed to Oakajee. We are working with Gindalbie, and that arrangement is basically resolved. Gindalbie is about to start construction. We have not only the arrangement for the port—both transitional use of Geraldton and long-term use of Oakajee—but also sorted out environmental issues about banded-iron formations, something that members opposite could not deal with. We have dealt with it. The other project the member for Armadale was probably talking about is Asia Iron—I think I have the right company—which is looking at a slurry pipeline project. In other words, it wants to pump a sort of sludge, or liquid iron ore, in a solution and then dry it out and load it. I think that project has a way to go, but we wish Asia Iron well and we are helping them. We have relaxed the constraint to allow Asia Iron to use Geraldton port. Ms A.J.G. MacTiernan : How many tonnes will be allowed? Mr C.J. BARNETT : I will not quote the figures; I will probably get them wrong. I do not have that information off the top of my head. Mr E.S. Ripper : Well done, member for Armadale. Several members interjected. Mr C.J. BARNETT : I am trying to answer the question. Asia Iron has been given a right to use Geraldton port for the first stage of its production. It is my opinion that that is probably not the most economical way of developing its project; it would probably do better financially and in volume if it combined with Gindalbie and used rail transport. However, that is up to Asia Iron and its backers. It can develop to a certain tonnage. I will let the member know the exact tonnage; I cannot remember it right now. Geraldton port can accommodate Asia Iron’s needs. I have to say that I was a little disappointed in the way Asia Iron conducted its affairs; nevertheless, we have made sure there is no impediment or constraint at Geraldton harbour to Asia Iron proceeding with its project if it can get the necessary financing. I have urged the company privately, and now I do so publicly, to look at more efficient ways of transporting that iron ore.
The other project the member for Armadale was probably talking about is Asia Iron—I think I have the right company—which is looking at a slurry pipeline project. In other words, it wants to pump a sort of sludge, or liquid iron ore, in a solution and then dry it out and load it. I think that project has a way to go, but we wish Asia Iron well and we are helping them. We have relaxed the constraint to allow Asia Iron to use Geraldton port. Ms A.J.G. MacTiernan : How many tonnes will be allowed? Mr C.J. BARNETT : I will not quote the figures; I will probably get them wrong. I do not have that information off the top of my head. Mr E.S. Ripper : Well done, member for Armadale. Several members interjected. Mr C.J. BARNETT : I am trying to answer the question. Asia Iron has been given a right to use Geraldton port for the first stage of its production. It is my opinion that that is probably not the most economical way of developing its project; it would probably do better financially and in volume if it combined with Gindalbie and used rail transport. However, that is up to Asia Iron and its backers. It can develop to a certain tonnage. I will let the member know the exact tonnage; I cannot remember it right now. Geraldton port can accommodate Asia Iron’s needs. I have to say that I was a little disappointed in the way Asia Iron conducted its affairs; nevertheless, we have made sure there is no impediment or constraint at Geraldton harbour to Asia Iron proceeding with its project if it can get the necessary financing. I have urged the company privately, and now I do so publicly, to look at more efficient ways of transporting that iron ore.
Ms A.J.G. MacTiernan : How many tonnes will be allowed? Mr C.J. BARNETT : I will not quote the figures; I will probably get them wrong. I do not have that information off the top of my head. Mr E.S. Ripper : Well done, member for Armadale. Several members interjected. Mr C.J. BARNETT : I am trying to answer the question. Asia Iron has been given a right to use Geraldton port for the first stage of its production. It is my opinion that that is probably not the most economical way of developing its project; it would probably do better financially and in volume if it combined with Gindalbie and used rail transport. However, that is up to Asia Iron and its backers. It can develop to a certain tonnage. I will let the member know the exact tonnage; I cannot remember it right now. Geraldton port can accommodate Asia Iron’s needs. I have to say that I was a little disappointed in the way Asia Iron conducted its affairs; nevertheless, we have made sure there is no impediment or constraint at Geraldton harbour to Asia Iron proceeding with its project if it can get the necessary financing. I have urged the company privately, and now I do so publicly, to look at more efficient ways of transporting that iron ore.
Mr C.J. BARNETT : I will not quote the figures; I will probably get them wrong. I do not have that information off the top of my head. Mr E.S. Ripper : Well done, member for Armadale. Several members interjected. Mr C.J. BARNETT : I am trying to answer the question. Asia Iron has been given a right to use Geraldton port for the first stage of its production. It is my opinion that that is probably not the most economical way of developing its project; it would probably do better financially and in volume if it combined with Gindalbie and used rail transport. However, that is up to Asia Iron and its backers. It can develop to a certain tonnage. I will let the member know the exact tonnage; I cannot remember it right now. Geraldton port can accommodate Asia Iron’s needs. I have to say that I was a little disappointed in the way Asia Iron conducted its affairs; nevertheless, we have made sure there is no impediment or constraint at Geraldton harbour to Asia Iron proceeding with its project if it can get the necessary financing. I have urged the company privately, and now I do so publicly, to look at more efficient ways of transporting that iron ore.
Mr E.S. Ripper : Well done, member for Armadale. Several members interjected. Mr C.J. BARNETT : I am trying to answer the question. Asia Iron has been given a right to use Geraldton port for the first stage of its production. It is my opinion that that is probably not the most economical way of developing its project; it would probably do better financially and in volume if it combined with Gindalbie and used rail transport. However, that is up to Asia Iron and its backers. It can develop to a certain tonnage. I will let the member know the exact tonnage; I cannot remember it right now. Geraldton port can accommodate Asia Iron’s needs. I have to say that I was a little disappointed in the way Asia Iron conducted its affairs; nevertheless, we have made sure there is no impediment or constraint at Geraldton harbour to Asia Iron proceeding with its project if it can get the necessary financing. I have urged the company privately, and now I do so publicly, to look at more efficient ways of transporting that iron ore.
Several members interjected. Mr C.J. BARNETT : I am trying to answer the question. Asia Iron has been given a right to use Geraldton port for the first stage of its production. It is my opinion that that is probably not the most economical way of developing its project; it would probably do better financially and in volume if it combined with Gindalbie and used rail transport. However, that is up to Asia Iron and its backers. It can develop to a certain tonnage. I will let the member know the exact tonnage; I cannot remember it right now. Geraldton port can accommodate Asia Iron’s needs. I have to say that I was a little disappointed in the way Asia Iron conducted its affairs; nevertheless, we have made sure there is no impediment or constraint at Geraldton harbour to Asia Iron proceeding with its project if it can get the necessary financing. I have urged the company privately, and now I do so publicly, to look at more efficient ways of transporting that iron ore.
Mr C.J. BARNETT : I am trying to answer the question. Asia Iron has been given a right to use Geraldton port for the first stage of its production. It is my opinion that that is probably not the most economical way of developing its project; it would probably do better financially and in volume if it combined with Gindalbie and used rail transport. However, that is up to Asia Iron and its backers. It can develop to a certain tonnage. I will let the member know the exact tonnage; I cannot remember it right now. Geraldton port can accommodate Asia Iron’s needs. I have to say that I was a little disappointed in the way Asia Iron conducted its affairs; nevertheless, we have made sure there is no impediment or constraint at Geraldton harbour to Asia Iron proceeding with its project if it can get the necessary financing. I have urged the company privately, and now I do so publicly, to look at more efficient ways of transporting that iron ore.
(1) Given that companies with approved projects need to export 20 million tonnes per annum of iron ore through the Geraldton port, is the Premier reviewing the 12 million-tonne cap that is limiting the growth in the mid-west? (2) If no to (1), which company currently planning to export through Geraldton port will be prevented from doing so? (3) Can the Premier confirm the latest advice that a start date for Oakajee of 2014 is not commercially realistic? Mr C.J. BARNETT replied: (1)-(3) We know that the member for Armadale opposes Oakajee; that is a given. Several members interjected. Mr E.S. Ripper : That is the first thing you say. Ms A.J.G. MacTiernan : That is what you used to say during the Kingstream debate. Mr C.J. BARNETT : That is because the member for Armadale continually opposes Oakajee. Every question she has asked about Oakajee has been negative. She has continually tried to undermine the project. She continually contacts her colleagues in Canberra and suggests that the state and the commonwealth should not be supporting this project. Ms A.J.G. MacTiernan : That is not true. Mr C.J. BARNETT : That is what she does. Ms A.J.G. MacTiernan : That is just not true. Mr C.J. BARNETT : That is why she does not stand up for Western Australia. She continually tries to undermine that project. Indeed, some newer members may not realise that this is the member for Armadale’s second attempt to undermine the project. Yes, the first attempt with Kingstream did not work out; I concede that. The solution of the member for Armadale was to spend more than $100 million deepening the port of Geraldton. Ms A.J.G. MacTiernan : What a good move that was. Mr C.J. BARNETT : What a good thing! Not even a laden panamax ship can get into Geraldton harbour. Ms A.J.G. MacTiernan : That is not what the industry needs. The SPEAKER : Order! Members may not like the answer being given. Member for Armadale, I will give you leave to ask a supplementary if you want to ask another question. Mr C.J. BARNETT : More than $100 million — Ms A.J.G. MacTiernan : You just don’t get that project. The SPEAKER : Order! I formally call the member for the second time. Mr C.J. BARNETT : More than $100 million of taxpayers’ money has been spent on deepening the harbour. Ms R. Saffioti interjected. Mr C.J. BARNETT : Yes, by deepening the Geraldton harbour. It is a better harbour now of course because it is deeper. But not even a panamax vessel can get in there. Ms A.J.G. MacTiernan : Yes, but the industry is started. Mr C.J. BARNETT : Most of the world commodity trade has moved beyond panamax to capesize, and even super-capesize vehicles now being built. Ms A.J.G. MacTiernan : Not for this product. Mr C.J. BARNETT : Geraldton port is totally inadequate for development of the mineral province of the mid-west. Ms A.J.G. MacTiernan : You don’t understand the product. Mr C.J. BARNETT : I am explaining some background for our members who are interested in the failings of the Labor government and the squandering of more than $100 million of taxpayers’ money. This government is quite determined to proceed with Oakajee. But, boy, did the former Labor government leave us a difficult handover? This former minister basically set up a competition between Japan and China to bid for the project. I am trying very hard, because it is very difficult, to bring this project — Mr E.S. Ripper : Answer the question Mr C.J. BARNETT : That is exactly what I am doing, Leader of the Opposition. Mr E.S. Ripper : You’re not. Mr C.J. BARNETT : You need to listen as you listened attentively to the Minister for Police. Mr E.S. Ripper : His was a better answer! Mr C.J. BARNETT : I agree! I am working very hard to try to bring Oakajee to fruition and to bring it as the first large-scale infrastructure mining project that is genuinely Australian, Japanese and Chinese. That will be a first for this nation and a first for the Asia-Pacific region. To do that we need to ensure not only that the Oakajee deepwater harbour is built but also that people contract to use it. There will be a transition and during that transition some volume of iron ore will go out through the port of Geraldton. About five million or six million tonnes are going out at present. We imposed a cap at 12 million tonnes as part of the Oakajee development agreement. Representations have been made by Gindalbie about how it can work in a transition for initial tonnages through Geraldton. Because it is looking at around 30 million tonnes a year, it is committed to Oakajee. We are working with Gindalbie, and that arrangement is basically resolved. Gindalbie is about to start construction. We have not only the arrangement for the port—both transitional use of Geraldton and long-term use of Oakajee—but also sorted out environmental issues about banded-iron formations, something that members opposite could not deal with. We have dealt with it. The other project the member for Armadale was probably talking about is Asia Iron—I think I have the right company—which is looking at a slurry pipeline project. In other words, it wants to pump a sort of sludge, or liquid iron ore, in a solution and then dry it out and load it. I think that project has a way to go, but we wish Asia Iron well and we are helping them. We have relaxed the constraint to allow Asia Iron to use Geraldton port. Ms A.J.G. MacTiernan : How many tonnes will be allowed? Mr C.J. BARNETT : I will not quote the figures; I will probably get them wrong. I do not have that information off the top of my head. Mr E.S. Ripper : Well done, member for Armadale. Several members interjected. Mr C.J. BARNETT : I am trying to answer the question. Asia Iron has been given a right to use Geraldton port for the first stage of its production. It is my opinion that that is probably not the most economical way of developing its project; it would probably do better financially and in volume if it combined with Gindalbie and used rail transport. However, that is up to Asia Iron and its backers. It can develop to a certain tonnage. I will let the member know the exact tonnage; I cannot remember it right now. Geraldton port can accommodate Asia Iron’s needs. I have to say that I was a little disappointed in the way Asia Iron conducted its affairs; nevertheless, we have made sure there is no impediment or constraint at Geraldton harbour to Asia Iron proceeding with its project if it can get the necessary financing. I have urged the company privately, and now I do so publicly, to look at more efficient ways of transporting that iron ore.
(2) If no to (1), which company currently planning to export through Geraldton port will be prevented from doing so? (3) Can the Premier confirm the latest advice that a start date for Oakajee of 2014 is not commercially realistic? Mr C.J. BARNETT replied: (1)-(3) We know that the member for Armadale opposes Oakajee; that is a given. Several members interjected. Mr E.S. Ripper : That is the first thing you say. Ms A.J.G. MacTiernan : That is what you used to say during the Kingstream debate. Mr C.J. BARNETT : That is because the member for Armadale continually opposes Oakajee. Every question she has asked about Oakajee has been negative. She has continually tried to undermine the project. She continually contacts her colleagues in Canberra and suggests that the state and the commonwealth should not be supporting this project. Ms A.J.G. MacTiernan : That is not true. Mr C.J. BARNETT : That is what she does. Ms A.J.G. MacTiernan : That is just not true. Mr C.J. BARNETT : That is why she does not stand up for Western Australia. She continually tries to undermine that project. Indeed, some newer members may not realise that this is the member for Armadale’s second attempt to undermine the project. Yes, the first attempt with Kingstream did not work out; I concede that. The solution of the member for Armadale was to spend more than $100 million deepening the port of Geraldton. Ms A.J.G. MacTiernan : What a good move that was. Mr C.J. BARNETT : What a good thing! Not even a laden panamax ship can get into Geraldton harbour. Ms A.J.G. MacTiernan : That is not what the industry needs. The SPEAKER : Order! Members may not like the answer being given. Member for Armadale, I will give you leave to ask a supplementary if you want to ask another question. Mr C.J. BARNETT : More than $100 million — Ms A.J.G. MacTiernan : You just don’t get that project. The SPEAKER : Order! I formally call the member for the second time. Mr C.J. BARNETT : More than $100 million of taxpayers’ money has been spent on deepening the harbour. Ms R. Saffioti interjected. Mr C.J. BARNETT : Yes, by deepening the Geraldton harbour. It is a better harbour now of course because it is deeper. But not even a panamax vessel can get in there. Ms A.J.G. MacTiernan : Yes, but the industry is started. Mr C.J. BARNETT : Most of the world commodity trade has moved beyond panamax to capesize, and even super-capesize vehicles now being built. Ms A.J.G. MacTiernan : Not for this product. Mr C.J. BARNETT : Geraldton port is totally inadequate for development of the mineral province of the mid-west. Ms A.J.G. MacTiernan : You don’t understand the product. Mr C.J. BARNETT : I am explaining some background for our members who are interested in the failings of the Labor government and the squandering of more than $100 million of taxpayers’ money. This government is quite determined to proceed with Oakajee. But, boy, did the former Labor government leave us a difficult handover? This former minister basically set up a competition between Japan and China to bid for the project. I am trying very hard, because it is very difficult, to bring this project — Mr E.S. Ripper : Answer the question Mr C.J. BARNETT : That is exactly what I am doing, Leader of the Opposition. Mr E.S. Ripper : You’re not. Mr C.J. BARNETT : You need to listen as you listened attentively to the Minister for Police. Mr E.S. Ripper : His was a better answer! Mr C.J. BARNETT : I agree! I am working very hard to try to bring Oakajee to fruition and to bring it as the first large-scale infrastructure mining project that is genuinely Australian, Japanese and Chinese. That will be a first for this nation and a first for the Asia-Pacific region. To do that we need to ensure not only that the Oakajee deepwater harbour is built but also that people contract to use it. There will be a transition and during that transition some volume of iron ore will go out through the port of Geraldton. About five million or six million tonnes are going out at present. We imposed a cap at 12 million tonnes as part of the Oakajee development agreement. Representations have been made by Gindalbie about how it can work in a transition for initial tonnages through Geraldton. Because it is looking at around 30 million tonnes a year, it is committed to Oakajee. We are working with Gindalbie, and that arrangement is basically resolved. Gindalbie is about to start construction. We have not only the arrangement for the port—both transitional use of Geraldton and long-term use of Oakajee—but also sorted out environmental issues about banded-iron formations, something that members opposite could not deal with. We have dealt with it. The other project the member for Armadale was probably talking about is Asia Iron—I think I have the right company—which is looking at a slurry pipeline project. In other words, it wants to pump a sort of sludge, or liquid iron ore, in a solution and then dry it out and load it. I think that project has a way to go, but we wish Asia Iron well and we are helping them. We have relaxed the constraint to allow Asia Iron to use Geraldton port. Ms A.J.G. MacTiernan : How many tonnes will be allowed? Mr C.J. BARNETT : I will not quote the figures; I will probably get them wrong. I do not have that information off the top of my head. Mr E.S. Ripper : Well done, member for Armadale. Several members interjected. Mr C.J. BARNETT : I am trying to answer the question. Asia Iron has been given a right to use Geraldton port for the first stage of its production. It is my opinion that that is probably not the most economical way of developing its project; it would probably do better financially and in volume if it combined with Gindalbie and used rail transport. However, that is up to Asia Iron and its backers. It can develop to a certain tonnage. I will let the member know the exact tonnage; I cannot remember it right now. Geraldton port can accommodate Asia Iron’s needs. I have to say that I was a little disappointed in the way Asia Iron conducted its affairs; nevertheless, we have made sure there is no impediment or constraint at Geraldton harbour to Asia Iron proceeding with its project if it can get the necessary financing. I have urged the company privately, and now I do so publicly, to look at more efficient ways of transporting that iron ore.
(3) Can the Premier confirm the latest advice that a start date for Oakajee of 2014 is not commercially realistic? Mr C.J. BARNETT replied: (1)-(3) We know that the member for Armadale opposes Oakajee; that is a given. Several members interjected. Mr E.S. Ripper : That is the first thing you say. Ms A.J.G. MacTiernan : That is what you used to say during the Kingstream debate. Mr C.J. BARNETT : That is because the member for Armadale continually opposes Oakajee. Every question she has asked about Oakajee has been negative. She has continually tried to undermine the project. She continually contacts her colleagues in Canberra and suggests that the state and the commonwealth should not be supporting this project. Ms A.J.G. MacTiernan : That is not true. Mr C.J. BARNETT : That is what she does. Ms A.J.G. MacTiernan : That is just not true. Mr C.J. BARNETT : That is why she does not stand up for Western Australia. She continually tries to undermine that project. Indeed, some newer members may not realise that this is the member for Armadale’s second attempt to undermine the project. Yes, the first attempt with Kingstream did not work out; I concede that. The solution of the member for Armadale was to spend more than $100 million deepening the port of Geraldton. Ms A.J.G. MacTiernan : What a good move that was. Mr C.J. BARNETT : What a good thing! Not even a laden panamax ship can get into Geraldton harbour. Ms A.J.G. MacTiernan : That is not what the industry needs. The SPEAKER : Order! Members may not like the answer being given. Member for Armadale, I will give you leave to ask a supplementary if you want to ask another question. Mr C.J. BARNETT : More than $100 million — Ms A.J.G. MacTiernan : You just don’t get that project. The SPEAKER : Order! I formally call the member for the second time. Mr C.J. BARNETT : More than $100 million of taxpayers’ money has been spent on deepening the harbour. Ms R. Saffioti interjected. Mr C.J. BARNETT : Yes, by deepening the Geraldton harbour. It is a better harbour now of course because it is deeper. But not even a panamax vessel can get in there. Ms A.J.G. MacTiernan : Yes, but the industry is started. Mr C.J. BARNETT : Most of the world commodity trade has moved beyond panamax to capesize, and even super-capesize vehicles now being built. Ms A.J.G. MacTiernan : Not for this product. Mr C.J. BARNETT : Geraldton port is totally inadequate for development of the mineral province of the mid-west. Ms A.J.G. MacTiernan : You don’t understand the product. Mr C.J. BARNETT : I am explaining some background for our members who are interested in the failings of the Labor government and the squandering of more than $100 million of taxpayers’ money. This government is quite determined to proceed with Oakajee. But, boy, did the former Labor government leave us a difficult handover? This former minister basically set up a competition between Japan and China to bid for the project. I am trying very hard, because it is very difficult, to bring this project — Mr E.S. Ripper : Answer the question Mr C.J. BARNETT : That is exactly what I am doing, Leader of the Opposition. Mr E.S. Ripper : You’re not. Mr C.J. BARNETT : You need to listen as you listened attentively to the Minister for Police. Mr E.S. Ripper : His was a better answer! Mr C.J. BARNETT : I agree! I am working very hard to try to bring Oakajee to fruition and to bring it as the first large-scale infrastructure mining project that is genuinely Australian, Japanese and Chinese. That will be a first for this nation and a first for the Asia-Pacific region. To do that we need to ensure not only that the Oakajee deepwater harbour is built but also that people contract to use it. There will be a transition and during that transition some volume of iron ore will go out through the port of Geraldton. About five million or six million tonnes are going out at present. We imposed a cap at 12 million tonnes as part of the Oakajee development agreement. Representations have been made by Gindalbie about how it can work in a transition for initial tonnages through Geraldton. Because it is looking at around 30 million tonnes a year, it is committed to Oakajee. We are working with Gindalbie, and that arrangement is basically resolved. Gindalbie is about to start construction. We have not only the arrangement for the port—both transitional use of Geraldton and long-term use of Oakajee—but also sorted out environmental issues about banded-iron formations, something that members opposite could not deal with. We have dealt with it. The other project the member for Armadale was probably talking about is Asia Iron—I think I have the right company—which is looking at a slurry pipeline project. In other words, it wants to pump a sort of sludge, or liquid iron ore, in a solution and then dry it out and load it. I think that project has a way to go, but we wish Asia Iron well and we are helping them. We have relaxed the constraint to allow Asia Iron to use Geraldton port. Ms A.J.G. MacTiernan : How many tonnes will be allowed? Mr C.J. BARNETT : I will not quote the figures; I will probably get them wrong. I do not have that information off the top of my head. Mr E.S. Ripper : Well done, member for Armadale. Several members interjected. Mr C.J. BARNETT : I am trying to answer the question. Asia Iron has been given a right to use Geraldton port for the first stage of its production. It is my opinion that that is probably not the most economical way of developing its project; it would probably do better financially and in volume if it combined with Gindalbie and used rail transport. However, that is up to Asia Iron and its backers. It can develop to a certain tonnage. I will let the member know the exact tonnage; I cannot remember it right now. Geraldton port can accommodate Asia Iron’s needs. I have to say that I was a little disappointed in the way Asia Iron conducted its affairs; nevertheless, we have made sure there is no impediment or constraint at Geraldton harbour to Asia Iron proceeding with its project if it can get the necessary financing. I have urged the company privately, and now I do so publicly, to look at more efficient ways of transporting that iron ore.
Mr C.J. BARNETT replied: (1)-(3) We know that the member for Armadale opposes Oakajee; that is a given. Several members interjected. Mr E.S. Ripper : That is the first thing you say. Ms A.J.G. MacTiernan : That is what you used to say during the Kingstream debate. Mr C.J. BARNETT : That is because the member for Armadale continually opposes Oakajee. Every question she has asked about Oakajee has been negative. She has continually tried to undermine the project. She continually contacts her colleagues in Canberra and suggests that the state and the commonwealth should not be supporting this project. Ms A.J.G. MacTiernan : That is not true. Mr C.J. BARNETT : That is what she does. Ms A.J.G. MacTiernan : That is just not true. Mr C.J. BARNETT : That is why she does not stand up for Western Australia. She continually tries to undermine that project. Indeed, some newer members may not realise that this is the member for Armadale’s second attempt to undermine the project. Yes, the first attempt with Kingstream did not work out; I concede that. The solution of the member for Armadale was to spend more than $100 million deepening the port of Geraldton. Ms A.J.G. MacTiernan : What a good move that was. Mr C.J. BARNETT : What a good thing! Not even a laden panamax ship can get into Geraldton harbour. Ms A.J.G. MacTiernan : That is not what the industry needs. The SPEAKER : Order! Members may not like the answer being given. Member for Armadale, I will give you leave to ask a supplementary if you want to ask another question. Mr C.J. BARNETT : More than $100 million — Ms A.J.G. MacTiernan : You just don’t get that project. The SPEAKER : Order! I formally call the member for the second time. Mr C.J. BARNETT : More than $100 million of taxpayers’ money has been spent on deepening the harbour. Ms R. Saffioti interjected. Mr C.J. BARNETT : Yes, by deepening the Geraldton harbour. It is a better harbour now of course because it is deeper. But not even a panamax vessel can get in there. Ms A.J.G. MacTiernan : Yes, but the industry is started. Mr C.J. BARNETT : Most of the world commodity trade has moved beyond panamax to capesize, and even super-capesize vehicles now being built. Ms A.J.G. MacTiernan : Not for this product. Mr C.J. BARNETT : Geraldton port is totally inadequate for development of the mineral province of the mid-west. Ms A.J.G. MacTiernan : You don’t understand the product. Mr C.J. BARNETT : I am explaining some background for our members who are interested in the failings of the Labor government and the squandering of more than $100 million of taxpayers’ money. This government is quite determined to proceed with Oakajee. But, boy, did the former Labor government leave us a difficult handover? This former minister basically set up a competition between Japan and China to bid for the project. I am trying very hard, because it is very difficult, to bring this project — Mr E.S. Ripper : Answer the question Mr C.J. BARNETT : That is exactly what I am doing, Leader of the Opposition. Mr E.S. Ripper : You’re not. Mr C.J. BARNETT : You need to listen as you listened attentively to the Minister for Police. Mr E.S. Ripper : His was a better answer! Mr C.J. BARNETT : I agree! I am working very hard to try to bring Oakajee to fruition and to bring it as the first large-scale infrastructure mining project that is genuinely Australian, Japanese and Chinese. That will be a first for this nation and a first for the Asia-Pacific region. To do that we need to ensure not only that the Oakajee deepwater harbour is built but also that people contract to use it. There will be a transition and during that transition some volume of iron ore will go out through the port of Geraldton. About five million or six million tonnes are going out at present. We imposed a cap at 12 million tonnes as part of the Oakajee development agreement. Representations have been made by Gindalbie about how it can work in a transition for initial tonnages through Geraldton. Because it is looking at around 30 million tonnes a year, it is committed to Oakajee. We are working with Gindalbie, and that arrangement is basically resolved. Gindalbie is about to start construction. We have not only the arrangement for the port—both transitional use of Geraldton and long-term use of Oakajee—but also sorted out environmental issues about banded-iron formations, something that members opposite could not deal with. We have dealt with it. The other project the member for Armadale was probably talking about is Asia Iron—I think I have the right company—which is looking at a slurry pipeline project. In other words, it wants to pump a sort of sludge, or liquid iron ore, in a solution and then dry it out and load it. I think that project has a way to go, but we wish Asia Iron well and we are helping them. We have relaxed the constraint to allow Asia Iron to use Geraldton port. Ms A.J.G. MacTiernan : How many tonnes will be allowed? Mr C.J. BARNETT : I will not quote the figures; I will probably get them wrong. I do not have that information off the top of my head. Mr E.S. Ripper : Well done, member for Armadale. Several members interjected. Mr C.J. BARNETT : I am trying to answer the question. Asia Iron has been given a right to use Geraldton port for the first stage of its production. It is my opinion that that is probably not the most economical way of developing its project; it would probably do better financially and in volume if it combined with Gindalbie and used rail transport. However, that is up to Asia Iron and its backers. It can develop to a certain tonnage. I will let the member know the exact tonnage; I cannot remember it right now. Geraldton port can accommodate Asia Iron’s needs. I have to say that I was a little disappointed in the way Asia Iron conducted its affairs; nevertheless, we have made sure there is no impediment or constraint at Geraldton harbour to Asia Iron proceeding with its project if it can get the necessary financing. I have urged the company privately, and now I do so publicly, to look at more efficient ways of transporting that iron ore.
(1)-(3) We know that the member for Armadale opposes Oakajee; that is a given. Several members interjected. Mr E.S. Ripper : That is the first thing you say. Ms A.J.G. MacTiernan : That is what you used to say during the Kingstream debate. Mr C.J. BARNETT : That is because the member for Armadale continually opposes Oakajee. Every question she has asked about Oakajee has been negative. She has continually tried to undermine the project. She continually contacts her colleagues in Canberra and suggests that the state and the commonwealth should not be supporting this project. Ms A.J.G. MacTiernan : That is not true. Mr C.J. BARNETT : That is what she does. Ms A.J.G. MacTiernan : That is just not true. Mr C.J. BARNETT : That is why she does not stand up for Western Australia. She continually tries to undermine that project. Indeed, some newer members may not realise that this is the member for Armadale’s second attempt to undermine the project. Yes, the first attempt with Kingstream did not work out; I concede that. The solution of the member for Armadale was to spend more than $100 million deepening the port of Geraldton. Ms A.J.G. MacTiernan : What a good move that was. Mr C.J. BARNETT : What a good thing! Not even a laden panamax ship can get into Geraldton harbour. Ms A.J.G. MacTiernan : That is not what the industry needs. The SPEAKER : Order! Members may not like the answer being given. Member for Armadale, I will give you leave to ask a supplementary if you want to ask another question. Mr C.J. BARNETT : More than $100 million — Ms A.J.G. MacTiernan : You just don’t get that project. The SPEAKER : Order! I formally call the member for the second time. Mr C.J. BARNETT : More than $100 million of taxpayers’ money has been spent on deepening the harbour. Ms R. Saffioti interjected. Mr C.J. BARNETT : Yes, by deepening the Geraldton harbour. It is a better harbour now of course because it is deeper. But not even a panamax vessel can get in there. Ms A.J.G. MacTiernan : Yes, but the industry is started. Mr C.J. BARNETT : Most of the world commodity trade has moved beyond panamax to capesize, and even super-capesize vehicles now being built. Ms A.J.G. MacTiernan : Not for this product. Mr C.J. BARNETT : Geraldton port is totally inadequate for development of the mineral province of the mid-west. Ms A.J.G. MacTiernan : You don’t understand the product. Mr C.J. BARNETT : I am explaining some background for our members who are interested in the failings of the Labor government and the squandering of more than $100 million of taxpayers’ money. This government is quite determined to proceed with Oakajee. But, boy, did the former Labor government leave us a difficult handover? This former minister basically set up a competition between Japan and China to bid for the project. I am trying very hard, because it is very difficult, to bring this project — Mr E.S. Ripper : Answer the question Mr C.J. BARNETT : That is exactly what I am doing, Leader of the Opposition. Mr E.S. Ripper : You’re not. Mr C.J. BARNETT : You need to listen as you listened attentively to the Minister for Police. Mr E.S. Ripper : His was a better answer! Mr C.J. BARNETT : I agree! I am working very hard to try to bring Oakajee to fruition and to bring it as the first large-scale infrastructure mining project that is genuinely Australian, Japanese and Chinese. That will be a first for this nation and a first for the Asia-Pacific region. To do that we need to ensure not only that the Oakajee deepwater harbour is built but also that people contract to use it. There will be a transition and during that transition some volume of iron ore will go out through the port of Geraldton. About five million or six million tonnes are going out at present. We imposed a cap at 12 million tonnes as part of the Oakajee development agreement. Representations have been made by Gindalbie about how it can work in a transition for initial tonnages through Geraldton. Because it is looking at around 30 million tonnes a year, it is committed to Oakajee. We are working with Gindalbie, and that arrangement is basically resolved. Gindalbie is about to start construction. We have not only the arrangement for the port—both transitional use of Geraldton and long-term use of Oakajee—but also sorted out environmental issues about banded-iron formations, something that members opposite could not deal with. We have dealt with it. The other project the member for Armadale was probably talking about is Asia Iron—I think I have the right company—which is looking at a slurry pipeline project. In other words, it wants to pump a sort of sludge, or liquid iron ore, in a solution and then dry it out and load it. I think that project has a way to go, but we wish Asia Iron well and we are helping them. We have relaxed the constraint to allow Asia Iron to use Geraldton port. Ms A.J.G. MacTiernan : How many tonnes will be allowed? Mr C.J. BARNETT : I will not quote the figures; I will probably get them wrong. I do not have that information off the top of my head. Mr E.S. Ripper : Well done, member for Armadale. Several members interjected. Mr C.J. BARNETT : I am trying to answer the question. Asia Iron has been given a right to use Geraldton port for the first stage of its production. It is my opinion that that is probably not the most economical way of developing its project; it would probably do better financially and in volume if it combined with Gindalbie and used rail transport. However, that is up to Asia Iron and its backers. It can develop to a certain tonnage. I will let the member know the exact tonnage; I cannot remember it right now. Geraldton port can accommodate Asia Iron’s needs. I have to say that I was a little disappointed in the way Asia Iron conducted its affairs; nevertheless, we have made sure there is no impediment or constraint at Geraldton harbour to Asia Iron proceeding with its project if it can get the necessary financing. I have urged the company privately, and now I do so publicly, to look at more efficient ways of transporting that iron ore.
Several members interjected. Mr E.S. Ripper : That is the first thing you say. Ms A.J.G. MacTiernan : That is what you used to say during the Kingstream debate. Mr C.J. BARNETT : That is because the member for Armadale continually opposes Oakajee. Every question she has asked about Oakajee has been negative. She has continually tried to undermine the project. She continually contacts her colleagues in Canberra and suggests that the state and the commonwealth should not be supporting this project. Ms A.J.G. MacTiernan : That is not true. Mr C.J. BARNETT : That is what she does. Ms A.J.G. MacTiernan : That is just not true. Mr C.J. BARNETT : That is why she does not stand up for Western Australia. She continually tries to undermine that project. Indeed, some newer members may not realise that this is the member for Armadale’s second attempt to undermine the project. Yes, the first attempt with Kingstream did not work out; I concede that. The solution of the member for Armadale was to spend more than $100 million deepening the port of Geraldton. Ms A.J.G. MacTiernan : What a good move that was. Mr C.J. BARNETT : What a good thing! Not even a laden panamax ship can get into Geraldton harbour. Ms A.J.G. MacTiernan : That is not what the industry needs. The SPEAKER : Order! Members may not like the answer being given. Member for Armadale, I will give you leave to ask a supplementary if you want to ask another question. Mr C.J. BARNETT : More than $100 million — Ms A.J.G. MacTiernan : You just don’t get that project. The SPEAKER : Order! I formally call the member for the second time. Mr C.J. BARNETT : More than $100 million of taxpayers’ money has been spent on deepening the harbour. Ms R. Saffioti interjected. Mr C.J. BARNETT : Yes, by deepening the Geraldton harbour. It is a better harbour now of course because it is deeper. But not even a panamax vessel can get in there. Ms A.J.G. MacTiernan : Yes, but the industry is started. Mr C.J. BARNETT : Most of the world commodity trade has moved beyond panamax to capesize, and even super-capesize vehicles now being built. Ms A.J.G. MacTiernan : Not for this product. Mr C.J. BARNETT : Geraldton port is totally inadequate for development of the mineral province of the mid-west. Ms A.J.G. MacTiernan : You don’t understand the product. Mr C.J. BARNETT : I am explaining some background for our members who are interested in the failings of the Labor government and the squandering of more than $100 million of taxpayers’ money. This government is quite determined to proceed with Oakajee. But, boy, did the former Labor government leave us a difficult handover? This former minister basically set up a competition between Japan and China to bid for the project. I am trying very hard, because it is very difficult, to bring this project — Mr E.S. Ripper : Answer the question Mr C.J. BARNETT : That is exactly what I am doing, Leader of the Opposition. Mr E.S. Ripper : You’re not. Mr C.J. BARNETT : You need to listen as you listened attentively to the Minister for Police. Mr E.S. Ripper : His was a better answer! Mr C.J. BARNETT : I agree! I am working very hard to try to bring Oakajee to fruition and to bring it as the first large-scale infrastructure mining project that is genuinely Australian, Japanese and Chinese. That will be a first for this nation and a first for the Asia-Pacific region. To do that we need to ensure not only that the Oakajee deepwater harbour is built but also that people contract to use it. There will be a transition and during that transition some volume of iron ore will go out through the port of Geraldton. About five million or six million tonnes are going out at present. We imposed a cap at 12 million tonnes as part of the Oakajee development agreement. Representations have been made by Gindalbie about how it can work in a transition for initial tonnages through Geraldton. Because it is looking at around 30 million tonnes a year, it is committed to Oakajee. We are working with Gindalbie, and that arrangement is basically resolved. Gindalbie is about to start construction. We have not only the arrangement for the port—both transitional use of Geraldton and long-term use of Oakajee—but also sorted out environmental issues about banded-iron formations, something that members opposite could not deal with. We have dealt with it. The other project the member for Armadale was probably talking about is Asia Iron—I think I have the right company—which is looking at a slurry pipeline project. In other words, it wants to pump a sort of sludge, or liquid iron ore, in a solution and then dry it out and load it. I think that project has a way to go, but we wish Asia Iron well and we are helping them. We have relaxed the constraint to allow Asia Iron to use Geraldton port. Ms A.J.G. MacTiernan : How many tonnes will be allowed? Mr C.J. BARNETT : I will not quote the figures; I will probably get them wrong. I do not have that information off the top of my head. Mr E.S. Ripper : Well done, member for Armadale. Several members interjected. Mr C.J. BARNETT : I am trying to answer the question. Asia Iron has been given a right to use Geraldton port for the first stage of its production. It is my opinion that that is probably not the most economical way of developing its project; it would probably do better financially and in volume if it combined with Gindalbie and used rail transport. However, that is up to Asia Iron and its backers. It can develop to a certain tonnage. I will let the member know the exact tonnage; I cannot remember it right now. Geraldton port can accommodate Asia Iron’s needs. I have to say that I was a little disappointed in the way Asia Iron conducted its affairs; nevertheless, we have made sure there is no impediment or constraint at Geraldton harbour to Asia Iron proceeding with its project if it can get the necessary financing. I have urged the company privately, and now I do so publicly, to look at more efficient ways of transporting that iron ore.
Mr E.S. Ripper : That is the first thing you say. Ms A.J.G. MacTiernan : That is what you used to say during the Kingstream debate. Mr C.J. BARNETT : That is because the member for Armadale continually opposes Oakajee. Every question she has asked about Oakajee has been negative. She has continually tried to undermine the project. She continually contacts her colleagues in Canberra and suggests that the state and the commonwealth should not be supporting this project. Ms A.J.G. MacTiernan : That is not true. Mr C.J. BARNETT : That is what she does. Ms A.J.G. MacTiernan : That is just not true. Mr C.J. BARNETT : That is why she does not stand up for Western Australia. She continually tries to undermine that project. Indeed, some newer members may not realise that this is the member for Armadale’s second attempt to undermine the project. Yes, the first attempt with Kingstream did not work out; I concede that. The solution of the member for Armadale was to spend more than $100 million deepening the port of Geraldton. Ms A.J.G. MacTiernan : What a good move that was. Mr C.J. BARNETT : What a good thing! Not even a laden panamax ship can get into Geraldton harbour. Ms A.J.G. MacTiernan : That is not what the industry needs. The SPEAKER : Order! Members may not like the answer being given. Member for Armadale, I will give you leave to ask a supplementary if you want to ask another question. Mr C.J. BARNETT : More than $100 million — Ms A.J.G. MacTiernan : You just don’t get that project. The SPEAKER : Order! I formally call the member for the second time. Mr C.J. BARNETT : More than $100 million of taxpayers’ money has been spent on deepening the harbour. Ms R. Saffioti interjected. Mr C.J. BARNETT : Yes, by deepening the Geraldton harbour. It is a better harbour now of course because it is deeper. But not even a panamax vessel can get in there. Ms A.J.G. MacTiernan : Yes, but the industry is started. Mr C.J. BARNETT : Most of the world commodity trade has moved beyond panamax to capesize, and even super-capesize vehicles now being built. Ms A.J.G. MacTiernan : Not for this product. Mr C.J. BARNETT : Geraldton port is totally inadequate for development of the mineral province of the mid-west. Ms A.J.G. MacTiernan : You don’t understand the product. Mr C.J. BARNETT : I am explaining some background for our members who are interested in the failings of the Labor government and the squandering of more than $100 million of taxpayers’ money. This government is quite determined to proceed with Oakajee. But, boy, did the former Labor government leave us a difficult handover? This former minister basically set up a competition between Japan and China to bid for the project. I am trying very hard, because it is very difficult, to bring this project — Mr E.S. Ripper : Answer the question Mr C.J. BARNETT : That is exactly what I am doing, Leader of the Opposition. Mr E.S. Ripper : You’re not. Mr C.J. BARNETT : You need to listen as you listened attentively to the Minister for Police. Mr E.S. Ripper : His was a better answer! Mr C.J. BARNETT : I agree! I am working very hard to try to bring Oakajee to fruition and to bring it as the first large-scale infrastructure mining project that is genuinely Australian, Japanese and Chinese. That will be a first for this nation and a first for the Asia-Pacific region. To do that we need to ensure not only that the Oakajee deepwater harbour is built but also that people contract to use it. There will be a transition and during that transition some volume of iron ore will go out through the port of Geraldton. About five million or six million tonnes are going out at present. We imposed a cap at 12 million tonnes as part of the Oakajee development agreement. Representations have been made by Gindalbie about how it can work in a transition for initial tonnages through Geraldton. Because it is looking at around 30 million tonnes a year, it is committed to Oakajee. We are working with Gindalbie, and that arrangement is basically resolved. Gindalbie is about to start construction. We have not only the arrangement for the port—both transitional use of Geraldton and long-term use of Oakajee—but also sorted out environmental issues about banded-iron formations, something that members opposite could not deal with. We have dealt with it. The other project the member for Armadale was probably talking about is Asia Iron—I think I have the right company—which is looking at a slurry pipeline project. In other words, it wants to pump a sort of sludge, or liquid iron ore, in a solution and then dry it out and load it. I think that project has a way to go, but we wish Asia Iron well and we are helping them. We have relaxed the constraint to allow Asia Iron to use Geraldton port. Ms A.J.G. MacTiernan : How many tonnes will be allowed? Mr C.J. BARNETT : I will not quote the figures; I will probably get them wrong. I do not have that information off the top of my head. Mr E.S. Ripper : Well done, member for Armadale. Several members interjected. Mr C.J. BARNETT : I am trying to answer the question. Asia Iron has been given a right to use Geraldton port for the first stage of its production. It is my opinion that that is probably not the most economical way of developing its project; it would probably do better financially and in volume if it combined with Gindalbie and used rail transport. However, that is up to Asia Iron and its backers. It can develop to a certain tonnage. I will let the member know the exact tonnage; I cannot remember it right now. Geraldton port can accommodate Asia Iron’s needs. I have to say that I was a little disappointed in the way Asia Iron conducted its affairs; nevertheless, we have made sure there is no impediment or constraint at Geraldton harbour to Asia Iron proceeding with its project if it can get the necessary financing. I have urged the company privately, and now I do so publicly, to look at more efficient ways of transporting that iron ore.
Ms A.J.G. MacTiernan : That is what you used to say during the Kingstream debate. Mr C.J. BARNETT : That is because the member for Armadale continually opposes Oakajee. Every question she has asked about Oakajee has been negative. She has continually tried to undermine the project. She continually contacts her colleagues in Canberra and suggests that the state and the commonwealth should not be supporting this project. Ms A.J.G. MacTiernan : That is not true. Mr C.J. BARNETT : That is what she does. Ms A.J.G. MacTiernan : That is just not true. Mr C.J. BARNETT : That is why she does not stand up for Western Australia. She continually tries to undermine that project. Indeed, some newer members may not realise that this is the member for Armadale’s second attempt to undermine the project. Yes, the first attempt with Kingstream did not work out; I concede that. The solution of the member for Armadale was to spend more than $100 million deepening the port of Geraldton. Ms A.J.G. MacTiernan : What a good move that was. Mr C.J. BARNETT : What a good thing! Not even a laden panamax ship can get into Geraldton harbour. Ms A.J.G. MacTiernan : That is not what the industry needs. The SPEAKER : Order! Members may not like the answer being given. Member for Armadale, I will give you leave to ask a supplementary if you want to ask another question. Mr C.J. BARNETT : More than $100 million — Ms A.J.G. MacTiernan : You just don’t get that project. The SPEAKER : Order! I formally call the member for the second time. Mr C.J. BARNETT : More than $100 million of taxpayers’ money has been spent on deepening the harbour. Ms R. Saffioti interjected. Mr C.J. BARNETT : Yes, by deepening the Geraldton harbour. It is a better harbour now of course because it is deeper. But not even a panamax vessel can get in there. Ms A.J.G. MacTiernan : Yes, but the industry is started. Mr C.J. BARNETT : Most of the world commodity trade has moved beyond panamax to capesize, and even super-capesize vehicles now being built. Ms A.J.G. MacTiernan : Not for this product. Mr C.J. BARNETT : Geraldton port is totally inadequate for development of the mineral province of the mid-west. Ms A.J.G. MacTiernan : You don’t understand the product. Mr C.J. BARNETT : I am explaining some background for our members who are interested in the failings of the Labor government and the squandering of more than $100 million of taxpayers’ money. This government is quite determined to proceed with Oakajee. But, boy, did the former Labor government leave us a difficult handover? This former minister basically set up a competition between Japan and China to bid for the project. I am trying very hard, because it is very difficult, to bring this project — Mr E.S. Ripper : Answer the question Mr C.J. BARNETT : That is exactly what I am doing, Leader of the Opposition. Mr E.S. Ripper : You’re not. Mr C.J. BARNETT : You need to listen as you listened attentively to the Minister for Police. Mr E.S. Ripper : His was a better answer! Mr C.J. BARNETT : I agree! I am working very hard to try to bring Oakajee to fruition and to bring it as the first large-scale infrastructure mining project that is genuinely Australian, Japanese and Chinese. That will be a first for this nation and a first for the Asia-Pacific region. To do that we need to ensure not only that the Oakajee deepwater harbour is built but also that people contract to use it. There will be a transition and during that transition some volume of iron ore will go out through the port of Geraldton. About five million or six million tonnes are going out at present. We imposed a cap at 12 million tonnes as part of the Oakajee development agreement. Representations have been made by Gindalbie about how it can work in a transition for initial tonnages through Geraldton. Because it is looking at around 30 million tonnes a year, it is committed to Oakajee. We are working with Gindalbie, and that arrangement is basically resolved. Gindalbie is about to start construction. We have not only the arrangement for the port—both transitional use of Geraldton and long-term use of Oakajee—but also sorted out environmental issues about banded-iron formations, something that members opposite could not deal with. We have dealt with it. The other project the member for Armadale was probably talking about is Asia Iron—I think I have the right company—which is looking at a slurry pipeline project. In other words, it wants to pump a sort of sludge, or liquid iron ore, in a solution and then dry it out and load it. I think that project has a way to go, but we wish Asia Iron well and we are helping them. We have relaxed the constraint to allow Asia Iron to use Geraldton port. Ms A.J.G. MacTiernan : How many tonnes will be allowed? Mr C.J. BARNETT : I will not quote the figures; I will probably get them wrong. I do not have that information off the top of my head. Mr E.S. Ripper : Well done, member for Armadale. Several members interjected. Mr C.J. BARNETT : I am trying to answer the question. Asia Iron has been given a right to use Geraldton port for the first stage of its production. It is my opinion that that is probably not the most economical way of developing its project; it would probably do better financially and in volume if it combined with Gindalbie and used rail transport. However, that is up to Asia Iron and its backers. It can develop to a certain tonnage. I will let the member know the exact tonnage; I cannot remember it right now. Geraldton port can accommodate Asia Iron’s needs. I have to say that I was a little disappointed in the way Asia Iron conducted its affairs; nevertheless, we have made sure there is no impediment or constraint at Geraldton harbour to Asia Iron proceeding with its project if it can get the necessary financing. I have urged the company privately, and now I do so publicly, to look at more efficient ways of transporting that iron ore.
Mr C.J. BARNETT : That is because the member for Armadale continually opposes Oakajee. Every question she has asked about Oakajee has been negative. She has continually tried to undermine the project. She continually contacts her colleagues in Canberra and suggests that the state and the commonwealth should not be supporting this project. Ms A.J.G. MacTiernan : That is not true. Mr C.J. BARNETT : That is what she does. Ms A.J.G. MacTiernan : That is just not true. Mr C.J. BARNETT : That is why she does not stand up for Western Australia. She continually tries to undermine that project. Indeed, some newer members may not realise that this is the member for Armadale’s second attempt to undermine the project. Yes, the first attempt with Kingstream did not work out; I concede that. The solution of the member for Armadale was to spend more than $100 million deepening the port of Geraldton. Ms A.J.G. MacTiernan : What a good move that was. Mr C.J. BARNETT : What a good thing! Not even a laden panamax ship can get into Geraldton harbour. Ms A.J.G. MacTiernan : That is not what the industry needs. The SPEAKER : Order! Members may not like the answer being given. Member for Armadale, I will give you leave to ask a supplementary if you want to ask another question. Mr C.J. BARNETT : More than $100 million — Ms A.J.G. MacTiernan : You just don’t get that project. The SPEAKER : Order! I formally call the member for the second time. Mr C.J. BARNETT : More than $100 million of taxpayers’ money has been spent on deepening the harbour. Ms R. Saffioti interjected. Mr C.J. BARNETT : Yes, by deepening the Geraldton harbour. It is a better harbour now of course because it is deeper. But not even a panamax vessel can get in there. Ms A.J.G. MacTiernan : Yes, but the industry is started. Mr C.J. BARNETT : Most of the world commodity trade has moved beyond panamax to capesize, and even super-capesize vehicles now being built. Ms A.J.G. MacTiernan : Not for this product. Mr C.J. BARNETT : Geraldton port is totally inadequate for development of the mineral province of the mid-west. Ms A.J.G. MacTiernan : You don’t understand the product. Mr C.J. BARNETT : I am explaining some background for our members who are interested in the failings of the Labor government and the squandering of more than $100 million of taxpayers’ money. This government is quite determined to proceed with Oakajee. But, boy, did the former Labor government leave us a difficult handover? This former minister basically set up a competition between Japan and China to bid for the project. I am trying very hard, because it is very difficult, to bring this project — Mr E.S. Ripper : Answer the question Mr C.J. BARNETT : That is exactly what I am doing, Leader of the Opposition. Mr E.S. Ripper : You’re not. Mr C.J. BARNETT : You need to listen as you listened attentively to the Minister for Police. Mr E.S. Ripper : His was a better answer! Mr C.J. BARNETT : I agree! I am working very hard to try to bring Oakajee to fruition and to bring it as the first large-scale infrastructure mining project that is genuinely Australian, Japanese and Chinese. That will be a first for this nation and a first for the Asia-Pacific region. To do that we need to ensure not only that the Oakajee deepwater harbour is built but also that people contract to use it. There will be a transition and during that transition some volume of iron ore will go out through the port of Geraldton. About five million or six million tonnes are going out at present. We imposed a cap at 12 million tonnes as part of the Oakajee development agreement. Representations have been made by Gindalbie about how it can work in a transition for initial tonnages through Geraldton. Because it is looking at around 30 million tonnes a year, it is committed to Oakajee. We are working with Gindalbie, and that arrangement is basically resolved. Gindalbie is about to start construction. We have not only the arrangement for the port—both transitional use of Geraldton and long-term use of Oakajee—but also sorted out environmental issues about banded-iron formations, something that members opposite could not deal with. We have dealt with it. The other project the member for Armadale was probably talking about is Asia Iron—I think I have the right company—which is looking at a slurry pipeline project. In other words, it wants to pump a sort of sludge, or liquid iron ore, in a solution and then dry it out and load it. I think that project has a way to go, but we wish Asia Iron well and we are helping them. We have relaxed the constraint to allow Asia Iron to use Geraldton port. Ms A.J.G. MacTiernan : How many tonnes will be allowed? Mr C.J. BARNETT : I will not quote the figures; I will probably get them wrong. I do not have that information off the top of my head. Mr E.S. Ripper : Well done, member for Armadale. Several members interjected. Mr C.J. BARNETT : I am trying to answer the question. Asia Iron has been given a right to use Geraldton port for the first stage of its production. It is my opinion that that is probably not the most economical way of developing its project; it would probably do better financially and in volume if it combined with Gindalbie and used rail transport. However, that is up to Asia Iron and its backers. It can develop to a certain tonnage. I will let the member know the exact tonnage; I cannot remember it right now. Geraldton port can accommodate Asia Iron’s needs. I have to say that I was a little disappointed in the way Asia Iron conducted its affairs; nevertheless, we have made sure there is no impediment or constraint at Geraldton harbour to Asia Iron proceeding with its project if it can get the necessary financing. I have urged the company privately, and now I do so publicly, to look at more efficient ways of transporting that iron ore.
Ms A.J.G. MacTiernan : That is not true. Mr C.J. BARNETT : That is what she does. Ms A.J.G. MacTiernan : That is just not true. Mr C.J. BARNETT : That is why she does not stand up for Western Australia. She continually tries to undermine that project. Indeed, some newer members may not realise that this is the member for Armadale’s second attempt to undermine the project. Yes, the first attempt with Kingstream did not work out; I concede that. The solution of the member for Armadale was to spend more than $100 million deepening the port of Geraldton. Ms A.J.G. MacTiernan : What a good move that was. Mr C.J. BARNETT : What a good thing! Not even a laden panamax ship can get into Geraldton harbour. Ms A.J.G. MacTiernan : That is not what the industry needs. The SPEAKER : Order! Members may not like the answer being given. Member for Armadale, I will give you leave to ask a supplementary if you want to ask another question. Mr C.J. BARNETT : More than $100 million — Ms A.J.G. MacTiernan : You just don’t get that project. The SPEAKER : Order! I formally call the member for the second time. Mr C.J. BARNETT : More than $100 million of taxpayers’ money has been spent on deepening the harbour. Ms R. Saffioti interjected. Mr C.J. BARNETT : Yes, by deepening the Geraldton harbour. It is a better harbour now of course because it is deeper. But not even a panamax vessel can get in there. Ms A.J.G. MacTiernan : Yes, but the industry is started. Mr C.J. BARNETT : Most of the world commodity trade has moved beyond panamax to capesize, and even super-capesize vehicles now being built. Ms A.J.G. MacTiernan : Not for this product. Mr C.J. BARNETT : Geraldton port is totally inadequate for development of the mineral province of the mid-west. Ms A.J.G. MacTiernan : You don’t understand the product. Mr C.J. BARNETT : I am explaining some background for our members who are interested in the failings of the Labor government and the squandering of more than $100 million of taxpayers’ money. This government is quite determined to proceed with Oakajee. But, boy, did the former Labor government leave us a difficult handover? This former minister basically set up a competition between Japan and China to bid for the project. I am trying very hard, because it is very difficult, to bring this project — Mr E.S. Ripper : Answer the question Mr C.J. BARNETT : That is exactly what I am doing, Leader of the Opposition. Mr E.S. Ripper : You’re not. Mr C.J. BARNETT : You need to listen as you listened attentively to the Minister for Police. Mr E.S. Ripper : His was a better answer! Mr C.J. BARNETT : I agree! I am working very hard to try to bring Oakajee to fruition and to bring it as the first large-scale infrastructure mining project that is genuinely Australian, Japanese and Chinese. That will be a first for this nation and a first for the Asia-Pacific region. To do that we need to ensure not only that the Oakajee deepwater harbour is built but also that people contract to use it. There will be a transition and during that transition some volume of iron ore will go out through the port of Geraldton. About five million or six million tonnes are going out at present. We imposed a cap at 12 million tonnes as part of the Oakajee development agreement. Representations have been made by Gindalbie about how it can work in a transition for initial tonnages through Geraldton. Because it is looking at around 30 million tonnes a year, it is committed to Oakajee. We are working with Gindalbie, and that arrangement is basically resolved. Gindalbie is about to start construction. We have not only the arrangement for the port—both transitional use of Geraldton and long-term use of Oakajee—but also sorted out environmental issues about banded-iron formations, something that members opposite could not deal with. We have dealt with it. The other project the member for Armadale was probably talking about is Asia Iron—I think I have the right company—which is looking at a slurry pipeline project. In other words, it wants to pump a sort of sludge, or liquid iron ore, in a solution and then dry it out and load it. I think that project has a way to go, but we wish Asia Iron well and we are helping them. We have relaxed the constraint to allow Asia Iron to use Geraldton port. Ms A.J.G. MacTiernan : How many tonnes will be allowed? Mr C.J. BARNETT : I will not quote the figures; I will probably get them wrong. I do not have that information off the top of my head. Mr E.S. Ripper : Well done, member for Armadale. Several members interjected. Mr C.J. BARNETT : I am trying to answer the question. Asia Iron has been given a right to use Geraldton port for the first stage of its production. It is my opinion that that is probably not the most economical way of developing its project; it would probably do better financially and in volume if it combined with Gindalbie and used rail transport. However, that is up to Asia Iron and its backers. It can develop to a certain tonnage. I will let the member know the exact tonnage; I cannot remember it right now. Geraldton port can accommodate Asia Iron’s needs. I have to say that I was a little disappointed in the way Asia Iron conducted its affairs; nevertheless, we have made sure there is no impediment or constraint at Geraldton harbour to Asia Iron proceeding with its project if it can get the necessary financing. I have urged the company privately, and now I do so publicly, to look at more efficient ways of transporting that iron ore.
Mr C.J. BARNETT : That is what she does. Ms A.J.G. MacTiernan : That is just not true. Mr C.J. BARNETT : That is why she does not stand up for Western Australia. She continually tries to undermine that project. Indeed, some newer members may not realise that this is the member for Armadale’s second attempt to undermine the project. Yes, the first attempt with Kingstream did not work out; I concede that. The solution of the member for Armadale was to spend more than $100 million deepening the port of Geraldton. Ms A.J.G. MacTiernan : What a good move that was. Mr C.J. BARNETT : What a good thing! Not even a laden panamax ship can get into Geraldton harbour. Ms A.J.G. MacTiernan : That is not what the industry needs. The SPEAKER : Order! Members may not like the answer being given. Member for Armadale, I will give you leave to ask a supplementary if you want to ask another question. Mr C.J. BARNETT : More than $100 million — Ms A.J.G. MacTiernan : You just don’t get that project. The SPEAKER : Order! I formally call the member for the second time. Mr C.J. BARNETT : More than $100 million of taxpayers’ money has been spent on deepening the harbour. Ms R. Saffioti interjected. Mr C.J. BARNETT : Yes, by deepening the Geraldton harbour. It is a better harbour now of course because it is deeper. But not even a panamax vessel can get in there. Ms A.J.G. MacTiernan : Yes, but the industry is started. Mr C.J. BARNETT : Most of the world commodity trade has moved beyond panamax to capesize, and even super-capesize vehicles now being built. Ms A.J.G. MacTiernan : Not for this product. Mr C.J. BARNETT : Geraldton port is totally inadequate for development of the mineral province of the mid-west. Ms A.J.G. MacTiernan : You don’t understand the product. Mr C.J. BARNETT : I am explaining some background for our members who are interested in the failings of the Labor government and the squandering of more than $100 million of taxpayers’ money. This government is quite determined to proceed with Oakajee. But, boy, did the former Labor government leave us a difficult handover? This former minister basically set up a competition between Japan and China to bid for the project. I am trying very hard, because it is very difficult, to bring this project — Mr E.S. Ripper : Answer the question Mr C.J. BARNETT : That is exactly what I am doing, Leader of the Opposition. Mr E.S. Ripper : You’re not. Mr C.J. BARNETT : You need to listen as you listened attentively to the Minister for Police. Mr E.S. Ripper : His was a better answer! Mr C.J. BARNETT : I agree! I am working very hard to try to bring Oakajee to fruition and to bring it as the first large-scale infrastructure mining project that is genuinely Australian, Japanese and Chinese. That will be a first for this nation and a first for the Asia-Pacific region. To do that we need to ensure not only that the Oakajee deepwater harbour is built but also that people contract to use it. There will be a transition and during that transition some volume of iron ore will go out through the port of Geraldton. About five million or six million tonnes are going out at present. We imposed a cap at 12 million tonnes as part of the Oakajee development agreement. Representations have been made by Gindalbie about how it can work in a transition for initial tonnages through Geraldton. Because it is looking at around 30 million tonnes a year, it is committed to Oakajee. We are working with Gindalbie, and that arrangement is basically resolved. Gindalbie is about to start construction. We have not only the arrangement for the port—both transitional use of Geraldton and long-term use of Oakajee—but also sorted out environmental issues about banded-iron formations, something that members opposite could not deal with. We have dealt with it. The other project the member for Armadale was probably talking about is Asia Iron—I think I have the right company—which is looking at a slurry pipeline project. In other words, it wants to pump a sort of sludge, or liquid iron ore, in a solution and then dry it out and load it. I think that project has a way to go, but we wish Asia Iron well and we are helping them. We have relaxed the constraint to allow Asia Iron to use Geraldton port. Ms A.J.G. MacTiernan : How many tonnes will be allowed? Mr C.J. BARNETT : I will not quote the figures; I will probably get them wrong. I do not have that information off the top of my head. Mr E.S. Ripper : Well done, member for Armadale. Several members interjected. Mr C.J. BARNETT : I am trying to answer the question. Asia Iron has been given a right to use Geraldton port for the first stage of its production. It is my opinion that that is probably not the most economical way of developing its project; it would probably do better financially and in volume if it combined with Gindalbie and used rail transport. However, that is up to Asia Iron and its backers. It can develop to a certain tonnage. I will let the member know the exact tonnage; I cannot remember it right now. Geraldton port can accommodate Asia Iron’s needs. I have to say that I was a little disappointed in the way Asia Iron conducted its affairs; nevertheless, we have made sure there is no impediment or constraint at Geraldton harbour to Asia Iron proceeding with its project if it can get the necessary financing. I have urged the company privately, and now I do so publicly, to look at more efficient ways of transporting that iron ore.
Ms A.J.G. MacTiernan : That is just not true. Mr C.J. BARNETT : That is why she does not stand up for Western Australia. She continually tries to undermine that project. Indeed, some newer members may not realise that this is the member for Armadale’s second attempt to undermine the project. Yes, the first attempt with Kingstream did not work out; I concede that. The solution of the member for Armadale was to spend more than $100 million deepening the port of Geraldton. Ms A.J.G. MacTiernan : What a good move that was. Mr C.J. BARNETT : What a good thing! Not even a laden panamax ship can get into Geraldton harbour. Ms A.J.G. MacTiernan : That is not what the industry needs. The SPEAKER : Order! Members may not like the answer being given. Member for Armadale, I will give you leave to ask a supplementary if you want to ask another question. Mr C.J. BARNETT : More than $100 million — Ms A.J.G. MacTiernan : You just don’t get that project. The SPEAKER : Order! I formally call the member for the second time. Mr C.J. BARNETT : More than $100 million of taxpayers’ money has been spent on deepening the harbour. Ms R. Saffioti interjected. Mr C.J. BARNETT : Yes, by deepening the Geraldton harbour. It is a better harbour now of course because it is deeper. But not even a panamax vessel can get in there. Ms A.J.G. MacTiernan : Yes, but the industry is started. Mr C.J. BARNETT : Most of the world commodity trade has moved beyond panamax to capesize, and even super-capesize vehicles now being built. Ms A.J.G. MacTiernan : Not for this product. Mr C.J. BARNETT : Geraldton port is totally inadequate for development of the mineral province of the mid-west. Ms A.J.G. MacTiernan : You don’t understand the product. Mr C.J. BARNETT : I am explaining some background for our members who are interested in the failings of the Labor government and the squandering of more than $100 million of taxpayers’ money. This government is quite determined to proceed with Oakajee. But, boy, did the former Labor government leave us a difficult handover? This former minister basically set up a competition between Japan and China to bid for the project. I am trying very hard, because it is very difficult, to bring this project — Mr E.S. Ripper : Answer the question Mr C.J. BARNETT : That is exactly what I am doing, Leader of the Opposition. Mr E.S. Ripper : You’re not. Mr C.J. BARNETT : You need to listen as you listened attentively to the Minister for Police. Mr E.S. Ripper : His was a better answer! Mr C.J. BARNETT : I agree! I am working very hard to try to bring Oakajee to fruition and to bring it as the first large-scale infrastructure mining project that is genuinely Australian, Japanese and Chinese. That will be a first for this nation and a first for the Asia-Pacific region. To do that we need to ensure not only that the Oakajee deepwater harbour is built but also that people contract to use it. There will be a transition and during that transition some volume of iron ore will go out through the port of Geraldton. About five million or six million tonnes are going out at present. We imposed a cap at 12 million tonnes as part of the Oakajee development agreement. Representations have been made by Gindalbie about how it can work in a transition for initial tonnages through Geraldton. Because it is looking at around 30 million tonnes a year, it is committed to Oakajee. We are working with Gindalbie, and that arrangement is basically resolved. Gindalbie is about to start construction. We have not only the arrangement for the port—both transitional use of Geraldton and long-term use of Oakajee—but also sorted out environmental issues about banded-iron formations, something that members opposite could not deal with. We have dealt with it. The other project the member for Armadale was probably talking about is Asia Iron—I think I have the right company—which is looking at a slurry pipeline project. In other words, it wants to pump a sort of sludge, or liquid iron ore, in a solution and then dry it out and load it. I think that project has a way to go, but we wish Asia Iron well and we are helping them. We have relaxed the constraint to allow Asia Iron to use Geraldton port. Ms A.J.G. MacTiernan : How many tonnes will be allowed? Mr C.J. BARNETT : I will not quote the figures; I will probably get them wrong. I do not have that information off the top of my head. Mr E.S. Ripper : Well done, member for Armadale. Several members interjected. Mr C.J. BARNETT : I am trying to answer the question. Asia Iron has been given a right to use Geraldton port for the first stage of its production. It is my opinion that that is probably not the most economical way of developing its project; it would probably do better financially and in volume if it combined with Gindalbie and used rail transport. However, that is up to Asia Iron and its backers. It can develop to a certain tonnage. I will let the member know the exact tonnage; I cannot remember it right now. Geraldton port can accommodate Asia Iron’s needs. I have to say that I was a little disappointed in the way Asia Iron conducted its affairs; nevertheless, we have made sure there is no impediment or constraint at Geraldton harbour to Asia Iron proceeding with its project if it can get the necessary financing. I have urged the company privately, and now I do so publicly, to look at more efficient ways of transporting that iron ore.
Mr C.J. BARNETT : That is why she does not stand up for Western Australia. She continually tries to undermine that project. Indeed, some newer members may not realise that this is the member for Armadale’s second attempt to undermine the project. Yes, the first attempt with Kingstream did not work out; I concede that. The solution of the member for Armadale was to spend more than $100 million deepening the port of Geraldton. Ms A.J.G. MacTiernan : What a good move that was. Mr C.J. BARNETT : What a good thing! Not even a laden panamax ship can get into Geraldton harbour. Ms A.J.G. MacTiernan : That is not what the industry needs. The SPEAKER : Order! Members may not like the answer being given. Member for Armadale, I will give you leave to ask a supplementary if you want to ask another question. Mr C.J. BARNETT : More than $100 million — Ms A.J.G. MacTiernan : You just don’t get that project. The SPEAKER : Order! I formally call the member for the second time. Mr C.J. BARNETT : More than $100 million of taxpayers’ money has been spent on deepening the harbour. Ms R. Saffioti interjected. Mr C.J. BARNETT : Yes, by deepening the Geraldton harbour. It is a better harbour now of course because it is deeper. But not even a panamax vessel can get in there. Ms A.J.G. MacTiernan : Yes, but the industry is started. Mr C.J. BARNETT : Most of the world commodity trade has moved beyond panamax to capesize, and even super-capesize vehicles now being built. Ms A.J.G. MacTiernan : Not for this product. Mr C.J. BARNETT : Geraldton port is totally inadequate for development of the mineral province of the mid-west. Ms A.J.G. MacTiernan : You don’t understand the product. Mr C.J. BARNETT : I am explaining some background for our members who are interested in the failings of the Labor government and the squandering of more than $100 million of taxpayers’ money. This government is quite determined to proceed with Oakajee. But, boy, did the former Labor government leave us a difficult handover? This former minister basically set up a competition between Japan and China to bid for the project. I am trying very hard, because it is very difficult, to bring this project — Mr E.S. Ripper : Answer the question Mr C.J. BARNETT : That is exactly what I am doing, Leader of the Opposition. Mr E.S. Ripper : You’re not. Mr C.J. BARNETT : You need to listen as you listened attentively to the Minister for Police. Mr E.S. Ripper : His was a better answer! Mr C.J. BARNETT : I agree! I am working very hard to try to bring Oakajee to fruition and to bring it as the first large-scale infrastructure mining project that is genuinely Australian, Japanese and Chinese. That will be a first for this nation and a first for the Asia-Pacific region. To do that we need to ensure not only that the Oakajee deepwater harbour is built but also that people contract to use it. There will be a transition and during that transition some volume of iron ore will go out through the port of Geraldton. About five million or six million tonnes are going out at present. We imposed a cap at 12 million tonnes as part of the Oakajee development agreement. Representations have been made by Gindalbie about how it can work in a transition for initial tonnages through Geraldton. Because it is looking at around 30 million tonnes a year, it is committed to Oakajee. We are working with Gindalbie, and that arrangement is basically resolved. Gindalbie is about to start construction. We have not only the arrangement for the port—both transitional use of Geraldton and long-term use of Oakajee—but also sorted out environmental issues about banded-iron formations, something that members opposite could not deal with. We have dealt with it. The other project the member for Armadale was probably talking about is Asia Iron—I think I have the right company—which is looking at a slurry pipeline project. In other words, it wants to pump a sort of sludge, or liquid iron ore, in a solution and then dry it out and load it. I think that project has a way to go, but we wish Asia Iron well and we are helping them. We have relaxed the constraint to allow Asia Iron to use Geraldton port. Ms A.J.G. MacTiernan : How many tonnes will be allowed? Mr C.J. BARNETT : I will not quote the figures; I will probably get them wrong. I do not have that information off the top of my head. Mr E.S. Ripper : Well done, member for Armadale. Several members interjected. Mr C.J. BARNETT : I am trying to answer the question. Asia Iron has been given a right to use Geraldton port for the first stage of its production. It is my opinion that that is probably not the most economical way of developing its project; it would probably do better financially and in volume if it combined with Gindalbie and used rail transport. However, that is up to Asia Iron and its backers. It can develop to a certain tonnage. I will let the member know the exact tonnage; I cannot remember it right now. Geraldton port can accommodate Asia Iron’s needs. I have to say that I was a little disappointed in the way Asia Iron conducted its affairs; nevertheless, we have made sure there is no impediment or constraint at Geraldton harbour to Asia Iron proceeding with its project if it can get the necessary financing. I have urged the company privately, and now I do so publicly, to look at more efficient ways of transporting that iron ore.
Ms A.J.G. MacTiernan : What a good move that was. Mr C.J. BARNETT : What a good thing! Not even a laden panamax ship can get into Geraldton harbour. Ms A.J.G. MacTiernan : That is not what the industry needs. The SPEAKER : Order! Members may not like the answer being given. Member for Armadale, I will give you leave to ask a supplementary if you want to ask another question. Mr C.J. BARNETT : More than $100 million — Ms A.J.G. MacTiernan : You just don’t get that project. The SPEAKER : Order! I formally call the member for the second time. Mr C.J. BARNETT : More than $100 million of taxpayers’ money has been spent on deepening the harbour. Ms R. Saffioti interjected. Mr C.J. BARNETT : Yes, by deepening the Geraldton harbour. It is a better harbour now of course because it is deeper. But not even a panamax vessel can get in there. Ms A.J.G. MacTiernan : Yes, but the industry is started. Mr C.J. BARNETT : Most of the world commodity trade has moved beyond panamax to capesize, and even super-capesize vehicles now being built. Ms A.J.G. MacTiernan : Not for this product. Mr C.J. BARNETT : Geraldton port is totally inadequate for development of the mineral province of the mid-west. Ms A.J.G. MacTiernan : You don’t understand the product. Mr C.J. BARNETT : I am explaining some background for our members who are interested in the failings of the Labor government and the squandering of more than $100 million of taxpayers’ money. This government is quite determined to proceed with Oakajee. But, boy, did the former Labor government leave us a difficult handover? This former minister basically set up a competition between Japan and China to bid for the project. I am trying very hard, because it is very difficult, to bring this project — Mr E.S. Ripper : Answer the question Mr C.J. BARNETT : That is exactly what I am doing, Leader of the Opposition. Mr E.S. Ripper : You’re not. Mr C.J. BARNETT : You need to listen as you listened attentively to the Minister for Police. Mr E.S. Ripper : His was a better answer! Mr C.J. BARNETT : I agree! I am working very hard to try to bring Oakajee to fruition and to bring it as the first large-scale infrastructure mining project that is genuinely Australian, Japanese and Chinese. That will be a first for this nation and a first for the Asia-Pacific region. To do that we need to ensure not only that the Oakajee deepwater harbour is built but also that people contract to use it. There will be a transition and during that transition some volume of iron ore will go out through the port of Geraldton. About five million or six million tonnes are going out at present. We imposed a cap at 12 million tonnes as part of the Oakajee development agreement. Representations have been made by Gindalbie about how it can work in a transition for initial tonnages through Geraldton. Because it is looking at around 30 million tonnes a year, it is committed to Oakajee. We are working with Gindalbie, and that arrangement is basically resolved. Gindalbie is about to start construction. We have not only the arrangement for the port—both transitional use of Geraldton and long-term use of Oakajee—but also sorted out environmental issues about banded-iron formations, something that members opposite could not deal with. We have dealt with it. The other project the member for Armadale was probably talking about is Asia Iron—I think I have the right company—which is looking at a slurry pipeline project. In other words, it wants to pump a sort of sludge, or liquid iron ore, in a solution and then dry it out and load it. I think that project has a way to go, but we wish Asia Iron well and we are helping them. We have relaxed the constraint to allow Asia Iron to use Geraldton port. Ms A.J.G. MacTiernan : How many tonnes will be allowed? Mr C.J. BARNETT : I will not quote the figures; I will probably get them wrong. I do not have that information off the top of my head. Mr E.S. Ripper : Well done, member for Armadale. Several members interjected. Mr C.J. BARNETT : I am trying to answer the question. Asia Iron has been given a right to use Geraldton port for the first stage of its production. It is my opinion that that is probably not the most economical way of developing its project; it would probably do better financially and in volume if it combined with Gindalbie and used rail transport. However, that is up to Asia Iron and its backers. It can develop to a certain tonnage. I will let the member know the exact tonnage; I cannot remember it right now. Geraldton port can accommodate Asia Iron’s needs. I have to say that I was a little disappointed in the way Asia Iron conducted its affairs; nevertheless, we have made sure there is no impediment or constraint at Geraldton harbour to Asia Iron proceeding with its project if it can get the necessary financing. I have urged the company privately, and now I do so publicly, to look at more efficient ways of transporting that iron ore.
Mr C.J. BARNETT : What a good thing! Not even a laden panamax ship can get into Geraldton harbour. Ms A.J.G. MacTiernan : That is not what the industry needs. The SPEAKER : Order! Members may not like the answer being given. Member for Armadale, I will give you leave to ask a supplementary if you want to ask another question. Mr C.J. BARNETT : More than $100 million — Ms A.J.G. MacTiernan : You just don’t get that project. The SPEAKER : Order! I formally call the member for the second time. Mr C.J. BARNETT : More than $100 million of taxpayers’ money has been spent on deepening the harbour. Ms R. Saffioti interjected. Mr C.J. BARNETT : Yes, by deepening the Geraldton harbour. It is a better harbour now of course because it is deeper. But not even a panamax vessel can get in there. Ms A.J.G. MacTiernan : Yes, but the industry is started. Mr C.J. BARNETT : Most of the world commodity trade has moved beyond panamax to capesize, and even super-capesize vehicles now being built. Ms A.J.G. MacTiernan : Not for this product. Mr C.J. BARNETT : Geraldton port is totally inadequate for development of the mineral province of the mid-west. Ms A.J.G. MacTiernan : You don’t understand the product. Mr C.J. BARNETT : I am explaining some background for our members who are interested in the failings of the Labor government and the squandering of more than $100 million of taxpayers’ money. This government is quite determined to proceed with Oakajee. But, boy, did the former Labor government leave us a difficult handover? This former minister basically set up a competition between Japan and China to bid for the project. I am trying very hard, because it is very difficult, to bring this project — Mr E.S. Ripper : Answer the question Mr C.J. BARNETT : That is exactly what I am doing, Leader of the Opposition. Mr E.S. Ripper : You’re not. Mr C.J. BARNETT : You need to listen as you listened attentively to the Minister for Police. Mr E.S. Ripper : His was a better answer! Mr C.J. BARNETT : I agree! I am working very hard to try to bring Oakajee to fruition and to bring it as the first large-scale infrastructure mining project that is genuinely Australian, Japanese and Chinese. That will be a first for this nation and a first for the Asia-Pacific region. To do that we need to ensure not only that the Oakajee deepwater harbour is built but also that people contract to use it. There will be a transition and during that transition some volume of iron ore will go out through the port of Geraldton. About five million or six million tonnes are going out at present. We imposed a cap at 12 million tonnes as part of the Oakajee development agreement. Representations have been made by Gindalbie about how it can work in a transition for initial tonnages through Geraldton. Because it is looking at around 30 million tonnes a year, it is committed to Oakajee. We are working with Gindalbie, and that arrangement is basically resolved. Gindalbie is about to start construction. We have not only the arrangement for the port—both transitional use of Geraldton and long-term use of Oakajee—but also sorted out environmental issues about banded-iron formations, something that members opposite could not deal with. We have dealt with it. The other project the member for Armadale was probably talking about is Asia Iron—I think I have the right company—which is looking at a slurry pipeline project. In other words, it wants to pump a sort of sludge, or liquid iron ore, in a solution and then dry it out and load it. I think that project has a way to go, but we wish Asia Iron well and we are helping them. We have relaxed the constraint to allow Asia Iron to use Geraldton port. Ms A.J.G. MacTiernan : How many tonnes will be allowed? Mr C.J. BARNETT : I will not quote the figures; I will probably get them wrong. I do not have that information off the top of my head. Mr E.S. Ripper : Well done, member for Armadale. Several members interjected. Mr C.J. BARNETT : I am trying to answer the question. Asia Iron has been given a right to use Geraldton port for the first stage of its production. It is my opinion that that is probably not the most economical way of developing its project; it would probably do better financially and in volume if it combined with Gindalbie and used rail transport. However, that is up to Asia Iron and its backers. It can develop to a certain tonnage. I will let the member know the exact tonnage; I cannot remember it right now. Geraldton port can accommodate Asia Iron’s needs. I have to say that I was a little disappointed in the way Asia Iron conducted its affairs; nevertheless, we have made sure there is no impediment or constraint at Geraldton harbour to Asia Iron proceeding with its project if it can get the necessary financing. I have urged the company privately, and now I do so publicly, to look at more efficient ways of transporting that iron ore.
Ms A.J.G. MacTiernan : That is not what the industry needs. The SPEAKER : Order! Members may not like the answer being given. Member for Armadale, I will give you leave to ask a supplementary if you want to ask another question. Mr C.J. BARNETT : More than $100 million — Ms A.J.G. MacTiernan : You just don’t get that project. The SPEAKER : Order! I formally call the member for the second time. Mr C.J. BARNETT : More than $100 million of taxpayers’ money has been spent on deepening the harbour. Ms R. Saffioti interjected. Mr C.J. BARNETT : Yes, by deepening the Geraldton harbour. It is a better harbour now of course because it is deeper. But not even a panamax vessel can get in there. Ms A.J.G. MacTiernan : Yes, but the industry is started. Mr C.J. BARNETT : Most of the world commodity trade has moved beyond panamax to capesize, and even super-capesize vehicles now being built. Ms A.J.G. MacTiernan : Not for this product. Mr C.J. BARNETT : Geraldton port is totally inadequate for development of the mineral province of the mid-west. Ms A.J.G. MacTiernan : You don’t understand the product. Mr C.J. BARNETT : I am explaining some background for our members who are interested in the failings of the Labor government and the squandering of more than $100 million of taxpayers’ money. This government is quite determined to proceed with Oakajee. But, boy, did the former Labor government leave us a difficult handover? This former minister basically set up a competition between Japan and China to bid for the project. I am trying very hard, because it is very difficult, to bring this project — Mr E.S. Ripper : Answer the question Mr C.J. BARNETT : That is exactly what I am doing, Leader of the Opposition. Mr E.S. Ripper : You’re not. Mr C.J. BARNETT : You need to listen as you listened attentively to the Minister for Police. Mr E.S. Ripper : His was a better answer! Mr C.J. BARNETT : I agree! I am working very hard to try to bring Oakajee to fruition and to bring it as the first large-scale infrastructure mining project that is genuinely Australian, Japanese and Chinese. That will be a first for this nation and a first for the Asia-Pacific region. To do that we need to ensure not only that the Oakajee deepwater harbour is built but also that people contract to use it. There will be a transition and during that transition some volume of iron ore will go out through the port of Geraldton. About five million or six million tonnes are going out at present. We imposed a cap at 12 million tonnes as part of the Oakajee development agreement. Representations have been made by Gindalbie about how it can work in a transition for initial tonnages through Geraldton. Because it is looking at around 30 million tonnes a year, it is committed to Oakajee. We are working with Gindalbie, and that arrangement is basically resolved. Gindalbie is about to start construction. We have not only the arrangement for the port—both transitional use of Geraldton and long-term use of Oakajee—but also sorted out environmental issues about banded-iron formations, something that members opposite could not deal with. We have dealt with it. The other project the member for Armadale was probably talking about is Asia Iron—I think I have the right company—which is looking at a slurry pipeline project. In other words, it wants to pump a sort of sludge, or liquid iron ore, in a solution and then dry it out and load it. I think that project has a way to go, but we wish Asia Iron well and we are helping them. We have relaxed the constraint to allow Asia Iron to use Geraldton port. Ms A.J.G. MacTiernan : How many tonnes will be allowed? Mr C.J. BARNETT : I will not quote the figures; I will probably get them wrong. I do not have that information off the top of my head. Mr E.S. Ripper : Well done, member for Armadale. Several members interjected. Mr C.J. BARNETT : I am trying to answer the question. Asia Iron has been given a right to use Geraldton port for the first stage of its production. It is my opinion that that is probably not the most economical way of developing its project; it would probably do better financially and in volume if it combined with Gindalbie and used rail transport. However, that is up to Asia Iron and its backers. It can develop to a certain tonnage. I will let the member know the exact tonnage; I cannot remember it right now. Geraldton port can accommodate Asia Iron’s needs. I have to say that I was a little disappointed in the way Asia Iron conducted its affairs; nevertheless, we have made sure there is no impediment or constraint at Geraldton harbour to Asia Iron proceeding with its project if it can get the necessary financing. I have urged the company privately, and now I do so publicly, to look at more efficient ways of transporting that iron ore.
The SPEAKER : Order! Members may not like the answer being given. Member for Armadale, I will give you leave to ask a supplementary if you want to ask another question. Mr C.J. BARNETT : More than $100 million — Ms A.J.G. MacTiernan : You just don’t get that project. The SPEAKER : Order! I formally call the member for the second time. Mr C.J. BARNETT : More than $100 million of taxpayers’ money has been spent on deepening the harbour. Ms R. Saffioti interjected. Mr C.J. BARNETT : Yes, by deepening the Geraldton harbour. It is a better harbour now of course because it is deeper. But not even a panamax vessel can get in there. Ms A.J.G. MacTiernan : Yes, but the industry is started. Mr C.J. BARNETT : Most of the world commodity trade has moved beyond panamax to capesize, and even super-capesize vehicles now being built. Ms A.J.G. MacTiernan : Not for this product. Mr C.J. BARNETT : Geraldton port is totally inadequate for development of the mineral province of the mid-west. Ms A.J.G. MacTiernan : You don’t understand the product. Mr C.J. BARNETT : I am explaining some background for our members who are interested in the failings of the Labor government and the squandering of more than $100 million of taxpayers’ money. This government is quite determined to proceed with Oakajee. But, boy, did the former Labor government leave us a difficult handover? This former minister basically set up a competition between Japan and China to bid for the project. I am trying very hard, because it is very difficult, to bring this project — Mr E.S. Ripper : Answer the question Mr C.J. BARNETT : That is exactly what I am doing, Leader of the Opposition. Mr E.S. Ripper : You’re not. Mr C.J. BARNETT : You need to listen as you listened attentively to the Minister for Police. Mr E.S. Ripper : His was a better answer! Mr C.J. BARNETT : I agree! I am working very hard to try to bring Oakajee to fruition and to bring it as the first large-scale infrastructure mining project that is genuinely Australian, Japanese and Chinese. That will be a first for this nation and a first for the Asia-Pacific region. To do that we need to ensure not only that the Oakajee deepwater harbour is built but also that people contract to use it. There will be a transition and during that transition some volume of iron ore will go out through the port of Geraldton. About five million or six million tonnes are going out at present. We imposed a cap at 12 million tonnes as part of the Oakajee development agreement. Representations have been made by Gindalbie about how it can work in a transition for initial tonnages through Geraldton. Because it is looking at around 30 million tonnes a year, it is committed to Oakajee. We are working with Gindalbie, and that arrangement is basically resolved. Gindalbie is about to start construction. We have not only the arrangement for the port—both transitional use of Geraldton and long-term use of Oakajee—but also sorted out environmental issues about banded-iron formations, something that members opposite could not deal with. We have dealt with it. The other project the member for Armadale was probably talking about is Asia Iron—I think I have the right company—which is looking at a slurry pipeline project. In other words, it wants to pump a sort of sludge, or liquid iron ore, in a solution and then dry it out and load it. I think that project has a way to go, but we wish Asia Iron well and we are helping them. We have relaxed the constraint to allow Asia Iron to use Geraldton port. Ms A.J.G. MacTiernan : How many tonnes will be allowed? Mr C.J. BARNETT : I will not quote the figures; I will probably get them wrong. I do not have that information off the top of my head. Mr E.S. Ripper : Well done, member for Armadale. Several members interjected. Mr C.J. BARNETT : I am trying to answer the question. Asia Iron has been given a right to use Geraldton port for the first stage of its production. It is my opinion that that is probably not the most economical way of developing its project; it would probably do better financially and in volume if it combined with Gindalbie and used rail transport. However, that is up to Asia Iron and its backers. It can develop to a certain tonnage. I will let the member know the exact tonnage; I cannot remember it right now. Geraldton port can accommodate Asia Iron’s needs. I have to say that I was a little disappointed in the way Asia Iron conducted its affairs; nevertheless, we have made sure there is no impediment or constraint at Geraldton harbour to Asia Iron proceeding with its project if it can get the necessary financing. I have urged the company privately, and now I do so publicly, to look at more efficient ways of transporting that iron ore.
Mr C.J. BARNETT : More than $100 million — Ms A.J.G. MacTiernan : You just don’t get that project. The SPEAKER : Order! I formally call the member for the second time. Mr C.J. BARNETT : More than $100 million of taxpayers’ money has been spent on deepening the harbour. Ms R. Saffioti interjected. Mr C.J. BARNETT : Yes, by deepening the Geraldton harbour. It is a better harbour now of course because it is deeper. But not even a panamax vessel can get in there. Ms A.J.G. MacTiernan : Yes, but the industry is started. Mr C.J. BARNETT : Most of the world commodity trade has moved beyond panamax to capesize, and even super-capesize vehicles now being built. Ms A.J.G. MacTiernan : Not for this product. Mr C.J. BARNETT : Geraldton port is totally inadequate for development of the mineral province of the mid-west. Ms A.J.G. MacTiernan : You don’t understand the product. Mr C.J. BARNETT : I am explaining some background for our members who are interested in the failings of the Labor government and the squandering of more than $100 million of taxpayers’ money. This government is quite determined to proceed with Oakajee. But, boy, did the former Labor government leave us a difficult handover? This former minister basically set up a competition between Japan and China to bid for the project. I am trying very hard, because it is very difficult, to bring this project — Mr E.S. Ripper : Answer the question Mr C.J. BARNETT : That is exactly what I am doing, Leader of the Opposition. Mr E.S. Ripper : You’re not. Mr C.J. BARNETT : You need to listen as you listened attentively to the Minister for Police. Mr E.S. Ripper : His was a better answer! Mr C.J. BARNETT : I agree! I am working very hard to try to bring Oakajee to fruition and to bring it as the first large-scale infrastructure mining project that is genuinely Australian, Japanese and Chinese. That will be a first for this nation and a first for the Asia-Pacific region. To do that we need to ensure not only that the Oakajee deepwater harbour is built but also that people contract to use it. There will be a transition and during that transition some volume of iron ore will go out through the port of Geraldton. About five million or six million tonnes are going out at present. We imposed a cap at 12 million tonnes as part of the Oakajee development agreement. Representations have been made by Gindalbie about how it can work in a transition for initial tonnages through Geraldton. Because it is looking at around 30 million tonnes a year, it is committed to Oakajee. We are working with Gindalbie, and that arrangement is basically resolved. Gindalbie is about to start construction. We have not only the arrangement for the port—both transitional use of Geraldton and long-term use of Oakajee—but also sorted out environmental issues about banded-iron formations, something that members opposite could not deal with. We have dealt with it. The other project the member for Armadale was probably talking about is Asia Iron—I think I have the right company—which is looking at a slurry pipeline project. In other words, it wants to pump a sort of sludge, or liquid iron ore, in a solution and then dry it out and load it. I think that project has a way to go, but we wish Asia Iron well and we are helping them. We have relaxed the constraint to allow Asia Iron to use Geraldton port. Ms A.J.G. MacTiernan : How many tonnes will be allowed? Mr C.J. BARNETT : I will not quote the figures; I will probably get them wrong. I do not have that information off the top of my head. Mr E.S. Ripper : Well done, member for Armadale. Several members interjected. Mr C.J. BARNETT : I am trying to answer the question. Asia Iron has been given a right to use Geraldton port for the first stage of its production. It is my opinion that that is probably not the most economical way of developing its project; it would probably do better financially and in volume if it combined with Gindalbie and used rail transport. However, that is up to Asia Iron and its backers. It can develop to a certain tonnage. I will let the member know the exact tonnage; I cannot remember it right now. Geraldton port can accommodate Asia Iron’s needs. I have to say that I was a little disappointed in the way Asia Iron conducted its affairs; nevertheless, we have made sure there is no impediment or constraint at Geraldton harbour to Asia Iron proceeding with its project if it can get the necessary financing. I have urged the company privately, and now I do so publicly, to look at more efficient ways of transporting that iron ore.
Ms A.J.G. MacTiernan : You just don’t get that project. The SPEAKER : Order! I formally call the member for the second time. Mr C.J. BARNETT : More than $100 million of taxpayers’ money has been spent on deepening the harbour. Ms R. Saffioti interjected. Mr C.J. BARNETT : Yes, by deepening the Geraldton harbour. It is a better harbour now of course because it is deeper. But not even a panamax vessel can get in there. Ms A.J.G. MacTiernan : Yes, but the industry is started. Mr C.J. BARNETT : Most of the world commodity trade has moved beyond panamax to capesize, and even super-capesize vehicles now being built. Ms A.J.G. MacTiernan : Not for this product. Mr C.J. BARNETT : Geraldton port is totally inadequate for development of the mineral province of the mid-west. Ms A.J.G. MacTiernan : You don’t understand the product. Mr C.J. BARNETT : I am explaining some background for our members who are interested in the failings of the Labor government and the squandering of more than $100 million of taxpayers’ money. This government is quite determined to proceed with Oakajee. But, boy, did the former Labor government leave us a difficult handover? This former minister basically set up a competition between Japan and China to bid for the project. I am trying very hard, because it is very difficult, to bring this project — Mr E.S. Ripper : Answer the question Mr C.J. BARNETT : That is exactly what I am doing, Leader of the Opposition. Mr E.S. Ripper : You’re not. Mr C.J. BARNETT : You need to listen as you listened attentively to the Minister for Police. Mr E.S. Ripper : His was a better answer! Mr C.J. BARNETT : I agree! I am working very hard to try to bring Oakajee to fruition and to bring it as the first large-scale infrastructure mining project that is genuinely Australian, Japanese and Chinese. That will be a first for this nation and a first for the Asia-Pacific region. To do that we need to ensure not only that the Oakajee deepwater harbour is built but also that people contract to use it. There will be a transition and during that transition some volume of iron ore will go out through the port of Geraldton. About five million or six million tonnes are going out at present. We imposed a cap at 12 million tonnes as part of the Oakajee development agreement. Representations have been made by Gindalbie about how it can work in a transition for initial tonnages through Geraldton. Because it is looking at around 30 million tonnes a year, it is committed to Oakajee. We are working with Gindalbie, and that arrangement is basically resolved. Gindalbie is about to start construction. We have not only the arrangement for the port—both transitional use of Geraldton and long-term use of Oakajee—but also sorted out environmental issues about banded-iron formations, something that members opposite could not deal with. We have dealt with it. The other project the member for Armadale was probably talking about is Asia Iron—I think I have the right company—which is looking at a slurry pipeline project. In other words, it wants to pump a sort of sludge, or liquid iron ore, in a solution and then dry it out and load it. I think that project has a way to go, but we wish Asia Iron well and we are helping them. We have relaxed the constraint to allow Asia Iron to use Geraldton port. Ms A.J.G. MacTiernan : How many tonnes will be allowed? Mr C.J. BARNETT : I will not quote the figures; I will probably get them wrong. I do not have that information off the top of my head. Mr E.S. Ripper : Well done, member for Armadale. Several members interjected. Mr C.J. BARNETT : I am trying to answer the question. Asia Iron has been given a right to use Geraldton port for the first stage of its production. It is my opinion that that is probably not the most economical way of developing its project; it would probably do better financially and in volume if it combined with Gindalbie and used rail transport. However, that is up to Asia Iron and its backers. It can develop to a certain tonnage. I will let the member know the exact tonnage; I cannot remember it right now. Geraldton port can accommodate Asia Iron’s needs. I have to say that I was a little disappointed in the way Asia Iron conducted its affairs; nevertheless, we have made sure there is no impediment or constraint at Geraldton harbour to Asia Iron proceeding with its project if it can get the necessary financing. I have urged the company privately, and now I do so publicly, to look at more efficient ways of transporting that iron ore.
The SPEAKER : Order! I formally call the member for the second time. Mr C.J. BARNETT : More than $100 million of taxpayers’ money has been spent on deepening the harbour. Ms R. Saffioti interjected. Mr C.J. BARNETT : Yes, by deepening the Geraldton harbour. It is a better harbour now of course because it is deeper. But not even a panamax vessel can get in there. Ms A.J.G. MacTiernan : Yes, but the industry is started. Mr C.J. BARNETT : Most of the world commodity trade has moved beyond panamax to capesize, and even super-capesize vehicles now being built. Ms A.J.G. MacTiernan : Not for this product. Mr C.J. BARNETT : Geraldton port is totally inadequate for development of the mineral province of the mid-west. Ms A.J.G. MacTiernan : You don’t understand the product. Mr C.J. BARNETT : I am explaining some background for our members who are interested in the failings of the Labor government and the squandering of more than $100 million of taxpayers’ money. This government is quite determined to proceed with Oakajee. But, boy, did the former Labor government leave us a difficult handover? This former minister basically set up a competition between Japan and China to bid for the project. I am trying very hard, because it is very difficult, to bring this project — Mr E.S. Ripper : Answer the question Mr C.J. BARNETT : That is exactly what I am doing, Leader of the Opposition. Mr E.S. Ripper : You’re not. Mr C.J. BARNETT : You need to listen as you listened attentively to the Minister for Police. Mr E.S. Ripper : His was a better answer! Mr C.J. BARNETT : I agree! I am working very hard to try to bring Oakajee to fruition and to bring it as the first large-scale infrastructure mining project that is genuinely Australian, Japanese and Chinese. That will be a first for this nation and a first for the Asia-Pacific region. To do that we need to ensure not only that the Oakajee deepwater harbour is built but also that people contract to use it. There will be a transition and during that transition some volume of iron ore will go out through the port of Geraldton. About five million or six million tonnes are going out at present. We imposed a cap at 12 million tonnes as part of the Oakajee development agreement. Representations have been made by Gindalbie about how it can work in a transition for initial tonnages through Geraldton. Because it is looking at around 30 million tonnes a year, it is committed to Oakajee. We are working with Gindalbie, and that arrangement is basically resolved. Gindalbie is about to start construction. We have not only the arrangement for the port—both transitional use of Geraldton and long-term use of Oakajee—but also sorted out environmental issues about banded-iron formations, something that members opposite could not deal with. We have dealt with it. The other project the member for Armadale was probably talking about is Asia Iron—I think I have the right company—which is looking at a slurry pipeline project. In other words, it wants to pump a sort of sludge, or liquid iron ore, in a solution and then dry it out and load it. I think that project has a way to go, but we wish Asia Iron well and we are helping them. We have relaxed the constraint to allow Asia Iron to use Geraldton port. Ms A.J.G. MacTiernan : How many tonnes will be allowed? Mr C.J. BARNETT : I will not quote the figures; I will probably get them wrong. I do not have that information off the top of my head. Mr E.S. Ripper : Well done, member for Armadale. Several members interjected. Mr C.J. BARNETT : I am trying to answer the question. Asia Iron has been given a right to use Geraldton port for the first stage of its production. It is my opinion that that is probably not the most economical way of developing its project; it would probably do better financially and in volume if it combined with Gindalbie and used rail transport. However, that is up to Asia Iron and its backers. It can develop to a certain tonnage. I will let the member know the exact tonnage; I cannot remember it right now. Geraldton port can accommodate Asia Iron’s needs. I have to say that I was a little disappointed in the way Asia Iron conducted its affairs; nevertheless, we have made sure there is no impediment or constraint at Geraldton harbour to Asia Iron proceeding with its project if it can get the necessary financing. I have urged the company privately, and now I do so publicly, to look at more efficient ways of transporting that iron ore.
Mr C.J. BARNETT : More than $100 million of taxpayers’ money has been spent on deepening the harbour. Ms R. Saffioti interjected. Mr C.J. BARNETT : Yes, by deepening the Geraldton harbour. It is a better harbour now of course because it is deeper. But not even a panamax vessel can get in there. Ms A.J.G. MacTiernan : Yes, but the industry is started. Mr C.J. BARNETT : Most of the world commodity trade has moved beyond panamax to capesize, and even super-capesize vehicles now being built. Ms A.J.G. MacTiernan : Not for this product. Mr C.J. BARNETT : Geraldton port is totally inadequate for development of the mineral province of the mid-west. Ms A.J.G. MacTiernan : You don’t understand the product. Mr C.J. BARNETT : I am explaining some background for our members who are interested in the failings of the Labor government and the squandering of more than $100 million of taxpayers’ money. This government is quite determined to proceed with Oakajee. But, boy, did the former Labor government leave us a difficult handover? This former minister basically set up a competition between Japan and China to bid for the project. I am trying very hard, because it is very difficult, to bring this project — Mr E.S. Ripper : Answer the question Mr C.J. BARNETT : That is exactly what I am doing, Leader of the Opposition. Mr E.S. Ripper : You’re not. Mr C.J. BARNETT : You need to listen as you listened attentively to the Minister for Police. Mr E.S. Ripper : His was a better answer! Mr C.J. BARNETT : I agree! I am working very hard to try to bring Oakajee to fruition and to bring it as the first large-scale infrastructure mining project that is genuinely Australian, Japanese and Chinese. That will be a first for this nation and a first for the Asia-Pacific region. To do that we need to ensure not only that the Oakajee deepwater harbour is built but also that people contract to use it. There will be a transition and during that transition some volume of iron ore will go out through the port of Geraldton. About five million or six million tonnes are going out at present. We imposed a cap at 12 million tonnes as part of the Oakajee development agreement. Representations have been made by Gindalbie about how it can work in a transition for initial tonnages through Geraldton. Because it is looking at around 30 million tonnes a year, it is committed to Oakajee. We are working with Gindalbie, and that arrangement is basically resolved. Gindalbie is about to start construction. We have not only the arrangement for the port—both transitional use of Geraldton and long-term use of Oakajee—but also sorted out environmental issues about banded-iron formations, something that members opposite could not deal with. We have dealt with it. The other project the member for Armadale was probably talking about is Asia Iron—I think I have the right company—which is looking at a slurry pipeline project. In other words, it wants to pump a sort of sludge, or liquid iron ore, in a solution and then dry it out and load it. I think that project has a way to go, but we wish Asia Iron well and we are helping them. We have relaxed the constraint to allow Asia Iron to use Geraldton port. Ms A.J.G. MacTiernan : How many tonnes will be allowed? Mr C.J. BARNETT : I will not quote the figures; I will probably get them wrong. I do not have that information off the top of my head. Mr E.S. Ripper : Well done, member for Armadale. Several members interjected. Mr C.J. BARNETT : I am trying to answer the question. Asia Iron has been given a right to use Geraldton port for the first stage of its production. It is my opinion that that is probably not the most economical way of developing its project; it would probably do better financially and in volume if it combined with Gindalbie and used rail transport. However, that is up to Asia Iron and its backers. It can develop to a certain tonnage. I will let the member know the exact tonnage; I cannot remember it right now. Geraldton port can accommodate Asia Iron’s needs. I have to say that I was a little disappointed in the way Asia Iron conducted its affairs; nevertheless, we have made sure there is no impediment or constraint at Geraldton harbour to Asia Iron proceeding with its project if it can get the necessary financing. I have urged the company privately, and now I do so publicly, to look at more efficient ways of transporting that iron ore.
Ms R. Saffioti interjected. Mr C.J. BARNETT : Yes, by deepening the Geraldton harbour. It is a better harbour now of course because it is deeper. But not even a panamax vessel can get in there. Ms A.J.G. MacTiernan : Yes, but the industry is started. Mr C.J. BARNETT : Most of the world commodity trade has moved beyond panamax to capesize, and even super-capesize vehicles now being built. Ms A.J.G. MacTiernan : Not for this product. Mr C.J. BARNETT : Geraldton port is totally inadequate for development of the mineral province of the mid-west. Ms A.J.G. MacTiernan : You don’t understand the product. Mr C.J. BARNETT : I am explaining some background for our members who are interested in the failings of the Labor government and the squandering of more than $100 million of taxpayers’ money. This government is quite determined to proceed with Oakajee. But, boy, did the former Labor government leave us a difficult handover? This former minister basically set up a competition between Japan and China to bid for the project. I am trying very hard, because it is very difficult, to bring this project — Mr E.S. Ripper : Answer the question Mr C.J. BARNETT : That is exactly what I am doing, Leader of the Opposition. Mr E.S. Ripper : You’re not. Mr C.J. BARNETT : You need to listen as you listened attentively to the Minister for Police. Mr E.S. Ripper : His was a better answer! Mr C.J. BARNETT : I agree! I am working very hard to try to bring Oakajee to fruition and to bring it as the first large-scale infrastructure mining project that is genuinely Australian, Japanese and Chinese. That will be a first for this nation and a first for the Asia-Pacific region. To do that we need to ensure not only that the Oakajee deepwater harbour is built but also that people contract to use it. There will be a transition and during that transition some volume of iron ore will go out through the port of Geraldton. About five million or six million tonnes are going out at present. We imposed a cap at 12 million tonnes as part of the Oakajee development agreement. Representations have been made by Gindalbie about how it can work in a transition for initial tonnages through Geraldton. Because it is looking at around 30 million tonnes a year, it is committed to Oakajee. We are working with Gindalbie, and that arrangement is basically resolved. Gindalbie is about to start construction. We have not only the arrangement for the port—both transitional use of Geraldton and long-term use of Oakajee—but also sorted out environmental issues about banded-iron formations, something that members opposite could not deal with. We have dealt with it. The other project the member for Armadale was probably talking about is Asia Iron—I think I have the right company—which is looking at a slurry pipeline project. In other words, it wants to pump a sort of sludge, or liquid iron ore, in a solution and then dry it out and load it. I think that project has a way to go, but we wish Asia Iron well and we are helping them. We have relaxed the constraint to allow Asia Iron to use Geraldton port. Ms A.J.G. MacTiernan : How many tonnes will be allowed? Mr C.J. BARNETT : I will not quote the figures; I will probably get them wrong. I do not have that information off the top of my head. Mr E.S. Ripper : Well done, member for Armadale. Several members interjected. Mr C.J. BARNETT : I am trying to answer the question. Asia Iron has been given a right to use Geraldton port for the first stage of its production. It is my opinion that that is probably not the most economical way of developing its project; it would probably do better financially and in volume if it combined with Gindalbie and used rail transport. However, that is up to Asia Iron and its backers. It can develop to a certain tonnage. I will let the member know the exact tonnage; I cannot remember it right now. Geraldton port can accommodate Asia Iron’s needs. I have to say that I was a little disappointed in the way Asia Iron conducted its affairs; nevertheless, we have made sure there is no impediment or constraint at Geraldton harbour to Asia Iron proceeding with its project if it can get the necessary financing. I have urged the company privately, and now I do so publicly, to look at more efficient ways of transporting that iron ore.
Mr C.J. BARNETT : Yes, by deepening the Geraldton harbour. It is a better harbour now of course because it is deeper. But not even a panamax vessel can get in there. Ms A.J.G. MacTiernan : Yes, but the industry is started. Mr C.J. BARNETT : Most of the world commodity trade has moved beyond panamax to capesize, and even super-capesize vehicles now being built. Ms A.J.G. MacTiernan : Not for this product. Mr C.J. BARNETT : Geraldton port is totally inadequate for development of the mineral province of the mid-west. Ms A.J.G. MacTiernan : You don’t understand the product. Mr C.J. BARNETT : I am explaining some background for our members who are interested in the failings of the Labor government and the squandering of more than $100 million of taxpayers’ money. This government is quite determined to proceed with Oakajee. But, boy, did the former Labor government leave us a difficult handover? This former minister basically set up a competition between Japan and China to bid for the project. I am trying very hard, because it is very difficult, to bring this project — Mr E.S. Ripper : Answer the question Mr C.J. BARNETT : That is exactly what I am doing, Leader of the Opposition. Mr E.S. Ripper : You’re not. Mr C.J. BARNETT : You need to listen as you listened attentively to the Minister for Police. Mr E.S. Ripper : His was a better answer! Mr C.J. BARNETT : I agree! I am working very hard to try to bring Oakajee to fruition and to bring it as the first large-scale infrastructure mining project that is genuinely Australian, Japanese and Chinese. That will be a first for this nation and a first for the Asia-Pacific region. To do that we need to ensure not only that the Oakajee deepwater harbour is built but also that people contract to use it. There will be a transition and during that transition some volume of iron ore will go out through the port of Geraldton. About five million or six million tonnes are going out at present. We imposed a cap at 12 million tonnes as part of the Oakajee development agreement. Representations have been made by Gindalbie about how it can work in a transition for initial tonnages through Geraldton. Because it is looking at around 30 million tonnes a year, it is committed to Oakajee. We are working with Gindalbie, and that arrangement is basically resolved. Gindalbie is about to start construction. We have not only the arrangement for the port—both transitional use of Geraldton and long-term use of Oakajee—but also sorted out environmental issues about banded-iron formations, something that members opposite could not deal with. We have dealt with it. The other project the member for Armadale was probably talking about is Asia Iron—I think I have the right company—which is looking at a slurry pipeline project. In other words, it wants to pump a sort of sludge, or liquid iron ore, in a solution and then dry it out and load it. I think that project has a way to go, but we wish Asia Iron well and we are helping them. We have relaxed the constraint to allow Asia Iron to use Geraldton port. Ms A.J.G. MacTiernan : How many tonnes will be allowed? Mr C.J. BARNETT : I will not quote the figures; I will probably get them wrong. I do not have that information off the top of my head. Mr E.S. Ripper : Well done, member for Armadale. Several members interjected. Mr C.J. BARNETT : I am trying to answer the question. Asia Iron has been given a right to use Geraldton port for the first stage of its production. It is my opinion that that is probably not the most economical way of developing its project; it would probably do better financially and in volume if it combined with Gindalbie and used rail transport. However, that is up to Asia Iron and its backers. It can develop to a certain tonnage. I will let the member know the exact tonnage; I cannot remember it right now. Geraldton port can accommodate Asia Iron’s needs. I have to say that I was a little disappointed in the way Asia Iron conducted its affairs; nevertheless, we have made sure there is no impediment or constraint at Geraldton harbour to Asia Iron proceeding with its project if it can get the necessary financing. I have urged the company privately, and now I do so publicly, to look at more efficient ways of transporting that iron ore.
Ms A.J.G. MacTiernan : Yes, but the industry is started. Mr C.J. BARNETT : Most of the world commodity trade has moved beyond panamax to capesize, and even super-capesize vehicles now being built. Ms A.J.G. MacTiernan : Not for this product. Mr C.J. BARNETT : Geraldton port is totally inadequate for development of the mineral province of the mid-west. Ms A.J.G. MacTiernan : You don’t understand the product. Mr C.J. BARNETT : I am explaining some background for our members who are interested in the failings of the Labor government and the squandering of more than $100 million of taxpayers’ money. This government is quite determined to proceed with Oakajee. But, boy, did the former Labor government leave us a difficult handover? This former minister basically set up a competition between Japan and China to bid for the project. I am trying very hard, because it is very difficult, to bring this project — Mr E.S. Ripper : Answer the question Mr C.J. BARNETT : That is exactly what I am doing, Leader of the Opposition. Mr E.S. Ripper : You’re not. Mr C.J. BARNETT : You need to listen as you listened attentively to the Minister for Police. Mr E.S. Ripper : His was a better answer! Mr C.J. BARNETT : I agree! I am working very hard to try to bring Oakajee to fruition and to bring it as the first large-scale infrastructure mining project that is genuinely Australian, Japanese and Chinese. That will be a first for this nation and a first for the Asia-Pacific region. To do that we need to ensure not only that the Oakajee deepwater harbour is built but also that people contract to use it. There will be a transition and during that transition some volume of iron ore will go out through the port of Geraldton. About five million or six million tonnes are going out at present. We imposed a cap at 12 million tonnes as part of the Oakajee development agreement. Representations have been made by Gindalbie about how it can work in a transition for initial tonnages through Geraldton. Because it is looking at around 30 million tonnes a year, it is committed to Oakajee. We are working with Gindalbie, and that arrangement is basically resolved. Gindalbie is about to start construction. We have not only the arrangement for the port—both transitional use of Geraldton and long-term use of Oakajee—but also sorted out environmental issues about banded-iron formations, something that members opposite could not deal with. We have dealt with it. The other project the member for Armadale was probably talking about is Asia Iron—I think I have the right company—which is looking at a slurry pipeline project. In other words, it wants to pump a sort of sludge, or liquid iron ore, in a solution and then dry it out and load it. I think that project has a way to go, but we wish Asia Iron well and we are helping them. We have relaxed the constraint to allow Asia Iron to use Geraldton port. Ms A.J.G. MacTiernan : How many tonnes will be allowed? Mr C.J. BARNETT : I will not quote the figures; I will probably get them wrong. I do not have that information off the top of my head. Mr E.S. Ripper : Well done, member for Armadale. Several members interjected. Mr C.J. BARNETT : I am trying to answer the question. Asia Iron has been given a right to use Geraldton port for the first stage of its production. It is my opinion that that is probably not the most economical way of developing its project; it would probably do better financially and in volume if it combined with Gindalbie and used rail transport. However, that is up to Asia Iron and its backers. It can develop to a certain tonnage. I will let the member know the exact tonnage; I cannot remember it right now. Geraldton port can accommodate Asia Iron’s needs. I have to say that I was a little disappointed in the way Asia Iron conducted its affairs; nevertheless, we have made sure there is no impediment or constraint at Geraldton harbour to Asia Iron proceeding with its project if it can get the necessary financing. I have urged the company privately, and now I do so publicly, to look at more efficient ways of transporting that iron ore.
Mr C.J. BARNETT : Most of the world commodity trade has moved beyond panamax to capesize, and even super-capesize vehicles now being built. Ms A.J.G. MacTiernan : Not for this product. Mr C.J. BARNETT : Geraldton port is totally inadequate for development of the mineral province of the mid-west. Ms A.J.G. MacTiernan : You don’t understand the product. Mr C.J. BARNETT : I am explaining some background for our members who are interested in the failings of the Labor government and the squandering of more than $100 million of taxpayers’ money. This government is quite determined to proceed with Oakajee. But, boy, did the former Labor government leave us a difficult handover? This former minister basically set up a competition between Japan and China to bid for the project. I am trying very hard, because it is very difficult, to bring this project — Mr E.S. Ripper : Answer the question Mr C.J. BARNETT : That is exactly what I am doing, Leader of the Opposition. Mr E.S. Ripper : You’re not. Mr C.J. BARNETT : You need to listen as you listened attentively to the Minister for Police. Mr E.S. Ripper : His was a better answer! Mr C.J. BARNETT : I agree! I am working very hard to try to bring Oakajee to fruition and to bring it as the first large-scale infrastructure mining project that is genuinely Australian, Japanese and Chinese. That will be a first for this nation and a first for the Asia-Pacific region. To do that we need to ensure not only that the Oakajee deepwater harbour is built but also that people contract to use it. There will be a transition and during that transition some volume of iron ore will go out through the port of Geraldton. About five million or six million tonnes are going out at present. We imposed a cap at 12 million tonnes as part of the Oakajee development agreement. Representations have been made by Gindalbie about how it can work in a transition for initial tonnages through Geraldton. Because it is looking at around 30 million tonnes a year, it is committed to Oakajee. We are working with Gindalbie, and that arrangement is basically resolved. Gindalbie is about to start construction. We have not only the arrangement for the port—both transitional use of Geraldton and long-term use of Oakajee—but also sorted out environmental issues about banded-iron formations, something that members opposite could not deal with. We have dealt with it. The other project the member for Armadale was probably talking about is Asia Iron—I think I have the right company—which is looking at a slurry pipeline project. In other words, it wants to pump a sort of sludge, or liquid iron ore, in a solution and then dry it out and load it. I think that project has a way to go, but we wish Asia Iron well and we are helping them. We have relaxed the constraint to allow Asia Iron to use Geraldton port. Ms A.J.G. MacTiernan : How many tonnes will be allowed? Mr C.J. BARNETT : I will not quote the figures; I will probably get them wrong. I do not have that information off the top of my head. Mr E.S. Ripper : Well done, member for Armadale. Several members interjected. Mr C.J. BARNETT : I am trying to answer the question. Asia Iron has been given a right to use Geraldton port for the first stage of its production. It is my opinion that that is probably not the most economical way of developing its project; it would probably do better financially and in volume if it combined with Gindalbie and used rail transport. However, that is up to Asia Iron and its backers. It can develop to a certain tonnage. I will let the member know the exact tonnage; I cannot remember it right now. Geraldton port can accommodate Asia Iron’s needs. I have to say that I was a little disappointed in the way Asia Iron conducted its affairs; nevertheless, we have made sure there is no impediment or constraint at Geraldton harbour to Asia Iron proceeding with its project if it can get the necessary financing. I have urged the company privately, and now I do so publicly, to look at more efficient ways of transporting that iron ore.
Ms A.J.G. MacTiernan : Not for this product. Mr C.J. BARNETT : Geraldton port is totally inadequate for development of the mineral province of the mid-west. Ms A.J.G. MacTiernan : You don’t understand the product. Mr C.J. BARNETT : I am explaining some background for our members who are interested in the failings of the Labor government and the squandering of more than $100 million of taxpayers’ money. This government is quite determined to proceed with Oakajee. But, boy, did the former Labor government leave us a difficult handover? This former minister basically set up a competition between Japan and China to bid for the project. I am trying very hard, because it is very difficult, to bring this project — Mr E.S. Ripper : Answer the question Mr C.J. BARNETT : That is exactly what I am doing, Leader of the Opposition. Mr E.S. Ripper : You’re not. Mr C.J. BARNETT : You need to listen as you listened attentively to the Minister for Police. Mr E.S. Ripper : His was a better answer! Mr C.J. BARNETT : I agree! I am working very hard to try to bring Oakajee to fruition and to bring it as the first large-scale infrastructure mining project that is genuinely Australian, Japanese and Chinese. That will be a first for this nation and a first for the Asia-Pacific region. To do that we need to ensure not only that the Oakajee deepwater harbour is built but also that people contract to use it. There will be a transition and during that transition some volume of iron ore will go out through the port of Geraldton. About five million or six million tonnes are going out at present. We imposed a cap at 12 million tonnes as part of the Oakajee development agreement. Representations have been made by Gindalbie about how it can work in a transition for initial tonnages through Geraldton. Because it is looking at around 30 million tonnes a year, it is committed to Oakajee. We are working with Gindalbie, and that arrangement is basically resolved. Gindalbie is about to start construction. We have not only the arrangement for the port—both transitional use of Geraldton and long-term use of Oakajee—but also sorted out environmental issues about banded-iron formations, something that members opposite could not deal with. We have dealt with it. The other project the member for Armadale was probably talking about is Asia Iron—I think I have the right company—which is looking at a slurry pipeline project. In other words, it wants to pump a sort of sludge, or liquid iron ore, in a solution and then dry it out and load it. I think that project has a way to go, but we wish Asia Iron well and we are helping them. We have relaxed the constraint to allow Asia Iron to use Geraldton port. Ms A.J.G. MacTiernan : How many tonnes will be allowed? Mr C.J. BARNETT : I will not quote the figures; I will probably get them wrong. I do not have that information off the top of my head. Mr E.S. Ripper : Well done, member for Armadale. Several members interjected. Mr C.J. BARNETT : I am trying to answer the question. Asia Iron has been given a right to use Geraldton port for the first stage of its production. It is my opinion that that is probably not the most economical way of developing its project; it would probably do better financially and in volume if it combined with Gindalbie and used rail transport. However, that is up to Asia Iron and its backers. It can develop to a certain tonnage. I will let the member know the exact tonnage; I cannot remember it right now. Geraldton port can accommodate Asia Iron’s needs. I have to say that I was a little disappointed in the way Asia Iron conducted its affairs; nevertheless, we have made sure there is no impediment or constraint at Geraldton harbour to Asia Iron proceeding with its project if it can get the necessary financing. I have urged the company privately, and now I do so publicly, to look at more efficient ways of transporting that iron ore.
Mr C.J. BARNETT : Geraldton port is totally inadequate for development of the mineral province of the mid-west. Ms A.J.G. MacTiernan : You don’t understand the product. Mr C.J. BARNETT : I am explaining some background for our members who are interested in the failings of the Labor government and the squandering of more than $100 million of taxpayers’ money. This government is quite determined to proceed with Oakajee. But, boy, did the former Labor government leave us a difficult handover? This former minister basically set up a competition between Japan and China to bid for the project. I am trying very hard, because it is very difficult, to bring this project — Mr E.S. Ripper : Answer the question Mr C.J. BARNETT : That is exactly what I am doing, Leader of the Opposition. Mr E.S. Ripper : You’re not. Mr C.J. BARNETT : You need to listen as you listened attentively to the Minister for Police. Mr E.S. Ripper : His was a better answer! Mr C.J. BARNETT : I agree! I am working very hard to try to bring Oakajee to fruition and to bring it as the first large-scale infrastructure mining project that is genuinely Australian, Japanese and Chinese. That will be a first for this nation and a first for the Asia-Pacific region. To do that we need to ensure not only that the Oakajee deepwater harbour is built but also that people contract to use it. There will be a transition and during that transition some volume of iron ore will go out through the port of Geraldton. About five million or six million tonnes are going out at present. We imposed a cap at 12 million tonnes as part of the Oakajee development agreement. Representations have been made by Gindalbie about how it can work in a transition for initial tonnages through Geraldton. Because it is looking at around 30 million tonnes a year, it is committed to Oakajee. We are working with Gindalbie, and that arrangement is basically resolved. Gindalbie is about to start construction. We have not only the arrangement for the port—both transitional use of Geraldton and long-term use of Oakajee—but also sorted out environmental issues about banded-iron formations, something that members opposite could not deal with. We have dealt with it. The other project the member for Armadale was probably talking about is Asia Iron—I think I have the right company—which is looking at a slurry pipeline project. In other words, it wants to pump a sort of sludge, or liquid iron ore, in a solution and then dry it out and load it. I think that project has a way to go, but we wish Asia Iron well and we are helping them. We have relaxed the constraint to allow Asia Iron to use Geraldton port. Ms A.J.G. MacTiernan : How many tonnes will be allowed? Mr C.J. BARNETT : I will not quote the figures; I will probably get them wrong. I do not have that information off the top of my head. Mr E.S. Ripper : Well done, member for Armadale. Several members interjected. Mr C.J. BARNETT : I am trying to answer the question. Asia Iron has been given a right to use Geraldton port for the first stage of its production. It is my opinion that that is probably not the most economical way of developing its project; it would probably do better financially and in volume if it combined with Gindalbie and used rail transport. However, that is up to Asia Iron and its backers. It can develop to a certain tonnage. I will let the member know the exact tonnage; I cannot remember it right now. Geraldton port can accommodate Asia Iron’s needs. I have to say that I was a little disappointed in the way Asia Iron conducted its affairs; nevertheless, we have made sure there is no impediment or constraint at Geraldton harbour to Asia Iron proceeding with its project if it can get the necessary financing. I have urged the company privately, and now I do so publicly, to look at more efficient ways of transporting that iron ore.
Ms A.J.G. MacTiernan : You don’t understand the product. Mr C.J. BARNETT : I am explaining some background for our members who are interested in the failings of the Labor government and the squandering of more than $100 million of taxpayers’ money. This government is quite determined to proceed with Oakajee. But, boy, did the former Labor government leave us a difficult handover? This former minister basically set up a competition between Japan and China to bid for the project. I am trying very hard, because it is very difficult, to bring this project — Mr E.S. Ripper : Answer the question Mr C.J. BARNETT : That is exactly what I am doing, Leader of the Opposition. Mr E.S. Ripper : You’re not. Mr C.J. BARNETT : You need to listen as you listened attentively to the Minister for Police. Mr E.S. Ripper : His was a better answer! Mr C.J. BARNETT : I agree! I am working very hard to try to bring Oakajee to fruition and to bring it as the first large-scale infrastructure mining project that is genuinely Australian, Japanese and Chinese. That will be a first for this nation and a first for the Asia-Pacific region. To do that we need to ensure not only that the Oakajee deepwater harbour is built but also that people contract to use it. There will be a transition and during that transition some volume of iron ore will go out through the port of Geraldton. About five million or six million tonnes are going out at present. We imposed a cap at 12 million tonnes as part of the Oakajee development agreement. Representations have been made by Gindalbie about how it can work in a transition for initial tonnages through Geraldton. Because it is looking at around 30 million tonnes a year, it is committed to Oakajee. We are working with Gindalbie, and that arrangement is basically resolved. Gindalbie is about to start construction. We have not only the arrangement for the port—both transitional use of Geraldton and long-term use of Oakajee—but also sorted out environmental issues about banded-iron formations, something that members opposite could not deal with. We have dealt with it. The other project the member for Armadale was probably talking about is Asia Iron—I think I have the right company—which is looking at a slurry pipeline project. In other words, it wants to pump a sort of sludge, or liquid iron ore, in a solution and then dry it out and load it. I think that project has a way to go, but we wish Asia Iron well and we are helping them. We have relaxed the constraint to allow Asia Iron to use Geraldton port. Ms A.J.G. MacTiernan : How many tonnes will be allowed? Mr C.J. BARNETT : I will not quote the figures; I will probably get them wrong. I do not have that information off the top of my head. Mr E.S. Ripper : Well done, member for Armadale. Several members interjected. Mr C.J. BARNETT : I am trying to answer the question. Asia Iron has been given a right to use Geraldton port for the first stage of its production. It is my opinion that that is probably not the most economical way of developing its project; it would probably do better financially and in volume if it combined with Gindalbie and used rail transport. However, that is up to Asia Iron and its backers. It can develop to a certain tonnage. I will let the member know the exact tonnage; I cannot remember it right now. Geraldton port can accommodate Asia Iron’s needs. I have to say that I was a little disappointed in the way Asia Iron conducted its affairs; nevertheless, we have made sure there is no impediment or constraint at Geraldton harbour to Asia Iron proceeding with its project if it can get the necessary financing. I have urged the company privately, and now I do so publicly, to look at more efficient ways of transporting that iron ore.
Mr C.J. BARNETT : I am explaining some background for our members who are interested in the failings of the Labor government and the squandering of more than $100 million of taxpayers’ money. This government is quite determined to proceed with Oakajee. But, boy, did the former Labor government leave us a difficult handover? This former minister basically set up a competition between Japan and China to bid for the project. I am trying very hard, because it is very difficult, to bring this project — Mr E.S. Ripper : Answer the question Mr C.J. BARNETT : That is exactly what I am doing, Leader of the Opposition. Mr E.S. Ripper : You’re not. Mr C.J. BARNETT : You need to listen as you listened attentively to the Minister for Police. Mr E.S. Ripper : His was a better answer! Mr C.J. BARNETT : I agree! I am working very hard to try to bring Oakajee to fruition and to bring it as the first large-scale infrastructure mining project that is genuinely Australian, Japanese and Chinese. That will be a first for this nation and a first for the Asia-Pacific region. To do that we need to ensure not only that the Oakajee deepwater harbour is built but also that people contract to use it. There will be a transition and during that transition some volume of iron ore will go out through the port of Geraldton. About five million or six million tonnes are going out at present. We imposed a cap at 12 million tonnes as part of the Oakajee development agreement. Representations have been made by Gindalbie about how it can work in a transition for initial tonnages through Geraldton. Because it is looking at around 30 million tonnes a year, it is committed to Oakajee. We are working with Gindalbie, and that arrangement is basically resolved. Gindalbie is about to start construction. We have not only the arrangement for the port—both transitional use of Geraldton and long-term use of Oakajee—but also sorted out environmental issues about banded-iron formations, something that members opposite could not deal with. We have dealt with it. The other project the member for Armadale was probably talking about is Asia Iron—I think I have the right company—which is looking at a slurry pipeline project. In other words, it wants to pump a sort of sludge, or liquid iron ore, in a solution and then dry it out and load it. I think that project has a way to go, but we wish Asia Iron well and we are helping them. We have relaxed the constraint to allow Asia Iron to use Geraldton port. Ms A.J.G. MacTiernan : How many tonnes will be allowed? Mr C.J. BARNETT : I will not quote the figures; I will probably get them wrong. I do not have that information off the top of my head. Mr E.S. Ripper : Well done, member for Armadale. Several members interjected. Mr C.J. BARNETT : I am trying to answer the question. Asia Iron has been given a right to use Geraldton port for the first stage of its production. It is my opinion that that is probably not the most economical way of developing its project; it would probably do better financially and in volume if it combined with Gindalbie and used rail transport. However, that is up to Asia Iron and its backers. It can develop to a certain tonnage. I will let the member know the exact tonnage; I cannot remember it right now. Geraldton port can accommodate Asia Iron’s needs. I have to say that I was a little disappointed in the way Asia Iron conducted its affairs; nevertheless, we have made sure there is no impediment or constraint at Geraldton harbour to Asia Iron proceeding with its project if it can get the necessary financing. I have urged the company privately, and now I do so publicly, to look at more efficient ways of transporting that iron ore.
Mr E.S. Ripper : Answer the question Mr C.J. BARNETT : That is exactly what I am doing, Leader of the Opposition. Mr E.S. Ripper : You’re not. Mr C.J. BARNETT : You need to listen as you listened attentively to the Minister for Police. Mr E.S. Ripper : His was a better answer! Mr C.J. BARNETT : I agree! I am working very hard to try to bring Oakajee to fruition and to bring it as the first large-scale infrastructure mining project that is genuinely Australian, Japanese and Chinese. That will be a first for this nation and a first for the Asia-Pacific region. To do that we need to ensure not only that the Oakajee deepwater harbour is built but also that people contract to use it. There will be a transition and during that transition some volume of iron ore will go out through the port of Geraldton. About five million or six million tonnes are going out at present. We imposed a cap at 12 million tonnes as part of the Oakajee development agreement. Representations have been made by Gindalbie about how it can work in a transition for initial tonnages through Geraldton. Because it is looking at around 30 million tonnes a year, it is committed to Oakajee. We are working with Gindalbie, and that arrangement is basically resolved. Gindalbie is about to start construction. We have not only the arrangement for the port—both transitional use of Geraldton and long-term use of Oakajee—but also sorted out environmental issues about banded-iron formations, something that members opposite could not deal with. We have dealt with it. The other project the member for Armadale was probably talking about is Asia Iron—I think I have the right company—which is looking at a slurry pipeline project. In other words, it wants to pump a sort of sludge, or liquid iron ore, in a solution and then dry it out and load it. I think that project has a way to go, but we wish Asia Iron well and we are helping them. We have relaxed the constraint to allow Asia Iron to use Geraldton port. Ms A.J.G. MacTiernan : How many tonnes will be allowed? Mr C.J. BARNETT : I will not quote the figures; I will probably get them wrong. I do not have that information off the top of my head. Mr E.S. Ripper : Well done, member for Armadale. Several members interjected. Mr C.J. BARNETT : I am trying to answer the question. Asia Iron has been given a right to use Geraldton port for the first stage of its production. It is my opinion that that is probably not the most economical way of developing its project; it would probably do better financially and in volume if it combined with Gindalbie and used rail transport. However, that is up to Asia Iron and its backers. It can develop to a certain tonnage. I will let the member know the exact tonnage; I cannot remember it right now. Geraldton port can accommodate Asia Iron’s needs. I have to say that I was a little disappointed in the way Asia Iron conducted its affairs; nevertheless, we have made sure there is no impediment or constraint at Geraldton harbour to Asia Iron proceeding with its project if it can get the necessary financing. I have urged the company privately, and now I do so publicly, to look at more efficient ways of transporting that iron ore.
Mr C.J. BARNETT : That is exactly what I am doing, Leader of the Opposition. Mr E.S. Ripper : You’re not. Mr C.J. BARNETT : You need to listen as you listened attentively to the Minister for Police. Mr E.S. Ripper : His was a better answer! Mr C.J. BARNETT : I agree! I am working very hard to try to bring Oakajee to fruition and to bring it as the first large-scale infrastructure mining project that is genuinely Australian, Japanese and Chinese. That will be a first for this nation and a first for the Asia-Pacific region. To do that we need to ensure not only that the Oakajee deepwater harbour is built but also that people contract to use it. There will be a transition and during that transition some volume of iron ore will go out through the port of Geraldton. About five million or six million tonnes are going out at present. We imposed a cap at 12 million tonnes as part of the Oakajee development agreement. Representations have been made by Gindalbie about how it can work in a transition for initial tonnages through Geraldton. Because it is looking at around 30 million tonnes a year, it is committed to Oakajee. We are working with Gindalbie, and that arrangement is basically resolved. Gindalbie is about to start construction. We have not only the arrangement for the port—both transitional use of Geraldton and long-term use of Oakajee—but also sorted out environmental issues about banded-iron formations, something that members opposite could not deal with. We have dealt with it. The other project the member for Armadale was probably talking about is Asia Iron—I think I have the right company—which is looking at a slurry pipeline project. In other words, it wants to pump a sort of sludge, or liquid iron ore, in a solution and then dry it out and load it. I think that project has a way to go, but we wish Asia Iron well and we are helping them. We have relaxed the constraint to allow Asia Iron to use Geraldton port. Ms A.J.G. MacTiernan : How many tonnes will be allowed? Mr C.J. BARNETT : I will not quote the figures; I will probably get them wrong. I do not have that information off the top of my head. Mr E.S. Ripper : Well done, member for Armadale. Several members interjected. Mr C.J. BARNETT : I am trying to answer the question. Asia Iron has been given a right to use Geraldton port for the first stage of its production. It is my opinion that that is probably not the most economical way of developing its project; it would probably do better financially and in volume if it combined with Gindalbie and used rail transport. However, that is up to Asia Iron and its backers. It can develop to a certain tonnage. I will let the member know the exact tonnage; I cannot remember it right now. Geraldton port can accommodate Asia Iron’s needs. I have to say that I was a little disappointed in the way Asia Iron conducted its affairs; nevertheless, we have made sure there is no impediment or constraint at Geraldton harbour to Asia Iron proceeding with its project if it can get the necessary financing. I have urged the company privately, and now I do so publicly, to look at more efficient ways of transporting that iron ore.
Mr E.S. Ripper : You’re not. Mr C.J. BARNETT : You need to listen as you listened attentively to the Minister for Police. Mr E.S. Ripper : His was a better answer! Mr C.J. BARNETT : I agree! I am working very hard to try to bring Oakajee to fruition and to bring it as the first large-scale infrastructure mining project that is genuinely Australian, Japanese and Chinese. That will be a first for this nation and a first for the Asia-Pacific region. To do that we need to ensure not only that the Oakajee deepwater harbour is built but also that people contract to use it. There will be a transition and during that transition some volume of iron ore will go out through the port of Geraldton. About five million or six million tonnes are going out at present. We imposed a cap at 12 million tonnes as part of the Oakajee development agreement. Representations have been made by Gindalbie about how it can work in a transition for initial tonnages through Geraldton. Because it is looking at around 30 million tonnes a year, it is committed to Oakajee. We are working with Gindalbie, and that arrangement is basically resolved. Gindalbie is about to start construction. We have not only the arrangement for the port—both transitional use of Geraldton and long-term use of Oakajee—but also sorted out environmental issues about banded-iron formations, something that members opposite could not deal with. We have dealt with it. The other project the member for Armadale was probably talking about is Asia Iron—I think I have the right company—which is looking at a slurry pipeline project. In other words, it wants to pump a sort of sludge, or liquid iron ore, in a solution and then dry it out and load it. I think that project has a way to go, but we wish Asia Iron well and we are helping them. We have relaxed the constraint to allow Asia Iron to use Geraldton port. Ms A.J.G. MacTiernan : How many tonnes will be allowed? Mr C.J. BARNETT : I will not quote the figures; I will probably get them wrong. I do not have that information off the top of my head. Mr E.S. Ripper : Well done, member for Armadale. Several members interjected. Mr C.J. BARNETT : I am trying to answer the question. Asia Iron has been given a right to use Geraldton port for the first stage of its production. It is my opinion that that is probably not the most economical way of developing its project; it would probably do better financially and in volume if it combined with Gindalbie and used rail transport. However, that is up to Asia Iron and its backers. It can develop to a certain tonnage. I will let the member know the exact tonnage; I cannot remember it right now. Geraldton port can accommodate Asia Iron’s needs. I have to say that I was a little disappointed in the way Asia Iron conducted its affairs; nevertheless, we have made sure there is no impediment or constraint at Geraldton harbour to Asia Iron proceeding with its project if it can get the necessary financing. I have urged the company privately, and now I do so publicly, to look at more efficient ways of transporting that iron ore.
Mr C.J. BARNETT : You need to listen as you listened attentively to the Minister for Police. Mr E.S. Ripper : His was a better answer! Mr C.J. BARNETT : I agree! I am working very hard to try to bring Oakajee to fruition and to bring it as the first large-scale infrastructure mining project that is genuinely Australian, Japanese and Chinese. That will be a first for this nation and a first for the Asia-Pacific region. To do that we need to ensure not only that the Oakajee deepwater harbour is built but also that people contract to use it. There will be a transition and during that transition some volume of iron ore will go out through the port of Geraldton. About five million or six million tonnes are going out at present. We imposed a cap at 12 million tonnes as part of the Oakajee development agreement. Representations have been made by Gindalbie about how it can work in a transition for initial tonnages through Geraldton. Because it is looking at around 30 million tonnes a year, it is committed to Oakajee. We are working with Gindalbie, and that arrangement is basically resolved. Gindalbie is about to start construction. We have not only the arrangement for the port—both transitional use of Geraldton and long-term use of Oakajee—but also sorted out environmental issues about banded-iron formations, something that members opposite could not deal with. We have dealt with it. The other project the member for Armadale was probably talking about is Asia Iron—I think I have the right company—which is looking at a slurry pipeline project. In other words, it wants to pump a sort of sludge, or liquid iron ore, in a solution and then dry it out and load it. I think that project has a way to go, but we wish Asia Iron well and we are helping them. We have relaxed the constraint to allow Asia Iron to use Geraldton port. Ms A.J.G. MacTiernan : How many tonnes will be allowed? Mr C.J. BARNETT : I will not quote the figures; I will probably get them wrong. I do not have that information off the top of my head. Mr E.S. Ripper : Well done, member for Armadale. Several members interjected. Mr C.J. BARNETT : I am trying to answer the question. Asia Iron has been given a right to use Geraldton port for the first stage of its production. It is my opinion that that is probably not the most economical way of developing its project; it would probably do better financially and in volume if it combined with Gindalbie and used rail transport. However, that is up to Asia Iron and its backers. It can develop to a certain tonnage. I will let the member know the exact tonnage; I cannot remember it right now. Geraldton port can accommodate Asia Iron’s needs. I have to say that I was a little disappointed in the way Asia Iron conducted its affairs; nevertheless, we have made sure there is no impediment or constraint at Geraldton harbour to Asia Iron proceeding with its project if it can get the necessary financing. I have urged the company privately, and now I do so publicly, to look at more efficient ways of transporting that iron ore.
Mr E.S. Ripper : His was a better answer! Mr C.J. BARNETT : I agree! I am working very hard to try to bring Oakajee to fruition and to bring it as the first large-scale infrastructure mining project that is genuinely Australian, Japanese and Chinese. That will be a first for this nation and a first for the Asia-Pacific region. To do that we need to ensure not only that the Oakajee deepwater harbour is built but also that people contract to use it. There will be a transition and during that transition some volume of iron ore will go out through the port of Geraldton. About five million or six million tonnes are going out at present. We imposed a cap at 12 million tonnes as part of the Oakajee development agreement. Representations have been made by Gindalbie about how it can work in a transition for initial tonnages through Geraldton. Because it is looking at around 30 million tonnes a year, it is committed to Oakajee. We are working with Gindalbie, and that arrangement is basically resolved. Gindalbie is about to start construction. We have not only the arrangement for the port—both transitional use of Geraldton and long-term use of Oakajee—but also sorted out environmental issues about banded-iron formations, something that members opposite could not deal with. We have dealt with it. The other project the member for Armadale was probably talking about is Asia Iron—I think I have the right company—which is looking at a slurry pipeline project. In other words, it wants to pump a sort of sludge, or liquid iron ore, in a solution and then dry it out and load it. I think that project has a way to go, but we wish Asia Iron well and we are helping them. We have relaxed the constraint to allow Asia Iron to use Geraldton port. Ms A.J.G. MacTiernan : How many tonnes will be allowed? Mr C.J. BARNETT : I will not quote the figures; I will probably get them wrong. I do not have that information off the top of my head. Mr E.S. Ripper : Well done, member for Armadale. Several members interjected. Mr C.J. BARNETT : I am trying to answer the question. Asia Iron has been given a right to use Geraldton port for the first stage of its production. It is my opinion that that is probably not the most economical way of developing its project; it would probably do better financially and in volume if it combined with Gindalbie and used rail transport. However, that is up to Asia Iron and its backers. It can develop to a certain tonnage. I will let the member know the exact tonnage; I cannot remember it right now. Geraldton port can accommodate Asia Iron’s needs. I have to say that I was a little disappointed in the way Asia Iron conducted its affairs; nevertheless, we have made sure there is no impediment or constraint at Geraldton harbour to Asia Iron proceeding with its project if it can get the necessary financing. I have urged the company privately, and now I do so publicly, to look at more efficient ways of transporting that iron ore.
Mr C.J. BARNETT : I agree! I am working very hard to try to bring Oakajee to fruition and to bring it as the first large-scale infrastructure mining project that is genuinely Australian, Japanese and Chinese. That will be a first for this nation and a first for the Asia-Pacific region. To do that we need to ensure not only that the Oakajee deepwater harbour is built but also that people contract to use it. There will be a transition and during that transition some volume of iron ore will go out through the port of Geraldton. About five million or six million tonnes are going out at present. We imposed a cap at 12 million tonnes as part of the Oakajee development agreement. Representations have been made by Gindalbie about how it can work in a transition for initial tonnages through Geraldton. Because it is looking at around 30 million tonnes a year, it is committed to Oakajee. We are working with Gindalbie, and that arrangement is basically resolved. Gindalbie is about to start construction. We have not only the arrangement for the port—both transitional use of Geraldton and long-term use of Oakajee—but also sorted out environmental issues about banded-iron formations, something that members opposite could not deal with. We have dealt with it. The other project the member for Armadale was probably talking about is Asia Iron—I think I have the right company—which is looking at a slurry pipeline project. In other words, it wants to pump a sort of sludge, or liquid iron ore, in a solution and then dry it out and load it. I think that project has a way to go, but we wish Asia Iron well and we are helping them. We have relaxed the constraint to allow Asia Iron to use Geraldton port. Ms A.J.G. MacTiernan : How many tonnes will be allowed? Mr C.J. BARNETT : I will not quote the figures; I will probably get them wrong. I do not have that information off the top of my head. Mr E.S. Ripper : Well done, member for Armadale. Several members interjected. Mr C.J. BARNETT : I am trying to answer the question. Asia Iron has been given a right to use Geraldton port for the first stage of its production. It is my opinion that that is probably not the most economical way of developing its project; it would probably do better financially and in volume if it combined with Gindalbie and used rail transport. However, that is up to Asia Iron and its backers. It can develop to a certain tonnage. I will let the member know the exact tonnage; I cannot remember it right now. Geraldton port can accommodate Asia Iron’s needs. I have to say that I was a little disappointed in the way Asia Iron conducted its affairs; nevertheless, we have made sure there is no impediment or constraint at Geraldton harbour to Asia Iron proceeding with its project if it can get the necessary financing. I have urged the company privately, and now I do so publicly, to look at more efficient ways of transporting that iron ore.
I am working very hard to try to bring Oakajee to fruition and to bring it as the first large-scale infrastructure mining project that is genuinely Australian, Japanese and Chinese. That will be a first for this nation and a first for the Asia-Pacific region. To do that we need to ensure not only that the Oakajee deepwater harbour is built but also that people contract to use it. There will be a transition and during that transition some volume of iron ore will go out through the port of Geraldton. About five million or six million tonnes are going out at present. We imposed a cap at 12 million tonnes as part of the Oakajee development agreement. Representations have been made by Gindalbie about how it can work in a transition for initial tonnages through Geraldton. Because it is looking at around 30 million tonnes a year, it is committed to Oakajee. We are working with Gindalbie, and that arrangement is basically resolved. Gindalbie is about to start construction. We have not only the arrangement for the port—both transitional use of Geraldton and long-term use of Oakajee—but also sorted out environmental issues about banded-iron formations, something that members opposite could not deal with. We have dealt with it. The other project the member for Armadale was probably talking about is Asia Iron—I think I have the right company—which is looking at a slurry pipeline project. In other words, it wants to pump a sort of sludge, or liquid iron ore, in a solution and then dry it out and load it. I think that project has a way to go, but we wish Asia Iron well and we are helping them. We have relaxed the constraint to allow Asia Iron to use Geraldton port. Ms A.J.G. MacTiernan : How many tonnes will be allowed? Mr C.J. BARNETT : I will not quote the figures; I will probably get them wrong. I do not have that information off the top of my head. Mr E.S. Ripper : Well done, member for Armadale. Several members interjected. Mr C.J. BARNETT : I am trying to answer the question. Asia Iron has been given a right to use Geraldton port for the first stage of its production. It is my opinion that that is probably not the most economical way of developing its project; it would probably do better financially and in volume if it combined with Gindalbie and used rail transport. However, that is up to Asia Iron and its backers. It can develop to a certain tonnage. I will let the member know the exact tonnage; I cannot remember it right now. Geraldton port can accommodate Asia Iron’s needs. I have to say that I was a little disappointed in the way Asia Iron conducted its affairs; nevertheless, we have made sure there is no impediment or constraint at Geraldton harbour to Asia Iron proceeding with its project if it can get the necessary financing. I have urged the company privately, and now I do so publicly, to look at more efficient ways of transporting that iron ore.
The other project the member for Armadale was probably talking about is Asia Iron—I think I have the right company—which is looking at a slurry pipeline project. In other words, it wants to pump a sort of sludge, or liquid iron ore, in a solution and then dry it out and load it. I think that project has a way to go, but we wish Asia Iron well and we are helping them. We have relaxed the constraint to allow Asia Iron to use Geraldton port. Ms A.J.G. MacTiernan : How many tonnes will be allowed? Mr C.J. BARNETT : I will not quote the figures; I will probably get them wrong. I do not have that information off the top of my head. Mr E.S. Ripper : Well done, member for Armadale. Several members interjected. Mr C.J. BARNETT : I am trying to answer the question. Asia Iron has been given a right to use Geraldton port for the first stage of its production. It is my opinion that that is probably not the most economical way of developing its project; it would probably do better financially and in volume if it combined with Gindalbie and used rail transport. However, that is up to Asia Iron and its backers. It can develop to a certain tonnage. I will let the member know the exact tonnage; I cannot remember it right now. Geraldton port can accommodate Asia Iron’s needs. I have to say that I was a little disappointed in the way Asia Iron conducted its affairs; nevertheless, we have made sure there is no impediment or constraint at Geraldton harbour to Asia Iron proceeding with its project if it can get the necessary financing. I have urged the company privately, and now I do so publicly, to look at more efficient ways of transporting that iron ore.
Ms A.J.G. MacTiernan : How many tonnes will be allowed? Mr C.J. BARNETT : I will not quote the figures; I will probably get them wrong. I do not have that information off the top of my head. Mr E.S. Ripper : Well done, member for Armadale. Several members interjected. Mr C.J. BARNETT : I am trying to answer the question. Asia Iron has been given a right to use Geraldton port for the first stage of its production. It is my opinion that that is probably not the most economical way of developing its project; it would probably do better financially and in volume if it combined with Gindalbie and used rail transport. However, that is up to Asia Iron and its backers. It can develop to a certain tonnage. I will let the member know the exact tonnage; I cannot remember it right now. Geraldton port can accommodate Asia Iron’s needs. I have to say that I was a little disappointed in the way Asia Iron conducted its affairs; nevertheless, we have made sure there is no impediment or constraint at Geraldton harbour to Asia Iron proceeding with its project if it can get the necessary financing. I have urged the company privately, and now I do so publicly, to look at more efficient ways of transporting that iron ore.
Mr C.J. BARNETT : I will not quote the figures; I will probably get them wrong. I do not have that information off the top of my head. Mr E.S. Ripper : Well done, member for Armadale. Several members interjected. Mr C.J. BARNETT : I am trying to answer the question. Asia Iron has been given a right to use Geraldton port for the first stage of its production. It is my opinion that that is probably not the most economical way of developing its project; it would probably do better financially and in volume if it combined with Gindalbie and used rail transport. However, that is up to Asia Iron and its backers. It can develop to a certain tonnage. I will let the member know the exact tonnage; I cannot remember it right now. Geraldton port can accommodate Asia Iron’s needs. I have to say that I was a little disappointed in the way Asia Iron conducted its affairs; nevertheless, we have made sure there is no impediment or constraint at Geraldton harbour to Asia Iron proceeding with its project if it can get the necessary financing. I have urged the company privately, and now I do so publicly, to look at more efficient ways of transporting that iron ore.
Mr E.S. Ripper : Well done, member for Armadale. Several members interjected. Mr C.J. BARNETT : I am trying to answer the question. Asia Iron has been given a right to use Geraldton port for the first stage of its production. It is my opinion that that is probably not the most economical way of developing its project; it would probably do better financially and in volume if it combined with Gindalbie and used rail transport. However, that is up to Asia Iron and its backers. It can develop to a certain tonnage. I will let the member know the exact tonnage; I cannot remember it right now. Geraldton port can accommodate Asia Iron’s needs. I have to say that I was a little disappointed in the way Asia Iron conducted its affairs; nevertheless, we have made sure there is no impediment or constraint at Geraldton harbour to Asia Iron proceeding with its project if it can get the necessary financing. I have urged the company privately, and now I do so publicly, to look at more efficient ways of transporting that iron ore.
Several members interjected. Mr C.J. BARNETT : I am trying to answer the question. Asia Iron has been given a right to use Geraldton port for the first stage of its production. It is my opinion that that is probably not the most economical way of developing its project; it would probably do better financially and in volume if it combined with Gindalbie and used rail transport. However, that is up to Asia Iron and its backers. It can develop to a certain tonnage. I will let the member know the exact tonnage; I cannot remember it right now. Geraldton port can accommodate Asia Iron’s needs. I have to say that I was a little disappointed in the way Asia Iron conducted its affairs; nevertheless, we have made sure there is no impediment or constraint at Geraldton harbour to Asia Iron proceeding with its project if it can get the necessary financing. I have urged the company privately, and now I do so publicly, to look at more efficient ways of transporting that iron ore.
Mr C.J. BARNETT : I am trying to answer the question. Asia Iron has been given a right to use Geraldton port for the first stage of its production. It is my opinion that that is probably not the most economical way of developing its project; it would probably do better financially and in volume if it combined with Gindalbie and used rail transport. However, that is up to Asia Iron and its backers. It can develop to a certain tonnage. I will let the member know the exact tonnage; I cannot remember it right now. Geraldton port can accommodate Asia Iron’s needs. I have to say that I was a little disappointed in the way Asia Iron conducted its affairs; nevertheless, we have made sure there is no impediment or constraint at Geraldton harbour to Asia Iron proceeding with its project if it can get the necessary financing. I have urged the company privately, and now I do so publicly, to look at more efficient ways of transporting that iron ore.
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