❓ Question regarding the Department of Parks and Wildlife's use of a private firefighting organisation during the Waroona fire. The Minister's response is delayed by points of order and interjections, focusing on the conduct of other members.
AnsweredQoN 218Legislative Assembly
QuestionView source ↗
Further to the minister’s comments yesterday in question time regarding the Department of Parks and Wildlife’s use of a contracted private firefighting organisation to work from Collie during the Waroona fire incident, could the minister please set the record straight on why his department did this? Mr A.P. JACOB
AnswerView source ↗
I thank the member for Bunbury for the question. It is important to have an opportunity to set the record straight on a number of claims — Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Member for Girrawheen, you are on three calls; you are now on three and a half calls. Mr A.P. JACOB : The member for Girrawheen continues to play very fast and loose with the truth. I caught some of the interjections there — The SPEAKER : Just hold on a minute. What I want you to do is put your answer through the Chair. I do not want another fracas developing here. Mr A.P. JACOB : Indeed, as — Point of Order Dr A.D. BUTI : Mr Speaker, this is question time. I would like you to clarify what actual question was asked by the member for Bunbury. It was not a question asked of the Minister for Environment. The SPEAKER : I do not understand your point of order. It is not part of his portfolio—is that what you are saying? Dr A.D. BUTI : No, my question to you, Mr Speaker, was: did the member for Bunbury actually ask a question? He asked the minister to clarify or put on the record something he said yesterday. That is not a question, and this is question time. That would be a ministerial statement. The SPEAKER : Just repeat your question, please, member for Bunbury. Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Member for Willagee, I call you to order. Questions without Notice Resumed Mr G.M. CASTRILLI : Let me duplicate it in full, Mr Speaker. I will put my glasses on for a start. My question is to the Minister for Environment. Further to the minister’s comments yesterday in question time regarding the Department of Parks and Wildlife’s use of a contracted private firefighting organisation to work from Collie during the Waroona fire incident, could the minister please set the record straight on why his department did this? Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Thank you for that. Mr A.P. JACOB : Mr Speaker, they do not like being caught out! As I said, and particularly when it comes to the member for Girrawheen — The SPEAKER : Minister, I just want to say something to you. I do not want to have you and the member for Girrawheen have a fight. So go through the Chair, please. Mr A.P. JACOB : Absolutely, Mr Speaker. Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Members! Mr A.P. JACOB : There is form. We saw that yesterday with a question from the member for Girrawheen that was found to have absolutely no basis in truth whatsoever—indeed, referring to an agreement that had already been signed the year before and was entirely functional. It shows a pattern, in particular from the member for Girrawheen, but a pattern right across the board — Point of Order Mrs M.H. ROBERTS : Mr Speaker — Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Member for Wanneroo, I call you to order for, I think, the first time—the second time. Mrs M.H. ROBERTS : Minister, we have already wasted enough time hearing — Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : This is starting to get out of control. Something is going to happen if we do not bring it back on line. Mrs M.H. ROBERTS : We have finally ascertained that the member for Bunbury has now asked a question. I am calling upon the minister to answer it, rather than trying to redefine his answer from yesterday. The SPEAKER : Minister, through the Chair. Questions without Notice Resumed Mr A.P. JACOB : Thank you, Mr Speaker. Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : That is enough. Mr A.P. JACOB : Indeed, I think that although members opposite may not be in government, they are still members of Parliament, and they still have a responsibility to the Western Australian community, and to this place, to tell the truth and be honest, first of all, in the questions that they ask, and also to tell the truth and be honest in claims that they make frequently outside this place that are often found to have no basis whatsoever. Point of Order Mr W.J. JOHNSTON : Mr Speaker, we all know how dumb this guy is, but let us get it straight. He should just comply with the standing orders. That does not have anything to do with the — Questions without Notice Resumed The SPEAKER : Minister, I am going to sit you down. If you do not answer the question quickly, I am going to sit you down. Mr A.P. JACOB : What do you expect, Mr Speaker? I have only had — Several members interjected. Mr A.P. JACOB : I accept your ruling. The SPEAKER : I do not want to hear any more. Mr W.J. Johnston interjected. Withdrawal of Remark The SPEAKER : Member for Cannington, I never heard what you said, but if you said something untoward, withdraw it. Mr W.J. JOHNSTON : I withdraw. Questions without Notice Resumed The SPEAKER : Thank you. Now, please, a short answer, and I want it through the Chair. Let us move on. Mr A.P. JACOB : Thank you, Mr Speaker, and I would love nothing more than to come directly to the point. However, I draw to your attention that I am increasingly being shouted down. If the spotlight is turned back onto the integrity of members opposite — Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Minister, this is your last chance to answer the question. If you do not answer the question, you can sit down. Mr A.P. JACOB : Certainly, Mr Speaker. I am seeking the opportunity to set the record straight. Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Member for Cockburn! Mr A.P. JACOB : Mr Speaker, that was the question, and I am seeking to answer the member for Bunbury’s question. Point of Order Mr W.J. JOHNSTON : Mr Speaker, could I suggest that you draw to the attention of the minister standing order 148, which allows for personal explanations. Unfortunately, the minister has been asked a question under standing order 75, which is regarding his administrative responsibilities, not a personal explanation. The SPEAKER : Sit down. If you make spurious points of order, I am going to call you to order. Mr W.J. JOHNSTON : It is not spurious. Dr K.D. HAMES : Mr Speaker, further to that point of order, the question to the minister clearly asks for clarification and to set the record straight. He is trying, Mr Speaker, to set the record straight. The SPEAKER : The actual thing that you have to home in on is why this happened—why. So that is what I want you to address, through the Chair. Questions without Notice Resumed Mr A.P. JACOB : Thank you, Mr Speaker. The question related to the response in the midst of the Waroona fires—a response which ran over 17 days in January this year and which saw the firefighting services of this state significantly stretched. Indeed, in excess of 500 parks and wildlife staff alone were caught up in a direct response to that fire front of the Waroona fires over those 17 days. That is not including the Department of Fire and Emergency Services’ response, and, indeed, the important response from volunteer and local bush fire brigades. But the key point in my response is the claims that the firefighters in those communities, and, indeed, we as a government, were having to deal with in the midst of that response from the member for Girrawheen, who came out very strongly criticising the operational response to use contractors — Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Sit down, please. Next question.
Mr A.P. JACOB replied: I thank the member for Bunbury for the question. It is important to have an opportunity to set the record straight on a number of claims — Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Member for Girrawheen, you are on three calls; you are now on three and a half calls. Mr A.P. JACOB : The member for Girrawheen continues to play very fast and loose with the truth. I caught some of the interjections there — The SPEAKER : Just hold on a minute. What I want you to do is put your answer through the Chair. I do not want another fracas developing here. Mr A.P. JACOB : Indeed, as — Point of Order Dr A.D. BUTI : Mr Speaker, this is question time. I would like you to clarify what actual question was asked by the member for Bunbury. It was not a question asked of the Minister for Environment. The SPEAKER : I do not understand your point of order. It is not part of his portfolio—is that what you are saying? Dr A.D. BUTI : No, my question to you, Mr Speaker, was: did the member for Bunbury actually ask a question? He asked the minister to clarify or put on the record something he said yesterday. That is not a question, and this is question time. That would be a ministerial statement. The SPEAKER : Just repeat your question, please, member for Bunbury. Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Member for Willagee, I call you to order. Questions without Notice Resumed Mr G.M. CASTRILLI : Let me duplicate it in full, Mr Speaker. I will put my glasses on for a start. My question is to the Minister for Environment. Further to the minister’s comments yesterday in question time regarding the Department of Parks and Wildlife’s use of a contracted private firefighting organisation to work from Collie during the Waroona fire incident, could the minister please set the record straight on why his department did this? Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Thank you for that. Mr A.P. JACOB : Mr Speaker, they do not like being caught out! As I said, and particularly when it comes to the member for Girrawheen — The SPEAKER : Minister, I just want to say something to you. I do not want to have you and the member for Girrawheen have a fight. So go through the Chair, please. Mr A.P. JACOB : Absolutely, Mr Speaker. Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Members! Mr A.P. JACOB : There is form. We saw that yesterday with a question from the member for Girrawheen that was found to have absolutely no basis in truth whatsoever—indeed, referring to an agreement that had already been signed the year before and was entirely functional. It shows a pattern, in particular from the member for Girrawheen, but a pattern right across the board — Point of Order Mrs M.H. ROBERTS : Mr Speaker — Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Member for Wanneroo, I call you to order for, I think, the first time—the second time. Mrs M.H. ROBERTS : Minister, we have already wasted enough time hearing — Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : This is starting to get out of control. Something is going to happen if we do not bring it back on line. Mrs M.H. ROBERTS : We have finally ascertained that the member for Bunbury has now asked a question. I am calling upon the minister to answer it, rather than trying to redefine his answer from yesterday. The SPEAKER : Minister, through the Chair. Questions without Notice Resumed Mr A.P. JACOB : Thank you, Mr Speaker. Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : That is enough. Mr A.P. JACOB : Indeed, I think that although members opposite may not be in government, they are still members of Parliament, and they still have a responsibility to the Western Australian community, and to this place, to tell the truth and be honest, first of all, in the questions that they ask, and also to tell the truth and be honest in claims that they make frequently outside this place that are often found to have no basis whatsoever. Point of Order Mr W.J. JOHNSTON : Mr Speaker, we all know how dumb this guy is, but let us get it straight. He should just comply with the standing orders. That does not have anything to do with the — Questions without Notice Resumed The SPEAKER : Minister, I am going to sit you down. If you do not answer the question quickly, I am going to sit you down. Mr A.P. JACOB : What do you expect, Mr Speaker? I have only had — Several members interjected. Mr A.P. JACOB : I accept your ruling. The SPEAKER : I do not want to hear any more. Mr W.J. Johnston interjected. Withdrawal of Remark The SPEAKER : Member for Cannington, I never heard what you said, but if you said something untoward, withdraw it. Mr W.J. JOHNSTON : I withdraw. Questions without Notice Resumed The SPEAKER : Thank you. Now, please, a short answer, and I want it through the Chair. Let us move on. Mr A.P. JACOB : Thank you, Mr Speaker, and I would love nothing more than to come directly to the point. However, I draw to your attention that I am increasingly being shouted down. If the spotlight is turned back onto the integrity of members opposite — Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Minister, this is your last chance to answer the question. If you do not answer the question, you can sit down. Mr A.P. JACOB : Certainly, Mr Speaker. I am seeking the opportunity to set the record straight. Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Member for Cockburn! Mr A.P. JACOB : Mr Speaker, that was the question, and I am seeking to answer the member for Bunbury’s question. Point of Order Mr W.J. JOHNSTON : Mr Speaker, could I suggest that you draw to the attention of the minister standing order 148, which allows for personal explanations. Unfortunately, the minister has been asked a question under standing order 75, which is regarding his administrative responsibilities, not a personal explanation. The SPEAKER : Sit down. If you make spurious points of order, I am going to call you to order. Mr W.J. JOHNSTON : It is not spurious. Dr K.D. HAMES : Mr Speaker, further to that point of order, the question to the minister clearly asks for clarification and to set the record straight. He is trying, Mr Speaker, to set the record straight. The SPEAKER : The actual thing that you have to home in on is why this happened—why. So that is what I want you to address, through the Chair. Questions without Notice Resumed Mr A.P. JACOB : Thank you, Mr Speaker. The question related to the response in the midst of the Waroona fires—a response which ran over 17 days in January this year and which saw the firefighting services of this state significantly stretched. Indeed, in excess of 500 parks and wildlife staff alone were caught up in a direct response to that fire front of the Waroona fires over those 17 days. That is not including the Department of Fire and Emergency Services’ response, and, indeed, the important response from volunteer and local bush fire brigades. But the key point in my response is the claims that the firefighters in those communities, and, indeed, we as a government, were having to deal with in the midst of that response from the member for Girrawheen, who came out very strongly criticising the operational response to use contractors — Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Sit down, please. Next question.
I thank the member for Bunbury for the question. It is important to have an opportunity to set the record straight on a number of claims — Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Member for Girrawheen, you are on three calls; you are now on three and a half calls. Mr A.P. JACOB : The member for Girrawheen continues to play very fast and loose with the truth. I caught some of the interjections there — The SPEAKER : Just hold on a minute. What I want you to do is put your answer through the Chair. I do not want another fracas developing here. Mr A.P. JACOB : Indeed, as — Point of Order Dr A.D. BUTI : Mr Speaker, this is question time. I would like you to clarify what actual question was asked by the member for Bunbury. It was not a question asked of the Minister for Environment. The SPEAKER : I do not understand your point of order. It is not part of his portfolio—is that what you are saying? Dr A.D. BUTI : No, my question to you, Mr Speaker, was: did the member for Bunbury actually ask a question? He asked the minister to clarify or put on the record something he said yesterday. That is not a question, and this is question time. That would be a ministerial statement. The SPEAKER : Just repeat your question, please, member for Bunbury. Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Member for Willagee, I call you to order. Questions without Notice Resumed Mr G.M. CASTRILLI : Let me duplicate it in full, Mr Speaker. I will put my glasses on for a start. My question is to the Minister for Environment. Further to the minister’s comments yesterday in question time regarding the Department of Parks and Wildlife’s use of a contracted private firefighting organisation to work from Collie during the Waroona fire incident, could the minister please set the record straight on why his department did this? Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Thank you for that. Mr A.P. JACOB : Mr Speaker, they do not like being caught out! As I said, and particularly when it comes to the member for Girrawheen — The SPEAKER : Minister, I just want to say something to you. I do not want to have you and the member for Girrawheen have a fight. So go through the Chair, please. Mr A.P. JACOB : Absolutely, Mr Speaker. Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Members! Mr A.P. JACOB : There is form. We saw that yesterday with a question from the member for Girrawheen that was found to have absolutely no basis in truth whatsoever—indeed, referring to an agreement that had already been signed the year before and was entirely functional. It shows a pattern, in particular from the member for Girrawheen, but a pattern right across the board — Point of Order Mrs M.H. ROBERTS : Mr Speaker — Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Member for Wanneroo, I call you to order for, I think, the first time—the second time. Mrs M.H. ROBERTS : Minister, we have already wasted enough time hearing — Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : This is starting to get out of control. Something is going to happen if we do not bring it back on line. Mrs M.H. ROBERTS : We have finally ascertained that the member for Bunbury has now asked a question. I am calling upon the minister to answer it, rather than trying to redefine his answer from yesterday. The SPEAKER : Minister, through the Chair. Questions without Notice Resumed Mr A.P. JACOB : Thank you, Mr Speaker. Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : That is enough. Mr A.P. JACOB : Indeed, I think that although members opposite may not be in government, they are still members of Parliament, and they still have a responsibility to the Western Australian community, and to this place, to tell the truth and be honest, first of all, in the questions that they ask, and also to tell the truth and be honest in claims that they make frequently outside this place that are often found to have no basis whatsoever. Point of Order Mr W.J. JOHNSTON : Mr Speaker, we all know how dumb this guy is, but let us get it straight. He should just comply with the standing orders. That does not have anything to do with the — Questions without Notice Resumed The SPEAKER : Minister, I am going to sit you down. If you do not answer the question quickly, I am going to sit you down. Mr A.P. JACOB : What do you expect, Mr Speaker? I have only had — Several members interjected. Mr A.P. JACOB : I accept your ruling. The SPEAKER : I do not want to hear any more. Mr W.J. Johnston interjected. Withdrawal of Remark The SPEAKER : Member for Cannington, I never heard what you said, but if you said something untoward, withdraw it. Mr W.J. JOHNSTON : I withdraw. Questions without Notice Resumed The SPEAKER : Thank you. Now, please, a short answer, and I want it through the Chair. Let us move on. Mr A.P. JACOB : Thank you, Mr Speaker, and I would love nothing more than to come directly to the point. However, I draw to your attention that I am increasingly being shouted down. If the spotlight is turned back onto the integrity of members opposite — Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Minister, this is your last chance to answer the question. If you do not answer the question, you can sit down. Mr A.P. JACOB : Certainly, Mr Speaker. I am seeking the opportunity to set the record straight. Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Member for Cockburn! Mr A.P. JACOB : Mr Speaker, that was the question, and I am seeking to answer the member for Bunbury’s question. Point of Order Mr W.J. JOHNSTON : Mr Speaker, could I suggest that you draw to the attention of the minister standing order 148, which allows for personal explanations. Unfortunately, the minister has been asked a question under standing order 75, which is regarding his administrative responsibilities, not a personal explanation. The SPEAKER : Sit down. If you make spurious points of order, I am going to call you to order. Mr W.J. JOHNSTON : It is not spurious. Dr K.D. HAMES : Mr Speaker, further to that point of order, the question to the minister clearly asks for clarification and to set the record straight. He is trying, Mr Speaker, to set the record straight. The SPEAKER : The actual thing that you have to home in on is why this happened—why. So that is what I want you to address, through the Chair. Questions without Notice Resumed Mr A.P. JACOB : Thank you, Mr Speaker. The question related to the response in the midst of the Waroona fires—a response which ran over 17 days in January this year and which saw the firefighting services of this state significantly stretched. Indeed, in excess of 500 parks and wildlife staff alone were caught up in a direct response to that fire front of the Waroona fires over those 17 days. That is not including the Department of Fire and Emergency Services’ response, and, indeed, the important response from volunteer and local bush fire brigades. But the key point in my response is the claims that the firefighters in those communities, and, indeed, we as a government, were having to deal with in the midst of that response from the member for Girrawheen, who came out very strongly criticising the operational response to use contractors — Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Sit down, please. Next question.
Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Member for Girrawheen, you are on three calls; you are now on three and a half calls. Mr A.P. JACOB : The member for Girrawheen continues to play very fast and loose with the truth. I caught some of the interjections there — The SPEAKER : Just hold on a minute. What I want you to do is put your answer through the Chair. I do not want another fracas developing here. Mr A.P. JACOB : Indeed, as — Point of Order Dr A.D. BUTI : Mr Speaker, this is question time. I would like you to clarify what actual question was asked by the member for Bunbury. It was not a question asked of the Minister for Environment. The SPEAKER : I do not understand your point of order. It is not part of his portfolio—is that what you are saying? Dr A.D. BUTI : No, my question to you, Mr Speaker, was: did the member for Bunbury actually ask a question? He asked the minister to clarify or put on the record something he said yesterday. That is not a question, and this is question time. That would be a ministerial statement. The SPEAKER : Just repeat your question, please, member for Bunbury. Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Member for Willagee, I call you to order. Questions without Notice Resumed Mr G.M. CASTRILLI : Let me duplicate it in full, Mr Speaker. I will put my glasses on for a start. My question is to the Minister for Environment. Further to the minister’s comments yesterday in question time regarding the Department of Parks and Wildlife’s use of a contracted private firefighting organisation to work from Collie during the Waroona fire incident, could the minister please set the record straight on why his department did this? Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Thank you for that. Mr A.P. JACOB : Mr Speaker, they do not like being caught out! As I said, and particularly when it comes to the member for Girrawheen — The SPEAKER : Minister, I just want to say something to you. I do not want to have you and the member for Girrawheen have a fight. So go through the Chair, please. Mr A.P. JACOB : Absolutely, Mr Speaker. Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Members! Mr A.P. JACOB : There is form. We saw that yesterday with a question from the member for Girrawheen that was found to have absolutely no basis in truth whatsoever—indeed, referring to an agreement that had already been signed the year before and was entirely functional. It shows a pattern, in particular from the member for Girrawheen, but a pattern right across the board — Point of Order Mrs M.H. ROBERTS : Mr Speaker — Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Member for Wanneroo, I call you to order for, I think, the first time—the second time. Mrs M.H. ROBERTS : Minister, we have already wasted enough time hearing — Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : This is starting to get out of control. Something is going to happen if we do not bring it back on line. Mrs M.H. ROBERTS : We have finally ascertained that the member for Bunbury has now asked a question. I am calling upon the minister to answer it, rather than trying to redefine his answer from yesterday. The SPEAKER : Minister, through the Chair. Questions without Notice Resumed Mr A.P. JACOB : Thank you, Mr Speaker. Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : That is enough. Mr A.P. JACOB : Indeed, I think that although members opposite may not be in government, they are still members of Parliament, and they still have a responsibility to the Western Australian community, and to this place, to tell the truth and be honest, first of all, in the questions that they ask, and also to tell the truth and be honest in claims that they make frequently outside this place that are often found to have no basis whatsoever. Point of Order Mr W.J. JOHNSTON : Mr Speaker, we all know how dumb this guy is, but let us get it straight. He should just comply with the standing orders. That does not have anything to do with the — Questions without Notice Resumed The SPEAKER : Minister, I am going to sit you down. If you do not answer the question quickly, I am going to sit you down. Mr A.P. JACOB : What do you expect, Mr Speaker? I have only had — Several members interjected. Mr A.P. JACOB : I accept your ruling. The SPEAKER : I do not want to hear any more. Mr W.J. Johnston interjected. Withdrawal of Remark The SPEAKER : Member for Cannington, I never heard what you said, but if you said something untoward, withdraw it. Mr W.J. JOHNSTON : I withdraw. Questions without Notice Resumed The SPEAKER : Thank you. Now, please, a short answer, and I want it through the Chair. Let us move on. Mr A.P. JACOB : Thank you, Mr Speaker, and I would love nothing more than to come directly to the point. However, I draw to your attention that I am increasingly being shouted down. If the spotlight is turned back onto the integrity of members opposite — Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Minister, this is your last chance to answer the question. If you do not answer the question, you can sit down. Mr A.P. JACOB : Certainly, Mr Speaker. I am seeking the opportunity to set the record straight. Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Member for Cockburn! Mr A.P. JACOB : Mr Speaker, that was the question, and I am seeking to answer the member for Bunbury’s question. Point of Order Mr W.J. JOHNSTON : Mr Speaker, could I suggest that you draw to the attention of the minister standing order 148, which allows for personal explanations. Unfortunately, the minister has been asked a question under standing order 75, which is regarding his administrative responsibilities, not a personal explanation. The SPEAKER : Sit down. If you make spurious points of order, I am going to call you to order. Mr W.J. JOHNSTON : It is not spurious. Dr K.D. HAMES : Mr Speaker, further to that point of order, the question to the minister clearly asks for clarification and to set the record straight. He is trying, Mr Speaker, to set the record straight. The SPEAKER : The actual thing that you have to home in on is why this happened—why. So that is what I want you to address, through the Chair. Questions without Notice Resumed Mr A.P. JACOB : Thank you, Mr Speaker. The question related to the response in the midst of the Waroona fires—a response which ran over 17 days in January this year and which saw the firefighting services of this state significantly stretched. Indeed, in excess of 500 parks and wildlife staff alone were caught up in a direct response to that fire front of the Waroona fires over those 17 days. That is not including the Department of Fire and Emergency Services’ response, and, indeed, the important response from volunteer and local bush fire brigades. But the key point in my response is the claims that the firefighters in those communities, and, indeed, we as a government, were having to deal with in the midst of that response from the member for Girrawheen, who came out very strongly criticising the operational response to use contractors — Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Sit down, please. Next question.
The SPEAKER : Member for Girrawheen, you are on three calls; you are now on three and a half calls. Mr A.P. JACOB : The member for Girrawheen continues to play very fast and loose with the truth. I caught some of the interjections there — The SPEAKER : Just hold on a minute. What I want you to do is put your answer through the Chair. I do not want another fracas developing here. Mr A.P. JACOB : Indeed, as — Point of Order Dr A.D. BUTI : Mr Speaker, this is question time. I would like you to clarify what actual question was asked by the member for Bunbury. It was not a question asked of the Minister for Environment. The SPEAKER : I do not understand your point of order. It is not part of his portfolio—is that what you are saying? Dr A.D. BUTI : No, my question to you, Mr Speaker, was: did the member for Bunbury actually ask a question? He asked the minister to clarify or put on the record something he said yesterday. That is not a question, and this is question time. That would be a ministerial statement. The SPEAKER : Just repeat your question, please, member for Bunbury. Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Member for Willagee, I call you to order. Questions without Notice Resumed Mr G.M. CASTRILLI : Let me duplicate it in full, Mr Speaker. I will put my glasses on for a start. My question is to the Minister for Environment. Further to the minister’s comments yesterday in question time regarding the Department of Parks and Wildlife’s use of a contracted private firefighting organisation to work from Collie during the Waroona fire incident, could the minister please set the record straight on why his department did this? Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Thank you for that. Mr A.P. JACOB : Mr Speaker, they do not like being caught out! As I said, and particularly when it comes to the member for Girrawheen — The SPEAKER : Minister, I just want to say something to you. I do not want to have you and the member for Girrawheen have a fight. So go through the Chair, please. Mr A.P. JACOB : Absolutely, Mr Speaker. Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Members! Mr A.P. JACOB : There is form. We saw that yesterday with a question from the member for Girrawheen that was found to have absolutely no basis in truth whatsoever—indeed, referring to an agreement that had already been signed the year before and was entirely functional. It shows a pattern, in particular from the member for Girrawheen, but a pattern right across the board — Point of Order Mrs M.H. ROBERTS : Mr Speaker — Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Member for Wanneroo, I call you to order for, I think, the first time—the second time. Mrs M.H. ROBERTS : Minister, we have already wasted enough time hearing — Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : This is starting to get out of control. Something is going to happen if we do not bring it back on line. Mrs M.H. ROBERTS : We have finally ascertained that the member for Bunbury has now asked a question. I am calling upon the minister to answer it, rather than trying to redefine his answer from yesterday. The SPEAKER : Minister, through the Chair. Questions without Notice Resumed Mr A.P. JACOB : Thank you, Mr Speaker. Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : That is enough. Mr A.P. JACOB : Indeed, I think that although members opposite may not be in government, they are still members of Parliament, and they still have a responsibility to the Western Australian community, and to this place, to tell the truth and be honest, first of all, in the questions that they ask, and also to tell the truth and be honest in claims that they make frequently outside this place that are often found to have no basis whatsoever. Point of Order Mr W.J. JOHNSTON : Mr Speaker, we all know how dumb this guy is, but let us get it straight. He should just comply with the standing orders. That does not have anything to do with the — Questions without Notice Resumed The SPEAKER : Minister, I am going to sit you down. If you do not answer the question quickly, I am going to sit you down. Mr A.P. JACOB : What do you expect, Mr Speaker? I have only had — Several members interjected. Mr A.P. JACOB : I accept your ruling. The SPEAKER : I do not want to hear any more. Mr W.J. Johnston interjected. Withdrawal of Remark The SPEAKER : Member for Cannington, I never heard what you said, but if you said something untoward, withdraw it. Mr W.J. JOHNSTON : I withdraw. Questions without Notice Resumed The SPEAKER : Thank you. Now, please, a short answer, and I want it through the Chair. Let us move on. Mr A.P. JACOB : Thank you, Mr Speaker, and I would love nothing more than to come directly to the point. However, I draw to your attention that I am increasingly being shouted down. If the spotlight is turned back onto the integrity of members opposite — Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Minister, this is your last chance to answer the question. If you do not answer the question, you can sit down. Mr A.P. JACOB : Certainly, Mr Speaker. I am seeking the opportunity to set the record straight. Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Member for Cockburn! Mr A.P. JACOB : Mr Speaker, that was the question, and I am seeking to answer the member for Bunbury’s question. Point of Order Mr W.J. JOHNSTON : Mr Speaker, could I suggest that you draw to the attention of the minister standing order 148, which allows for personal explanations. Unfortunately, the minister has been asked a question under standing order 75, which is regarding his administrative responsibilities, not a personal explanation. The SPEAKER : Sit down. If you make spurious points of order, I am going to call you to order. Mr W.J. JOHNSTON : It is not spurious. Dr K.D. HAMES : Mr Speaker, further to that point of order, the question to the minister clearly asks for clarification and to set the record straight. He is trying, Mr Speaker, to set the record straight. The SPEAKER : The actual thing that you have to home in on is why this happened—why. So that is what I want you to address, through the Chair. Questions without Notice Resumed Mr A.P. JACOB : Thank you, Mr Speaker. The question related to the response in the midst of the Waroona fires—a response which ran over 17 days in January this year and which saw the firefighting services of this state significantly stretched. Indeed, in excess of 500 parks and wildlife staff alone were caught up in a direct response to that fire front of the Waroona fires over those 17 days. That is not including the Department of Fire and Emergency Services’ response, and, indeed, the important response from volunteer and local bush fire brigades. But the key point in my response is the claims that the firefighters in those communities, and, indeed, we as a government, were having to deal with in the midst of that response from the member for Girrawheen, who came out very strongly criticising the operational response to use contractors — Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Sit down, please. Next question.
Mr A.P. JACOB : The member for Girrawheen continues to play very fast and loose with the truth. I caught some of the interjections there — The SPEAKER : Just hold on a minute. What I want you to do is put your answer through the Chair. I do not want another fracas developing here. Mr A.P. JACOB : Indeed, as — Point of Order Dr A.D. BUTI : Mr Speaker, this is question time. I would like you to clarify what actual question was asked by the member for Bunbury. It was not a question asked of the Minister for Environment. The SPEAKER : I do not understand your point of order. It is not part of his portfolio—is that what you are saying? Dr A.D. BUTI : No, my question to you, Mr Speaker, was: did the member for Bunbury actually ask a question? He asked the minister to clarify or put on the record something he said yesterday. That is not a question, and this is question time. That would be a ministerial statement. The SPEAKER : Just repeat your question, please, member for Bunbury. Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Member for Willagee, I call you to order. Questions without Notice Resumed Mr G.M. CASTRILLI : Let me duplicate it in full, Mr Speaker. I will put my glasses on for a start. My question is to the Minister for Environment. Further to the minister’s comments yesterday in question time regarding the Department of Parks and Wildlife’s use of a contracted private firefighting organisation to work from Collie during the Waroona fire incident, could the minister please set the record straight on why his department did this? Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Thank you for that. Mr A.P. JACOB : Mr Speaker, they do not like being caught out! As I said, and particularly when it comes to the member for Girrawheen — The SPEAKER : Minister, I just want to say something to you. I do not want to have you and the member for Girrawheen have a fight. So go through the Chair, please. Mr A.P. JACOB : Absolutely, Mr Speaker. Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Members! Mr A.P. JACOB : There is form. We saw that yesterday with a question from the member for Girrawheen that was found to have absolutely no basis in truth whatsoever—indeed, referring to an agreement that had already been signed the year before and was entirely functional. It shows a pattern, in particular from the member for Girrawheen, but a pattern right across the board — Point of Order Mrs M.H. ROBERTS : Mr Speaker — Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Member for Wanneroo, I call you to order for, I think, the first time—the second time. Mrs M.H. ROBERTS : Minister, we have already wasted enough time hearing — Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : This is starting to get out of control. Something is going to happen if we do not bring it back on line. Mrs M.H. ROBERTS : We have finally ascertained that the member for Bunbury has now asked a question. I am calling upon the minister to answer it, rather than trying to redefine his answer from yesterday. The SPEAKER : Minister, through the Chair. Questions without Notice Resumed Mr A.P. JACOB : Thank you, Mr Speaker. Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : That is enough. Mr A.P. JACOB : Indeed, I think that although members opposite may not be in government, they are still members of Parliament, and they still have a responsibility to the Western Australian community, and to this place, to tell the truth and be honest, first of all, in the questions that they ask, and also to tell the truth and be honest in claims that they make frequently outside this place that are often found to have no basis whatsoever. Point of Order Mr W.J. JOHNSTON : Mr Speaker, we all know how dumb this guy is, but let us get it straight. He should just comply with the standing orders. That does not have anything to do with the — Questions without Notice Resumed The SPEAKER : Minister, I am going to sit you down. If you do not answer the question quickly, I am going to sit you down. Mr A.P. JACOB : What do you expect, Mr Speaker? I have only had — Several members interjected. Mr A.P. JACOB : I accept your ruling. The SPEAKER : I do not want to hear any more. Mr W.J. Johnston interjected. Withdrawal of Remark The SPEAKER : Member for Cannington, I never heard what you said, but if you said something untoward, withdraw it. Mr W.J. JOHNSTON : I withdraw. Questions without Notice Resumed The SPEAKER : Thank you. Now, please, a short answer, and I want it through the Chair. Let us move on. Mr A.P. JACOB : Thank you, Mr Speaker, and I would love nothing more than to come directly to the point. However, I draw to your attention that I am increasingly being shouted down. If the spotlight is turned back onto the integrity of members opposite — Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Minister, this is your last chance to answer the question. If you do not answer the question, you can sit down. Mr A.P. JACOB : Certainly, Mr Speaker. I am seeking the opportunity to set the record straight. Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Member for Cockburn! Mr A.P. JACOB : Mr Speaker, that was the question, and I am seeking to answer the member for Bunbury’s question. Point of Order Mr W.J. JOHNSTON : Mr Speaker, could I suggest that you draw to the attention of the minister standing order 148, which allows for personal explanations. Unfortunately, the minister has been asked a question under standing order 75, which is regarding his administrative responsibilities, not a personal explanation. The SPEAKER : Sit down. If you make spurious points of order, I am going to call you to order. Mr W.J. JOHNSTON : It is not spurious. Dr K.D. HAMES : Mr Speaker, further to that point of order, the question to the minister clearly asks for clarification and to set the record straight. He is trying, Mr Speaker, to set the record straight. The SPEAKER : The actual thing that you have to home in on is why this happened—why. So that is what I want you to address, through the Chair. Questions without Notice Resumed Mr A.P. JACOB : Thank you, Mr Speaker. The question related to the response in the midst of the Waroona fires—a response which ran over 17 days in January this year and which saw the firefighting services of this state significantly stretched. Indeed, in excess of 500 parks and wildlife staff alone were caught up in a direct response to that fire front of the Waroona fires over those 17 days. That is not including the Department of Fire and Emergency Services’ response, and, indeed, the important response from volunteer and local bush fire brigades. But the key point in my response is the claims that the firefighters in those communities, and, indeed, we as a government, were having to deal with in the midst of that response from the member for Girrawheen, who came out very strongly criticising the operational response to use contractors — Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Sit down, please. Next question.
The SPEAKER : Just hold on a minute. What I want you to do is put your answer through the Chair. I do not want another fracas developing here. Mr A.P. JACOB : Indeed, as — Point of Order Dr A.D. BUTI : Mr Speaker, this is question time. I would like you to clarify what actual question was asked by the member for Bunbury. It was not a question asked of the Minister for Environment. The SPEAKER : I do not understand your point of order. It is not part of his portfolio—is that what you are saying? Dr A.D. BUTI : No, my question to you, Mr Speaker, was: did the member for Bunbury actually ask a question? He asked the minister to clarify or put on the record something he said yesterday. That is not a question, and this is question time. That would be a ministerial statement. The SPEAKER : Just repeat your question, please, member for Bunbury. Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Member for Willagee, I call you to order. Questions without Notice Resumed Mr G.M. CASTRILLI : Let me duplicate it in full, Mr Speaker. I will put my glasses on for a start. My question is to the Minister for Environment. Further to the minister’s comments yesterday in question time regarding the Department of Parks and Wildlife’s use of a contracted private firefighting organisation to work from Collie during the Waroona fire incident, could the minister please set the record straight on why his department did this? Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Thank you for that. Mr A.P. JACOB : Mr Speaker, they do not like being caught out! As I said, and particularly when it comes to the member for Girrawheen — The SPEAKER : Minister, I just want to say something to you. I do not want to have you and the member for Girrawheen have a fight. So go through the Chair, please. Mr A.P. JACOB : Absolutely, Mr Speaker. Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Members! Mr A.P. JACOB : There is form. We saw that yesterday with a question from the member for Girrawheen that was found to have absolutely no basis in truth whatsoever—indeed, referring to an agreement that had already been signed the year before and was entirely functional. It shows a pattern, in particular from the member for Girrawheen, but a pattern right across the board — Point of Order Mrs M.H. ROBERTS : Mr Speaker — Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Member for Wanneroo, I call you to order for, I think, the first time—the second time. Mrs M.H. ROBERTS : Minister, we have already wasted enough time hearing — Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : This is starting to get out of control. Something is going to happen if we do not bring it back on line. Mrs M.H. ROBERTS : We have finally ascertained that the member for Bunbury has now asked a question. I am calling upon the minister to answer it, rather than trying to redefine his answer from yesterday. The SPEAKER : Minister, through the Chair. Questions without Notice Resumed Mr A.P. JACOB : Thank you, Mr Speaker. Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : That is enough. Mr A.P. JACOB : Indeed, I think that although members opposite may not be in government, they are still members of Parliament, and they still have a responsibility to the Western Australian community, and to this place, to tell the truth and be honest, first of all, in the questions that they ask, and also to tell the truth and be honest in claims that they make frequently outside this place that are often found to have no basis whatsoever. Point of Order Mr W.J. JOHNSTON : Mr Speaker, we all know how dumb this guy is, but let us get it straight. He should just comply with the standing orders. That does not have anything to do with the — Questions without Notice Resumed The SPEAKER : Minister, I am going to sit you down. If you do not answer the question quickly, I am going to sit you down. Mr A.P. JACOB : What do you expect, Mr Speaker? I have only had — Several members interjected. Mr A.P. JACOB : I accept your ruling. The SPEAKER : I do not want to hear any more. Mr W.J. Johnston interjected. Withdrawal of Remark The SPEAKER : Member for Cannington, I never heard what you said, but if you said something untoward, withdraw it. Mr W.J. JOHNSTON : I withdraw. Questions without Notice Resumed The SPEAKER : Thank you. Now, please, a short answer, and I want it through the Chair. Let us move on. Mr A.P. JACOB : Thank you, Mr Speaker, and I would love nothing more than to come directly to the point. However, I draw to your attention that I am increasingly being shouted down. If the spotlight is turned back onto the integrity of members opposite — Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Minister, this is your last chance to answer the question. If you do not answer the question, you can sit down. Mr A.P. JACOB : Certainly, Mr Speaker. I am seeking the opportunity to set the record straight. Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Member for Cockburn! Mr A.P. JACOB : Mr Speaker, that was the question, and I am seeking to answer the member for Bunbury’s question. Point of Order Mr W.J. JOHNSTON : Mr Speaker, could I suggest that you draw to the attention of the minister standing order 148, which allows for personal explanations. Unfortunately, the minister has been asked a question under standing order 75, which is regarding his administrative responsibilities, not a personal explanation. The SPEAKER : Sit down. If you make spurious points of order, I am going to call you to order. Mr W.J. JOHNSTON : It is not spurious. Dr K.D. HAMES : Mr Speaker, further to that point of order, the question to the minister clearly asks for clarification and to set the record straight. He is trying, Mr Speaker, to set the record straight. The SPEAKER : The actual thing that you have to home in on is why this happened—why. So that is what I want you to address, through the Chair. Questions without Notice Resumed Mr A.P. JACOB : Thank you, Mr Speaker. The question related to the response in the midst of the Waroona fires—a response which ran over 17 days in January this year and which saw the firefighting services of this state significantly stretched. Indeed, in excess of 500 parks and wildlife staff alone were caught up in a direct response to that fire front of the Waroona fires over those 17 days. That is not including the Department of Fire and Emergency Services’ response, and, indeed, the important response from volunteer and local bush fire brigades. But the key point in my response is the claims that the firefighters in those communities, and, indeed, we as a government, were having to deal with in the midst of that response from the member for Girrawheen, who came out very strongly criticising the operational response to use contractors — Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Sit down, please. Next question.
Mr A.P. JACOB : Indeed, as — Point of Order Dr A.D. BUTI : Mr Speaker, this is question time. I would like you to clarify what actual question was asked by the member for Bunbury. It was not a question asked of the Minister for Environment. The SPEAKER : I do not understand your point of order. It is not part of his portfolio—is that what you are saying? Dr A.D. BUTI : No, my question to you, Mr Speaker, was: did the member for Bunbury actually ask a question? He asked the minister to clarify or put on the record something he said yesterday. That is not a question, and this is question time. That would be a ministerial statement. The SPEAKER : Just repeat your question, please, member for Bunbury. Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Member for Willagee, I call you to order. Questions without Notice Resumed Mr G.M. CASTRILLI : Let me duplicate it in full, Mr Speaker. I will put my glasses on for a start. My question is to the Minister for Environment. Further to the minister’s comments yesterday in question time regarding the Department of Parks and Wildlife’s use of a contracted private firefighting organisation to work from Collie during the Waroona fire incident, could the minister please set the record straight on why his department did this? Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Thank you for that. Mr A.P. JACOB : Mr Speaker, they do not like being caught out! As I said, and particularly when it comes to the member for Girrawheen — The SPEAKER : Minister, I just want to say something to you. I do not want to have you and the member for Girrawheen have a fight. So go through the Chair, please. Mr A.P. JACOB : Absolutely, Mr Speaker. Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Members! Mr A.P. JACOB : There is form. We saw that yesterday with a question from the member for Girrawheen that was found to have absolutely no basis in truth whatsoever—indeed, referring to an agreement that had already been signed the year before and was entirely functional. It shows a pattern, in particular from the member for Girrawheen, but a pattern right across the board — Point of Order Mrs M.H. ROBERTS : Mr Speaker — Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Member for Wanneroo, I call you to order for, I think, the first time—the second time. Mrs M.H. ROBERTS : Minister, we have already wasted enough time hearing — Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : This is starting to get out of control. Something is going to happen if we do not bring it back on line. Mrs M.H. ROBERTS : We have finally ascertained that the member for Bunbury has now asked a question. I am calling upon the minister to answer it, rather than trying to redefine his answer from yesterday. The SPEAKER : Minister, through the Chair. Questions without Notice Resumed Mr A.P. JACOB : Thank you, Mr Speaker. Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : That is enough. Mr A.P. JACOB : Indeed, I think that although members opposite may not be in government, they are still members of Parliament, and they still have a responsibility to the Western Australian community, and to this place, to tell the truth and be honest, first of all, in the questions that they ask, and also to tell the truth and be honest in claims that they make frequently outside this place that are often found to have no basis whatsoever. Point of Order Mr W.J. JOHNSTON : Mr Speaker, we all know how dumb this guy is, but let us get it straight. He should just comply with the standing orders. That does not have anything to do with the — Questions without Notice Resumed The SPEAKER : Minister, I am going to sit you down. If you do not answer the question quickly, I am going to sit you down. Mr A.P. JACOB : What do you expect, Mr Speaker? I have only had — Several members interjected. Mr A.P. JACOB : I accept your ruling. The SPEAKER : I do not want to hear any more. Mr W.J. Johnston interjected. Withdrawal of Remark The SPEAKER : Member for Cannington, I never heard what you said, but if you said something untoward, withdraw it. Mr W.J. JOHNSTON : I withdraw. Questions without Notice Resumed The SPEAKER : Thank you. Now, please, a short answer, and I want it through the Chair. Let us move on. Mr A.P. JACOB : Thank you, Mr Speaker, and I would love nothing more than to come directly to the point. However, I draw to your attention that I am increasingly being shouted down. If the spotlight is turned back onto the integrity of members opposite — Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Minister, this is your last chance to answer the question. If you do not answer the question, you can sit down. Mr A.P. JACOB : Certainly, Mr Speaker. I am seeking the opportunity to set the record straight. Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Member for Cockburn! Mr A.P. JACOB : Mr Speaker, that was the question, and I am seeking to answer the member for Bunbury’s question. Point of Order Mr W.J. JOHNSTON : Mr Speaker, could I suggest that you draw to the attention of the minister standing order 148, which allows for personal explanations. Unfortunately, the minister has been asked a question under standing order 75, which is regarding his administrative responsibilities, not a personal explanation. The SPEAKER : Sit down. If you make spurious points of order, I am going to call you to order. Mr W.J. JOHNSTON : It is not spurious. Dr K.D. HAMES : Mr Speaker, further to that point of order, the question to the minister clearly asks for clarification and to set the record straight. He is trying, Mr Speaker, to set the record straight. The SPEAKER : The actual thing that you have to home in on is why this happened—why. So that is what I want you to address, through the Chair. Questions without Notice Resumed Mr A.P. JACOB : Thank you, Mr Speaker. The question related to the response in the midst of the Waroona fires—a response which ran over 17 days in January this year and which saw the firefighting services of this state significantly stretched. Indeed, in excess of 500 parks and wildlife staff alone were caught up in a direct response to that fire front of the Waroona fires over those 17 days. That is not including the Department of Fire and Emergency Services’ response, and, indeed, the important response from volunteer and local bush fire brigades. But the key point in my response is the claims that the firefighters in those communities, and, indeed, we as a government, were having to deal with in the midst of that response from the member for Girrawheen, who came out very strongly criticising the operational response to use contractors — Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Sit down, please. Next question.
The SPEAKER : I do not understand your point of order. It is not part of his portfolio—is that what you are saying? Dr A.D. BUTI : No, my question to you, Mr Speaker, was: did the member for Bunbury actually ask a question? He asked the minister to clarify or put on the record something he said yesterday. That is not a question, and this is question time. That would be a ministerial statement. The SPEAKER : Just repeat your question, please, member for Bunbury. Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Member for Willagee, I call you to order. Questions without Notice Resumed Mr G.M. CASTRILLI : Let me duplicate it in full, Mr Speaker. I will put my glasses on for a start. My question is to the Minister for Environment. Further to the minister’s comments yesterday in question time regarding the Department of Parks and Wildlife’s use of a contracted private firefighting organisation to work from Collie during the Waroona fire incident, could the minister please set the record straight on why his department did this? Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Thank you for that. Mr A.P. JACOB : Mr Speaker, they do not like being caught out! As I said, and particularly when it comes to the member for Girrawheen — The SPEAKER : Minister, I just want to say something to you. I do not want to have you and the member for Girrawheen have a fight. So go through the Chair, please. Mr A.P. JACOB : Absolutely, Mr Speaker. Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Members! Mr A.P. JACOB : There is form. We saw that yesterday with a question from the member for Girrawheen that was found to have absolutely no basis in truth whatsoever—indeed, referring to an agreement that had already been signed the year before and was entirely functional. It shows a pattern, in particular from the member for Girrawheen, but a pattern right across the board — Point of Order Mrs M.H. ROBERTS : Mr Speaker — Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Member for Wanneroo, I call you to order for, I think, the first time—the second time. Mrs M.H. ROBERTS : Minister, we have already wasted enough time hearing — Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : This is starting to get out of control. Something is going to happen if we do not bring it back on line. Mrs M.H. ROBERTS : We have finally ascertained that the member for Bunbury has now asked a question. I am calling upon the minister to answer it, rather than trying to redefine his answer from yesterday. The SPEAKER : Minister, through the Chair. Questions without Notice Resumed Mr A.P. JACOB : Thank you, Mr Speaker. Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : That is enough. Mr A.P. JACOB : Indeed, I think that although members opposite may not be in government, they are still members of Parliament, and they still have a responsibility to the Western Australian community, and to this place, to tell the truth and be honest, first of all, in the questions that they ask, and also to tell the truth and be honest in claims that they make frequently outside this place that are often found to have no basis whatsoever. Point of Order Mr W.J. JOHNSTON : Mr Speaker, we all know how dumb this guy is, but let us get it straight. He should just comply with the standing orders. That does not have anything to do with the — Questions without Notice Resumed The SPEAKER : Minister, I am going to sit you down. If you do not answer the question quickly, I am going to sit you down. Mr A.P. JACOB : What do you expect, Mr Speaker? I have only had — Several members interjected. Mr A.P. JACOB : I accept your ruling. The SPEAKER : I do not want to hear any more. Mr W.J. Johnston interjected. Withdrawal of Remark The SPEAKER : Member for Cannington, I never heard what you said, but if you said something untoward, withdraw it. Mr W.J. JOHNSTON : I withdraw. Questions without Notice Resumed The SPEAKER : Thank you. Now, please, a short answer, and I want it through the Chair. Let us move on. Mr A.P. JACOB : Thank you, Mr Speaker, and I would love nothing more than to come directly to the point. However, I draw to your attention that I am increasingly being shouted down. If the spotlight is turned back onto the integrity of members opposite — Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Minister, this is your last chance to answer the question. If you do not answer the question, you can sit down. Mr A.P. JACOB : Certainly, Mr Speaker. I am seeking the opportunity to set the record straight. Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Member for Cockburn! Mr A.P. JACOB : Mr Speaker, that was the question, and I am seeking to answer the member for Bunbury’s question. Point of Order Mr W.J. JOHNSTON : Mr Speaker, could I suggest that you draw to the attention of the minister standing order 148, which allows for personal explanations. Unfortunately, the minister has been asked a question under standing order 75, which is regarding his administrative responsibilities, not a personal explanation. The SPEAKER : Sit down. If you make spurious points of order, I am going to call you to order. Mr W.J. JOHNSTON : It is not spurious. Dr K.D. HAMES : Mr Speaker, further to that point of order, the question to the minister clearly asks for clarification and to set the record straight. He is trying, Mr Speaker, to set the record straight. The SPEAKER : The actual thing that you have to home in on is why this happened—why. So that is what I want you to address, through the Chair. Questions without Notice Resumed Mr A.P. JACOB : Thank you, Mr Speaker. The question related to the response in the midst of the Waroona fires—a response which ran over 17 days in January this year and which saw the firefighting services of this state significantly stretched. Indeed, in excess of 500 parks and wildlife staff alone were caught up in a direct response to that fire front of the Waroona fires over those 17 days. That is not including the Department of Fire and Emergency Services’ response, and, indeed, the important response from volunteer and local bush fire brigades. But the key point in my response is the claims that the firefighters in those communities, and, indeed, we as a government, were having to deal with in the midst of that response from the member for Girrawheen, who came out very strongly criticising the operational response to use contractors — Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Sit down, please. Next question.
Dr A.D. BUTI : No, my question to you, Mr Speaker, was: did the member for Bunbury actually ask a question? He asked the minister to clarify or put on the record something he said yesterday. That is not a question, and this is question time. That would be a ministerial statement. The SPEAKER : Just repeat your question, please, member for Bunbury. Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Member for Willagee, I call you to order. Questions without Notice Resumed Mr G.M. CASTRILLI : Let me duplicate it in full, Mr Speaker. I will put my glasses on for a start. My question is to the Minister for Environment. Further to the minister’s comments yesterday in question time regarding the Department of Parks and Wildlife’s use of a contracted private firefighting organisation to work from Collie during the Waroona fire incident, could the minister please set the record straight on why his department did this? Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Thank you for that. Mr A.P. JACOB : Mr Speaker, they do not like being caught out! As I said, and particularly when it comes to the member for Girrawheen — The SPEAKER : Minister, I just want to say something to you. I do not want to have you and the member for Girrawheen have a fight. So go through the Chair, please. Mr A.P. JACOB : Absolutely, Mr Speaker. Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Members! Mr A.P. JACOB : There is form. We saw that yesterday with a question from the member for Girrawheen that was found to have absolutely no basis in truth whatsoever—indeed, referring to an agreement that had already been signed the year before and was entirely functional. It shows a pattern, in particular from the member for Girrawheen, but a pattern right across the board — Point of Order Mrs M.H. ROBERTS : Mr Speaker — Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Member for Wanneroo, I call you to order for, I think, the first time—the second time. Mrs M.H. ROBERTS : Minister, we have already wasted enough time hearing — Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : This is starting to get out of control. Something is going to happen if we do not bring it back on line. Mrs M.H. ROBERTS : We have finally ascertained that the member for Bunbury has now asked a question. I am calling upon the minister to answer it, rather than trying to redefine his answer from yesterday. The SPEAKER : Minister, through the Chair. Questions without Notice Resumed Mr A.P. JACOB : Thank you, Mr Speaker. Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : That is enough. Mr A.P. JACOB : Indeed, I think that although members opposite may not be in government, they are still members of Parliament, and they still have a responsibility to the Western Australian community, and to this place, to tell the truth and be honest, first of all, in the questions that they ask, and also to tell the truth and be honest in claims that they make frequently outside this place that are often found to have no basis whatsoever. Point of Order Mr W.J. JOHNSTON : Mr Speaker, we all know how dumb this guy is, but let us get it straight. He should just comply with the standing orders. That does not have anything to do with the — Questions without Notice Resumed The SPEAKER : Minister, I am going to sit you down. If you do not answer the question quickly, I am going to sit you down. Mr A.P. JACOB : What do you expect, Mr Speaker? I have only had — Several members interjected. Mr A.P. JACOB : I accept your ruling. The SPEAKER : I do not want to hear any more. Mr W.J. Johnston interjected. Withdrawal of Remark The SPEAKER : Member for Cannington, I never heard what you said, but if you said something untoward, withdraw it. Mr W.J. JOHNSTON : I withdraw. Questions without Notice Resumed The SPEAKER : Thank you. Now, please, a short answer, and I want it through the Chair. Let us move on. Mr A.P. JACOB : Thank you, Mr Speaker, and I would love nothing more than to come directly to the point. However, I draw to your attention that I am increasingly being shouted down. If the spotlight is turned back onto the integrity of members opposite — Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Minister, this is your last chance to answer the question. If you do not answer the question, you can sit down. Mr A.P. JACOB : Certainly, Mr Speaker. I am seeking the opportunity to set the record straight. Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Member for Cockburn! Mr A.P. JACOB : Mr Speaker, that was the question, and I am seeking to answer the member for Bunbury’s question. Point of Order Mr W.J. JOHNSTON : Mr Speaker, could I suggest that you draw to the attention of the minister standing order 148, which allows for personal explanations. Unfortunately, the minister has been asked a question under standing order 75, which is regarding his administrative responsibilities, not a personal explanation. The SPEAKER : Sit down. If you make spurious points of order, I am going to call you to order. Mr W.J. JOHNSTON : It is not spurious. Dr K.D. HAMES : Mr Speaker, further to that point of order, the question to the minister clearly asks for clarification and to set the record straight. He is trying, Mr Speaker, to set the record straight. The SPEAKER : The actual thing that you have to home in on is why this happened—why. So that is what I want you to address, through the Chair. Questions without Notice Resumed Mr A.P. JACOB : Thank you, Mr Speaker. The question related to the response in the midst of the Waroona fires—a response which ran over 17 days in January this year and which saw the firefighting services of this state significantly stretched. Indeed, in excess of 500 parks and wildlife staff alone were caught up in a direct response to that fire front of the Waroona fires over those 17 days. That is not including the Department of Fire and Emergency Services’ response, and, indeed, the important response from volunteer and local bush fire brigades. But the key point in my response is the claims that the firefighters in those communities, and, indeed, we as a government, were having to deal with in the midst of that response from the member for Girrawheen, who came out very strongly criticising the operational response to use contractors — Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Sit down, please. Next question.
The SPEAKER : Just repeat your question, please, member for Bunbury. Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Member for Willagee, I call you to order. Questions without Notice Resumed Mr G.M. CASTRILLI : Let me duplicate it in full, Mr Speaker. I will put my glasses on for a start. My question is to the Minister for Environment. Further to the minister’s comments yesterday in question time regarding the Department of Parks and Wildlife’s use of a contracted private firefighting organisation to work from Collie during the Waroona fire incident, could the minister please set the record straight on why his department did this? Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Thank you for that. Mr A.P. JACOB : Mr Speaker, they do not like being caught out! As I said, and particularly when it comes to the member for Girrawheen — The SPEAKER : Minister, I just want to say something to you. I do not want to have you and the member for Girrawheen have a fight. So go through the Chair, please. Mr A.P. JACOB : Absolutely, Mr Speaker. Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Members! Mr A.P. JACOB : There is form. We saw that yesterday with a question from the member for Girrawheen that was found to have absolutely no basis in truth whatsoever—indeed, referring to an agreement that had already been signed the year before and was entirely functional. It shows a pattern, in particular from the member for Girrawheen, but a pattern right across the board — Point of Order Mrs M.H. ROBERTS : Mr Speaker — Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Member for Wanneroo, I call you to order for, I think, the first time—the second time. Mrs M.H. ROBERTS : Minister, we have already wasted enough time hearing — Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : This is starting to get out of control. Something is going to happen if we do not bring it back on line. Mrs M.H. ROBERTS : We have finally ascertained that the member for Bunbury has now asked a question. I am calling upon the minister to answer it, rather than trying to redefine his answer from yesterday. The SPEAKER : Minister, through the Chair. Questions without Notice Resumed Mr A.P. JACOB : Thank you, Mr Speaker. Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : That is enough. Mr A.P. JACOB : Indeed, I think that although members opposite may not be in government, they are still members of Parliament, and they still have a responsibility to the Western Australian community, and to this place, to tell the truth and be honest, first of all, in the questions that they ask, and also to tell the truth and be honest in claims that they make frequently outside this place that are often found to have no basis whatsoever. Point of Order Mr W.J. JOHNSTON : Mr Speaker, we all know how dumb this guy is, but let us get it straight. He should just comply with the standing orders. That does not have anything to do with the — Questions without Notice Resumed The SPEAKER : Minister, I am going to sit you down. If you do not answer the question quickly, I am going to sit you down. Mr A.P. JACOB : What do you expect, Mr Speaker? I have only had — Several members interjected. Mr A.P. JACOB : I accept your ruling. The SPEAKER : I do not want to hear any more. Mr W.J. Johnston interjected. Withdrawal of Remark The SPEAKER : Member for Cannington, I never heard what you said, but if you said something untoward, withdraw it. Mr W.J. JOHNSTON : I withdraw. Questions without Notice Resumed The SPEAKER : Thank you. Now, please, a short answer, and I want it through the Chair. Let us move on. Mr A.P. JACOB : Thank you, Mr Speaker, and I would love nothing more than to come directly to the point. However, I draw to your attention that I am increasingly being shouted down. If the spotlight is turned back onto the integrity of members opposite — Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Minister, this is your last chance to answer the question. If you do not answer the question, you can sit down. Mr A.P. JACOB : Certainly, Mr Speaker. I am seeking the opportunity to set the record straight. Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Member for Cockburn! Mr A.P. JACOB : Mr Speaker, that was the question, and I am seeking to answer the member for Bunbury’s question. Point of Order Mr W.J. JOHNSTON : Mr Speaker, could I suggest that you draw to the attention of the minister standing order 148, which allows for personal explanations. Unfortunately, the minister has been asked a question under standing order 75, which is regarding his administrative responsibilities, not a personal explanation. The SPEAKER : Sit down. If you make spurious points of order, I am going to call you to order. Mr W.J. JOHNSTON : It is not spurious. Dr K.D. HAMES : Mr Speaker, further to that point of order, the question to the minister clearly asks for clarification and to set the record straight. He is trying, Mr Speaker, to set the record straight. The SPEAKER : The actual thing that you have to home in on is why this happened—why. So that is what I want you to address, through the Chair. Questions without Notice Resumed Mr A.P. JACOB : Thank you, Mr Speaker. The question related to the response in the midst of the Waroona fires—a response which ran over 17 days in January this year and which saw the firefighting services of this state significantly stretched. Indeed, in excess of 500 parks and wildlife staff alone were caught up in a direct response to that fire front of the Waroona fires over those 17 days. That is not including the Department of Fire and Emergency Services’ response, and, indeed, the important response from volunteer and local bush fire brigades. But the key point in my response is the claims that the firefighters in those communities, and, indeed, we as a government, were having to deal with in the midst of that response from the member for Girrawheen, who came out very strongly criticising the operational response to use contractors — Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Sit down, please. Next question.
Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Member for Willagee, I call you to order. Questions without Notice Resumed Mr G.M. CASTRILLI : Let me duplicate it in full, Mr Speaker. I will put my glasses on for a start. My question is to the Minister for Environment. Further to the minister’s comments yesterday in question time regarding the Department of Parks and Wildlife’s use of a contracted private firefighting organisation to work from Collie during the Waroona fire incident, could the minister please set the record straight on why his department did this? Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Thank you for that. Mr A.P. JACOB : Mr Speaker, they do not like being caught out! As I said, and particularly when it comes to the member for Girrawheen — The SPEAKER : Minister, I just want to say something to you. I do not want to have you and the member for Girrawheen have a fight. So go through the Chair, please. Mr A.P. JACOB : Absolutely, Mr Speaker. Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Members! Mr A.P. JACOB : There is form. We saw that yesterday with a question from the member for Girrawheen that was found to have absolutely no basis in truth whatsoever—indeed, referring to an agreement that had already been signed the year before and was entirely functional. It shows a pattern, in particular from the member for Girrawheen, but a pattern right across the board — Point of Order Mrs M.H. ROBERTS : Mr Speaker — Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Member for Wanneroo, I call you to order for, I think, the first time—the second time. Mrs M.H. ROBERTS : Minister, we have already wasted enough time hearing — Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : This is starting to get out of control. Something is going to happen if we do not bring it back on line. Mrs M.H. ROBERTS : We have finally ascertained that the member for Bunbury has now asked a question. I am calling upon the minister to answer it, rather than trying to redefine his answer from yesterday. The SPEAKER : Minister, through the Chair. Questions without Notice Resumed Mr A.P. JACOB : Thank you, Mr Speaker. Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : That is enough. Mr A.P. JACOB : Indeed, I think that although members opposite may not be in government, they are still members of Parliament, and they still have a responsibility to the Western Australian community, and to this place, to tell the truth and be honest, first of all, in the questions that they ask, and also to tell the truth and be honest in claims that they make frequently outside this place that are often found to have no basis whatsoever. Point of Order Mr W.J. JOHNSTON : Mr Speaker, we all know how dumb this guy is, but let us get it straight. He should just comply with the standing orders. That does not have anything to do with the — Questions without Notice Resumed The SPEAKER : Minister, I am going to sit you down. If you do not answer the question quickly, I am going to sit you down. Mr A.P. JACOB : What do you expect, Mr Speaker? I have only had — Several members interjected. Mr A.P. JACOB : I accept your ruling. The SPEAKER : I do not want to hear any more. Mr W.J. Johnston interjected. Withdrawal of Remark The SPEAKER : Member for Cannington, I never heard what you said, but if you said something untoward, withdraw it. Mr W.J. JOHNSTON : I withdraw. Questions without Notice Resumed The SPEAKER : Thank you. Now, please, a short answer, and I want it through the Chair. Let us move on. Mr A.P. JACOB : Thank you, Mr Speaker, and I would love nothing more than to come directly to the point. However, I draw to your attention that I am increasingly being shouted down. If the spotlight is turned back onto the integrity of members opposite — Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Minister, this is your last chance to answer the question. If you do not answer the question, you can sit down. Mr A.P. JACOB : Certainly, Mr Speaker. I am seeking the opportunity to set the record straight. Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Member for Cockburn! Mr A.P. JACOB : Mr Speaker, that was the question, and I am seeking to answer the member for Bunbury’s question. Point of Order Mr W.J. JOHNSTON : Mr Speaker, could I suggest that you draw to the attention of the minister standing order 148, which allows for personal explanations. Unfortunately, the minister has been asked a question under standing order 75, which is regarding his administrative responsibilities, not a personal explanation. The SPEAKER : Sit down. If you make spurious points of order, I am going to call you to order. Mr W.J. JOHNSTON : It is not spurious. Dr K.D. HAMES : Mr Speaker, further to that point of order, the question to the minister clearly asks for clarification and to set the record straight. He is trying, Mr Speaker, to set the record straight. The SPEAKER : The actual thing that you have to home in on is why this happened—why. So that is what I want you to address, through the Chair. Questions without Notice Resumed Mr A.P. JACOB : Thank you, Mr Speaker. The question related to the response in the midst of the Waroona fires—a response which ran over 17 days in January this year and which saw the firefighting services of this state significantly stretched. Indeed, in excess of 500 parks and wildlife staff alone were caught up in a direct response to that fire front of the Waroona fires over those 17 days. That is not including the Department of Fire and Emergency Services’ response, and, indeed, the important response from volunteer and local bush fire brigades. But the key point in my response is the claims that the firefighters in those communities, and, indeed, we as a government, were having to deal with in the midst of that response from the member for Girrawheen, who came out very strongly criticising the operational response to use contractors — Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Sit down, please. Next question.
The SPEAKER : Member for Willagee, I call you to order. Questions without Notice Resumed Mr G.M. CASTRILLI : Let me duplicate it in full, Mr Speaker. I will put my glasses on for a start. My question is to the Minister for Environment. Further to the minister’s comments yesterday in question time regarding the Department of Parks and Wildlife’s use of a contracted private firefighting organisation to work from Collie during the Waroona fire incident, could the minister please set the record straight on why his department did this? Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Thank you for that. Mr A.P. JACOB : Mr Speaker, they do not like being caught out! As I said, and particularly when it comes to the member for Girrawheen — The SPEAKER : Minister, I just want to say something to you. I do not want to have you and the member for Girrawheen have a fight. So go through the Chair, please. Mr A.P. JACOB : Absolutely, Mr Speaker. Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Members! Mr A.P. JACOB : There is form. We saw that yesterday with a question from the member for Girrawheen that was found to have absolutely no basis in truth whatsoever—indeed, referring to an agreement that had already been signed the year before and was entirely functional. It shows a pattern, in particular from the member for Girrawheen, but a pattern right across the board — Point of Order Mrs M.H. ROBERTS : Mr Speaker — Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Member for Wanneroo, I call you to order for, I think, the first time—the second time. Mrs M.H. ROBERTS : Minister, we have already wasted enough time hearing — Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : This is starting to get out of control. Something is going to happen if we do not bring it back on line. Mrs M.H. ROBERTS : We have finally ascertained that the member for Bunbury has now asked a question. I am calling upon the minister to answer it, rather than trying to redefine his answer from yesterday. The SPEAKER : Minister, through the Chair. Questions without Notice Resumed Mr A.P. JACOB : Thank you, Mr Speaker. Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : That is enough. Mr A.P. JACOB : Indeed, I think that although members opposite may not be in government, they are still members of Parliament, and they still have a responsibility to the Western Australian community, and to this place, to tell the truth and be honest, first of all, in the questions that they ask, and also to tell the truth and be honest in claims that they make frequently outside this place that are often found to have no basis whatsoever. Point of Order Mr W.J. JOHNSTON : Mr Speaker, we all know how dumb this guy is, but let us get it straight. He should just comply with the standing orders. That does not have anything to do with the — Questions without Notice Resumed The SPEAKER : Minister, I am going to sit you down. If you do not answer the question quickly, I am going to sit you down. Mr A.P. JACOB : What do you expect, Mr Speaker? I have only had — Several members interjected. Mr A.P. JACOB : I accept your ruling. The SPEAKER : I do not want to hear any more. Mr W.J. Johnston interjected. Withdrawal of Remark The SPEAKER : Member for Cannington, I never heard what you said, but if you said something untoward, withdraw it. Mr W.J. JOHNSTON : I withdraw. Questions without Notice Resumed The SPEAKER : Thank you. Now, please, a short answer, and I want it through the Chair. Let us move on. Mr A.P. JACOB : Thank you, Mr Speaker, and I would love nothing more than to come directly to the point. However, I draw to your attention that I am increasingly being shouted down. If the spotlight is turned back onto the integrity of members opposite — Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Minister, this is your last chance to answer the question. If you do not answer the question, you can sit down. Mr A.P. JACOB : Certainly, Mr Speaker. I am seeking the opportunity to set the record straight. Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Member for Cockburn! Mr A.P. JACOB : Mr Speaker, that was the question, and I am seeking to answer the member for Bunbury’s question. Point of Order Mr W.J. JOHNSTON : Mr Speaker, could I suggest that you draw to the attention of the minister standing order 148, which allows for personal explanations. Unfortunately, the minister has been asked a question under standing order 75, which is regarding his administrative responsibilities, not a personal explanation. The SPEAKER : Sit down. If you make spurious points of order, I am going to call you to order. Mr W.J. JOHNSTON : It is not spurious. Dr K.D. HAMES : Mr Speaker, further to that point of order, the question to the minister clearly asks for clarification and to set the record straight. He is trying, Mr Speaker, to set the record straight. The SPEAKER : The actual thing that you have to home in on is why this happened—why. So that is what I want you to address, through the Chair. Questions without Notice Resumed Mr A.P. JACOB : Thank you, Mr Speaker. The question related to the response in the midst of the Waroona fires—a response which ran over 17 days in January this year and which saw the firefighting services of this state significantly stretched. Indeed, in excess of 500 parks and wildlife staff alone were caught up in a direct response to that fire front of the Waroona fires over those 17 days. That is not including the Department of Fire and Emergency Services’ response, and, indeed, the important response from volunteer and local bush fire brigades. But the key point in my response is the claims that the firefighters in those communities, and, indeed, we as a government, were having to deal with in the midst of that response from the member for Girrawheen, who came out very strongly criticising the operational response to use contractors — Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Sit down, please. Next question.
Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Thank you for that. Mr A.P. JACOB : Mr Speaker, they do not like being caught out! As I said, and particularly when it comes to the member for Girrawheen — The SPEAKER : Minister, I just want to say something to you. I do not want to have you and the member for Girrawheen have a fight. So go through the Chair, please. Mr A.P. JACOB : Absolutely, Mr Speaker. Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Members! Mr A.P. JACOB : There is form. We saw that yesterday with a question from the member for Girrawheen that was found to have absolutely no basis in truth whatsoever—indeed, referring to an agreement that had already been signed the year before and was entirely functional. It shows a pattern, in particular from the member for Girrawheen, but a pattern right across the board — Point of Order Mrs M.H. ROBERTS : Mr Speaker — Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Member for Wanneroo, I call you to order for, I think, the first time—the second time. Mrs M.H. ROBERTS : Minister, we have already wasted enough time hearing — Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : This is starting to get out of control. Something is going to happen if we do not bring it back on line. Mrs M.H. ROBERTS : We have finally ascertained that the member for Bunbury has now asked a question. I am calling upon the minister to answer it, rather than trying to redefine his answer from yesterday. The SPEAKER : Minister, through the Chair. Questions without Notice Resumed Mr A.P. JACOB : Thank you, Mr Speaker. Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : That is enough. Mr A.P. JACOB : Indeed, I think that although members opposite may not be in government, they are still members of Parliament, and they still have a responsibility to the Western Australian community, and to this place, to tell the truth and be honest, first of all, in the questions that they ask, and also to tell the truth and be honest in claims that they make frequently outside this place that are often found to have no basis whatsoever. Point of Order Mr W.J. JOHNSTON : Mr Speaker, we all know how dumb this guy is, but let us get it straight. He should just comply with the standing orders. That does not have anything to do with the — Questions without Notice Resumed The SPEAKER : Minister, I am going to sit you down. If you do not answer the question quickly, I am going to sit you down. Mr A.P. JACOB : What do you expect, Mr Speaker? I have only had — Several members interjected. Mr A.P. JACOB : I accept your ruling. The SPEAKER : I do not want to hear any more. Mr W.J. Johnston interjected. Withdrawal of Remark The SPEAKER : Member for Cannington, I never heard what you said, but if you said something untoward, withdraw it. Mr W.J. JOHNSTON : I withdraw. Questions without Notice Resumed The SPEAKER : Thank you. Now, please, a short answer, and I want it through the Chair. Let us move on. Mr A.P. JACOB : Thank you, Mr Speaker, and I would love nothing more than to come directly to the point. However, I draw to your attention that I am increasingly being shouted down. If the spotlight is turned back onto the integrity of members opposite — Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Minister, this is your last chance to answer the question. If you do not answer the question, you can sit down. Mr A.P. JACOB : Certainly, Mr Speaker. I am seeking the opportunity to set the record straight. Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Member for Cockburn! Mr A.P. JACOB : Mr Speaker, that was the question, and I am seeking to answer the member for Bunbury’s question. Point of Order Mr W.J. JOHNSTON : Mr Speaker, could I suggest that you draw to the attention of the minister standing order 148, which allows for personal explanations. Unfortunately, the minister has been asked a question under standing order 75, which is regarding his administrative responsibilities, not a personal explanation. The SPEAKER : Sit down. If you make spurious points of order, I am going to call you to order. Mr W.J. JOHNSTON : It is not spurious. Dr K.D. HAMES : Mr Speaker, further to that point of order, the question to the minister clearly asks for clarification and to set the record straight. He is trying, Mr Speaker, to set the record straight. The SPEAKER : The actual thing that you have to home in on is why this happened—why. So that is what I want you to address, through the Chair. Questions without Notice Resumed Mr A.P. JACOB : Thank you, Mr Speaker. The question related to the response in the midst of the Waroona fires—a response which ran over 17 days in January this year and which saw the firefighting services of this state significantly stretched. Indeed, in excess of 500 parks and wildlife staff alone were caught up in a direct response to that fire front of the Waroona fires over those 17 days. That is not including the Department of Fire and Emergency Services’ response, and, indeed, the important response from volunteer and local bush fire brigades. But the key point in my response is the claims that the firefighters in those communities, and, indeed, we as a government, were having to deal with in the midst of that response from the member for Girrawheen, who came out very strongly criticising the operational response to use contractors — Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Sit down, please. Next question.
The SPEAKER : Thank you for that. Mr A.P. JACOB : Mr Speaker, they do not like being caught out! As I said, and particularly when it comes to the member for Girrawheen — The SPEAKER : Minister, I just want to say something to you. I do not want to have you and the member for Girrawheen have a fight. So go through the Chair, please. Mr A.P. JACOB : Absolutely, Mr Speaker. Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Members! Mr A.P. JACOB : There is form. We saw that yesterday with a question from the member for Girrawheen that was found to have absolutely no basis in truth whatsoever—indeed, referring to an agreement that had already been signed the year before and was entirely functional. It shows a pattern, in particular from the member for Girrawheen, but a pattern right across the board — Point of Order Mrs M.H. ROBERTS : Mr Speaker — Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Member for Wanneroo, I call you to order for, I think, the first time—the second time. Mrs M.H. ROBERTS : Minister, we have already wasted enough time hearing — Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : This is starting to get out of control. Something is going to happen if we do not bring it back on line. Mrs M.H. ROBERTS : We have finally ascertained that the member for Bunbury has now asked a question. I am calling upon the minister to answer it, rather than trying to redefine his answer from yesterday. The SPEAKER : Minister, through the Chair. Questions without Notice Resumed Mr A.P. JACOB : Thank you, Mr Speaker. Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : That is enough. Mr A.P. JACOB : Indeed, I think that although members opposite may not be in government, they are still members of Parliament, and they still have a responsibility to the Western Australian community, and to this place, to tell the truth and be honest, first of all, in the questions that they ask, and also to tell the truth and be honest in claims that they make frequently outside this place that are often found to have no basis whatsoever. Point of Order Mr W.J. JOHNSTON : Mr Speaker, we all know how dumb this guy is, but let us get it straight. He should just comply with the standing orders. That does not have anything to do with the — Questions without Notice Resumed The SPEAKER : Minister, I am going to sit you down. If you do not answer the question quickly, I am going to sit you down. Mr A.P. JACOB : What do you expect, Mr Speaker? I have only had — Several members interjected. Mr A.P. JACOB : I accept your ruling. The SPEAKER : I do not want to hear any more. Mr W.J. Johnston interjected. Withdrawal of Remark The SPEAKER : Member for Cannington, I never heard what you said, but if you said something untoward, withdraw it. Mr W.J. JOHNSTON : I withdraw. Questions without Notice Resumed The SPEAKER : Thank you. Now, please, a short answer, and I want it through the Chair. Let us move on. Mr A.P. JACOB : Thank you, Mr Speaker, and I would love nothing more than to come directly to the point. However, I draw to your attention that I am increasingly being shouted down. If the spotlight is turned back onto the integrity of members opposite — Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Minister, this is your last chance to answer the question. If you do not answer the question, you can sit down. Mr A.P. JACOB : Certainly, Mr Speaker. I am seeking the opportunity to set the record straight. Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Member for Cockburn! Mr A.P. JACOB : Mr Speaker, that was the question, and I am seeking to answer the member for Bunbury’s question. Point of Order Mr W.J. JOHNSTON : Mr Speaker, could I suggest that you draw to the attention of the minister standing order 148, which allows for personal explanations. Unfortunately, the minister has been asked a question under standing order 75, which is regarding his administrative responsibilities, not a personal explanation. The SPEAKER : Sit down. If you make spurious points of order, I am going to call you to order. Mr W.J. JOHNSTON : It is not spurious. Dr K.D. HAMES : Mr Speaker, further to that point of order, the question to the minister clearly asks for clarification and to set the record straight. He is trying, Mr Speaker, to set the record straight. The SPEAKER : The actual thing that you have to home in on is why this happened—why. So that is what I want you to address, through the Chair. Questions without Notice Resumed Mr A.P. JACOB : Thank you, Mr Speaker. The question related to the response in the midst of the Waroona fires—a response which ran over 17 days in January this year and which saw the firefighting services of this state significantly stretched. Indeed, in excess of 500 parks and wildlife staff alone were caught up in a direct response to that fire front of the Waroona fires over those 17 days. That is not including the Department of Fire and Emergency Services’ response, and, indeed, the important response from volunteer and local bush fire brigades. But the key point in my response is the claims that the firefighters in those communities, and, indeed, we as a government, were having to deal with in the midst of that response from the member for Girrawheen, who came out very strongly criticising the operational response to use contractors — Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Sit down, please. Next question.
Mr A.P. JACOB : Mr Speaker, they do not like being caught out! As I said, and particularly when it comes to the member for Girrawheen — The SPEAKER : Minister, I just want to say something to you. I do not want to have you and the member for Girrawheen have a fight. So go through the Chair, please. Mr A.P. JACOB : Absolutely, Mr Speaker. Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Members! Mr A.P. JACOB : There is form. We saw that yesterday with a question from the member for Girrawheen that was found to have absolutely no basis in truth whatsoever—indeed, referring to an agreement that had already been signed the year before and was entirely functional. It shows a pattern, in particular from the member for Girrawheen, but a pattern right across the board — Point of Order Mrs M.H. ROBERTS : Mr Speaker — Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Member for Wanneroo, I call you to order for, I think, the first time—the second time. Mrs M.H. ROBERTS : Minister, we have already wasted enough time hearing — Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : This is starting to get out of control. Something is going to happen if we do not bring it back on line. Mrs M.H. ROBERTS : We have finally ascertained that the member for Bunbury has now asked a question. I am calling upon the minister to answer it, rather than trying to redefine his answer from yesterday. The SPEAKER : Minister, through the Chair. Questions without Notice Resumed Mr A.P. JACOB : Thank you, Mr Speaker. Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : That is enough. Mr A.P. JACOB : Indeed, I think that although members opposite may not be in government, they are still members of Parliament, and they still have a responsibility to the Western Australian community, and to this place, to tell the truth and be honest, first of all, in the questions that they ask, and also to tell the truth and be honest in claims that they make frequently outside this place that are often found to have no basis whatsoever. Point of Order Mr W.J. JOHNSTON : Mr Speaker, we all know how dumb this guy is, but let us get it straight. He should just comply with the standing orders. That does not have anything to do with the — Questions without Notice Resumed The SPEAKER : Minister, I am going to sit you down. If you do not answer the question quickly, I am going to sit you down. Mr A.P. JACOB : What do you expect, Mr Speaker? I have only had — Several members interjected. Mr A.P. JACOB : I accept your ruling. The SPEAKER : I do not want to hear any more. Mr W.J. Johnston interjected. Withdrawal of Remark The SPEAKER : Member for Cannington, I never heard what you said, but if you said something untoward, withdraw it. Mr W.J. JOHNSTON : I withdraw. Questions without Notice Resumed The SPEAKER : Thank you. Now, please, a short answer, and I want it through the Chair. Let us move on. Mr A.P. JACOB : Thank you, Mr Speaker, and I would love nothing more than to come directly to the point. However, I draw to your attention that I am increasingly being shouted down. If the spotlight is turned back onto the integrity of members opposite — Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Minister, this is your last chance to answer the question. If you do not answer the question, you can sit down. Mr A.P. JACOB : Certainly, Mr Speaker. I am seeking the opportunity to set the record straight. Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Member for Cockburn! Mr A.P. JACOB : Mr Speaker, that was the question, and I am seeking to answer the member for Bunbury’s question. Point of Order Mr W.J. JOHNSTON : Mr Speaker, could I suggest that you draw to the attention of the minister standing order 148, which allows for personal explanations. Unfortunately, the minister has been asked a question under standing order 75, which is regarding his administrative responsibilities, not a personal explanation. The SPEAKER : Sit down. If you make spurious points of order, I am going to call you to order. Mr W.J. JOHNSTON : It is not spurious. Dr K.D. HAMES : Mr Speaker, further to that point of order, the question to the minister clearly asks for clarification and to set the record straight. He is trying, Mr Speaker, to set the record straight. The SPEAKER : The actual thing that you have to home in on is why this happened—why. So that is what I want you to address, through the Chair. Questions without Notice Resumed Mr A.P. JACOB : Thank you, Mr Speaker. The question related to the response in the midst of the Waroona fires—a response which ran over 17 days in January this year and which saw the firefighting services of this state significantly stretched. Indeed, in excess of 500 parks and wildlife staff alone were caught up in a direct response to that fire front of the Waroona fires over those 17 days. That is not including the Department of Fire and Emergency Services’ response, and, indeed, the important response from volunteer and local bush fire brigades. But the key point in my response is the claims that the firefighters in those communities, and, indeed, we as a government, were having to deal with in the midst of that response from the member for Girrawheen, who came out very strongly criticising the operational response to use contractors — Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Sit down, please. Next question.
The SPEAKER : Minister, I just want to say something to you. I do not want to have you and the member for Girrawheen have a fight. So go through the Chair, please. Mr A.P. JACOB : Absolutely, Mr Speaker. Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Members! Mr A.P. JACOB : There is form. We saw that yesterday with a question from the member for Girrawheen that was found to have absolutely no basis in truth whatsoever—indeed, referring to an agreement that had already been signed the year before and was entirely functional. It shows a pattern, in particular from the member for Girrawheen, but a pattern right across the board — Point of Order Mrs M.H. ROBERTS : Mr Speaker — Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Member for Wanneroo, I call you to order for, I think, the first time—the second time. Mrs M.H. ROBERTS : Minister, we have already wasted enough time hearing — Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : This is starting to get out of control. Something is going to happen if we do not bring it back on line. Mrs M.H. ROBERTS : We have finally ascertained that the member for Bunbury has now asked a question. I am calling upon the minister to answer it, rather than trying to redefine his answer from yesterday. The SPEAKER : Minister, through the Chair. Questions without Notice Resumed Mr A.P. JACOB : Thank you, Mr Speaker. Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : That is enough. Mr A.P. JACOB : Indeed, I think that although members opposite may not be in government, they are still members of Parliament, and they still have a responsibility to the Western Australian community, and to this place, to tell the truth and be honest, first of all, in the questions that they ask, and also to tell the truth and be honest in claims that they make frequently outside this place that are often found to have no basis whatsoever. Point of Order Mr W.J. JOHNSTON : Mr Speaker, we all know how dumb this guy is, but let us get it straight. He should just comply with the standing orders. That does not have anything to do with the — Questions without Notice Resumed The SPEAKER : Minister, I am going to sit you down. If you do not answer the question quickly, I am going to sit you down. Mr A.P. JACOB : What do you expect, Mr Speaker? I have only had — Several members interjected. Mr A.P. JACOB : I accept your ruling. The SPEAKER : I do not want to hear any more. Mr W.J. Johnston interjected. Withdrawal of Remark The SPEAKER : Member for Cannington, I never heard what you said, but if you said something untoward, withdraw it. Mr W.J. JOHNSTON : I withdraw. Questions without Notice Resumed The SPEAKER : Thank you. Now, please, a short answer, and I want it through the Chair. Let us move on. Mr A.P. JACOB : Thank you, Mr Speaker, and I would love nothing more than to come directly to the point. However, I draw to your attention that I am increasingly being shouted down. If the spotlight is turned back onto the integrity of members opposite — Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Minister, this is your last chance to answer the question. If you do not answer the question, you can sit down. Mr A.P. JACOB : Certainly, Mr Speaker. I am seeking the opportunity to set the record straight. Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Member for Cockburn! Mr A.P. JACOB : Mr Speaker, that was the question, and I am seeking to answer the member for Bunbury’s question. Point of Order Mr W.J. JOHNSTON : Mr Speaker, could I suggest that you draw to the attention of the minister standing order 148, which allows for personal explanations. Unfortunately, the minister has been asked a question under standing order 75, which is regarding his administrative responsibilities, not a personal explanation. The SPEAKER : Sit down. If you make spurious points of order, I am going to call you to order. Mr W.J. JOHNSTON : It is not spurious. Dr K.D. HAMES : Mr Speaker, further to that point of order, the question to the minister clearly asks for clarification and to set the record straight. He is trying, Mr Speaker, to set the record straight. The SPEAKER : The actual thing that you have to home in on is why this happened—why. So that is what I want you to address, through the Chair. Questions without Notice Resumed Mr A.P. JACOB : Thank you, Mr Speaker. The question related to the response in the midst of the Waroona fires—a response which ran over 17 days in January this year and which saw the firefighting services of this state significantly stretched. Indeed, in excess of 500 parks and wildlife staff alone were caught up in a direct response to that fire front of the Waroona fires over those 17 days. That is not including the Department of Fire and Emergency Services’ response, and, indeed, the important response from volunteer and local bush fire brigades. But the key point in my response is the claims that the firefighters in those communities, and, indeed, we as a government, were having to deal with in the midst of that response from the member for Girrawheen, who came out very strongly criticising the operational response to use contractors — Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Sit down, please. Next question.
Mr A.P. JACOB : Absolutely, Mr Speaker. Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Members! Mr A.P. JACOB : There is form. We saw that yesterday with a question from the member for Girrawheen that was found to have absolutely no basis in truth whatsoever—indeed, referring to an agreement that had already been signed the year before and was entirely functional. It shows a pattern, in particular from the member for Girrawheen, but a pattern right across the board — Point of Order Mrs M.H. ROBERTS : Mr Speaker — Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Member for Wanneroo, I call you to order for, I think, the first time—the second time. Mrs M.H. ROBERTS : Minister, we have already wasted enough time hearing — Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : This is starting to get out of control. Something is going to happen if we do not bring it back on line. Mrs M.H. ROBERTS : We have finally ascertained that the member for Bunbury has now asked a question. I am calling upon the minister to answer it, rather than trying to redefine his answer from yesterday. The SPEAKER : Minister, through the Chair. Questions without Notice Resumed Mr A.P. JACOB : Thank you, Mr Speaker. Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : That is enough. Mr A.P. JACOB : Indeed, I think that although members opposite may not be in government, they are still members of Parliament, and they still have a responsibility to the Western Australian community, and to this place, to tell the truth and be honest, first of all, in the questions that they ask, and also to tell the truth and be honest in claims that they make frequently outside this place that are often found to have no basis whatsoever. Point of Order Mr W.J. JOHNSTON : Mr Speaker, we all know how dumb this guy is, but let us get it straight. He should just comply with the standing orders. That does not have anything to do with the — Questions without Notice Resumed The SPEAKER : Minister, I am going to sit you down. If you do not answer the question quickly, I am going to sit you down. Mr A.P. JACOB : What do you expect, Mr Speaker? I have only had — Several members interjected. Mr A.P. JACOB : I accept your ruling. The SPEAKER : I do not want to hear any more. Mr W.J. Johnston interjected. Withdrawal of Remark The SPEAKER : Member for Cannington, I never heard what you said, but if you said something untoward, withdraw it. Mr W.J. JOHNSTON : I withdraw. Questions without Notice Resumed The SPEAKER : Thank you. Now, please, a short answer, and I want it through the Chair. Let us move on. Mr A.P. JACOB : Thank you, Mr Speaker, and I would love nothing more than to come directly to the point. However, I draw to your attention that I am increasingly being shouted down. If the spotlight is turned back onto the integrity of members opposite — Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Minister, this is your last chance to answer the question. If you do not answer the question, you can sit down. Mr A.P. JACOB : Certainly, Mr Speaker. I am seeking the opportunity to set the record straight. Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Member for Cockburn! Mr A.P. JACOB : Mr Speaker, that was the question, and I am seeking to answer the member for Bunbury’s question. Point of Order Mr W.J. JOHNSTON : Mr Speaker, could I suggest that you draw to the attention of the minister standing order 148, which allows for personal explanations. Unfortunately, the minister has been asked a question under standing order 75, which is regarding his administrative responsibilities, not a personal explanation. The SPEAKER : Sit down. If you make spurious points of order, I am going to call you to order. Mr W.J. JOHNSTON : It is not spurious. Dr K.D. HAMES : Mr Speaker, further to that point of order, the question to the minister clearly asks for clarification and to set the record straight. He is trying, Mr Speaker, to set the record straight. The SPEAKER : The actual thing that you have to home in on is why this happened—why. So that is what I want you to address, through the Chair. Questions without Notice Resumed Mr A.P. JACOB : Thank you, Mr Speaker. The question related to the response in the midst of the Waroona fires—a response which ran over 17 days in January this year and which saw the firefighting services of this state significantly stretched. Indeed, in excess of 500 parks and wildlife staff alone were caught up in a direct response to that fire front of the Waroona fires over those 17 days. That is not including the Department of Fire and Emergency Services’ response, and, indeed, the important response from volunteer and local bush fire brigades. But the key point in my response is the claims that the firefighters in those communities, and, indeed, we as a government, were having to deal with in the midst of that response from the member for Girrawheen, who came out very strongly criticising the operational response to use contractors — Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Sit down, please. Next question.
Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Members! Mr A.P. JACOB : There is form. We saw that yesterday with a question from the member for Girrawheen that was found to have absolutely no basis in truth whatsoever—indeed, referring to an agreement that had already been signed the year before and was entirely functional. It shows a pattern, in particular from the member for Girrawheen, but a pattern right across the board — Point of Order Mrs M.H. ROBERTS : Mr Speaker — Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Member for Wanneroo, I call you to order for, I think, the first time—the second time. Mrs M.H. ROBERTS : Minister, we have already wasted enough time hearing — Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : This is starting to get out of control. Something is going to happen if we do not bring it back on line. Mrs M.H. ROBERTS : We have finally ascertained that the member for Bunbury has now asked a question. I am calling upon the minister to answer it, rather than trying to redefine his answer from yesterday. The SPEAKER : Minister, through the Chair. Questions without Notice Resumed Mr A.P. JACOB : Thank you, Mr Speaker. Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : That is enough. Mr A.P. JACOB : Indeed, I think that although members opposite may not be in government, they are still members of Parliament, and they still have a responsibility to the Western Australian community, and to this place, to tell the truth and be honest, first of all, in the questions that they ask, and also to tell the truth and be honest in claims that they make frequently outside this place that are often found to have no basis whatsoever. Point of Order Mr W.J. JOHNSTON : Mr Speaker, we all know how dumb this guy is, but let us get it straight. He should just comply with the standing orders. That does not have anything to do with the — Questions without Notice Resumed The SPEAKER : Minister, I am going to sit you down. If you do not answer the question quickly, I am going to sit you down. Mr A.P. JACOB : What do you expect, Mr Speaker? I have only had — Several members interjected. Mr A.P. JACOB : I accept your ruling. The SPEAKER : I do not want to hear any more. Mr W.J. Johnston interjected. Withdrawal of Remark The SPEAKER : Member for Cannington, I never heard what you said, but if you said something untoward, withdraw it. Mr W.J. JOHNSTON : I withdraw. Questions without Notice Resumed The SPEAKER : Thank you. Now, please, a short answer, and I want it through the Chair. Let us move on. Mr A.P. JACOB : Thank you, Mr Speaker, and I would love nothing more than to come directly to the point. However, I draw to your attention that I am increasingly being shouted down. If the spotlight is turned back onto the integrity of members opposite — Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Minister, this is your last chance to answer the question. If you do not answer the question, you can sit down. Mr A.P. JACOB : Certainly, Mr Speaker. I am seeking the opportunity to set the record straight. Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Member for Cockburn! Mr A.P. JACOB : Mr Speaker, that was the question, and I am seeking to answer the member for Bunbury’s question. Point of Order Mr W.J. JOHNSTON : Mr Speaker, could I suggest that you draw to the attention of the minister standing order 148, which allows for personal explanations. Unfortunately, the minister has been asked a question under standing order 75, which is regarding his administrative responsibilities, not a personal explanation. The SPEAKER : Sit down. If you make spurious points of order, I am going to call you to order. Mr W.J. JOHNSTON : It is not spurious. Dr K.D. HAMES : Mr Speaker, further to that point of order, the question to the minister clearly asks for clarification and to set the record straight. He is trying, Mr Speaker, to set the record straight. The SPEAKER : The actual thing that you have to home in on is why this happened—why. So that is what I want you to address, through the Chair. Questions without Notice Resumed Mr A.P. JACOB : Thank you, Mr Speaker. The question related to the response in the midst of the Waroona fires—a response which ran over 17 days in January this year and which saw the firefighting services of this state significantly stretched. Indeed, in excess of 500 parks and wildlife staff alone were caught up in a direct response to that fire front of the Waroona fires over those 17 days. That is not including the Department of Fire and Emergency Services’ response, and, indeed, the important response from volunteer and local bush fire brigades. But the key point in my response is the claims that the firefighters in those communities, and, indeed, we as a government, were having to deal with in the midst of that response from the member for Girrawheen, who came out very strongly criticising the operational response to use contractors — Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Sit down, please. Next question.
The SPEAKER : Members! Mr A.P. JACOB : There is form. We saw that yesterday with a question from the member for Girrawheen that was found to have absolutely no basis in truth whatsoever—indeed, referring to an agreement that had already been signed the year before and was entirely functional. It shows a pattern, in particular from the member for Girrawheen, but a pattern right across the board — Point of Order Mrs M.H. ROBERTS : Mr Speaker — Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Member for Wanneroo, I call you to order for, I think, the first time—the second time. Mrs M.H. ROBERTS : Minister, we have already wasted enough time hearing — Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : This is starting to get out of control. Something is going to happen if we do not bring it back on line. Mrs M.H. ROBERTS : We have finally ascertained that the member for Bunbury has now asked a question. I am calling upon the minister to answer it, rather than trying to redefine his answer from yesterday. The SPEAKER : Minister, through the Chair. Questions without Notice Resumed Mr A.P. JACOB : Thank you, Mr Speaker. Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : That is enough. Mr A.P. JACOB : Indeed, I think that although members opposite may not be in government, they are still members of Parliament, and they still have a responsibility to the Western Australian community, and to this place, to tell the truth and be honest, first of all, in the questions that they ask, and also to tell the truth and be honest in claims that they make frequently outside this place that are often found to have no basis whatsoever. Point of Order Mr W.J. JOHNSTON : Mr Speaker, we all know how dumb this guy is, but let us get it straight. He should just comply with the standing orders. That does not have anything to do with the — Questions without Notice Resumed The SPEAKER : Minister, I am going to sit you down. If you do not answer the question quickly, I am going to sit you down. Mr A.P. JACOB : What do you expect, Mr Speaker? I have only had — Several members interjected. Mr A.P. JACOB : I accept your ruling. The SPEAKER : I do not want to hear any more. Mr W.J. Johnston interjected. Withdrawal of Remark The SPEAKER : Member for Cannington, I never heard what you said, but if you said something untoward, withdraw it. Mr W.J. JOHNSTON : I withdraw. Questions without Notice Resumed The SPEAKER : Thank you. Now, please, a short answer, and I want it through the Chair. Let us move on. Mr A.P. JACOB : Thank you, Mr Speaker, and I would love nothing more than to come directly to the point. However, I draw to your attention that I am increasingly being shouted down. If the spotlight is turned back onto the integrity of members opposite — Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Minister, this is your last chance to answer the question. If you do not answer the question, you can sit down. Mr A.P. JACOB : Certainly, Mr Speaker. I am seeking the opportunity to set the record straight. Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Member for Cockburn! Mr A.P. JACOB : Mr Speaker, that was the question, and I am seeking to answer the member for Bunbury’s question. Point of Order Mr W.J. JOHNSTON : Mr Speaker, could I suggest that you draw to the attention of the minister standing order 148, which allows for personal explanations. Unfortunately, the minister has been asked a question under standing order 75, which is regarding his administrative responsibilities, not a personal explanation. The SPEAKER : Sit down. If you make spurious points of order, I am going to call you to order. Mr W.J. JOHNSTON : It is not spurious. Dr K.D. HAMES : Mr Speaker, further to that point of order, the question to the minister clearly asks for clarification and to set the record straight. He is trying, Mr Speaker, to set the record straight. The SPEAKER : The actual thing that you have to home in on is why this happened—why. So that is what I want you to address, through the Chair. Questions without Notice Resumed Mr A.P. JACOB : Thank you, Mr Speaker. The question related to the response in the midst of the Waroona fires—a response which ran over 17 days in January this year and which saw the firefighting services of this state significantly stretched. Indeed, in excess of 500 parks and wildlife staff alone were caught up in a direct response to that fire front of the Waroona fires over those 17 days. That is not including the Department of Fire and Emergency Services’ response, and, indeed, the important response from volunteer and local bush fire brigades. But the key point in my response is the claims that the firefighters in those communities, and, indeed, we as a government, were having to deal with in the midst of that response from the member for Girrawheen, who came out very strongly criticising the operational response to use contractors — Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Sit down, please. Next question.
Mr A.P. JACOB : There is form. We saw that yesterday with a question from the member for Girrawheen that was found to have absolutely no basis in truth whatsoever—indeed, referring to an agreement that had already been signed the year before and was entirely functional. It shows a pattern, in particular from the member for Girrawheen, but a pattern right across the board — Point of Order Mrs M.H. ROBERTS : Mr Speaker — Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Member for Wanneroo, I call you to order for, I think, the first time—the second time. Mrs M.H. ROBERTS : Minister, we have already wasted enough time hearing — Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : This is starting to get out of control. Something is going to happen if we do not bring it back on line. Mrs M.H. ROBERTS : We have finally ascertained that the member for Bunbury has now asked a question. I am calling upon the minister to answer it, rather than trying to redefine his answer from yesterday. The SPEAKER : Minister, through the Chair. Questions without Notice Resumed Mr A.P. JACOB : Thank you, Mr Speaker. Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : That is enough. Mr A.P. JACOB : Indeed, I think that although members opposite may not be in government, they are still members of Parliament, and they still have a responsibility to the Western Australian community, and to this place, to tell the truth and be honest, first of all, in the questions that they ask, and also to tell the truth and be honest in claims that they make frequently outside this place that are often found to have no basis whatsoever. Point of Order Mr W.J. JOHNSTON : Mr Speaker, we all know how dumb this guy is, but let us get it straight. He should just comply with the standing orders. That does not have anything to do with the — Questions without Notice Resumed The SPEAKER : Minister, I am going to sit you down. If you do not answer the question quickly, I am going to sit you down. Mr A.P. JACOB : What do you expect, Mr Speaker? I have only had — Several members interjected. Mr A.P. JACOB : I accept your ruling. The SPEAKER : I do not want to hear any more. Mr W.J. Johnston interjected. Withdrawal of Remark The SPEAKER : Member for Cannington, I never heard what you said, but if you said something untoward, withdraw it. Mr W.J. JOHNSTON : I withdraw. Questions without Notice Resumed The SPEAKER : Thank you. Now, please, a short answer, and I want it through the Chair. Let us move on. Mr A.P. JACOB : Thank you, Mr Speaker, and I would love nothing more than to come directly to the point. However, I draw to your attention that I am increasingly being shouted down. If the spotlight is turned back onto the integrity of members opposite — Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Minister, this is your last chance to answer the question. If you do not answer the question, you can sit down. Mr A.P. JACOB : Certainly, Mr Speaker. I am seeking the opportunity to set the record straight. Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Member for Cockburn! Mr A.P. JACOB : Mr Speaker, that was the question, and I am seeking to answer the member for Bunbury’s question. Point of Order Mr W.J. JOHNSTON : Mr Speaker, could I suggest that you draw to the attention of the minister standing order 148, which allows for personal explanations. Unfortunately, the minister has been asked a question under standing order 75, which is regarding his administrative responsibilities, not a personal explanation. The SPEAKER : Sit down. If you make spurious points of order, I am going to call you to order. Mr W.J. JOHNSTON : It is not spurious. Dr K.D. HAMES : Mr Speaker, further to that point of order, the question to the minister clearly asks for clarification and to set the record straight. He is trying, Mr Speaker, to set the record straight. The SPEAKER : The actual thing that you have to home in on is why this happened—why. So that is what I want you to address, through the Chair. Questions without Notice Resumed Mr A.P. JACOB : Thank you, Mr Speaker. The question related to the response in the midst of the Waroona fires—a response which ran over 17 days in January this year and which saw the firefighting services of this state significantly stretched. Indeed, in excess of 500 parks and wildlife staff alone were caught up in a direct response to that fire front of the Waroona fires over those 17 days. That is not including the Department of Fire and Emergency Services’ response, and, indeed, the important response from volunteer and local bush fire brigades. But the key point in my response is the claims that the firefighters in those communities, and, indeed, we as a government, were having to deal with in the midst of that response from the member for Girrawheen, who came out very strongly criticising the operational response to use contractors — Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Sit down, please. Next question.
Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Member for Wanneroo, I call you to order for, I think, the first time—the second time. Mrs M.H. ROBERTS : Minister, we have already wasted enough time hearing — Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : This is starting to get out of control. Something is going to happen if we do not bring it back on line. Mrs M.H. ROBERTS : We have finally ascertained that the member for Bunbury has now asked a question. I am calling upon the minister to answer it, rather than trying to redefine his answer from yesterday. The SPEAKER : Minister, through the Chair. Questions without Notice Resumed Mr A.P. JACOB : Thank you, Mr Speaker. Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : That is enough. Mr A.P. JACOB : Indeed, I think that although members opposite may not be in government, they are still members of Parliament, and they still have a responsibility to the Western Australian community, and to this place, to tell the truth and be honest, first of all, in the questions that they ask, and also to tell the truth and be honest in claims that they make frequently outside this place that are often found to have no basis whatsoever. Point of Order Mr W.J. JOHNSTON : Mr Speaker, we all know how dumb this guy is, but let us get it straight. He should just comply with the standing orders. That does not have anything to do with the — Questions without Notice Resumed The SPEAKER : Minister, I am going to sit you down. If you do not answer the question quickly, I am going to sit you down. Mr A.P. JACOB : What do you expect, Mr Speaker? I have only had — Several members interjected. Mr A.P. JACOB : I accept your ruling. The SPEAKER : I do not want to hear any more. Mr W.J. Johnston interjected. Withdrawal of Remark The SPEAKER : Member for Cannington, I never heard what you said, but if you said something untoward, withdraw it. Mr W.J. JOHNSTON : I withdraw. Questions without Notice Resumed The SPEAKER : Thank you. Now, please, a short answer, and I want it through the Chair. Let us move on. Mr A.P. JACOB : Thank you, Mr Speaker, and I would love nothing more than to come directly to the point. However, I draw to your attention that I am increasingly being shouted down. If the spotlight is turned back onto the integrity of members opposite — Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Minister, this is your last chance to answer the question. If you do not answer the question, you can sit down. Mr A.P. JACOB : Certainly, Mr Speaker. I am seeking the opportunity to set the record straight. Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Member for Cockburn! Mr A.P. JACOB : Mr Speaker, that was the question, and I am seeking to answer the member for Bunbury’s question. Point of Order Mr W.J. JOHNSTON : Mr Speaker, could I suggest that you draw to the attention of the minister standing order 148, which allows for personal explanations. Unfortunately, the minister has been asked a question under standing order 75, which is regarding his administrative responsibilities, not a personal explanation. The SPEAKER : Sit down. If you make spurious points of order, I am going to call you to order. Mr W.J. JOHNSTON : It is not spurious. Dr K.D. HAMES : Mr Speaker, further to that point of order, the question to the minister clearly asks for clarification and to set the record straight. He is trying, Mr Speaker, to set the record straight. The SPEAKER : The actual thing that you have to home in on is why this happened—why. So that is what I want you to address, through the Chair. Questions without Notice Resumed Mr A.P. JACOB : Thank you, Mr Speaker. The question related to the response in the midst of the Waroona fires—a response which ran over 17 days in January this year and which saw the firefighting services of this state significantly stretched. Indeed, in excess of 500 parks and wildlife staff alone were caught up in a direct response to that fire front of the Waroona fires over those 17 days. That is not including the Department of Fire and Emergency Services’ response, and, indeed, the important response from volunteer and local bush fire brigades. But the key point in my response is the claims that the firefighters in those communities, and, indeed, we as a government, were having to deal with in the midst of that response from the member for Girrawheen, who came out very strongly criticising the operational response to use contractors — Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Sit down, please. Next question.
The SPEAKER : Member for Wanneroo, I call you to order for, I think, the first time—the second time. Mrs M.H. ROBERTS : Minister, we have already wasted enough time hearing — Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : This is starting to get out of control. Something is going to happen if we do not bring it back on line. Mrs M.H. ROBERTS : We have finally ascertained that the member for Bunbury has now asked a question. I am calling upon the minister to answer it, rather than trying to redefine his answer from yesterday. The SPEAKER : Minister, through the Chair. Questions without Notice Resumed Mr A.P. JACOB : Thank you, Mr Speaker. Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : That is enough. Mr A.P. JACOB : Indeed, I think that although members opposite may not be in government, they are still members of Parliament, and they still have a responsibility to the Western Australian community, and to this place, to tell the truth and be honest, first of all, in the questions that they ask, and also to tell the truth and be honest in claims that they make frequently outside this place that are often found to have no basis whatsoever. Point of Order Mr W.J. JOHNSTON : Mr Speaker, we all know how dumb this guy is, but let us get it straight. He should just comply with the standing orders. That does not have anything to do with the — Questions without Notice Resumed The SPEAKER : Minister, I am going to sit you down. If you do not answer the question quickly, I am going to sit you down. Mr A.P. JACOB : What do you expect, Mr Speaker? I have only had — Several members interjected. Mr A.P. JACOB : I accept your ruling. The SPEAKER : I do not want to hear any more. Mr W.J. Johnston interjected. Withdrawal of Remark The SPEAKER : Member for Cannington, I never heard what you said, but if you said something untoward, withdraw it. Mr W.J. JOHNSTON : I withdraw. Questions without Notice Resumed The SPEAKER : Thank you. Now, please, a short answer, and I want it through the Chair. Let us move on. Mr A.P. JACOB : Thank you, Mr Speaker, and I would love nothing more than to come directly to the point. However, I draw to your attention that I am increasingly being shouted down. If the spotlight is turned back onto the integrity of members opposite — Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Minister, this is your last chance to answer the question. If you do not answer the question, you can sit down. Mr A.P. JACOB : Certainly, Mr Speaker. I am seeking the opportunity to set the record straight. Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Member for Cockburn! Mr A.P. JACOB : Mr Speaker, that was the question, and I am seeking to answer the member for Bunbury’s question. Point of Order Mr W.J. JOHNSTON : Mr Speaker, could I suggest that you draw to the attention of the minister standing order 148, which allows for personal explanations. Unfortunately, the minister has been asked a question under standing order 75, which is regarding his administrative responsibilities, not a personal explanation. The SPEAKER : Sit down. If you make spurious points of order, I am going to call you to order. Mr W.J. JOHNSTON : It is not spurious. Dr K.D. HAMES : Mr Speaker, further to that point of order, the question to the minister clearly asks for clarification and to set the record straight. He is trying, Mr Speaker, to set the record straight. The SPEAKER : The actual thing that you have to home in on is why this happened—why. So that is what I want you to address, through the Chair. Questions without Notice Resumed Mr A.P. JACOB : Thank you, Mr Speaker. The question related to the response in the midst of the Waroona fires—a response which ran over 17 days in January this year and which saw the firefighting services of this state significantly stretched. Indeed, in excess of 500 parks and wildlife staff alone were caught up in a direct response to that fire front of the Waroona fires over those 17 days. That is not including the Department of Fire and Emergency Services’ response, and, indeed, the important response from volunteer and local bush fire brigades. But the key point in my response is the claims that the firefighters in those communities, and, indeed, we as a government, were having to deal with in the midst of that response from the member for Girrawheen, who came out very strongly criticising the operational response to use contractors — Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Sit down, please. Next question.
Mrs M.H. ROBERTS : Minister, we have already wasted enough time hearing — Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : This is starting to get out of control. Something is going to happen if we do not bring it back on line. Mrs M.H. ROBERTS : We have finally ascertained that the member for Bunbury has now asked a question. I am calling upon the minister to answer it, rather than trying to redefine his answer from yesterday. The SPEAKER : Minister, through the Chair. Questions without Notice Resumed Mr A.P. JACOB : Thank you, Mr Speaker. Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : That is enough. Mr A.P. JACOB : Indeed, I think that although members opposite may not be in government, they are still members of Parliament, and they still have a responsibility to the Western Australian community, and to this place, to tell the truth and be honest, first of all, in the questions that they ask, and also to tell the truth and be honest in claims that they make frequently outside this place that are often found to have no basis whatsoever. Point of Order Mr W.J. JOHNSTON : Mr Speaker, we all know how dumb this guy is, but let us get it straight. He should just comply with the standing orders. That does not have anything to do with the — Questions without Notice Resumed The SPEAKER : Minister, I am going to sit you down. If you do not answer the question quickly, I am going to sit you down. Mr A.P. JACOB : What do you expect, Mr Speaker? I have only had — Several members interjected. Mr A.P. JACOB : I accept your ruling. The SPEAKER : I do not want to hear any more. Mr W.J. Johnston interjected. Withdrawal of Remark The SPEAKER : Member for Cannington, I never heard what you said, but if you said something untoward, withdraw it. Mr W.J. JOHNSTON : I withdraw. Questions without Notice Resumed The SPEAKER : Thank you. Now, please, a short answer, and I want it through the Chair. Let us move on. Mr A.P. JACOB : Thank you, Mr Speaker, and I would love nothing more than to come directly to the point. However, I draw to your attention that I am increasingly being shouted down. If the spotlight is turned back onto the integrity of members opposite — Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Minister, this is your last chance to answer the question. If you do not answer the question, you can sit down. Mr A.P. JACOB : Certainly, Mr Speaker. I am seeking the opportunity to set the record straight. Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Member for Cockburn! Mr A.P. JACOB : Mr Speaker, that was the question, and I am seeking to answer the member for Bunbury’s question. Point of Order Mr W.J. JOHNSTON : Mr Speaker, could I suggest that you draw to the attention of the minister standing order 148, which allows for personal explanations. Unfortunately, the minister has been asked a question under standing order 75, which is regarding his administrative responsibilities, not a personal explanation. The SPEAKER : Sit down. If you make spurious points of order, I am going to call you to order. Mr W.J. JOHNSTON : It is not spurious. Dr K.D. HAMES : Mr Speaker, further to that point of order, the question to the minister clearly asks for clarification and to set the record straight. He is trying, Mr Speaker, to set the record straight. The SPEAKER : The actual thing that you have to home in on is why this happened—why. So that is what I want you to address, through the Chair. Questions without Notice Resumed Mr A.P. JACOB : Thank you, Mr Speaker. The question related to the response in the midst of the Waroona fires—a response which ran over 17 days in January this year and which saw the firefighting services of this state significantly stretched. Indeed, in excess of 500 parks and wildlife staff alone were caught up in a direct response to that fire front of the Waroona fires over those 17 days. That is not including the Department of Fire and Emergency Services’ response, and, indeed, the important response from volunteer and local bush fire brigades. But the key point in my response is the claims that the firefighters in those communities, and, indeed, we as a government, were having to deal with in the midst of that response from the member for Girrawheen, who came out very strongly criticising the operational response to use contractors — Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Sit down, please. Next question.
Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : This is starting to get out of control. Something is going to happen if we do not bring it back on line. Mrs M.H. ROBERTS : We have finally ascertained that the member for Bunbury has now asked a question. I am calling upon the minister to answer it, rather than trying to redefine his answer from yesterday. The SPEAKER : Minister, through the Chair. Questions without Notice Resumed Mr A.P. JACOB : Thank you, Mr Speaker. Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : That is enough. Mr A.P. JACOB : Indeed, I think that although members opposite may not be in government, they are still members of Parliament, and they still have a responsibility to the Western Australian community, and to this place, to tell the truth and be honest, first of all, in the questions that they ask, and also to tell the truth and be honest in claims that they make frequently outside this place that are often found to have no basis whatsoever. Point of Order Mr W.J. JOHNSTON : Mr Speaker, we all know how dumb this guy is, but let us get it straight. He should just comply with the standing orders. That does not have anything to do with the — Questions without Notice Resumed The SPEAKER : Minister, I am going to sit you down. If you do not answer the question quickly, I am going to sit you down. Mr A.P. JACOB : What do you expect, Mr Speaker? I have only had — Several members interjected. Mr A.P. JACOB : I accept your ruling. The SPEAKER : I do not want to hear any more. Mr W.J. Johnston interjected. Withdrawal of Remark The SPEAKER : Member for Cannington, I never heard what you said, but if you said something untoward, withdraw it. Mr W.J. JOHNSTON : I withdraw. Questions without Notice Resumed The SPEAKER : Thank you. Now, please, a short answer, and I want it through the Chair. Let us move on. Mr A.P. JACOB : Thank you, Mr Speaker, and I would love nothing more than to come directly to the point. However, I draw to your attention that I am increasingly being shouted down. If the spotlight is turned back onto the integrity of members opposite — Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Minister, this is your last chance to answer the question. If you do not answer the question, you can sit down. Mr A.P. JACOB : Certainly, Mr Speaker. I am seeking the opportunity to set the record straight. Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Member for Cockburn! Mr A.P. JACOB : Mr Speaker, that was the question, and I am seeking to answer the member for Bunbury’s question. Point of Order Mr W.J. JOHNSTON : Mr Speaker, could I suggest that you draw to the attention of the minister standing order 148, which allows for personal explanations. Unfortunately, the minister has been asked a question under standing order 75, which is regarding his administrative responsibilities, not a personal explanation. The SPEAKER : Sit down. If you make spurious points of order, I am going to call you to order. Mr W.J. JOHNSTON : It is not spurious. Dr K.D. HAMES : Mr Speaker, further to that point of order, the question to the minister clearly asks for clarification and to set the record straight. He is trying, Mr Speaker, to set the record straight. The SPEAKER : The actual thing that you have to home in on is why this happened—why. So that is what I want you to address, through the Chair. Questions without Notice Resumed Mr A.P. JACOB : Thank you, Mr Speaker. The question related to the response in the midst of the Waroona fires—a response which ran over 17 days in January this year and which saw the firefighting services of this state significantly stretched. Indeed, in excess of 500 parks and wildlife staff alone were caught up in a direct response to that fire front of the Waroona fires over those 17 days. That is not including the Department of Fire and Emergency Services’ response, and, indeed, the important response from volunteer and local bush fire brigades. But the key point in my response is the claims that the firefighters in those communities, and, indeed, we as a government, were having to deal with in the midst of that response from the member for Girrawheen, who came out very strongly criticising the operational response to use contractors — Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Sit down, please. Next question.
The SPEAKER : This is starting to get out of control. Something is going to happen if we do not bring it back on line. Mrs M.H. ROBERTS : We have finally ascertained that the member for Bunbury has now asked a question. I am calling upon the minister to answer it, rather than trying to redefine his answer from yesterday. The SPEAKER : Minister, through the Chair. Questions without Notice Resumed Mr A.P. JACOB : Thank you, Mr Speaker. Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : That is enough. Mr A.P. JACOB : Indeed, I think that although members opposite may not be in government, they are still members of Parliament, and they still have a responsibility to the Western Australian community, and to this place, to tell the truth and be honest, first of all, in the questions that they ask, and also to tell the truth and be honest in claims that they make frequently outside this place that are often found to have no basis whatsoever. Point of Order Mr W.J. JOHNSTON : Mr Speaker, we all know how dumb this guy is, but let us get it straight. He should just comply with the standing orders. That does not have anything to do with the — Questions without Notice Resumed The SPEAKER : Minister, I am going to sit you down. If you do not answer the question quickly, I am going to sit you down. Mr A.P. JACOB : What do you expect, Mr Speaker? I have only had — Several members interjected. Mr A.P. JACOB : I accept your ruling. The SPEAKER : I do not want to hear any more. Mr W.J. Johnston interjected. Withdrawal of Remark The SPEAKER : Member for Cannington, I never heard what you said, but if you said something untoward, withdraw it. Mr W.J. JOHNSTON : I withdraw. Questions without Notice Resumed The SPEAKER : Thank you. Now, please, a short answer, and I want it through the Chair. Let us move on. Mr A.P. JACOB : Thank you, Mr Speaker, and I would love nothing more than to come directly to the point. However, I draw to your attention that I am increasingly being shouted down. If the spotlight is turned back onto the integrity of members opposite — Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Minister, this is your last chance to answer the question. If you do not answer the question, you can sit down. Mr A.P. JACOB : Certainly, Mr Speaker. I am seeking the opportunity to set the record straight. Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Member for Cockburn! Mr A.P. JACOB : Mr Speaker, that was the question, and I am seeking to answer the member for Bunbury’s question. Point of Order Mr W.J. JOHNSTON : Mr Speaker, could I suggest that you draw to the attention of the minister standing order 148, which allows for personal explanations. Unfortunately, the minister has been asked a question under standing order 75, which is regarding his administrative responsibilities, not a personal explanation. The SPEAKER : Sit down. If you make spurious points of order, I am going to call you to order. Mr W.J. JOHNSTON : It is not spurious. Dr K.D. HAMES : Mr Speaker, further to that point of order, the question to the minister clearly asks for clarification and to set the record straight. He is trying, Mr Speaker, to set the record straight. The SPEAKER : The actual thing that you have to home in on is why this happened—why. So that is what I want you to address, through the Chair. Questions without Notice Resumed Mr A.P. JACOB : Thank you, Mr Speaker. The question related to the response in the midst of the Waroona fires—a response which ran over 17 days in January this year and which saw the firefighting services of this state significantly stretched. Indeed, in excess of 500 parks and wildlife staff alone were caught up in a direct response to that fire front of the Waroona fires over those 17 days. That is not including the Department of Fire and Emergency Services’ response, and, indeed, the important response from volunteer and local bush fire brigades. But the key point in my response is the claims that the firefighters in those communities, and, indeed, we as a government, were having to deal with in the midst of that response from the member for Girrawheen, who came out very strongly criticising the operational response to use contractors — Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Sit down, please. Next question.
Mrs M.H. ROBERTS : We have finally ascertained that the member for Bunbury has now asked a question. I am calling upon the minister to answer it, rather than trying to redefine his answer from yesterday. The SPEAKER : Minister, through the Chair. Questions without Notice Resumed Mr A.P. JACOB : Thank you, Mr Speaker. Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : That is enough. Mr A.P. JACOB : Indeed, I think that although members opposite may not be in government, they are still members of Parliament, and they still have a responsibility to the Western Australian community, and to this place, to tell the truth and be honest, first of all, in the questions that they ask, and also to tell the truth and be honest in claims that they make frequently outside this place that are often found to have no basis whatsoever. Point of Order Mr W.J. JOHNSTON : Mr Speaker, we all know how dumb this guy is, but let us get it straight. He should just comply with the standing orders. That does not have anything to do with the — Questions without Notice Resumed The SPEAKER : Minister, I am going to sit you down. If you do not answer the question quickly, I am going to sit you down. Mr A.P. JACOB : What do you expect, Mr Speaker? I have only had — Several members interjected. Mr A.P. JACOB : I accept your ruling. The SPEAKER : I do not want to hear any more. Mr W.J. Johnston interjected. Withdrawal of Remark The SPEAKER : Member for Cannington, I never heard what you said, but if you said something untoward, withdraw it. Mr W.J. JOHNSTON : I withdraw. Questions without Notice Resumed The SPEAKER : Thank you. Now, please, a short answer, and I want it through the Chair. Let us move on. Mr A.P. JACOB : Thank you, Mr Speaker, and I would love nothing more than to come directly to the point. However, I draw to your attention that I am increasingly being shouted down. If the spotlight is turned back onto the integrity of members opposite — Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Minister, this is your last chance to answer the question. If you do not answer the question, you can sit down. Mr A.P. JACOB : Certainly, Mr Speaker. I am seeking the opportunity to set the record straight. Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Member for Cockburn! Mr A.P. JACOB : Mr Speaker, that was the question, and I am seeking to answer the member for Bunbury’s question. Point of Order Mr W.J. JOHNSTON : Mr Speaker, could I suggest that you draw to the attention of the minister standing order 148, which allows for personal explanations. Unfortunately, the minister has been asked a question under standing order 75, which is regarding his administrative responsibilities, not a personal explanation. The SPEAKER : Sit down. If you make spurious points of order, I am going to call you to order. Mr W.J. JOHNSTON : It is not spurious. Dr K.D. HAMES : Mr Speaker, further to that point of order, the question to the minister clearly asks for clarification and to set the record straight. He is trying, Mr Speaker, to set the record straight. The SPEAKER : The actual thing that you have to home in on is why this happened—why. So that is what I want you to address, through the Chair. Questions without Notice Resumed Mr A.P. JACOB : Thank you, Mr Speaker. The question related to the response in the midst of the Waroona fires—a response which ran over 17 days in January this year and which saw the firefighting services of this state significantly stretched. Indeed, in excess of 500 parks and wildlife staff alone were caught up in a direct response to that fire front of the Waroona fires over those 17 days. That is not including the Department of Fire and Emergency Services’ response, and, indeed, the important response from volunteer and local bush fire brigades. But the key point in my response is the claims that the firefighters in those communities, and, indeed, we as a government, were having to deal with in the midst of that response from the member for Girrawheen, who came out very strongly criticising the operational response to use contractors — Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Sit down, please. Next question.
The SPEAKER : Minister, through the Chair. Questions without Notice Resumed Mr A.P. JACOB : Thank you, Mr Speaker. Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : That is enough. Mr A.P. JACOB : Indeed, I think that although members opposite may not be in government, they are still members of Parliament, and they still have a responsibility to the Western Australian community, and to this place, to tell the truth and be honest, first of all, in the questions that they ask, and also to tell the truth and be honest in claims that they make frequently outside this place that are often found to have no basis whatsoever. Point of Order Mr W.J. JOHNSTON : Mr Speaker, we all know how dumb this guy is, but let us get it straight. He should just comply with the standing orders. That does not have anything to do with the — Questions without Notice Resumed The SPEAKER : Minister, I am going to sit you down. If you do not answer the question quickly, I am going to sit you down. Mr A.P. JACOB : What do you expect, Mr Speaker? I have only had — Several members interjected. Mr A.P. JACOB : I accept your ruling. The SPEAKER : I do not want to hear any more. Mr W.J. Johnston interjected. Withdrawal of Remark The SPEAKER : Member for Cannington, I never heard what you said, but if you said something untoward, withdraw it. Mr W.J. JOHNSTON : I withdraw. Questions without Notice Resumed The SPEAKER : Thank you. Now, please, a short answer, and I want it through the Chair. Let us move on. Mr A.P. JACOB : Thank you, Mr Speaker, and I would love nothing more than to come directly to the point. However, I draw to your attention that I am increasingly being shouted down. If the spotlight is turned back onto the integrity of members opposite — Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Minister, this is your last chance to answer the question. If you do not answer the question, you can sit down. Mr A.P. JACOB : Certainly, Mr Speaker. I am seeking the opportunity to set the record straight. Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Member for Cockburn! Mr A.P. JACOB : Mr Speaker, that was the question, and I am seeking to answer the member for Bunbury’s question. Point of Order Mr W.J. JOHNSTON : Mr Speaker, could I suggest that you draw to the attention of the minister standing order 148, which allows for personal explanations. Unfortunately, the minister has been asked a question under standing order 75, which is regarding his administrative responsibilities, not a personal explanation. The SPEAKER : Sit down. If you make spurious points of order, I am going to call you to order. Mr W.J. JOHNSTON : It is not spurious. Dr K.D. HAMES : Mr Speaker, further to that point of order, the question to the minister clearly asks for clarification and to set the record straight. He is trying, Mr Speaker, to set the record straight. The SPEAKER : The actual thing that you have to home in on is why this happened—why. So that is what I want you to address, through the Chair. Questions without Notice Resumed Mr A.P. JACOB : Thank you, Mr Speaker. The question related to the response in the midst of the Waroona fires—a response which ran over 17 days in January this year and which saw the firefighting services of this state significantly stretched. Indeed, in excess of 500 parks and wildlife staff alone were caught up in a direct response to that fire front of the Waroona fires over those 17 days. That is not including the Department of Fire and Emergency Services’ response, and, indeed, the important response from volunteer and local bush fire brigades. But the key point in my response is the claims that the firefighters in those communities, and, indeed, we as a government, were having to deal with in the midst of that response from the member for Girrawheen, who came out very strongly criticising the operational response to use contractors — Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Sit down, please. Next question.
Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : That is enough. Mr A.P. JACOB : Indeed, I think that although members opposite may not be in government, they are still members of Parliament, and they still have a responsibility to the Western Australian community, and to this place, to tell the truth and be honest, first of all, in the questions that they ask, and also to tell the truth and be honest in claims that they make frequently outside this place that are often found to have no basis whatsoever. Point of Order Mr W.J. JOHNSTON : Mr Speaker, we all know how dumb this guy is, but let us get it straight. He should just comply with the standing orders. That does not have anything to do with the — Questions without Notice Resumed The SPEAKER : Minister, I am going to sit you down. If you do not answer the question quickly, I am going to sit you down. Mr A.P. JACOB : What do you expect, Mr Speaker? I have only had — Several members interjected. Mr A.P. JACOB : I accept your ruling. The SPEAKER : I do not want to hear any more. Mr W.J. Johnston interjected. Withdrawal of Remark The SPEAKER : Member for Cannington, I never heard what you said, but if you said something untoward, withdraw it. Mr W.J. JOHNSTON : I withdraw. Questions without Notice Resumed The SPEAKER : Thank you. Now, please, a short answer, and I want it through the Chair. Let us move on. Mr A.P. JACOB : Thank you, Mr Speaker, and I would love nothing more than to come directly to the point. However, I draw to your attention that I am increasingly being shouted down. If the spotlight is turned back onto the integrity of members opposite — Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Minister, this is your last chance to answer the question. If you do not answer the question, you can sit down. Mr A.P. JACOB : Certainly, Mr Speaker. I am seeking the opportunity to set the record straight. Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Member for Cockburn! Mr A.P. JACOB : Mr Speaker, that was the question, and I am seeking to answer the member for Bunbury’s question. Point of Order Mr W.J. JOHNSTON : Mr Speaker, could I suggest that you draw to the attention of the minister standing order 148, which allows for personal explanations. Unfortunately, the minister has been asked a question under standing order 75, which is regarding his administrative responsibilities, not a personal explanation. The SPEAKER : Sit down. If you make spurious points of order, I am going to call you to order. Mr W.J. JOHNSTON : It is not spurious. Dr K.D. HAMES : Mr Speaker, further to that point of order, the question to the minister clearly asks for clarification and to set the record straight. He is trying, Mr Speaker, to set the record straight. The SPEAKER : The actual thing that you have to home in on is why this happened—why. So that is what I want you to address, through the Chair. Questions without Notice Resumed Mr A.P. JACOB : Thank you, Mr Speaker. The question related to the response in the midst of the Waroona fires—a response which ran over 17 days in January this year and which saw the firefighting services of this state significantly stretched. Indeed, in excess of 500 parks and wildlife staff alone were caught up in a direct response to that fire front of the Waroona fires over those 17 days. That is not including the Department of Fire and Emergency Services’ response, and, indeed, the important response from volunteer and local bush fire brigades. But the key point in my response is the claims that the firefighters in those communities, and, indeed, we as a government, were having to deal with in the midst of that response from the member for Girrawheen, who came out very strongly criticising the operational response to use contractors — Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Sit down, please. Next question.
The SPEAKER : That is enough. Mr A.P. JACOB : Indeed, I think that although members opposite may not be in government, they are still members of Parliament, and they still have a responsibility to the Western Australian community, and to this place, to tell the truth and be honest, first of all, in the questions that they ask, and also to tell the truth and be honest in claims that they make frequently outside this place that are often found to have no basis whatsoever. Point of Order Mr W.J. JOHNSTON : Mr Speaker, we all know how dumb this guy is, but let us get it straight. He should just comply with the standing orders. That does not have anything to do with the — Questions without Notice Resumed The SPEAKER : Minister, I am going to sit you down. If you do not answer the question quickly, I am going to sit you down. Mr A.P. JACOB : What do you expect, Mr Speaker? I have only had — Several members interjected. Mr A.P. JACOB : I accept your ruling. The SPEAKER : I do not want to hear any more. Mr W.J. Johnston interjected. Withdrawal of Remark The SPEAKER : Member for Cannington, I never heard what you said, but if you said something untoward, withdraw it. Mr W.J. JOHNSTON : I withdraw. Questions without Notice Resumed The SPEAKER : Thank you. Now, please, a short answer, and I want it through the Chair. Let us move on. Mr A.P. JACOB : Thank you, Mr Speaker, and I would love nothing more than to come directly to the point. However, I draw to your attention that I am increasingly being shouted down. If the spotlight is turned back onto the integrity of members opposite — Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Minister, this is your last chance to answer the question. If you do not answer the question, you can sit down. Mr A.P. JACOB : Certainly, Mr Speaker. I am seeking the opportunity to set the record straight. Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Member for Cockburn! Mr A.P. JACOB : Mr Speaker, that was the question, and I am seeking to answer the member for Bunbury’s question. Point of Order Mr W.J. JOHNSTON : Mr Speaker, could I suggest that you draw to the attention of the minister standing order 148, which allows for personal explanations. Unfortunately, the minister has been asked a question under standing order 75, which is regarding his administrative responsibilities, not a personal explanation. The SPEAKER : Sit down. If you make spurious points of order, I am going to call you to order. Mr W.J. JOHNSTON : It is not spurious. Dr K.D. HAMES : Mr Speaker, further to that point of order, the question to the minister clearly asks for clarification and to set the record straight. He is trying, Mr Speaker, to set the record straight. The SPEAKER : The actual thing that you have to home in on is why this happened—why. So that is what I want you to address, through the Chair. Questions without Notice Resumed Mr A.P. JACOB : Thank you, Mr Speaker. The question related to the response in the midst of the Waroona fires—a response which ran over 17 days in January this year and which saw the firefighting services of this state significantly stretched. Indeed, in excess of 500 parks and wildlife staff alone were caught up in a direct response to that fire front of the Waroona fires over those 17 days. That is not including the Department of Fire and Emergency Services’ response, and, indeed, the important response from volunteer and local bush fire brigades. But the key point in my response is the claims that the firefighters in those communities, and, indeed, we as a government, were having to deal with in the midst of that response from the member for Girrawheen, who came out very strongly criticising the operational response to use contractors — Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Sit down, please. Next question.
Mr A.P. JACOB : Indeed, I think that although members opposite may not be in government, they are still members of Parliament, and they still have a responsibility to the Western Australian community, and to this place, to tell the truth and be honest, first of all, in the questions that they ask, and also to tell the truth and be honest in claims that they make frequently outside this place that are often found to have no basis whatsoever. Point of Order Mr W.J. JOHNSTON : Mr Speaker, we all know how dumb this guy is, but let us get it straight. He should just comply with the standing orders. That does not have anything to do with the — Questions without Notice Resumed The SPEAKER : Minister, I am going to sit you down. If you do not answer the question quickly, I am going to sit you down. Mr A.P. JACOB : What do you expect, Mr Speaker? I have only had — Several members interjected. Mr A.P. JACOB : I accept your ruling. The SPEAKER : I do not want to hear any more. Mr W.J. Johnston interjected. Withdrawal of Remark The SPEAKER : Member for Cannington, I never heard what you said, but if you said something untoward, withdraw it. Mr W.J. JOHNSTON : I withdraw. Questions without Notice Resumed The SPEAKER : Thank you. Now, please, a short answer, and I want it through the Chair. Let us move on. Mr A.P. JACOB : Thank you, Mr Speaker, and I would love nothing more than to come directly to the point. However, I draw to your attention that I am increasingly being shouted down. If the spotlight is turned back onto the integrity of members opposite — Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Minister, this is your last chance to answer the question. If you do not answer the question, you can sit down. Mr A.P. JACOB : Certainly, Mr Speaker. I am seeking the opportunity to set the record straight. Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Member for Cockburn! Mr A.P. JACOB : Mr Speaker, that was the question, and I am seeking to answer the member for Bunbury’s question. Point of Order Mr W.J. JOHNSTON : Mr Speaker, could I suggest that you draw to the attention of the minister standing order 148, which allows for personal explanations. Unfortunately, the minister has been asked a question under standing order 75, which is regarding his administrative responsibilities, not a personal explanation. The SPEAKER : Sit down. If you make spurious points of order, I am going to call you to order. Mr W.J. JOHNSTON : It is not spurious. Dr K.D. HAMES : Mr Speaker, further to that point of order, the question to the minister clearly asks for clarification and to set the record straight. He is trying, Mr Speaker, to set the record straight. The SPEAKER : The actual thing that you have to home in on is why this happened—why. So that is what I want you to address, through the Chair. Questions without Notice Resumed Mr A.P. JACOB : Thank you, Mr Speaker. The question related to the response in the midst of the Waroona fires—a response which ran over 17 days in January this year and which saw the firefighting services of this state significantly stretched. Indeed, in excess of 500 parks and wildlife staff alone were caught up in a direct response to that fire front of the Waroona fires over those 17 days. That is not including the Department of Fire and Emergency Services’ response, and, indeed, the important response from volunteer and local bush fire brigades. But the key point in my response is the claims that the firefighters in those communities, and, indeed, we as a government, were having to deal with in the midst of that response from the member for Girrawheen, who came out very strongly criticising the operational response to use contractors — Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Sit down, please. Next question.
Mr A.P. JACOB : What do you expect, Mr Speaker? I have only had — Several members interjected. Mr A.P. JACOB : I accept your ruling. The SPEAKER : I do not want to hear any more. Mr W.J. Johnston interjected. Withdrawal of Remark The SPEAKER : Member for Cannington, I never heard what you said, but if you said something untoward, withdraw it. Mr W.J. JOHNSTON : I withdraw. Questions without Notice Resumed The SPEAKER : Thank you. Now, please, a short answer, and I want it through the Chair. Let us move on. Mr A.P. JACOB : Thank you, Mr Speaker, and I would love nothing more than to come directly to the point. However, I draw to your attention that I am increasingly being shouted down. If the spotlight is turned back onto the integrity of members opposite — Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Minister, this is your last chance to answer the question. If you do not answer the question, you can sit down. Mr A.P. JACOB : Certainly, Mr Speaker. I am seeking the opportunity to set the record straight. Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Member for Cockburn! Mr A.P. JACOB : Mr Speaker, that was the question, and I am seeking to answer the member for Bunbury’s question. Point of Order Mr W.J. JOHNSTON : Mr Speaker, could I suggest that you draw to the attention of the minister standing order 148, which allows for personal explanations. Unfortunately, the minister has been asked a question under standing order 75, which is regarding his administrative responsibilities, not a personal explanation. The SPEAKER : Sit down. If you make spurious points of order, I am going to call you to order. Mr W.J. JOHNSTON : It is not spurious. Dr K.D. HAMES : Mr Speaker, further to that point of order, the question to the minister clearly asks for clarification and to set the record straight. He is trying, Mr Speaker, to set the record straight. The SPEAKER : The actual thing that you have to home in on is why this happened—why. So that is what I want you to address, through the Chair. Questions without Notice Resumed Mr A.P. JACOB : Thank you, Mr Speaker. The question related to the response in the midst of the Waroona fires—a response which ran over 17 days in January this year and which saw the firefighting services of this state significantly stretched. Indeed, in excess of 500 parks and wildlife staff alone were caught up in a direct response to that fire front of the Waroona fires over those 17 days. That is not including the Department of Fire and Emergency Services’ response, and, indeed, the important response from volunteer and local bush fire brigades. But the key point in my response is the claims that the firefighters in those communities, and, indeed, we as a government, were having to deal with in the midst of that response from the member for Girrawheen, who came out very strongly criticising the operational response to use contractors — Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Sit down, please. Next question.
Several members interjected. Mr A.P. JACOB : I accept your ruling. The SPEAKER : I do not want to hear any more. Mr W.J. Johnston interjected. Withdrawal of Remark The SPEAKER : Member for Cannington, I never heard what you said, but if you said something untoward, withdraw it. Mr W.J. JOHNSTON : I withdraw. Questions without Notice Resumed The SPEAKER : Thank you. Now, please, a short answer, and I want it through the Chair. Let us move on. Mr A.P. JACOB : Thank you, Mr Speaker, and I would love nothing more than to come directly to the point. However, I draw to your attention that I am increasingly being shouted down. If the spotlight is turned back onto the integrity of members opposite — Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Minister, this is your last chance to answer the question. If you do not answer the question, you can sit down. Mr A.P. JACOB : Certainly, Mr Speaker. I am seeking the opportunity to set the record straight. Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Member for Cockburn! Mr A.P. JACOB : Mr Speaker, that was the question, and I am seeking to answer the member for Bunbury’s question. Point of Order Mr W.J. JOHNSTON : Mr Speaker, could I suggest that you draw to the attention of the minister standing order 148, which allows for personal explanations. Unfortunately, the minister has been asked a question under standing order 75, which is regarding his administrative responsibilities, not a personal explanation. The SPEAKER : Sit down. If you make spurious points of order, I am going to call you to order. Mr W.J. JOHNSTON : It is not spurious. Dr K.D. HAMES : Mr Speaker, further to that point of order, the question to the minister clearly asks for clarification and to set the record straight. He is trying, Mr Speaker, to set the record straight. The SPEAKER : The actual thing that you have to home in on is why this happened—why. So that is what I want you to address, through the Chair. Questions without Notice Resumed Mr A.P. JACOB : Thank you, Mr Speaker. The question related to the response in the midst of the Waroona fires—a response which ran over 17 days in January this year and which saw the firefighting services of this state significantly stretched. Indeed, in excess of 500 parks and wildlife staff alone were caught up in a direct response to that fire front of the Waroona fires over those 17 days. That is not including the Department of Fire and Emergency Services’ response, and, indeed, the important response from volunteer and local bush fire brigades. But the key point in my response is the claims that the firefighters in those communities, and, indeed, we as a government, were having to deal with in the midst of that response from the member for Girrawheen, who came out very strongly criticising the operational response to use contractors — Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Sit down, please. Next question.
Mr A.P. JACOB : I accept your ruling. The SPEAKER : I do not want to hear any more. Mr W.J. Johnston interjected. Withdrawal of Remark The SPEAKER : Member for Cannington, I never heard what you said, but if you said something untoward, withdraw it. Mr W.J. JOHNSTON : I withdraw. Questions without Notice Resumed The SPEAKER : Thank you. Now, please, a short answer, and I want it through the Chair. Let us move on. Mr A.P. JACOB : Thank you, Mr Speaker, and I would love nothing more than to come directly to the point. However, I draw to your attention that I am increasingly being shouted down. If the spotlight is turned back onto the integrity of members opposite — Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Minister, this is your last chance to answer the question. If you do not answer the question, you can sit down. Mr A.P. JACOB : Certainly, Mr Speaker. I am seeking the opportunity to set the record straight. Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Member for Cockburn! Mr A.P. JACOB : Mr Speaker, that was the question, and I am seeking to answer the member for Bunbury’s question. Point of Order Mr W.J. JOHNSTON : Mr Speaker, could I suggest that you draw to the attention of the minister standing order 148, which allows for personal explanations. Unfortunately, the minister has been asked a question under standing order 75, which is regarding his administrative responsibilities, not a personal explanation. The SPEAKER : Sit down. If you make spurious points of order, I am going to call you to order. Mr W.J. JOHNSTON : It is not spurious. Dr K.D. HAMES : Mr Speaker, further to that point of order, the question to the minister clearly asks for clarification and to set the record straight. He is trying, Mr Speaker, to set the record straight. The SPEAKER : The actual thing that you have to home in on is why this happened—why. So that is what I want you to address, through the Chair. Questions without Notice Resumed Mr A.P. JACOB : Thank you, Mr Speaker. The question related to the response in the midst of the Waroona fires—a response which ran over 17 days in January this year and which saw the firefighting services of this state significantly stretched. Indeed, in excess of 500 parks and wildlife staff alone were caught up in a direct response to that fire front of the Waroona fires over those 17 days. That is not including the Department of Fire and Emergency Services’ response, and, indeed, the important response from volunteer and local bush fire brigades. But the key point in my response is the claims that the firefighters in those communities, and, indeed, we as a government, were having to deal with in the midst of that response from the member for Girrawheen, who came out very strongly criticising the operational response to use contractors — Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Sit down, please. Next question.
The SPEAKER : I do not want to hear any more. Mr W.J. Johnston interjected. Withdrawal of Remark The SPEAKER : Member for Cannington, I never heard what you said, but if you said something untoward, withdraw it. Mr W.J. JOHNSTON : I withdraw. Questions without Notice Resumed The SPEAKER : Thank you. Now, please, a short answer, and I want it through the Chair. Let us move on. Mr A.P. JACOB : Thank you, Mr Speaker, and I would love nothing more than to come directly to the point. However, I draw to your attention that I am increasingly being shouted down. If the spotlight is turned back onto the integrity of members opposite — Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Minister, this is your last chance to answer the question. If you do not answer the question, you can sit down. Mr A.P. JACOB : Certainly, Mr Speaker. I am seeking the opportunity to set the record straight. Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Member for Cockburn! Mr A.P. JACOB : Mr Speaker, that was the question, and I am seeking to answer the member for Bunbury’s question. Point of Order Mr W.J. JOHNSTON : Mr Speaker, could I suggest that you draw to the attention of the minister standing order 148, which allows for personal explanations. Unfortunately, the minister has been asked a question under standing order 75, which is regarding his administrative responsibilities, not a personal explanation. The SPEAKER : Sit down. If you make spurious points of order, I am going to call you to order. Mr W.J. JOHNSTON : It is not spurious. Dr K.D. HAMES : Mr Speaker, further to that point of order, the question to the minister clearly asks for clarification and to set the record straight. He is trying, Mr Speaker, to set the record straight. The SPEAKER : The actual thing that you have to home in on is why this happened—why. So that is what I want you to address, through the Chair. Questions without Notice Resumed Mr A.P. JACOB : Thank you, Mr Speaker. The question related to the response in the midst of the Waroona fires—a response which ran over 17 days in January this year and which saw the firefighting services of this state significantly stretched. Indeed, in excess of 500 parks and wildlife staff alone were caught up in a direct response to that fire front of the Waroona fires over those 17 days. That is not including the Department of Fire and Emergency Services’ response, and, indeed, the important response from volunteer and local bush fire brigades. But the key point in my response is the claims that the firefighters in those communities, and, indeed, we as a government, were having to deal with in the midst of that response from the member for Girrawheen, who came out very strongly criticising the operational response to use contractors — Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Sit down, please. Next question.
Mr W.J. Johnston interjected. Withdrawal of Remark The SPEAKER : Member for Cannington, I never heard what you said, but if you said something untoward, withdraw it. Mr W.J. JOHNSTON : I withdraw. Questions without Notice Resumed The SPEAKER : Thank you. Now, please, a short answer, and I want it through the Chair. Let us move on. Mr A.P. JACOB : Thank you, Mr Speaker, and I would love nothing more than to come directly to the point. However, I draw to your attention that I am increasingly being shouted down. If the spotlight is turned back onto the integrity of members opposite — Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Minister, this is your last chance to answer the question. If you do not answer the question, you can sit down. Mr A.P. JACOB : Certainly, Mr Speaker. I am seeking the opportunity to set the record straight. Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Member for Cockburn! Mr A.P. JACOB : Mr Speaker, that was the question, and I am seeking to answer the member for Bunbury’s question. Point of Order Mr W.J. JOHNSTON : Mr Speaker, could I suggest that you draw to the attention of the minister standing order 148, which allows for personal explanations. Unfortunately, the minister has been asked a question under standing order 75, which is regarding his administrative responsibilities, not a personal explanation. The SPEAKER : Sit down. If you make spurious points of order, I am going to call you to order. Mr W.J. JOHNSTON : It is not spurious. Dr K.D. HAMES : Mr Speaker, further to that point of order, the question to the minister clearly asks for clarification and to set the record straight. He is trying, Mr Speaker, to set the record straight. The SPEAKER : The actual thing that you have to home in on is why this happened—why. So that is what I want you to address, through the Chair. Questions without Notice Resumed Mr A.P. JACOB : Thank you, Mr Speaker. The question related to the response in the midst of the Waroona fires—a response which ran over 17 days in January this year and which saw the firefighting services of this state significantly stretched. Indeed, in excess of 500 parks and wildlife staff alone were caught up in a direct response to that fire front of the Waroona fires over those 17 days. That is not including the Department of Fire and Emergency Services’ response, and, indeed, the important response from volunteer and local bush fire brigades. But the key point in my response is the claims that the firefighters in those communities, and, indeed, we as a government, were having to deal with in the midst of that response from the member for Girrawheen, who came out very strongly criticising the operational response to use contractors — Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Sit down, please. Next question.
Mr W.J. JOHNSTON : I withdraw. Questions without Notice Resumed The SPEAKER : Thank you. Now, please, a short answer, and I want it through the Chair. Let us move on. Mr A.P. JACOB : Thank you, Mr Speaker, and I would love nothing more than to come directly to the point. However, I draw to your attention that I am increasingly being shouted down. If the spotlight is turned back onto the integrity of members opposite — Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Minister, this is your last chance to answer the question. If you do not answer the question, you can sit down. Mr A.P. JACOB : Certainly, Mr Speaker. I am seeking the opportunity to set the record straight. Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Member for Cockburn! Mr A.P. JACOB : Mr Speaker, that was the question, and I am seeking to answer the member for Bunbury’s question. Point of Order Mr W.J. JOHNSTON : Mr Speaker, could I suggest that you draw to the attention of the minister standing order 148, which allows for personal explanations. Unfortunately, the minister has been asked a question under standing order 75, which is regarding his administrative responsibilities, not a personal explanation. The SPEAKER : Sit down. If you make spurious points of order, I am going to call you to order. Mr W.J. JOHNSTON : It is not spurious. Dr K.D. HAMES : Mr Speaker, further to that point of order, the question to the minister clearly asks for clarification and to set the record straight. He is trying, Mr Speaker, to set the record straight. The SPEAKER : The actual thing that you have to home in on is why this happened—why. So that is what I want you to address, through the Chair. Questions without Notice Resumed Mr A.P. JACOB : Thank you, Mr Speaker. The question related to the response in the midst of the Waroona fires—a response which ran over 17 days in January this year and which saw the firefighting services of this state significantly stretched. Indeed, in excess of 500 parks and wildlife staff alone were caught up in a direct response to that fire front of the Waroona fires over those 17 days. That is not including the Department of Fire and Emergency Services’ response, and, indeed, the important response from volunteer and local bush fire brigades. But the key point in my response is the claims that the firefighters in those communities, and, indeed, we as a government, were having to deal with in the midst of that response from the member for Girrawheen, who came out very strongly criticising the operational response to use contractors — Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Sit down, please. Next question.
Mr A.P. JACOB : Thank you, Mr Speaker, and I would love nothing more than to come directly to the point. However, I draw to your attention that I am increasingly being shouted down. If the spotlight is turned back onto the integrity of members opposite — Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Minister, this is your last chance to answer the question. If you do not answer the question, you can sit down. Mr A.P. JACOB : Certainly, Mr Speaker. I am seeking the opportunity to set the record straight. Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Member for Cockburn! Mr A.P. JACOB : Mr Speaker, that was the question, and I am seeking to answer the member for Bunbury’s question. Point of Order Mr W.J. JOHNSTON : Mr Speaker, could I suggest that you draw to the attention of the minister standing order 148, which allows for personal explanations. Unfortunately, the minister has been asked a question under standing order 75, which is regarding his administrative responsibilities, not a personal explanation. The SPEAKER : Sit down. If you make spurious points of order, I am going to call you to order. Mr W.J. JOHNSTON : It is not spurious. Dr K.D. HAMES : Mr Speaker, further to that point of order, the question to the minister clearly asks for clarification and to set the record straight. He is trying, Mr Speaker, to set the record straight. The SPEAKER : The actual thing that you have to home in on is why this happened—why. So that is what I want you to address, through the Chair. Questions without Notice Resumed Mr A.P. JACOB : Thank you, Mr Speaker. The question related to the response in the midst of the Waroona fires—a response which ran over 17 days in January this year and which saw the firefighting services of this state significantly stretched. Indeed, in excess of 500 parks and wildlife staff alone were caught up in a direct response to that fire front of the Waroona fires over those 17 days. That is not including the Department of Fire and Emergency Services’ response, and, indeed, the important response from volunteer and local bush fire brigades. But the key point in my response is the claims that the firefighters in those communities, and, indeed, we as a government, were having to deal with in the midst of that response from the member for Girrawheen, who came out very strongly criticising the operational response to use contractors — Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Sit down, please. Next question.
Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Minister, this is your last chance to answer the question. If you do not answer the question, you can sit down. Mr A.P. JACOB : Certainly, Mr Speaker. I am seeking the opportunity to set the record straight. Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Member for Cockburn! Mr A.P. JACOB : Mr Speaker, that was the question, and I am seeking to answer the member for Bunbury’s question. Point of Order Mr W.J. JOHNSTON : Mr Speaker, could I suggest that you draw to the attention of the minister standing order 148, which allows for personal explanations. Unfortunately, the minister has been asked a question under standing order 75, which is regarding his administrative responsibilities, not a personal explanation. The SPEAKER : Sit down. If you make spurious points of order, I am going to call you to order. Mr W.J. JOHNSTON : It is not spurious. Dr K.D. HAMES : Mr Speaker, further to that point of order, the question to the minister clearly asks for clarification and to set the record straight. He is trying, Mr Speaker, to set the record straight. The SPEAKER : The actual thing that you have to home in on is why this happened—why. So that is what I want you to address, through the Chair. Questions without Notice Resumed Mr A.P. JACOB : Thank you, Mr Speaker. The question related to the response in the midst of the Waroona fires—a response which ran over 17 days in January this year and which saw the firefighting services of this state significantly stretched. Indeed, in excess of 500 parks and wildlife staff alone were caught up in a direct response to that fire front of the Waroona fires over those 17 days. That is not including the Department of Fire and Emergency Services’ response, and, indeed, the important response from volunteer and local bush fire brigades. But the key point in my response is the claims that the firefighters in those communities, and, indeed, we as a government, were having to deal with in the midst of that response from the member for Girrawheen, who came out very strongly criticising the operational response to use contractors — Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Sit down, please. Next question.
The SPEAKER : Minister, this is your last chance to answer the question. If you do not answer the question, you can sit down. Mr A.P. JACOB : Certainly, Mr Speaker. I am seeking the opportunity to set the record straight. Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Member for Cockburn! Mr A.P. JACOB : Mr Speaker, that was the question, and I am seeking to answer the member for Bunbury’s question. Point of Order Mr W.J. JOHNSTON : Mr Speaker, could I suggest that you draw to the attention of the minister standing order 148, which allows for personal explanations. Unfortunately, the minister has been asked a question under standing order 75, which is regarding his administrative responsibilities, not a personal explanation. The SPEAKER : Sit down. If you make spurious points of order, I am going to call you to order. Mr W.J. JOHNSTON : It is not spurious. Dr K.D. HAMES : Mr Speaker, further to that point of order, the question to the minister clearly asks for clarification and to set the record straight. He is trying, Mr Speaker, to set the record straight. The SPEAKER : The actual thing that you have to home in on is why this happened—why. So that is what I want you to address, through the Chair. Questions without Notice Resumed Mr A.P. JACOB : Thank you, Mr Speaker. The question related to the response in the midst of the Waroona fires—a response which ran over 17 days in January this year and which saw the firefighting services of this state significantly stretched. Indeed, in excess of 500 parks and wildlife staff alone were caught up in a direct response to that fire front of the Waroona fires over those 17 days. That is not including the Department of Fire and Emergency Services’ response, and, indeed, the important response from volunteer and local bush fire brigades. But the key point in my response is the claims that the firefighters in those communities, and, indeed, we as a government, were having to deal with in the midst of that response from the member for Girrawheen, who came out very strongly criticising the operational response to use contractors — Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Sit down, please. Next question.
Mr A.P. JACOB : Certainly, Mr Speaker. I am seeking the opportunity to set the record straight. Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Member for Cockburn! Mr A.P. JACOB : Mr Speaker, that was the question, and I am seeking to answer the member for Bunbury’s question. Point of Order Mr W.J. JOHNSTON : Mr Speaker, could I suggest that you draw to the attention of the minister standing order 148, which allows for personal explanations. Unfortunately, the minister has been asked a question under standing order 75, which is regarding his administrative responsibilities, not a personal explanation. The SPEAKER : Sit down. If you make spurious points of order, I am going to call you to order. Mr W.J. JOHNSTON : It is not spurious. Dr K.D. HAMES : Mr Speaker, further to that point of order, the question to the minister clearly asks for clarification and to set the record straight. He is trying, Mr Speaker, to set the record straight. The SPEAKER : The actual thing that you have to home in on is why this happened—why. So that is what I want you to address, through the Chair. Questions without Notice Resumed Mr A.P. JACOB : Thank you, Mr Speaker. The question related to the response in the midst of the Waroona fires—a response which ran over 17 days in January this year and which saw the firefighting services of this state significantly stretched. Indeed, in excess of 500 parks and wildlife staff alone were caught up in a direct response to that fire front of the Waroona fires over those 17 days. That is not including the Department of Fire and Emergency Services’ response, and, indeed, the important response from volunteer and local bush fire brigades. But the key point in my response is the claims that the firefighters in those communities, and, indeed, we as a government, were having to deal with in the midst of that response from the member for Girrawheen, who came out very strongly criticising the operational response to use contractors — Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Sit down, please. Next question.
Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Member for Cockburn! Mr A.P. JACOB : Mr Speaker, that was the question, and I am seeking to answer the member for Bunbury’s question. Point of Order Mr W.J. JOHNSTON : Mr Speaker, could I suggest that you draw to the attention of the minister standing order 148, which allows for personal explanations. Unfortunately, the minister has been asked a question under standing order 75, which is regarding his administrative responsibilities, not a personal explanation. The SPEAKER : Sit down. If you make spurious points of order, I am going to call you to order. Mr W.J. JOHNSTON : It is not spurious. Dr K.D. HAMES : Mr Speaker, further to that point of order, the question to the minister clearly asks for clarification and to set the record straight. He is trying, Mr Speaker, to set the record straight. The SPEAKER : The actual thing that you have to home in on is why this happened—why. So that is what I want you to address, through the Chair. Questions without Notice Resumed Mr A.P. JACOB : Thank you, Mr Speaker. The question related to the response in the midst of the Waroona fires—a response which ran over 17 days in January this year and which saw the firefighting services of this state significantly stretched. Indeed, in excess of 500 parks and wildlife staff alone were caught up in a direct response to that fire front of the Waroona fires over those 17 days. That is not including the Department of Fire and Emergency Services’ response, and, indeed, the important response from volunteer and local bush fire brigades. But the key point in my response is the claims that the firefighters in those communities, and, indeed, we as a government, were having to deal with in the midst of that response from the member for Girrawheen, who came out very strongly criticising the operational response to use contractors — Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Sit down, please. Next question.
The SPEAKER : Member for Cockburn! Mr A.P. JACOB : Mr Speaker, that was the question, and I am seeking to answer the member for Bunbury’s question. Point of Order Mr W.J. JOHNSTON : Mr Speaker, could I suggest that you draw to the attention of the minister standing order 148, which allows for personal explanations. Unfortunately, the minister has been asked a question under standing order 75, which is regarding his administrative responsibilities, not a personal explanation. The SPEAKER : Sit down. If you make spurious points of order, I am going to call you to order. Mr W.J. JOHNSTON : It is not spurious. Dr K.D. HAMES : Mr Speaker, further to that point of order, the question to the minister clearly asks for clarification and to set the record straight. He is trying, Mr Speaker, to set the record straight. The SPEAKER : The actual thing that you have to home in on is why this happened—why. So that is what I want you to address, through the Chair. Questions without Notice Resumed Mr A.P. JACOB : Thank you, Mr Speaker. The question related to the response in the midst of the Waroona fires—a response which ran over 17 days in January this year and which saw the firefighting services of this state significantly stretched. Indeed, in excess of 500 parks and wildlife staff alone were caught up in a direct response to that fire front of the Waroona fires over those 17 days. That is not including the Department of Fire and Emergency Services’ response, and, indeed, the important response from volunteer and local bush fire brigades. But the key point in my response is the claims that the firefighters in those communities, and, indeed, we as a government, were having to deal with in the midst of that response from the member for Girrawheen, who came out very strongly criticising the operational response to use contractors — Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Sit down, please. Next question.
Mr A.P. JACOB : Mr Speaker, that was the question, and I am seeking to answer the member for Bunbury’s question. Point of Order Mr W.J. JOHNSTON : Mr Speaker, could I suggest that you draw to the attention of the minister standing order 148, which allows for personal explanations. Unfortunately, the minister has been asked a question under standing order 75, which is regarding his administrative responsibilities, not a personal explanation. The SPEAKER : Sit down. If you make spurious points of order, I am going to call you to order. Mr W.J. JOHNSTON : It is not spurious. Dr K.D. HAMES : Mr Speaker, further to that point of order, the question to the minister clearly asks for clarification and to set the record straight. He is trying, Mr Speaker, to set the record straight. The SPEAKER : The actual thing that you have to home in on is why this happened—why. So that is what I want you to address, through the Chair. Questions without Notice Resumed Mr A.P. JACOB : Thank you, Mr Speaker. The question related to the response in the midst of the Waroona fires—a response which ran over 17 days in January this year and which saw the firefighting services of this state significantly stretched. Indeed, in excess of 500 parks and wildlife staff alone were caught up in a direct response to that fire front of the Waroona fires over those 17 days. That is not including the Department of Fire and Emergency Services’ response, and, indeed, the important response from volunteer and local bush fire brigades. But the key point in my response is the claims that the firefighters in those communities, and, indeed, we as a government, were having to deal with in the midst of that response from the member for Girrawheen, who came out very strongly criticising the operational response to use contractors — Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Sit down, please. Next question.
The SPEAKER : Sit down. If you make spurious points of order, I am going to call you to order. Mr W.J. JOHNSTON : It is not spurious. Dr K.D. HAMES : Mr Speaker, further to that point of order, the question to the minister clearly asks for clarification and to set the record straight. He is trying, Mr Speaker, to set the record straight. The SPEAKER : The actual thing that you have to home in on is why this happened—why. So that is what I want you to address, through the Chair. Questions without Notice Resumed Mr A.P. JACOB : Thank you, Mr Speaker. The question related to the response in the midst of the Waroona fires—a response which ran over 17 days in January this year and which saw the firefighting services of this state significantly stretched. Indeed, in excess of 500 parks and wildlife staff alone were caught up in a direct response to that fire front of the Waroona fires over those 17 days. That is not including the Department of Fire and Emergency Services’ response, and, indeed, the important response from volunteer and local bush fire brigades. But the key point in my response is the claims that the firefighters in those communities, and, indeed, we as a government, were having to deal with in the midst of that response from the member for Girrawheen, who came out very strongly criticising the operational response to use contractors — Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Sit down, please. Next question.
Mr W.J. JOHNSTON : It is not spurious. Dr K.D. HAMES : Mr Speaker, further to that point of order, the question to the minister clearly asks for clarification and to set the record straight. He is trying, Mr Speaker, to set the record straight. The SPEAKER : The actual thing that you have to home in on is why this happened—why. So that is what I want you to address, through the Chair. Questions without Notice Resumed Mr A.P. JACOB : Thank you, Mr Speaker. The question related to the response in the midst of the Waroona fires—a response which ran over 17 days in January this year and which saw the firefighting services of this state significantly stretched. Indeed, in excess of 500 parks and wildlife staff alone were caught up in a direct response to that fire front of the Waroona fires over those 17 days. That is not including the Department of Fire and Emergency Services’ response, and, indeed, the important response from volunteer and local bush fire brigades. But the key point in my response is the claims that the firefighters in those communities, and, indeed, we as a government, were having to deal with in the midst of that response from the member for Girrawheen, who came out very strongly criticising the operational response to use contractors — Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Sit down, please. Next question.
Dr K.D. HAMES : Mr Speaker, further to that point of order, the question to the minister clearly asks for clarification and to set the record straight. He is trying, Mr Speaker, to set the record straight. The SPEAKER : The actual thing that you have to home in on is why this happened—why. So that is what I want you to address, through the Chair. Questions without Notice Resumed Mr A.P. JACOB : Thank you, Mr Speaker. The question related to the response in the midst of the Waroona fires—a response which ran over 17 days in January this year and which saw the firefighting services of this state significantly stretched. Indeed, in excess of 500 parks and wildlife staff alone were caught up in a direct response to that fire front of the Waroona fires over those 17 days. That is not including the Department of Fire and Emergency Services’ response, and, indeed, the important response from volunteer and local bush fire brigades. But the key point in my response is the claims that the firefighters in those communities, and, indeed, we as a government, were having to deal with in the midst of that response from the member for Girrawheen, who came out very strongly criticising the operational response to use contractors — Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Sit down, please. Next question.
The SPEAKER : The actual thing that you have to home in on is why this happened—why. So that is what I want you to address, through the Chair. Questions without Notice Resumed Mr A.P. JACOB : Thank you, Mr Speaker. The question related to the response in the midst of the Waroona fires—a response which ran over 17 days in January this year and which saw the firefighting services of this state significantly stretched. Indeed, in excess of 500 parks and wildlife staff alone were caught up in a direct response to that fire front of the Waroona fires over those 17 days. That is not including the Department of Fire and Emergency Services’ response, and, indeed, the important response from volunteer and local bush fire brigades. But the key point in my response is the claims that the firefighters in those communities, and, indeed, we as a government, were having to deal with in the midst of that response from the member for Girrawheen, who came out very strongly criticising the operational response to use contractors — Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Sit down, please. Next question.
Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Sit down, please. Next question.
The SPEAKER : Sit down, please. Next question.
Mr A.P. JACOB replied: I thank the member for Bunbury for the question. It is important to have an opportunity to set the record straight on a number of claims — Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Member for Girrawheen, you are on three calls; you are now on three and a half calls. Mr A.P. JACOB : The member for Girrawheen continues to play very fast and loose with the truth. I caught some of the interjections there — The SPEAKER : Just hold on a minute. What I want you to do is put your answer through the Chair. I do not want another fracas developing here. Mr A.P. JACOB : Indeed, as — Point of Order Dr A.D. BUTI : Mr Speaker, this is question time. I would like you to clarify what actual question was asked by the member for Bunbury. It was not a question asked of the Minister for Environment. The SPEAKER : I do not understand your point of order. It is not part of his portfolio—is that what you are saying? Dr A.D. BUTI : No, my question to you, Mr Speaker, was: did the member for Bunbury actually ask a question? He asked the minister to clarify or put on the record something he said yesterday. That is not a question, and this is question time. That would be a ministerial statement. The SPEAKER : Just repeat your question, please, member for Bunbury. Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Member for Willagee, I call you to order. Questions without Notice Resumed Mr G.M. CASTRILLI : Let me duplicate it in full, Mr Speaker. I will put my glasses on for a start. My question is to the Minister for Environment. Further to the minister’s comments yesterday in question time regarding the Department of Parks and Wildlife’s use of a contracted private firefighting organisation to work from Collie during the Waroona fire incident, could the minister please set the record straight on why his department did this? Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Thank you for that. Mr A.P. JACOB : Mr Speaker, they do not like being caught out! As I said, and particularly when it comes to the member for Girrawheen — The SPEAKER : Minister, I just want to say something to you. I do not want to have you and the member for Girrawheen have a fight. So go through the Chair, please. Mr A.P. JACOB : Absolutely, Mr Speaker. Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Members! Mr A.P. JACOB : There is form. We saw that yesterday with a question from the member for Girrawheen that was found to have absolutely no basis in truth whatsoever—indeed, referring to an agreement that had already been signed the year before and was entirely functional. It shows a pattern, in particular from the member for Girrawheen, but a pattern right across the board — Point of Order Mrs M.H. ROBERTS : Mr Speaker — Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Member for Wanneroo, I call you to order for, I think, the first time—the second time. Mrs M.H. ROBERTS : Minister, we have already wasted enough time hearing — Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : This is starting to get out of control. Something is going to happen if we do not bring it back on line. Mrs M.H. ROBERTS : We have finally ascertained that the member for Bunbury has now asked a question. I am calling upon the minister to answer it, rather than trying to redefine his answer from yesterday. The SPEAKER : Minister, through the Chair. Questions without Notice Resumed Mr A.P. JACOB : Thank you, Mr Speaker. Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : That is enough. Mr A.P. JACOB : Indeed, I think that although members opposite may not be in government, they are still members of Parliament, and they still have a responsibility to the Western Australian community, and to this place, to tell the truth and be honest, first of all, in the questions that they ask, and also to tell the truth and be honest in claims that they make frequently outside this place that are often found to have no basis whatsoever. Point of Order Mr W.J. JOHNSTON : Mr Speaker, we all know how dumb this guy is, but let us get it straight. He should just comply with the standing orders. That does not have anything to do with the — Questions without Notice Resumed The SPEAKER : Minister, I am going to sit you down. If you do not answer the question quickly, I am going to sit you down. Mr A.P. JACOB : What do you expect, Mr Speaker? I have only had — Several members interjected. Mr A.P. JACOB : I accept your ruling. The SPEAKER : I do not want to hear any more. Mr W.J. Johnston interjected. Withdrawal of Remark The SPEAKER : Member for Cannington, I never heard what you said, but if you said something untoward, withdraw it. Mr W.J. JOHNSTON : I withdraw. Questions without Notice Resumed The SPEAKER : Thank you. Now, please, a short answer, and I want it through the Chair. Let us move on. Mr A.P. JACOB : Thank you, Mr Speaker, and I would love nothing more than to come directly to the point. However, I draw to your attention that I am increasingly being shouted down. If the spotlight is turned back onto the integrity of members opposite — Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Minister, this is your last chance to answer the question. If you do not answer the question, you can sit down. Mr A.P. JACOB : Certainly, Mr Speaker. I am seeking the opportunity to set the record straight. Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Member for Cockburn! Mr A.P. JACOB : Mr Speaker, that was the question, and I am seeking to answer the member for Bunbury’s question. Point of Order Mr W.J. JOHNSTON : Mr Speaker, could I suggest that you draw to the attention of the minister standing order 148, which allows for personal explanations. Unfortunately, the minister has been asked a question under standing order 75, which is regarding his administrative responsibilities, not a personal explanation. The SPEAKER : Sit down. If you make spurious points of order, I am going to call you to order. Mr W.J. JOHNSTON : It is not spurious. Dr K.D. HAMES : Mr Speaker, further to that point of order, the question to the minister clearly asks for clarification and to set the record straight. He is trying, Mr Speaker, to set the record straight. The SPEAKER : The actual thing that you have to home in on is why this happened—why. So that is what I want you to address, through the Chair. Questions without Notice Resumed Mr A.P. JACOB : Thank you, Mr Speaker. The question related to the response in the midst of the Waroona fires—a response which ran over 17 days in January this year and which saw the firefighting services of this state significantly stretched. Indeed, in excess of 500 parks and wildlife staff alone were caught up in a direct response to that fire front of the Waroona fires over those 17 days. That is not including the Department of Fire and Emergency Services’ response, and, indeed, the important response from volunteer and local bush fire brigades. But the key point in my response is the claims that the firefighters in those communities, and, indeed, we as a government, were having to deal with in the midst of that response from the member for Girrawheen, who came out very strongly criticising the operational response to use contractors — Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Sit down, please. Next question.
I thank the member for Bunbury for the question. It is important to have an opportunity to set the record straight on a number of claims — Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Member for Girrawheen, you are on three calls; you are now on three and a half calls. Mr A.P. JACOB : The member for Girrawheen continues to play very fast and loose with the truth. I caught some of the interjections there — The SPEAKER : Just hold on a minute. What I want you to do is put your answer through the Chair. I do not want another fracas developing here. Mr A.P. JACOB : Indeed, as — Point of Order Dr A.D. BUTI : Mr Speaker, this is question time. I would like you to clarify what actual question was asked by the member for Bunbury. It was not a question asked of the Minister for Environment. The SPEAKER : I do not understand your point of order. It is not part of his portfolio—is that what you are saying? Dr A.D. BUTI : No, my question to you, Mr Speaker, was: did the member for Bunbury actually ask a question? He asked the minister to clarify or put on the record something he said yesterday. That is not a question, and this is question time. That would be a ministerial statement. The SPEAKER : Just repeat your question, please, member for Bunbury. Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Member for Willagee, I call you to order. Questions without Notice Resumed Mr G.M. CASTRILLI : Let me duplicate it in full, Mr Speaker. I will put my glasses on for a start. My question is to the Minister for Environment. Further to the minister’s comments yesterday in question time regarding the Department of Parks and Wildlife’s use of a contracted private firefighting organisation to work from Collie during the Waroona fire incident, could the minister please set the record straight on why his department did this? Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Thank you for that. Mr A.P. JACOB : Mr Speaker, they do not like being caught out! As I said, and particularly when it comes to the member for Girrawheen — The SPEAKER : Minister, I just want to say something to you. I do not want to have you and the member for Girrawheen have a fight. So go through the Chair, please. Mr A.P. JACOB : Absolutely, Mr Speaker. Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Members! Mr A.P. JACOB : There is form. We saw that yesterday with a question from the member for Girrawheen that was found to have absolutely no basis in truth whatsoever—indeed, referring to an agreement that had already been signed the year before and was entirely functional. It shows a pattern, in particular from the member for Girrawheen, but a pattern right across the board — Point of Order Mrs M.H. ROBERTS : Mr Speaker — Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Member for Wanneroo, I call you to order for, I think, the first time—the second time. Mrs M.H. ROBERTS : Minister, we have already wasted enough time hearing — Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : This is starting to get out of control. Something is going to happen if we do not bring it back on line. Mrs M.H. ROBERTS : We have finally ascertained that the member for Bunbury has now asked a question. I am calling upon the minister to answer it, rather than trying to redefine his answer from yesterday. The SPEAKER : Minister, through the Chair. Questions without Notice Resumed Mr A.P. JACOB : Thank you, Mr Speaker. Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : That is enough. Mr A.P. JACOB : Indeed, I think that although members opposite may not be in government, they are still members of Parliament, and they still have a responsibility to the Western Australian community, and to this place, to tell the truth and be honest, first of all, in the questions that they ask, and also to tell the truth and be honest in claims that they make frequently outside this place that are often found to have no basis whatsoever. Point of Order Mr W.J. JOHNSTON : Mr Speaker, we all know how dumb this guy is, but let us get it straight. He should just comply with the standing orders. That does not have anything to do with the — Questions without Notice Resumed The SPEAKER : Minister, I am going to sit you down. If you do not answer the question quickly, I am going to sit you down. Mr A.P. JACOB : What do you expect, Mr Speaker? I have only had — Several members interjected. Mr A.P. JACOB : I accept your ruling. The SPEAKER : I do not want to hear any more. Mr W.J. Johnston interjected. Withdrawal of Remark The SPEAKER : Member for Cannington, I never heard what you said, but if you said something untoward, withdraw it. Mr W.J. JOHNSTON : I withdraw. Questions without Notice Resumed The SPEAKER : Thank you. Now, please, a short answer, and I want it through the Chair. Let us move on. Mr A.P. JACOB : Thank you, Mr Speaker, and I would love nothing more than to come directly to the point. However, I draw to your attention that I am increasingly being shouted down. If the spotlight is turned back onto the integrity of members opposite — Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Minister, this is your last chance to answer the question. If you do not answer the question, you can sit down. Mr A.P. JACOB : Certainly, Mr Speaker. I am seeking the opportunity to set the record straight. Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Member for Cockburn! Mr A.P. JACOB : Mr Speaker, that was the question, and I am seeking to answer the member for Bunbury’s question. Point of Order Mr W.J. JOHNSTON : Mr Speaker, could I suggest that you draw to the attention of the minister standing order 148, which allows for personal explanations. Unfortunately, the minister has been asked a question under standing order 75, which is regarding his administrative responsibilities, not a personal explanation. The SPEAKER : Sit down. If you make spurious points of order, I am going to call you to order. Mr W.J. JOHNSTON : It is not spurious. Dr K.D. HAMES : Mr Speaker, further to that point of order, the question to the minister clearly asks for clarification and to set the record straight. He is trying, Mr Speaker, to set the record straight. The SPEAKER : The actual thing that you have to home in on is why this happened—why. So that is what I want you to address, through the Chair. Questions without Notice Resumed Mr A.P. JACOB : Thank you, Mr Speaker. The question related to the response in the midst of the Waroona fires—a response which ran over 17 days in January this year and which saw the firefighting services of this state significantly stretched. Indeed, in excess of 500 parks and wildlife staff alone were caught up in a direct response to that fire front of the Waroona fires over those 17 days. That is not including the Department of Fire and Emergency Services’ response, and, indeed, the important response from volunteer and local bush fire brigades. But the key point in my response is the claims that the firefighters in those communities, and, indeed, we as a government, were having to deal with in the midst of that response from the member for Girrawheen, who came out very strongly criticising the operational response to use contractors — Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Sit down, please. Next question.
Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Member for Girrawheen, you are on three calls; you are now on three and a half calls. Mr A.P. JACOB : The member for Girrawheen continues to play very fast and loose with the truth. I caught some of the interjections there — The SPEAKER : Just hold on a minute. What I want you to do is put your answer through the Chair. I do not want another fracas developing here. Mr A.P. JACOB : Indeed, as — Point of Order Dr A.D. BUTI : Mr Speaker, this is question time. I would like you to clarify what actual question was asked by the member for Bunbury. It was not a question asked of the Minister for Environment. The SPEAKER : I do not understand your point of order. It is not part of his portfolio—is that what you are saying? Dr A.D. BUTI : No, my question to you, Mr Speaker, was: did the member for Bunbury actually ask a question? He asked the minister to clarify or put on the record something he said yesterday. That is not a question, and this is question time. That would be a ministerial statement. The SPEAKER : Just repeat your question, please, member for Bunbury. Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Member for Willagee, I call you to order. Questions without Notice Resumed Mr G.M. CASTRILLI : Let me duplicate it in full, Mr Speaker. I will put my glasses on for a start. My question is to the Minister for Environment. Further to the minister’s comments yesterday in question time regarding the Department of Parks and Wildlife’s use of a contracted private firefighting organisation to work from Collie during the Waroona fire incident, could the minister please set the record straight on why his department did this? Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Thank you for that. Mr A.P. JACOB : Mr Speaker, they do not like being caught out! As I said, and particularly when it comes to the member for Girrawheen — The SPEAKER : Minister, I just want to say something to you. I do not want to have you and the member for Girrawheen have a fight. So go through the Chair, please. Mr A.P. JACOB : Absolutely, Mr Speaker. Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Members! Mr A.P. JACOB : There is form. We saw that yesterday with a question from the member for Girrawheen that was found to have absolutely no basis in truth whatsoever—indeed, referring to an agreement that had already been signed the year before and was entirely functional. It shows a pattern, in particular from the member for Girrawheen, but a pattern right across the board — Point of Order Mrs M.H. ROBERTS : Mr Speaker — Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Member for Wanneroo, I call you to order for, I think, the first time—the second time. Mrs M.H. ROBERTS : Minister, we have already wasted enough time hearing — Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : This is starting to get out of control. Something is going to happen if we do not bring it back on line. Mrs M.H. ROBERTS : We have finally ascertained that the member for Bunbury has now asked a question. I am calling upon the minister to answer it, rather than trying to redefine his answer from yesterday. The SPEAKER : Minister, through the Chair. Questions without Notice Resumed Mr A.P. JACOB : Thank you, Mr Speaker. Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : That is enough. Mr A.P. JACOB : Indeed, I think that although members opposite may not be in government, they are still members of Parliament, and they still have a responsibility to the Western Australian community, and to this place, to tell the truth and be honest, first of all, in the questions that they ask, and also to tell the truth and be honest in claims that they make frequently outside this place that are often found to have no basis whatsoever. Point of Order Mr W.J. JOHNSTON : Mr Speaker, we all know how dumb this guy is, but let us get it straight. He should just comply with the standing orders. That does not have anything to do with the — Questions without Notice Resumed The SPEAKER : Minister, I am going to sit you down. If you do not answer the question quickly, I am going to sit you down. Mr A.P. JACOB : What do you expect, Mr Speaker? I have only had — Several members interjected. Mr A.P. JACOB : I accept your ruling. The SPEAKER : I do not want to hear any more. Mr W.J. Johnston interjected. Withdrawal of Remark The SPEAKER : Member for Cannington, I never heard what you said, but if you said something untoward, withdraw it. Mr W.J. JOHNSTON : I withdraw. Questions without Notice Resumed The SPEAKER : Thank you. Now, please, a short answer, and I want it through the Chair. Let us move on. Mr A.P. JACOB : Thank you, Mr Speaker, and I would love nothing more than to come directly to the point. However, I draw to your attention that I am increasingly being shouted down. If the spotlight is turned back onto the integrity of members opposite — Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Minister, this is your last chance to answer the question. If you do not answer the question, you can sit down. Mr A.P. JACOB : Certainly, Mr Speaker. I am seeking the opportunity to set the record straight. Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Member for Cockburn! Mr A.P. JACOB : Mr Speaker, that was the question, and I am seeking to answer the member for Bunbury’s question. Point of Order Mr W.J. JOHNSTON : Mr Speaker, could I suggest that you draw to the attention of the minister standing order 148, which allows for personal explanations. Unfortunately, the minister has been asked a question under standing order 75, which is regarding his administrative responsibilities, not a personal explanation. The SPEAKER : Sit down. If you make spurious points of order, I am going to call you to order. Mr W.J. JOHNSTON : It is not spurious. Dr K.D. HAMES : Mr Speaker, further to that point of order, the question to the minister clearly asks for clarification and to set the record straight. He is trying, Mr Speaker, to set the record straight. The SPEAKER : The actual thing that you have to home in on is why this happened—why. So that is what I want you to address, through the Chair. Questions without Notice Resumed Mr A.P. JACOB : Thank you, Mr Speaker. The question related to the response in the midst of the Waroona fires—a response which ran over 17 days in January this year and which saw the firefighting services of this state significantly stretched. Indeed, in excess of 500 parks and wildlife staff alone were caught up in a direct response to that fire front of the Waroona fires over those 17 days. That is not including the Department of Fire and Emergency Services’ response, and, indeed, the important response from volunteer and local bush fire brigades. But the key point in my response is the claims that the firefighters in those communities, and, indeed, we as a government, were having to deal with in the midst of that response from the member for Girrawheen, who came out very strongly criticising the operational response to use contractors — Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Sit down, please. Next question.
The SPEAKER : Member for Girrawheen, you are on three calls; you are now on three and a half calls. Mr A.P. JACOB : The member for Girrawheen continues to play very fast and loose with the truth. I caught some of the interjections there — The SPEAKER : Just hold on a minute. What I want you to do is put your answer through the Chair. I do not want another fracas developing here. Mr A.P. JACOB : Indeed, as — Point of Order Dr A.D. BUTI : Mr Speaker, this is question time. I would like you to clarify what actual question was asked by the member for Bunbury. It was not a question asked of the Minister for Environment. The SPEAKER : I do not understand your point of order. It is not part of his portfolio—is that what you are saying? Dr A.D. BUTI : No, my question to you, Mr Speaker, was: did the member for Bunbury actually ask a question? He asked the minister to clarify or put on the record something he said yesterday. That is not a question, and this is question time. That would be a ministerial statement. The SPEAKER : Just repeat your question, please, member for Bunbury. Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Member for Willagee, I call you to order. Questions without Notice Resumed Mr G.M. CASTRILLI : Let me duplicate it in full, Mr Speaker. I will put my glasses on for a start. My question is to the Minister for Environment. Further to the minister’s comments yesterday in question time regarding the Department of Parks and Wildlife’s use of a contracted private firefighting organisation to work from Collie during the Waroona fire incident, could the minister please set the record straight on why his department did this? Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Thank you for that. Mr A.P. JACOB : Mr Speaker, they do not like being caught out! As I said, and particularly when it comes to the member for Girrawheen — The SPEAKER : Minister, I just want to say something to you. I do not want to have you and the member for Girrawheen have a fight. So go through the Chair, please. Mr A.P. JACOB : Absolutely, Mr Speaker. Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Members! Mr A.P. JACOB : There is form. We saw that yesterday with a question from the member for Girrawheen that was found to have absolutely no basis in truth whatsoever—indeed, referring to an agreement that had already been signed the year before and was entirely functional. It shows a pattern, in particular from the member for Girrawheen, but a pattern right across the board — Point of Order Mrs M.H. ROBERTS : Mr Speaker — Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Member for Wanneroo, I call you to order for, I think, the first time—the second time. Mrs M.H. ROBERTS : Minister, we have already wasted enough time hearing — Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : This is starting to get out of control. Something is going to happen if we do not bring it back on line. Mrs M.H. ROBERTS : We have finally ascertained that the member for Bunbury has now asked a question. I am calling upon the minister to answer it, rather than trying to redefine his answer from yesterday. The SPEAKER : Minister, through the Chair. Questions without Notice Resumed Mr A.P. JACOB : Thank you, Mr Speaker. Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : That is enough. Mr A.P. JACOB : Indeed, I think that although members opposite may not be in government, they are still members of Parliament, and they still have a responsibility to the Western Australian community, and to this place, to tell the truth and be honest, first of all, in the questions that they ask, and also to tell the truth and be honest in claims that they make frequently outside this place that are often found to have no basis whatsoever. Point of Order Mr W.J. JOHNSTON : Mr Speaker, we all know how dumb this guy is, but let us get it straight. He should just comply with the standing orders. That does not have anything to do with the — Questions without Notice Resumed The SPEAKER : Minister, I am going to sit you down. If you do not answer the question quickly, I am going to sit you down. Mr A.P. JACOB : What do you expect, Mr Speaker? I have only had — Several members interjected. Mr A.P. JACOB : I accept your ruling. The SPEAKER : I do not want to hear any more. Mr W.J. Johnston interjected. Withdrawal of Remark The SPEAKER : Member for Cannington, I never heard what you said, but if you said something untoward, withdraw it. Mr W.J. JOHNSTON : I withdraw. Questions without Notice Resumed The SPEAKER : Thank you. Now, please, a short answer, and I want it through the Chair. Let us move on. Mr A.P. JACOB : Thank you, Mr Speaker, and I would love nothing more than to come directly to the point. However, I draw to your attention that I am increasingly being shouted down. If the spotlight is turned back onto the integrity of members opposite — Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Minister, this is your last chance to answer the question. If you do not answer the question, you can sit down. Mr A.P. JACOB : Certainly, Mr Speaker. I am seeking the opportunity to set the record straight. Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Member for Cockburn! Mr A.P. JACOB : Mr Speaker, that was the question, and I am seeking to answer the member for Bunbury’s question. Point of Order Mr W.J. JOHNSTON : Mr Speaker, could I suggest that you draw to the attention of the minister standing order 148, which allows for personal explanations. Unfortunately, the minister has been asked a question under standing order 75, which is regarding his administrative responsibilities, not a personal explanation. The SPEAKER : Sit down. If you make spurious points of order, I am going to call you to order. Mr W.J. JOHNSTON : It is not spurious. Dr K.D. HAMES : Mr Speaker, further to that point of order, the question to the minister clearly asks for clarification and to set the record straight. He is trying, Mr Speaker, to set the record straight. The SPEAKER : The actual thing that you have to home in on is why this happened—why. So that is what I want you to address, through the Chair. Questions without Notice Resumed Mr A.P. JACOB : Thank you, Mr Speaker. The question related to the response in the midst of the Waroona fires—a response which ran over 17 days in January this year and which saw the firefighting services of this state significantly stretched. Indeed, in excess of 500 parks and wildlife staff alone were caught up in a direct response to that fire front of the Waroona fires over those 17 days. That is not including the Department of Fire and Emergency Services’ response, and, indeed, the important response from volunteer and local bush fire brigades. But the key point in my response is the claims that the firefighters in those communities, and, indeed, we as a government, were having to deal with in the midst of that response from the member for Girrawheen, who came out very strongly criticising the operational response to use contractors — Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Sit down, please. Next question.
Mr A.P. JACOB : The member for Girrawheen continues to play very fast and loose with the truth. I caught some of the interjections there — The SPEAKER : Just hold on a minute. What I want you to do is put your answer through the Chair. I do not want another fracas developing here. Mr A.P. JACOB : Indeed, as — Point of Order Dr A.D. BUTI : Mr Speaker, this is question time. I would like you to clarify what actual question was asked by the member for Bunbury. It was not a question asked of the Minister for Environment. The SPEAKER : I do not understand your point of order. It is not part of his portfolio—is that what you are saying? Dr A.D. BUTI : No, my question to you, Mr Speaker, was: did the member for Bunbury actually ask a question? He asked the minister to clarify or put on the record something he said yesterday. That is not a question, and this is question time. That would be a ministerial statement. The SPEAKER : Just repeat your question, please, member for Bunbury. Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Member for Willagee, I call you to order. Questions without Notice Resumed Mr G.M. CASTRILLI : Let me duplicate it in full, Mr Speaker. I will put my glasses on for a start. My question is to the Minister for Environment. Further to the minister’s comments yesterday in question time regarding the Department of Parks and Wildlife’s use of a contracted private firefighting organisation to work from Collie during the Waroona fire incident, could the minister please set the record straight on why his department did this? Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Thank you for that. Mr A.P. JACOB : Mr Speaker, they do not like being caught out! As I said, and particularly when it comes to the member for Girrawheen — The SPEAKER : Minister, I just want to say something to you. I do not want to have you and the member for Girrawheen have a fight. So go through the Chair, please. Mr A.P. JACOB : Absolutely, Mr Speaker. Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Members! Mr A.P. JACOB : There is form. We saw that yesterday with a question from the member for Girrawheen that was found to have absolutely no basis in truth whatsoever—indeed, referring to an agreement that had already been signed the year before and was entirely functional. It shows a pattern, in particular from the member for Girrawheen, but a pattern right across the board — Point of Order Mrs M.H. ROBERTS : Mr Speaker — Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Member for Wanneroo, I call you to order for, I think, the first time—the second time. Mrs M.H. ROBERTS : Minister, we have already wasted enough time hearing — Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : This is starting to get out of control. Something is going to happen if we do not bring it back on line. Mrs M.H. ROBERTS : We have finally ascertained that the member for Bunbury has now asked a question. I am calling upon the minister to answer it, rather than trying to redefine his answer from yesterday. The SPEAKER : Minister, through the Chair. Questions without Notice Resumed Mr A.P. JACOB : Thank you, Mr Speaker. Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : That is enough. Mr A.P. JACOB : Indeed, I think that although members opposite may not be in government, they are still members of Parliament, and they still have a responsibility to the Western Australian community, and to this place, to tell the truth and be honest, first of all, in the questions that they ask, and also to tell the truth and be honest in claims that they make frequently outside this place that are often found to have no basis whatsoever. Point of Order Mr W.J. JOHNSTON : Mr Speaker, we all know how dumb this guy is, but let us get it straight. He should just comply with the standing orders. That does not have anything to do with the — Questions without Notice Resumed The SPEAKER : Minister, I am going to sit you down. If you do not answer the question quickly, I am going to sit you down. Mr A.P. JACOB : What do you expect, Mr Speaker? I have only had — Several members interjected. Mr A.P. JACOB : I accept your ruling. The SPEAKER : I do not want to hear any more. Mr W.J. Johnston interjected. Withdrawal of Remark The SPEAKER : Member for Cannington, I never heard what you said, but if you said something untoward, withdraw it. Mr W.J. JOHNSTON : I withdraw. Questions without Notice Resumed The SPEAKER : Thank you. Now, please, a short answer, and I want it through the Chair. Let us move on. Mr A.P. JACOB : Thank you, Mr Speaker, and I would love nothing more than to come directly to the point. However, I draw to your attention that I am increasingly being shouted down. If the spotlight is turned back onto the integrity of members opposite — Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Minister, this is your last chance to answer the question. If you do not answer the question, you can sit down. Mr A.P. JACOB : Certainly, Mr Speaker. I am seeking the opportunity to set the record straight. Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Member for Cockburn! Mr A.P. JACOB : Mr Speaker, that was the question, and I am seeking to answer the member for Bunbury’s question. Point of Order Mr W.J. JOHNSTON : Mr Speaker, could I suggest that you draw to the attention of the minister standing order 148, which allows for personal explanations. Unfortunately, the minister has been asked a question under standing order 75, which is regarding his administrative responsibilities, not a personal explanation. The SPEAKER : Sit down. If you make spurious points of order, I am going to call you to order. Mr W.J. JOHNSTON : It is not spurious. Dr K.D. HAMES : Mr Speaker, further to that point of order, the question to the minister clearly asks for clarification and to set the record straight. He is trying, Mr Speaker, to set the record straight. The SPEAKER : The actual thing that you have to home in on is why this happened—why. So that is what I want you to address, through the Chair. Questions without Notice Resumed Mr A.P. JACOB : Thank you, Mr Speaker. The question related to the response in the midst of the Waroona fires—a response which ran over 17 days in January this year and which saw the firefighting services of this state significantly stretched. Indeed, in excess of 500 parks and wildlife staff alone were caught up in a direct response to that fire front of the Waroona fires over those 17 days. That is not including the Department of Fire and Emergency Services’ response, and, indeed, the important response from volunteer and local bush fire brigades. But the key point in my response is the claims that the firefighters in those communities, and, indeed, we as a government, were having to deal with in the midst of that response from the member for Girrawheen, who came out very strongly criticising the operational response to use contractors — Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Sit down, please. Next question.
The SPEAKER : Just hold on a minute. What I want you to do is put your answer through the Chair. I do not want another fracas developing here. Mr A.P. JACOB : Indeed, as — Point of Order Dr A.D. BUTI : Mr Speaker, this is question time. I would like you to clarify what actual question was asked by the member for Bunbury. It was not a question asked of the Minister for Environment. The SPEAKER : I do not understand your point of order. It is not part of his portfolio—is that what you are saying? Dr A.D. BUTI : No, my question to you, Mr Speaker, was: did the member for Bunbury actually ask a question? He asked the minister to clarify or put on the record something he said yesterday. That is not a question, and this is question time. That would be a ministerial statement. The SPEAKER : Just repeat your question, please, member for Bunbury. Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Member for Willagee, I call you to order. Questions without Notice Resumed Mr G.M. CASTRILLI : Let me duplicate it in full, Mr Speaker. I will put my glasses on for a start. My question is to the Minister for Environment. Further to the minister’s comments yesterday in question time regarding the Department of Parks and Wildlife’s use of a contracted private firefighting organisation to work from Collie during the Waroona fire incident, could the minister please set the record straight on why his department did this? Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Thank you for that. Mr A.P. JACOB : Mr Speaker, they do not like being caught out! As I said, and particularly when it comes to the member for Girrawheen — The SPEAKER : Minister, I just want to say something to you. I do not want to have you and the member for Girrawheen have a fight. So go through the Chair, please. Mr A.P. JACOB : Absolutely, Mr Speaker. Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Members! Mr A.P. JACOB : There is form. We saw that yesterday with a question from the member for Girrawheen that was found to have absolutely no basis in truth whatsoever—indeed, referring to an agreement that had already been signed the year before and was entirely functional. It shows a pattern, in particular from the member for Girrawheen, but a pattern right across the board — Point of Order Mrs M.H. ROBERTS : Mr Speaker — Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Member for Wanneroo, I call you to order for, I think, the first time—the second time. Mrs M.H. ROBERTS : Minister, we have already wasted enough time hearing — Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : This is starting to get out of control. Something is going to happen if we do not bring it back on line. Mrs M.H. ROBERTS : We have finally ascertained that the member for Bunbury has now asked a question. I am calling upon the minister to answer it, rather than trying to redefine his answer from yesterday. The SPEAKER : Minister, through the Chair. Questions without Notice Resumed Mr A.P. JACOB : Thank you, Mr Speaker. Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : That is enough. Mr A.P. JACOB : Indeed, I think that although members opposite may not be in government, they are still members of Parliament, and they still have a responsibility to the Western Australian community, and to this place, to tell the truth and be honest, first of all, in the questions that they ask, and also to tell the truth and be honest in claims that they make frequently outside this place that are often found to have no basis whatsoever. Point of Order Mr W.J. JOHNSTON : Mr Speaker, we all know how dumb this guy is, but let us get it straight. He should just comply with the standing orders. That does not have anything to do with the — Questions without Notice Resumed The SPEAKER : Minister, I am going to sit you down. If you do not answer the question quickly, I am going to sit you down. Mr A.P. JACOB : What do you expect, Mr Speaker? I have only had — Several members interjected. Mr A.P. JACOB : I accept your ruling. The SPEAKER : I do not want to hear any more. Mr W.J. Johnston interjected. Withdrawal of Remark The SPEAKER : Member for Cannington, I never heard what you said, but if you said something untoward, withdraw it. Mr W.J. JOHNSTON : I withdraw. Questions without Notice Resumed The SPEAKER : Thank you. Now, please, a short answer, and I want it through the Chair. Let us move on. Mr A.P. JACOB : Thank you, Mr Speaker, and I would love nothing more than to come directly to the point. However, I draw to your attention that I am increasingly being shouted down. If the spotlight is turned back onto the integrity of members opposite — Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Minister, this is your last chance to answer the question. If you do not answer the question, you can sit down. Mr A.P. JACOB : Certainly, Mr Speaker. I am seeking the opportunity to set the record straight. Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Member for Cockburn! Mr A.P. JACOB : Mr Speaker, that was the question, and I am seeking to answer the member for Bunbury’s question. Point of Order Mr W.J. JOHNSTON : Mr Speaker, could I suggest that you draw to the attention of the minister standing order 148, which allows for personal explanations. Unfortunately, the minister has been asked a question under standing order 75, which is regarding his administrative responsibilities, not a personal explanation. The SPEAKER : Sit down. If you make spurious points of order, I am going to call you to order. Mr W.J. JOHNSTON : It is not spurious. Dr K.D. HAMES : Mr Speaker, further to that point of order, the question to the minister clearly asks for clarification and to set the record straight. He is trying, Mr Speaker, to set the record straight. The SPEAKER : The actual thing that you have to home in on is why this happened—why. So that is what I want you to address, through the Chair. Questions without Notice Resumed Mr A.P. JACOB : Thank you, Mr Speaker. The question related to the response in the midst of the Waroona fires—a response which ran over 17 days in January this year and which saw the firefighting services of this state significantly stretched. Indeed, in excess of 500 parks and wildlife staff alone were caught up in a direct response to that fire front of the Waroona fires over those 17 days. That is not including the Department of Fire and Emergency Services’ response, and, indeed, the important response from volunteer and local bush fire brigades. But the key point in my response is the claims that the firefighters in those communities, and, indeed, we as a government, were having to deal with in the midst of that response from the member for Girrawheen, who came out very strongly criticising the operational response to use contractors — Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Sit down, please. Next question.
Mr A.P. JACOB : Indeed, as — Point of Order Dr A.D. BUTI : Mr Speaker, this is question time. I would like you to clarify what actual question was asked by the member for Bunbury. It was not a question asked of the Minister for Environment. The SPEAKER : I do not understand your point of order. It is not part of his portfolio—is that what you are saying? Dr A.D. BUTI : No, my question to you, Mr Speaker, was: did the member for Bunbury actually ask a question? He asked the minister to clarify or put on the record something he said yesterday. That is not a question, and this is question time. That would be a ministerial statement. The SPEAKER : Just repeat your question, please, member for Bunbury. Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Member for Willagee, I call you to order. Questions without Notice Resumed Mr G.M. CASTRILLI : Let me duplicate it in full, Mr Speaker. I will put my glasses on for a start. My question is to the Minister for Environment. Further to the minister’s comments yesterday in question time regarding the Department of Parks and Wildlife’s use of a contracted private firefighting organisation to work from Collie during the Waroona fire incident, could the minister please set the record straight on why his department did this? Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Thank you for that. Mr A.P. JACOB : Mr Speaker, they do not like being caught out! As I said, and particularly when it comes to the member for Girrawheen — The SPEAKER : Minister, I just want to say something to you. I do not want to have you and the member for Girrawheen have a fight. So go through the Chair, please. Mr A.P. JACOB : Absolutely, Mr Speaker. Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Members! Mr A.P. JACOB : There is form. We saw that yesterday with a question from the member for Girrawheen that was found to have absolutely no basis in truth whatsoever—indeed, referring to an agreement that had already been signed the year before and was entirely functional. It shows a pattern, in particular from the member for Girrawheen, but a pattern right across the board — Point of Order Mrs M.H. ROBERTS : Mr Speaker — Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Member for Wanneroo, I call you to order for, I think, the first time—the second time. Mrs M.H. ROBERTS : Minister, we have already wasted enough time hearing — Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : This is starting to get out of control. Something is going to happen if we do not bring it back on line. Mrs M.H. ROBERTS : We have finally ascertained that the member for Bunbury has now asked a question. I am calling upon the minister to answer it, rather than trying to redefine his answer from yesterday. The SPEAKER : Minister, through the Chair. Questions without Notice Resumed Mr A.P. JACOB : Thank you, Mr Speaker. Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : That is enough. Mr A.P. JACOB : Indeed, I think that although members opposite may not be in government, they are still members of Parliament, and they still have a responsibility to the Western Australian community, and to this place, to tell the truth and be honest, first of all, in the questions that they ask, and also to tell the truth and be honest in claims that they make frequently outside this place that are often found to have no basis whatsoever. Point of Order Mr W.J. JOHNSTON : Mr Speaker, we all know how dumb this guy is, but let us get it straight. He should just comply with the standing orders. That does not have anything to do with the — Questions without Notice Resumed The SPEAKER : Minister, I am going to sit you down. If you do not answer the question quickly, I am going to sit you down. Mr A.P. JACOB : What do you expect, Mr Speaker? I have only had — Several members interjected. Mr A.P. JACOB : I accept your ruling. The SPEAKER : I do not want to hear any more. Mr W.J. Johnston interjected. Withdrawal of Remark The SPEAKER : Member for Cannington, I never heard what you said, but if you said something untoward, withdraw it. Mr W.J. JOHNSTON : I withdraw. Questions without Notice Resumed The SPEAKER : Thank you. Now, please, a short answer, and I want it through the Chair. Let us move on. Mr A.P. JACOB : Thank you, Mr Speaker, and I would love nothing more than to come directly to the point. However, I draw to your attention that I am increasingly being shouted down. If the spotlight is turned back onto the integrity of members opposite — Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Minister, this is your last chance to answer the question. If you do not answer the question, you can sit down. Mr A.P. JACOB : Certainly, Mr Speaker. I am seeking the opportunity to set the record straight. Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Member for Cockburn! Mr A.P. JACOB : Mr Speaker, that was the question, and I am seeking to answer the member for Bunbury’s question. Point of Order Mr W.J. JOHNSTON : Mr Speaker, could I suggest that you draw to the attention of the minister standing order 148, which allows for personal explanations. Unfortunately, the minister has been asked a question under standing order 75, which is regarding his administrative responsibilities, not a personal explanation. The SPEAKER : Sit down. If you make spurious points of order, I am going to call you to order. Mr W.J. JOHNSTON : It is not spurious. Dr K.D. HAMES : Mr Speaker, further to that point of order, the question to the minister clearly asks for clarification and to set the record straight. He is trying, Mr Speaker, to set the record straight. The SPEAKER : The actual thing that you have to home in on is why this happened—why. So that is what I want you to address, through the Chair. Questions without Notice Resumed Mr A.P. JACOB : Thank you, Mr Speaker. The question related to the response in the midst of the Waroona fires—a response which ran over 17 days in January this year and which saw the firefighting services of this state significantly stretched. Indeed, in excess of 500 parks and wildlife staff alone were caught up in a direct response to that fire front of the Waroona fires over those 17 days. That is not including the Department of Fire and Emergency Services’ response, and, indeed, the important response from volunteer and local bush fire brigades. But the key point in my response is the claims that the firefighters in those communities, and, indeed, we as a government, were having to deal with in the midst of that response from the member for Girrawheen, who came out very strongly criticising the operational response to use contractors — Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Sit down, please. Next question.
The SPEAKER : I do not understand your point of order. It is not part of his portfolio—is that what you are saying? Dr A.D. BUTI : No, my question to you, Mr Speaker, was: did the member for Bunbury actually ask a question? He asked the minister to clarify or put on the record something he said yesterday. That is not a question, and this is question time. That would be a ministerial statement. The SPEAKER : Just repeat your question, please, member for Bunbury. Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Member for Willagee, I call you to order. Questions without Notice Resumed Mr G.M. CASTRILLI : Let me duplicate it in full, Mr Speaker. I will put my glasses on for a start. My question is to the Minister for Environment. Further to the minister’s comments yesterday in question time regarding the Department of Parks and Wildlife’s use of a contracted private firefighting organisation to work from Collie during the Waroona fire incident, could the minister please set the record straight on why his department did this? Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Thank you for that. Mr A.P. JACOB : Mr Speaker, they do not like being caught out! As I said, and particularly when it comes to the member for Girrawheen — The SPEAKER : Minister, I just want to say something to you. I do not want to have you and the member for Girrawheen have a fight. So go through the Chair, please. Mr A.P. JACOB : Absolutely, Mr Speaker. Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Members! Mr A.P. JACOB : There is form. We saw that yesterday with a question from the member for Girrawheen that was found to have absolutely no basis in truth whatsoever—indeed, referring to an agreement that had already been signed the year before and was entirely functional. It shows a pattern, in particular from the member for Girrawheen, but a pattern right across the board — Point of Order Mrs M.H. ROBERTS : Mr Speaker — Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Member for Wanneroo, I call you to order for, I think, the first time—the second time. Mrs M.H. ROBERTS : Minister, we have already wasted enough time hearing — Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : This is starting to get out of control. Something is going to happen if we do not bring it back on line. Mrs M.H. ROBERTS : We have finally ascertained that the member for Bunbury has now asked a question. I am calling upon the minister to answer it, rather than trying to redefine his answer from yesterday. The SPEAKER : Minister, through the Chair. Questions without Notice Resumed Mr A.P. JACOB : Thank you, Mr Speaker. Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : That is enough. Mr A.P. JACOB : Indeed, I think that although members opposite may not be in government, they are still members of Parliament, and they still have a responsibility to the Western Australian community, and to this place, to tell the truth and be honest, first of all, in the questions that they ask, and also to tell the truth and be honest in claims that they make frequently outside this place that are often found to have no basis whatsoever. Point of Order Mr W.J. JOHNSTON : Mr Speaker, we all know how dumb this guy is, but let us get it straight. He should just comply with the standing orders. That does not have anything to do with the — Questions without Notice Resumed The SPEAKER : Minister, I am going to sit you down. If you do not answer the question quickly, I am going to sit you down. Mr A.P. JACOB : What do you expect, Mr Speaker? I have only had — Several members interjected. Mr A.P. JACOB : I accept your ruling. The SPEAKER : I do not want to hear any more. Mr W.J. Johnston interjected. Withdrawal of Remark The SPEAKER : Member for Cannington, I never heard what you said, but if you said something untoward, withdraw it. Mr W.J. JOHNSTON : I withdraw. Questions without Notice Resumed The SPEAKER : Thank you. Now, please, a short answer, and I want it through the Chair. Let us move on. Mr A.P. JACOB : Thank you, Mr Speaker, and I would love nothing more than to come directly to the point. However, I draw to your attention that I am increasingly being shouted down. If the spotlight is turned back onto the integrity of members opposite — Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Minister, this is your last chance to answer the question. If you do not answer the question, you can sit down. Mr A.P. JACOB : Certainly, Mr Speaker. I am seeking the opportunity to set the record straight. Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Member for Cockburn! Mr A.P. JACOB : Mr Speaker, that was the question, and I am seeking to answer the member for Bunbury’s question. Point of Order Mr W.J. JOHNSTON : Mr Speaker, could I suggest that you draw to the attention of the minister standing order 148, which allows for personal explanations. Unfortunately, the minister has been asked a question under standing order 75, which is regarding his administrative responsibilities, not a personal explanation. The SPEAKER : Sit down. If you make spurious points of order, I am going to call you to order. Mr W.J. JOHNSTON : It is not spurious. Dr K.D. HAMES : Mr Speaker, further to that point of order, the question to the minister clearly asks for clarification and to set the record straight. He is trying, Mr Speaker, to set the record straight. The SPEAKER : The actual thing that you have to home in on is why this happened—why. So that is what I want you to address, through the Chair. Questions without Notice Resumed Mr A.P. JACOB : Thank you, Mr Speaker. The question related to the response in the midst of the Waroona fires—a response which ran over 17 days in January this year and which saw the firefighting services of this state significantly stretched. Indeed, in excess of 500 parks and wildlife staff alone were caught up in a direct response to that fire front of the Waroona fires over those 17 days. That is not including the Department of Fire and Emergency Services’ response, and, indeed, the important response from volunteer and local bush fire brigades. But the key point in my response is the claims that the firefighters in those communities, and, indeed, we as a government, were having to deal with in the midst of that response from the member for Girrawheen, who came out very strongly criticising the operational response to use contractors — Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Sit down, please. Next question.
Dr A.D. BUTI : No, my question to you, Mr Speaker, was: did the member for Bunbury actually ask a question? He asked the minister to clarify or put on the record something he said yesterday. That is not a question, and this is question time. That would be a ministerial statement. The SPEAKER : Just repeat your question, please, member for Bunbury. Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Member for Willagee, I call you to order. Questions without Notice Resumed Mr G.M. CASTRILLI : Let me duplicate it in full, Mr Speaker. I will put my glasses on for a start. My question is to the Minister for Environment. Further to the minister’s comments yesterday in question time regarding the Department of Parks and Wildlife’s use of a contracted private firefighting organisation to work from Collie during the Waroona fire incident, could the minister please set the record straight on why his department did this? Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Thank you for that. Mr A.P. JACOB : Mr Speaker, they do not like being caught out! As I said, and particularly when it comes to the member for Girrawheen — The SPEAKER : Minister, I just want to say something to you. I do not want to have you and the member for Girrawheen have a fight. So go through the Chair, please. Mr A.P. JACOB : Absolutely, Mr Speaker. Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Members! Mr A.P. JACOB : There is form. We saw that yesterday with a question from the member for Girrawheen that was found to have absolutely no basis in truth whatsoever—indeed, referring to an agreement that had already been signed the year before and was entirely functional. It shows a pattern, in particular from the member for Girrawheen, but a pattern right across the board — Point of Order Mrs M.H. ROBERTS : Mr Speaker — Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Member for Wanneroo, I call you to order for, I think, the first time—the second time. Mrs M.H. ROBERTS : Minister, we have already wasted enough time hearing — Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : This is starting to get out of control. Something is going to happen if we do not bring it back on line. Mrs M.H. ROBERTS : We have finally ascertained that the member for Bunbury has now asked a question. I am calling upon the minister to answer it, rather than trying to redefine his answer from yesterday. The SPEAKER : Minister, through the Chair. Questions without Notice Resumed Mr A.P. JACOB : Thank you, Mr Speaker. Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : That is enough. Mr A.P. JACOB : Indeed, I think that although members opposite may not be in government, they are still members of Parliament, and they still have a responsibility to the Western Australian community, and to this place, to tell the truth and be honest, first of all, in the questions that they ask, and also to tell the truth and be honest in claims that they make frequently outside this place that are often found to have no basis whatsoever. Point of Order Mr W.J. JOHNSTON : Mr Speaker, we all know how dumb this guy is, but let us get it straight. He should just comply with the standing orders. That does not have anything to do with the — Questions without Notice Resumed The SPEAKER : Minister, I am going to sit you down. If you do not answer the question quickly, I am going to sit you down. Mr A.P. JACOB : What do you expect, Mr Speaker? I have only had — Several members interjected. Mr A.P. JACOB : I accept your ruling. The SPEAKER : I do not want to hear any more. Mr W.J. Johnston interjected. Withdrawal of Remark The SPEAKER : Member for Cannington, I never heard what you said, but if you said something untoward, withdraw it. Mr W.J. JOHNSTON : I withdraw. Questions without Notice Resumed The SPEAKER : Thank you. Now, please, a short answer, and I want it through the Chair. Let us move on. Mr A.P. JACOB : Thank you, Mr Speaker, and I would love nothing more than to come directly to the point. However, I draw to your attention that I am increasingly being shouted down. If the spotlight is turned back onto the integrity of members opposite — Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Minister, this is your last chance to answer the question. If you do not answer the question, you can sit down. Mr A.P. JACOB : Certainly, Mr Speaker. I am seeking the opportunity to set the record straight. Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Member for Cockburn! Mr A.P. JACOB : Mr Speaker, that was the question, and I am seeking to answer the member for Bunbury’s question. Point of Order Mr W.J. JOHNSTON : Mr Speaker, could I suggest that you draw to the attention of the minister standing order 148, which allows for personal explanations. Unfortunately, the minister has been asked a question under standing order 75, which is regarding his administrative responsibilities, not a personal explanation. The SPEAKER : Sit down. If you make spurious points of order, I am going to call you to order. Mr W.J. JOHNSTON : It is not spurious. Dr K.D. HAMES : Mr Speaker, further to that point of order, the question to the minister clearly asks for clarification and to set the record straight. He is trying, Mr Speaker, to set the record straight. The SPEAKER : The actual thing that you have to home in on is why this happened—why. So that is what I want you to address, through the Chair. Questions without Notice Resumed Mr A.P. JACOB : Thank you, Mr Speaker. The question related to the response in the midst of the Waroona fires—a response which ran over 17 days in January this year and which saw the firefighting services of this state significantly stretched. Indeed, in excess of 500 parks and wildlife staff alone were caught up in a direct response to that fire front of the Waroona fires over those 17 days. That is not including the Department of Fire and Emergency Services’ response, and, indeed, the important response from volunteer and local bush fire brigades. But the key point in my response is the claims that the firefighters in those communities, and, indeed, we as a government, were having to deal with in the midst of that response from the member for Girrawheen, who came out very strongly criticising the operational response to use contractors — Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Sit down, please. Next question.
The SPEAKER : Just repeat your question, please, member for Bunbury. Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Member for Willagee, I call you to order. Questions without Notice Resumed Mr G.M. CASTRILLI : Let me duplicate it in full, Mr Speaker. I will put my glasses on for a start. My question is to the Minister for Environment. Further to the minister’s comments yesterday in question time regarding the Department of Parks and Wildlife’s use of a contracted private firefighting organisation to work from Collie during the Waroona fire incident, could the minister please set the record straight on why his department did this? Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Thank you for that. Mr A.P. JACOB : Mr Speaker, they do not like being caught out! As I said, and particularly when it comes to the member for Girrawheen — The SPEAKER : Minister, I just want to say something to you. I do not want to have you and the member for Girrawheen have a fight. So go through the Chair, please. Mr A.P. JACOB : Absolutely, Mr Speaker. Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Members! Mr A.P. JACOB : There is form. We saw that yesterday with a question from the member for Girrawheen that was found to have absolutely no basis in truth whatsoever—indeed, referring to an agreement that had already been signed the year before and was entirely functional. It shows a pattern, in particular from the member for Girrawheen, but a pattern right across the board — Point of Order Mrs M.H. ROBERTS : Mr Speaker — Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Member for Wanneroo, I call you to order for, I think, the first time—the second time. Mrs M.H. ROBERTS : Minister, we have already wasted enough time hearing — Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : This is starting to get out of control. Something is going to happen if we do not bring it back on line. Mrs M.H. ROBERTS : We have finally ascertained that the member for Bunbury has now asked a question. I am calling upon the minister to answer it, rather than trying to redefine his answer from yesterday. The SPEAKER : Minister, through the Chair. Questions without Notice Resumed Mr A.P. JACOB : Thank you, Mr Speaker. Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : That is enough. Mr A.P. JACOB : Indeed, I think that although members opposite may not be in government, they are still members of Parliament, and they still have a responsibility to the Western Australian community, and to this place, to tell the truth and be honest, first of all, in the questions that they ask, and also to tell the truth and be honest in claims that they make frequently outside this place that are often found to have no basis whatsoever. Point of Order Mr W.J. JOHNSTON : Mr Speaker, we all know how dumb this guy is, but let us get it straight. He should just comply with the standing orders. That does not have anything to do with the — Questions without Notice Resumed The SPEAKER : Minister, I am going to sit you down. If you do not answer the question quickly, I am going to sit you down. Mr A.P. JACOB : What do you expect, Mr Speaker? I have only had — Several members interjected. Mr A.P. JACOB : I accept your ruling. The SPEAKER : I do not want to hear any more. Mr W.J. Johnston interjected. Withdrawal of Remark The SPEAKER : Member for Cannington, I never heard what you said, but if you said something untoward, withdraw it. Mr W.J. JOHNSTON : I withdraw. Questions without Notice Resumed The SPEAKER : Thank you. Now, please, a short answer, and I want it through the Chair. Let us move on. Mr A.P. JACOB : Thank you, Mr Speaker, and I would love nothing more than to come directly to the point. However, I draw to your attention that I am increasingly being shouted down. If the spotlight is turned back onto the integrity of members opposite — Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Minister, this is your last chance to answer the question. If you do not answer the question, you can sit down. Mr A.P. JACOB : Certainly, Mr Speaker. I am seeking the opportunity to set the record straight. Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Member for Cockburn! Mr A.P. JACOB : Mr Speaker, that was the question, and I am seeking to answer the member for Bunbury’s question. Point of Order Mr W.J. JOHNSTON : Mr Speaker, could I suggest that you draw to the attention of the minister standing order 148, which allows for personal explanations. Unfortunately, the minister has been asked a question under standing order 75, which is regarding his administrative responsibilities, not a personal explanation. The SPEAKER : Sit down. If you make spurious points of order, I am going to call you to order. Mr W.J. JOHNSTON : It is not spurious. Dr K.D. HAMES : Mr Speaker, further to that point of order, the question to the minister clearly asks for clarification and to set the record straight. He is trying, Mr Speaker, to set the record straight. The SPEAKER : The actual thing that you have to home in on is why this happened—why. So that is what I want you to address, through the Chair. Questions without Notice Resumed Mr A.P. JACOB : Thank you, Mr Speaker. The question related to the response in the midst of the Waroona fires—a response which ran over 17 days in January this year and which saw the firefighting services of this state significantly stretched. Indeed, in excess of 500 parks and wildlife staff alone were caught up in a direct response to that fire front of the Waroona fires over those 17 days. That is not including the Department of Fire and Emergency Services’ response, and, indeed, the important response from volunteer and local bush fire brigades. But the key point in my response is the claims that the firefighters in those communities, and, indeed, we as a government, were having to deal with in the midst of that response from the member for Girrawheen, who came out very strongly criticising the operational response to use contractors — Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Sit down, please. Next question.
Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Member for Willagee, I call you to order. Questions without Notice Resumed Mr G.M. CASTRILLI : Let me duplicate it in full, Mr Speaker. I will put my glasses on for a start. My question is to the Minister for Environment. Further to the minister’s comments yesterday in question time regarding the Department of Parks and Wildlife’s use of a contracted private firefighting organisation to work from Collie during the Waroona fire incident, could the minister please set the record straight on why his department did this? Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Thank you for that. Mr A.P. JACOB : Mr Speaker, they do not like being caught out! As I said, and particularly when it comes to the member for Girrawheen — The SPEAKER : Minister, I just want to say something to you. I do not want to have you and the member for Girrawheen have a fight. So go through the Chair, please. Mr A.P. JACOB : Absolutely, Mr Speaker. Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Members! Mr A.P. JACOB : There is form. We saw that yesterday with a question from the member for Girrawheen that was found to have absolutely no basis in truth whatsoever—indeed, referring to an agreement that had already been signed the year before and was entirely functional. It shows a pattern, in particular from the member for Girrawheen, but a pattern right across the board — Point of Order Mrs M.H. ROBERTS : Mr Speaker — Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Member for Wanneroo, I call you to order for, I think, the first time—the second time. Mrs M.H. ROBERTS : Minister, we have already wasted enough time hearing — Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : This is starting to get out of control. Something is going to happen if we do not bring it back on line. Mrs M.H. ROBERTS : We have finally ascertained that the member for Bunbury has now asked a question. I am calling upon the minister to answer it, rather than trying to redefine his answer from yesterday. The SPEAKER : Minister, through the Chair. Questions without Notice Resumed Mr A.P. JACOB : Thank you, Mr Speaker. Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : That is enough. Mr A.P. JACOB : Indeed, I think that although members opposite may not be in government, they are still members of Parliament, and they still have a responsibility to the Western Australian community, and to this place, to tell the truth and be honest, first of all, in the questions that they ask, and also to tell the truth and be honest in claims that they make frequently outside this place that are often found to have no basis whatsoever. Point of Order Mr W.J. JOHNSTON : Mr Speaker, we all know how dumb this guy is, but let us get it straight. He should just comply with the standing orders. That does not have anything to do with the — Questions without Notice Resumed The SPEAKER : Minister, I am going to sit you down. If you do not answer the question quickly, I am going to sit you down. Mr A.P. JACOB : What do you expect, Mr Speaker? I have only had — Several members interjected. Mr A.P. JACOB : I accept your ruling. The SPEAKER : I do not want to hear any more. Mr W.J. Johnston interjected. Withdrawal of Remark The SPEAKER : Member for Cannington, I never heard what you said, but if you said something untoward, withdraw it. Mr W.J. JOHNSTON : I withdraw. Questions without Notice Resumed The SPEAKER : Thank you. Now, please, a short answer, and I want it through the Chair. Let us move on. Mr A.P. JACOB : Thank you, Mr Speaker, and I would love nothing more than to come directly to the point. However, I draw to your attention that I am increasingly being shouted down. If the spotlight is turned back onto the integrity of members opposite — Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Minister, this is your last chance to answer the question. If you do not answer the question, you can sit down. Mr A.P. JACOB : Certainly, Mr Speaker. I am seeking the opportunity to set the record straight. Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Member for Cockburn! Mr A.P. JACOB : Mr Speaker, that was the question, and I am seeking to answer the member for Bunbury’s question. Point of Order Mr W.J. JOHNSTON : Mr Speaker, could I suggest that you draw to the attention of the minister standing order 148, which allows for personal explanations. Unfortunately, the minister has been asked a question under standing order 75, which is regarding his administrative responsibilities, not a personal explanation. The SPEAKER : Sit down. If you make spurious points of order, I am going to call you to order. Mr W.J. JOHNSTON : It is not spurious. Dr K.D. HAMES : Mr Speaker, further to that point of order, the question to the minister clearly asks for clarification and to set the record straight. He is trying, Mr Speaker, to set the record straight. The SPEAKER : The actual thing that you have to home in on is why this happened—why. So that is what I want you to address, through the Chair. Questions without Notice Resumed Mr A.P. JACOB : Thank you, Mr Speaker. The question related to the response in the midst of the Waroona fires—a response which ran over 17 days in January this year and which saw the firefighting services of this state significantly stretched. Indeed, in excess of 500 parks and wildlife staff alone were caught up in a direct response to that fire front of the Waroona fires over those 17 days. That is not including the Department of Fire and Emergency Services’ response, and, indeed, the important response from volunteer and local bush fire brigades. But the key point in my response is the claims that the firefighters in those communities, and, indeed, we as a government, were having to deal with in the midst of that response from the member for Girrawheen, who came out very strongly criticising the operational response to use contractors — Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Sit down, please. Next question.
The SPEAKER : Member for Willagee, I call you to order. Questions without Notice Resumed Mr G.M. CASTRILLI : Let me duplicate it in full, Mr Speaker. I will put my glasses on for a start. My question is to the Minister for Environment. Further to the minister’s comments yesterday in question time regarding the Department of Parks and Wildlife’s use of a contracted private firefighting organisation to work from Collie during the Waroona fire incident, could the minister please set the record straight on why his department did this? Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Thank you for that. Mr A.P. JACOB : Mr Speaker, they do not like being caught out! As I said, and particularly when it comes to the member for Girrawheen — The SPEAKER : Minister, I just want to say something to you. I do not want to have you and the member for Girrawheen have a fight. So go through the Chair, please. Mr A.P. JACOB : Absolutely, Mr Speaker. Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Members! Mr A.P. JACOB : There is form. We saw that yesterday with a question from the member for Girrawheen that was found to have absolutely no basis in truth whatsoever—indeed, referring to an agreement that had already been signed the year before and was entirely functional. It shows a pattern, in particular from the member for Girrawheen, but a pattern right across the board — Point of Order Mrs M.H. ROBERTS : Mr Speaker — Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Member for Wanneroo, I call you to order for, I think, the first time—the second time. Mrs M.H. ROBERTS : Minister, we have already wasted enough time hearing — Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : This is starting to get out of control. Something is going to happen if we do not bring it back on line. Mrs M.H. ROBERTS : We have finally ascertained that the member for Bunbury has now asked a question. I am calling upon the minister to answer it, rather than trying to redefine his answer from yesterday. The SPEAKER : Minister, through the Chair. Questions without Notice Resumed Mr A.P. JACOB : Thank you, Mr Speaker. Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : That is enough. Mr A.P. JACOB : Indeed, I think that although members opposite may not be in government, they are still members of Parliament, and they still have a responsibility to the Western Australian community, and to this place, to tell the truth and be honest, first of all, in the questions that they ask, and also to tell the truth and be honest in claims that they make frequently outside this place that are often found to have no basis whatsoever. Point of Order Mr W.J. JOHNSTON : Mr Speaker, we all know how dumb this guy is, but let us get it straight. He should just comply with the standing orders. That does not have anything to do with the — Questions without Notice Resumed The SPEAKER : Minister, I am going to sit you down. If you do not answer the question quickly, I am going to sit you down. Mr A.P. JACOB : What do you expect, Mr Speaker? I have only had — Several members interjected. Mr A.P. JACOB : I accept your ruling. The SPEAKER : I do not want to hear any more. Mr W.J. Johnston interjected. Withdrawal of Remark The SPEAKER : Member for Cannington, I never heard what you said, but if you said something untoward, withdraw it. Mr W.J. JOHNSTON : I withdraw. Questions without Notice Resumed The SPEAKER : Thank you. Now, please, a short answer, and I want it through the Chair. Let us move on. Mr A.P. JACOB : Thank you, Mr Speaker, and I would love nothing more than to come directly to the point. However, I draw to your attention that I am increasingly being shouted down. If the spotlight is turned back onto the integrity of members opposite — Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Minister, this is your last chance to answer the question. If you do not answer the question, you can sit down. Mr A.P. JACOB : Certainly, Mr Speaker. I am seeking the opportunity to set the record straight. Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Member for Cockburn! Mr A.P. JACOB : Mr Speaker, that was the question, and I am seeking to answer the member for Bunbury’s question. Point of Order Mr W.J. JOHNSTON : Mr Speaker, could I suggest that you draw to the attention of the minister standing order 148, which allows for personal explanations. Unfortunately, the minister has been asked a question under standing order 75, which is regarding his administrative responsibilities, not a personal explanation. The SPEAKER : Sit down. If you make spurious points of order, I am going to call you to order. Mr W.J. JOHNSTON : It is not spurious. Dr K.D. HAMES : Mr Speaker, further to that point of order, the question to the minister clearly asks for clarification and to set the record straight. He is trying, Mr Speaker, to set the record straight. The SPEAKER : The actual thing that you have to home in on is why this happened—why. So that is what I want you to address, through the Chair. Questions without Notice Resumed Mr A.P. JACOB : Thank you, Mr Speaker. The question related to the response in the midst of the Waroona fires—a response which ran over 17 days in January this year and which saw the firefighting services of this state significantly stretched. Indeed, in excess of 500 parks and wildlife staff alone were caught up in a direct response to that fire front of the Waroona fires over those 17 days. That is not including the Department of Fire and Emergency Services’ response, and, indeed, the important response from volunteer and local bush fire brigades. But the key point in my response is the claims that the firefighters in those communities, and, indeed, we as a government, were having to deal with in the midst of that response from the member for Girrawheen, who came out very strongly criticising the operational response to use contractors — Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Sit down, please. Next question.
Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Thank you for that. Mr A.P. JACOB : Mr Speaker, they do not like being caught out! As I said, and particularly when it comes to the member for Girrawheen — The SPEAKER : Minister, I just want to say something to you. I do not want to have you and the member for Girrawheen have a fight. So go through the Chair, please. Mr A.P. JACOB : Absolutely, Mr Speaker. Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Members! Mr A.P. JACOB : There is form. We saw that yesterday with a question from the member for Girrawheen that was found to have absolutely no basis in truth whatsoever—indeed, referring to an agreement that had already been signed the year before and was entirely functional. It shows a pattern, in particular from the member for Girrawheen, but a pattern right across the board — Point of Order Mrs M.H. ROBERTS : Mr Speaker — Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Member for Wanneroo, I call you to order for, I think, the first time—the second time. Mrs M.H. ROBERTS : Minister, we have already wasted enough time hearing — Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : This is starting to get out of control. Something is going to happen if we do not bring it back on line. Mrs M.H. ROBERTS : We have finally ascertained that the member for Bunbury has now asked a question. I am calling upon the minister to answer it, rather than trying to redefine his answer from yesterday. The SPEAKER : Minister, through the Chair. Questions without Notice Resumed Mr A.P. JACOB : Thank you, Mr Speaker. Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : That is enough. Mr A.P. JACOB : Indeed, I think that although members opposite may not be in government, they are still members of Parliament, and they still have a responsibility to the Western Australian community, and to this place, to tell the truth and be honest, first of all, in the questions that they ask, and also to tell the truth and be honest in claims that they make frequently outside this place that are often found to have no basis whatsoever. Point of Order Mr W.J. JOHNSTON : Mr Speaker, we all know how dumb this guy is, but let us get it straight. He should just comply with the standing orders. That does not have anything to do with the — Questions without Notice Resumed The SPEAKER : Minister, I am going to sit you down. If you do not answer the question quickly, I am going to sit you down. Mr A.P. JACOB : What do you expect, Mr Speaker? I have only had — Several members interjected. Mr A.P. JACOB : I accept your ruling. The SPEAKER : I do not want to hear any more. Mr W.J. Johnston interjected. Withdrawal of Remark The SPEAKER : Member for Cannington, I never heard what you said, but if you said something untoward, withdraw it. Mr W.J. JOHNSTON : I withdraw. Questions without Notice Resumed The SPEAKER : Thank you. Now, please, a short answer, and I want it through the Chair. Let us move on. Mr A.P. JACOB : Thank you, Mr Speaker, and I would love nothing more than to come directly to the point. However, I draw to your attention that I am increasingly being shouted down. If the spotlight is turned back onto the integrity of members opposite — Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Minister, this is your last chance to answer the question. If you do not answer the question, you can sit down. Mr A.P. JACOB : Certainly, Mr Speaker. I am seeking the opportunity to set the record straight. Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Member for Cockburn! Mr A.P. JACOB : Mr Speaker, that was the question, and I am seeking to answer the member for Bunbury’s question. Point of Order Mr W.J. JOHNSTON : Mr Speaker, could I suggest that you draw to the attention of the minister standing order 148, which allows for personal explanations. Unfortunately, the minister has been asked a question under standing order 75, which is regarding his administrative responsibilities, not a personal explanation. The SPEAKER : Sit down. If you make spurious points of order, I am going to call you to order. Mr W.J. JOHNSTON : It is not spurious. Dr K.D. HAMES : Mr Speaker, further to that point of order, the question to the minister clearly asks for clarification and to set the record straight. He is trying, Mr Speaker, to set the record straight. The SPEAKER : The actual thing that you have to home in on is why this happened—why. So that is what I want you to address, through the Chair. Questions without Notice Resumed Mr A.P. JACOB : Thank you, Mr Speaker. The question related to the response in the midst of the Waroona fires—a response which ran over 17 days in January this year and which saw the firefighting services of this state significantly stretched. Indeed, in excess of 500 parks and wildlife staff alone were caught up in a direct response to that fire front of the Waroona fires over those 17 days. That is not including the Department of Fire and Emergency Services’ response, and, indeed, the important response from volunteer and local bush fire brigades. But the key point in my response is the claims that the firefighters in those communities, and, indeed, we as a government, were having to deal with in the midst of that response from the member for Girrawheen, who came out very strongly criticising the operational response to use contractors — Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Sit down, please. Next question.
The SPEAKER : Thank you for that. Mr A.P. JACOB : Mr Speaker, they do not like being caught out! As I said, and particularly when it comes to the member for Girrawheen — The SPEAKER : Minister, I just want to say something to you. I do not want to have you and the member for Girrawheen have a fight. So go through the Chair, please. Mr A.P. JACOB : Absolutely, Mr Speaker. Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Members! Mr A.P. JACOB : There is form. We saw that yesterday with a question from the member for Girrawheen that was found to have absolutely no basis in truth whatsoever—indeed, referring to an agreement that had already been signed the year before and was entirely functional. It shows a pattern, in particular from the member for Girrawheen, but a pattern right across the board — Point of Order Mrs M.H. ROBERTS : Mr Speaker — Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Member for Wanneroo, I call you to order for, I think, the first time—the second time. Mrs M.H. ROBERTS : Minister, we have already wasted enough time hearing — Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : This is starting to get out of control. Something is going to happen if we do not bring it back on line. Mrs M.H. ROBERTS : We have finally ascertained that the member for Bunbury has now asked a question. I am calling upon the minister to answer it, rather than trying to redefine his answer from yesterday. The SPEAKER : Minister, through the Chair. Questions without Notice Resumed Mr A.P. JACOB : Thank you, Mr Speaker. Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : That is enough. Mr A.P. JACOB : Indeed, I think that although members opposite may not be in government, they are still members of Parliament, and they still have a responsibility to the Western Australian community, and to this place, to tell the truth and be honest, first of all, in the questions that they ask, and also to tell the truth and be honest in claims that they make frequently outside this place that are often found to have no basis whatsoever. Point of Order Mr W.J. JOHNSTON : Mr Speaker, we all know how dumb this guy is, but let us get it straight. He should just comply with the standing orders. That does not have anything to do with the — Questions without Notice Resumed The SPEAKER : Minister, I am going to sit you down. If you do not answer the question quickly, I am going to sit you down. Mr A.P. JACOB : What do you expect, Mr Speaker? I have only had — Several members interjected. Mr A.P. JACOB : I accept your ruling. The SPEAKER : I do not want to hear any more. Mr W.J. Johnston interjected. Withdrawal of Remark The SPEAKER : Member for Cannington, I never heard what you said, but if you said something untoward, withdraw it. Mr W.J. JOHNSTON : I withdraw. Questions without Notice Resumed The SPEAKER : Thank you. Now, please, a short answer, and I want it through the Chair. Let us move on. Mr A.P. JACOB : Thank you, Mr Speaker, and I would love nothing more than to come directly to the point. However, I draw to your attention that I am increasingly being shouted down. If the spotlight is turned back onto the integrity of members opposite — Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Minister, this is your last chance to answer the question. If you do not answer the question, you can sit down. Mr A.P. JACOB : Certainly, Mr Speaker. I am seeking the opportunity to set the record straight. Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Member for Cockburn! Mr A.P. JACOB : Mr Speaker, that was the question, and I am seeking to answer the member for Bunbury’s question. Point of Order Mr W.J. JOHNSTON : Mr Speaker, could I suggest that you draw to the attention of the minister standing order 148, which allows for personal explanations. Unfortunately, the minister has been asked a question under standing order 75, which is regarding his administrative responsibilities, not a personal explanation. The SPEAKER : Sit down. If you make spurious points of order, I am going to call you to order. Mr W.J. JOHNSTON : It is not spurious. Dr K.D. HAMES : Mr Speaker, further to that point of order, the question to the minister clearly asks for clarification and to set the record straight. He is trying, Mr Speaker, to set the record straight. The SPEAKER : The actual thing that you have to home in on is why this happened—why. So that is what I want you to address, through the Chair. Questions without Notice Resumed Mr A.P. JACOB : Thank you, Mr Speaker. The question related to the response in the midst of the Waroona fires—a response which ran over 17 days in January this year and which saw the firefighting services of this state significantly stretched. Indeed, in excess of 500 parks and wildlife staff alone were caught up in a direct response to that fire front of the Waroona fires over those 17 days. That is not including the Department of Fire and Emergency Services’ response, and, indeed, the important response from volunteer and local bush fire brigades. But the key point in my response is the claims that the firefighters in those communities, and, indeed, we as a government, were having to deal with in the midst of that response from the member for Girrawheen, who came out very strongly criticising the operational response to use contractors — Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Sit down, please. Next question.
Mr A.P. JACOB : Mr Speaker, they do not like being caught out! As I said, and particularly when it comes to the member for Girrawheen — The SPEAKER : Minister, I just want to say something to you. I do not want to have you and the member for Girrawheen have a fight. So go through the Chair, please. Mr A.P. JACOB : Absolutely, Mr Speaker. Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Members! Mr A.P. JACOB : There is form. We saw that yesterday with a question from the member for Girrawheen that was found to have absolutely no basis in truth whatsoever—indeed, referring to an agreement that had already been signed the year before and was entirely functional. It shows a pattern, in particular from the member for Girrawheen, but a pattern right across the board — Point of Order Mrs M.H. ROBERTS : Mr Speaker — Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Member for Wanneroo, I call you to order for, I think, the first time—the second time. Mrs M.H. ROBERTS : Minister, we have already wasted enough time hearing — Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : This is starting to get out of control. Something is going to happen if we do not bring it back on line. Mrs M.H. ROBERTS : We have finally ascertained that the member for Bunbury has now asked a question. I am calling upon the minister to answer it, rather than trying to redefine his answer from yesterday. The SPEAKER : Minister, through the Chair. Questions without Notice Resumed Mr A.P. JACOB : Thank you, Mr Speaker. Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : That is enough. Mr A.P. JACOB : Indeed, I think that although members opposite may not be in government, they are still members of Parliament, and they still have a responsibility to the Western Australian community, and to this place, to tell the truth and be honest, first of all, in the questions that they ask, and also to tell the truth and be honest in claims that they make frequently outside this place that are often found to have no basis whatsoever. Point of Order Mr W.J. JOHNSTON : Mr Speaker, we all know how dumb this guy is, but let us get it straight. He should just comply with the standing orders. That does not have anything to do with the — Questions without Notice Resumed The SPEAKER : Minister, I am going to sit you down. If you do not answer the question quickly, I am going to sit you down. Mr A.P. JACOB : What do you expect, Mr Speaker? I have only had — Several members interjected. Mr A.P. JACOB : I accept your ruling. The SPEAKER : I do not want to hear any more. Mr W.J. Johnston interjected. Withdrawal of Remark The SPEAKER : Member for Cannington, I never heard what you said, but if you said something untoward, withdraw it. Mr W.J. JOHNSTON : I withdraw. Questions without Notice Resumed The SPEAKER : Thank you. Now, please, a short answer, and I want it through the Chair. Let us move on. Mr A.P. JACOB : Thank you, Mr Speaker, and I would love nothing more than to come directly to the point. However, I draw to your attention that I am increasingly being shouted down. If the spotlight is turned back onto the integrity of members opposite — Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Minister, this is your last chance to answer the question. If you do not answer the question, you can sit down. Mr A.P. JACOB : Certainly, Mr Speaker. I am seeking the opportunity to set the record straight. Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Member for Cockburn! Mr A.P. JACOB : Mr Speaker, that was the question, and I am seeking to answer the member for Bunbury’s question. Point of Order Mr W.J. JOHNSTON : Mr Speaker, could I suggest that you draw to the attention of the minister standing order 148, which allows for personal explanations. Unfortunately, the minister has been asked a question under standing order 75, which is regarding his administrative responsibilities, not a personal explanation. The SPEAKER : Sit down. If you make spurious points of order, I am going to call you to order. Mr W.J. JOHNSTON : It is not spurious. Dr K.D. HAMES : Mr Speaker, further to that point of order, the question to the minister clearly asks for clarification and to set the record straight. He is trying, Mr Speaker, to set the record straight. The SPEAKER : The actual thing that you have to home in on is why this happened—why. So that is what I want you to address, through the Chair. Questions without Notice Resumed Mr A.P. JACOB : Thank you, Mr Speaker. The question related to the response in the midst of the Waroona fires—a response which ran over 17 days in January this year and which saw the firefighting services of this state significantly stretched. Indeed, in excess of 500 parks and wildlife staff alone were caught up in a direct response to that fire front of the Waroona fires over those 17 days. That is not including the Department of Fire and Emergency Services’ response, and, indeed, the important response from volunteer and local bush fire brigades. But the key point in my response is the claims that the firefighters in those communities, and, indeed, we as a government, were having to deal with in the midst of that response from the member for Girrawheen, who came out very strongly criticising the operational response to use contractors — Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Sit down, please. Next question.
The SPEAKER : Minister, I just want to say something to you. I do not want to have you and the member for Girrawheen have a fight. So go through the Chair, please. Mr A.P. JACOB : Absolutely, Mr Speaker. Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Members! Mr A.P. JACOB : There is form. We saw that yesterday with a question from the member for Girrawheen that was found to have absolutely no basis in truth whatsoever—indeed, referring to an agreement that had already been signed the year before and was entirely functional. It shows a pattern, in particular from the member for Girrawheen, but a pattern right across the board — Point of Order Mrs M.H. ROBERTS : Mr Speaker — Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Member for Wanneroo, I call you to order for, I think, the first time—the second time. Mrs M.H. ROBERTS : Minister, we have already wasted enough time hearing — Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : This is starting to get out of control. Something is going to happen if we do not bring it back on line. Mrs M.H. ROBERTS : We have finally ascertained that the member for Bunbury has now asked a question. I am calling upon the minister to answer it, rather than trying to redefine his answer from yesterday. The SPEAKER : Minister, through the Chair. Questions without Notice Resumed Mr A.P. JACOB : Thank you, Mr Speaker. Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : That is enough. Mr A.P. JACOB : Indeed, I think that although members opposite may not be in government, they are still members of Parliament, and they still have a responsibility to the Western Australian community, and to this place, to tell the truth and be honest, first of all, in the questions that they ask, and also to tell the truth and be honest in claims that they make frequently outside this place that are often found to have no basis whatsoever. Point of Order Mr W.J. JOHNSTON : Mr Speaker, we all know how dumb this guy is, but let us get it straight. He should just comply with the standing orders. That does not have anything to do with the — Questions without Notice Resumed The SPEAKER : Minister, I am going to sit you down. If you do not answer the question quickly, I am going to sit you down. Mr A.P. JACOB : What do you expect, Mr Speaker? I have only had — Several members interjected. Mr A.P. JACOB : I accept your ruling. The SPEAKER : I do not want to hear any more. Mr W.J. Johnston interjected. Withdrawal of Remark The SPEAKER : Member for Cannington, I never heard what you said, but if you said something untoward, withdraw it. Mr W.J. JOHNSTON : I withdraw. Questions without Notice Resumed The SPEAKER : Thank you. Now, please, a short answer, and I want it through the Chair. Let us move on. Mr A.P. JACOB : Thank you, Mr Speaker, and I would love nothing more than to come directly to the point. However, I draw to your attention that I am increasingly being shouted down. If the spotlight is turned back onto the integrity of members opposite — Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Minister, this is your last chance to answer the question. If you do not answer the question, you can sit down. Mr A.P. JACOB : Certainly, Mr Speaker. I am seeking the opportunity to set the record straight. Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Member for Cockburn! Mr A.P. JACOB : Mr Speaker, that was the question, and I am seeking to answer the member for Bunbury’s question. Point of Order Mr W.J. JOHNSTON : Mr Speaker, could I suggest that you draw to the attention of the minister standing order 148, which allows for personal explanations. Unfortunately, the minister has been asked a question under standing order 75, which is regarding his administrative responsibilities, not a personal explanation. The SPEAKER : Sit down. If you make spurious points of order, I am going to call you to order. Mr W.J. JOHNSTON : It is not spurious. Dr K.D. HAMES : Mr Speaker, further to that point of order, the question to the minister clearly asks for clarification and to set the record straight. He is trying, Mr Speaker, to set the record straight. The SPEAKER : The actual thing that you have to home in on is why this happened—why. So that is what I want you to address, through the Chair. Questions without Notice Resumed Mr A.P. JACOB : Thank you, Mr Speaker. The question related to the response in the midst of the Waroona fires—a response which ran over 17 days in January this year and which saw the firefighting services of this state significantly stretched. Indeed, in excess of 500 parks and wildlife staff alone were caught up in a direct response to that fire front of the Waroona fires over those 17 days. That is not including the Department of Fire and Emergency Services’ response, and, indeed, the important response from volunteer and local bush fire brigades. But the key point in my response is the claims that the firefighters in those communities, and, indeed, we as a government, were having to deal with in the midst of that response from the member for Girrawheen, who came out very strongly criticising the operational response to use contractors — Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Sit down, please. Next question.
Mr A.P. JACOB : Absolutely, Mr Speaker. Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Members! Mr A.P. JACOB : There is form. We saw that yesterday with a question from the member for Girrawheen that was found to have absolutely no basis in truth whatsoever—indeed, referring to an agreement that had already been signed the year before and was entirely functional. It shows a pattern, in particular from the member for Girrawheen, but a pattern right across the board — Point of Order Mrs M.H. ROBERTS : Mr Speaker — Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Member for Wanneroo, I call you to order for, I think, the first time—the second time. Mrs M.H. ROBERTS : Minister, we have already wasted enough time hearing — Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : This is starting to get out of control. Something is going to happen if we do not bring it back on line. Mrs M.H. ROBERTS : We have finally ascertained that the member for Bunbury has now asked a question. I am calling upon the minister to answer it, rather than trying to redefine his answer from yesterday. The SPEAKER : Minister, through the Chair. Questions without Notice Resumed Mr A.P. JACOB : Thank you, Mr Speaker. Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : That is enough. Mr A.P. JACOB : Indeed, I think that although members opposite may not be in government, they are still members of Parliament, and they still have a responsibility to the Western Australian community, and to this place, to tell the truth and be honest, first of all, in the questions that they ask, and also to tell the truth and be honest in claims that they make frequently outside this place that are often found to have no basis whatsoever. Point of Order Mr W.J. JOHNSTON : Mr Speaker, we all know how dumb this guy is, but let us get it straight. He should just comply with the standing orders. That does not have anything to do with the — Questions without Notice Resumed The SPEAKER : Minister, I am going to sit you down. If you do not answer the question quickly, I am going to sit you down. Mr A.P. JACOB : What do you expect, Mr Speaker? I have only had — Several members interjected. Mr A.P. JACOB : I accept your ruling. The SPEAKER : I do not want to hear any more. Mr W.J. Johnston interjected. Withdrawal of Remark The SPEAKER : Member for Cannington, I never heard what you said, but if you said something untoward, withdraw it. Mr W.J. JOHNSTON : I withdraw. Questions without Notice Resumed The SPEAKER : Thank you. Now, please, a short answer, and I want it through the Chair. Let us move on. Mr A.P. JACOB : Thank you, Mr Speaker, and I would love nothing more than to come directly to the point. However, I draw to your attention that I am increasingly being shouted down. If the spotlight is turned back onto the integrity of members opposite — Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Minister, this is your last chance to answer the question. If you do not answer the question, you can sit down. Mr A.P. JACOB : Certainly, Mr Speaker. I am seeking the opportunity to set the record straight. Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Member for Cockburn! Mr A.P. JACOB : Mr Speaker, that was the question, and I am seeking to answer the member for Bunbury’s question. Point of Order Mr W.J. JOHNSTON : Mr Speaker, could I suggest that you draw to the attention of the minister standing order 148, which allows for personal explanations. Unfortunately, the minister has been asked a question under standing order 75, which is regarding his administrative responsibilities, not a personal explanation. The SPEAKER : Sit down. If you make spurious points of order, I am going to call you to order. Mr W.J. JOHNSTON : It is not spurious. Dr K.D. HAMES : Mr Speaker, further to that point of order, the question to the minister clearly asks for clarification and to set the record straight. He is trying, Mr Speaker, to set the record straight. The SPEAKER : The actual thing that you have to home in on is why this happened—why. So that is what I want you to address, through the Chair. Questions without Notice Resumed Mr A.P. JACOB : Thank you, Mr Speaker. The question related to the response in the midst of the Waroona fires—a response which ran over 17 days in January this year and which saw the firefighting services of this state significantly stretched. Indeed, in excess of 500 parks and wildlife staff alone were caught up in a direct response to that fire front of the Waroona fires over those 17 days. That is not including the Department of Fire and Emergency Services’ response, and, indeed, the important response from volunteer and local bush fire brigades. But the key point in my response is the claims that the firefighters in those communities, and, indeed, we as a government, were having to deal with in the midst of that response from the member for Girrawheen, who came out very strongly criticising the operational response to use contractors — Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Sit down, please. Next question.
Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Members! Mr A.P. JACOB : There is form. We saw that yesterday with a question from the member for Girrawheen that was found to have absolutely no basis in truth whatsoever—indeed, referring to an agreement that had already been signed the year before and was entirely functional. It shows a pattern, in particular from the member for Girrawheen, but a pattern right across the board — Point of Order Mrs M.H. ROBERTS : Mr Speaker — Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Member for Wanneroo, I call you to order for, I think, the first time—the second time. Mrs M.H. ROBERTS : Minister, we have already wasted enough time hearing — Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : This is starting to get out of control. Something is going to happen if we do not bring it back on line. Mrs M.H. ROBERTS : We have finally ascertained that the member for Bunbury has now asked a question. I am calling upon the minister to answer it, rather than trying to redefine his answer from yesterday. The SPEAKER : Minister, through the Chair. Questions without Notice Resumed Mr A.P. JACOB : Thank you, Mr Speaker. Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : That is enough. Mr A.P. JACOB : Indeed, I think that although members opposite may not be in government, they are still members of Parliament, and they still have a responsibility to the Western Australian community, and to this place, to tell the truth and be honest, first of all, in the questions that they ask, and also to tell the truth and be honest in claims that they make frequently outside this place that are often found to have no basis whatsoever. Point of Order Mr W.J. JOHNSTON : Mr Speaker, we all know how dumb this guy is, but let us get it straight. He should just comply with the standing orders. That does not have anything to do with the — Questions without Notice Resumed The SPEAKER : Minister, I am going to sit you down. If you do not answer the question quickly, I am going to sit you down. Mr A.P. JACOB : What do you expect, Mr Speaker? I have only had — Several members interjected. Mr A.P. JACOB : I accept your ruling. The SPEAKER : I do not want to hear any more. Mr W.J. Johnston interjected. Withdrawal of Remark The SPEAKER : Member for Cannington, I never heard what you said, but if you said something untoward, withdraw it. Mr W.J. JOHNSTON : I withdraw. Questions without Notice Resumed The SPEAKER : Thank you. Now, please, a short answer, and I want it through the Chair. Let us move on. Mr A.P. JACOB : Thank you, Mr Speaker, and I would love nothing more than to come directly to the point. However, I draw to your attention that I am increasingly being shouted down. If the spotlight is turned back onto the integrity of members opposite — Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Minister, this is your last chance to answer the question. If you do not answer the question, you can sit down. Mr A.P. JACOB : Certainly, Mr Speaker. I am seeking the opportunity to set the record straight. Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Member for Cockburn! Mr A.P. JACOB : Mr Speaker, that was the question, and I am seeking to answer the member for Bunbury’s question. Point of Order Mr W.J. JOHNSTON : Mr Speaker, could I suggest that you draw to the attention of the minister standing order 148, which allows for personal explanations. Unfortunately, the minister has been asked a question under standing order 75, which is regarding his administrative responsibilities, not a personal explanation. The SPEAKER : Sit down. If you make spurious points of order, I am going to call you to order. Mr W.J. JOHNSTON : It is not spurious. Dr K.D. HAMES : Mr Speaker, further to that point of order, the question to the minister clearly asks for clarification and to set the record straight. He is trying, Mr Speaker, to set the record straight. The SPEAKER : The actual thing that you have to home in on is why this happened—why. So that is what I want you to address, through the Chair. Questions without Notice Resumed Mr A.P. JACOB : Thank you, Mr Speaker. The question related to the response in the midst of the Waroona fires—a response which ran over 17 days in January this year and which saw the firefighting services of this state significantly stretched. Indeed, in excess of 500 parks and wildlife staff alone were caught up in a direct response to that fire front of the Waroona fires over those 17 days. That is not including the Department of Fire and Emergency Services’ response, and, indeed, the important response from volunteer and local bush fire brigades. But the key point in my response is the claims that the firefighters in those communities, and, indeed, we as a government, were having to deal with in the midst of that response from the member for Girrawheen, who came out very strongly criticising the operational response to use contractors — Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Sit down, please. Next question.
The SPEAKER : Members! Mr A.P. JACOB : There is form. We saw that yesterday with a question from the member for Girrawheen that was found to have absolutely no basis in truth whatsoever—indeed, referring to an agreement that had already been signed the year before and was entirely functional. It shows a pattern, in particular from the member for Girrawheen, but a pattern right across the board — Point of Order Mrs M.H. ROBERTS : Mr Speaker — Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Member for Wanneroo, I call you to order for, I think, the first time—the second time. Mrs M.H. ROBERTS : Minister, we have already wasted enough time hearing — Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : This is starting to get out of control. Something is going to happen if we do not bring it back on line. Mrs M.H. ROBERTS : We have finally ascertained that the member for Bunbury has now asked a question. I am calling upon the minister to answer it, rather than trying to redefine his answer from yesterday. The SPEAKER : Minister, through the Chair. Questions without Notice Resumed Mr A.P. JACOB : Thank you, Mr Speaker. Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : That is enough. Mr A.P. JACOB : Indeed, I think that although members opposite may not be in government, they are still members of Parliament, and they still have a responsibility to the Western Australian community, and to this place, to tell the truth and be honest, first of all, in the questions that they ask, and also to tell the truth and be honest in claims that they make frequently outside this place that are often found to have no basis whatsoever. Point of Order Mr W.J. JOHNSTON : Mr Speaker, we all know how dumb this guy is, but let us get it straight. He should just comply with the standing orders. That does not have anything to do with the — Questions without Notice Resumed The SPEAKER : Minister, I am going to sit you down. If you do not answer the question quickly, I am going to sit you down. Mr A.P. JACOB : What do you expect, Mr Speaker? I have only had — Several members interjected. Mr A.P. JACOB : I accept your ruling. The SPEAKER : I do not want to hear any more. Mr W.J. Johnston interjected. Withdrawal of Remark The SPEAKER : Member for Cannington, I never heard what you said, but if you said something untoward, withdraw it. Mr W.J. JOHNSTON : I withdraw. Questions without Notice Resumed The SPEAKER : Thank you. Now, please, a short answer, and I want it through the Chair. Let us move on. Mr A.P. JACOB : Thank you, Mr Speaker, and I would love nothing more than to come directly to the point. However, I draw to your attention that I am increasingly being shouted down. If the spotlight is turned back onto the integrity of members opposite — Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Minister, this is your last chance to answer the question. If you do not answer the question, you can sit down. Mr A.P. JACOB : Certainly, Mr Speaker. I am seeking the opportunity to set the record straight. Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Member for Cockburn! Mr A.P. JACOB : Mr Speaker, that was the question, and I am seeking to answer the member for Bunbury’s question. Point of Order Mr W.J. JOHNSTON : Mr Speaker, could I suggest that you draw to the attention of the minister standing order 148, which allows for personal explanations. Unfortunately, the minister has been asked a question under standing order 75, which is regarding his administrative responsibilities, not a personal explanation. The SPEAKER : Sit down. If you make spurious points of order, I am going to call you to order. Mr W.J. JOHNSTON : It is not spurious. Dr K.D. HAMES : Mr Speaker, further to that point of order, the question to the minister clearly asks for clarification and to set the record straight. He is trying, Mr Speaker, to set the record straight. The SPEAKER : The actual thing that you have to home in on is why this happened—why. So that is what I want you to address, through the Chair. Questions without Notice Resumed Mr A.P. JACOB : Thank you, Mr Speaker. The question related to the response in the midst of the Waroona fires—a response which ran over 17 days in January this year and which saw the firefighting services of this state significantly stretched. Indeed, in excess of 500 parks and wildlife staff alone were caught up in a direct response to that fire front of the Waroona fires over those 17 days. That is not including the Department of Fire and Emergency Services’ response, and, indeed, the important response from volunteer and local bush fire brigades. But the key point in my response is the claims that the firefighters in those communities, and, indeed, we as a government, were having to deal with in the midst of that response from the member for Girrawheen, who came out very strongly criticising the operational response to use contractors — Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Sit down, please. Next question.
Mr A.P. JACOB : There is form. We saw that yesterday with a question from the member for Girrawheen that was found to have absolutely no basis in truth whatsoever—indeed, referring to an agreement that had already been signed the year before and was entirely functional. It shows a pattern, in particular from the member for Girrawheen, but a pattern right across the board — Point of Order Mrs M.H. ROBERTS : Mr Speaker — Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Member for Wanneroo, I call you to order for, I think, the first time—the second time. Mrs M.H. ROBERTS : Minister, we have already wasted enough time hearing — Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : This is starting to get out of control. Something is going to happen if we do not bring it back on line. Mrs M.H. ROBERTS : We have finally ascertained that the member for Bunbury has now asked a question. I am calling upon the minister to answer it, rather than trying to redefine his answer from yesterday. The SPEAKER : Minister, through the Chair. Questions without Notice Resumed Mr A.P. JACOB : Thank you, Mr Speaker. Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : That is enough. Mr A.P. JACOB : Indeed, I think that although members opposite may not be in government, they are still members of Parliament, and they still have a responsibility to the Western Australian community, and to this place, to tell the truth and be honest, first of all, in the questions that they ask, and also to tell the truth and be honest in claims that they make frequently outside this place that are often found to have no basis whatsoever. Point of Order Mr W.J. JOHNSTON : Mr Speaker, we all know how dumb this guy is, but let us get it straight. He should just comply with the standing orders. That does not have anything to do with the — Questions without Notice Resumed The SPEAKER : Minister, I am going to sit you down. If you do not answer the question quickly, I am going to sit you down. Mr A.P. JACOB : What do you expect, Mr Speaker? I have only had — Several members interjected. Mr A.P. JACOB : I accept your ruling. The SPEAKER : I do not want to hear any more. Mr W.J. Johnston interjected. Withdrawal of Remark The SPEAKER : Member for Cannington, I never heard what you said, but if you said something untoward, withdraw it. Mr W.J. JOHNSTON : I withdraw. Questions without Notice Resumed The SPEAKER : Thank you. Now, please, a short answer, and I want it through the Chair. Let us move on. Mr A.P. JACOB : Thank you, Mr Speaker, and I would love nothing more than to come directly to the point. However, I draw to your attention that I am increasingly being shouted down. If the spotlight is turned back onto the integrity of members opposite — Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Minister, this is your last chance to answer the question. If you do not answer the question, you can sit down. Mr A.P. JACOB : Certainly, Mr Speaker. I am seeking the opportunity to set the record straight. Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Member for Cockburn! Mr A.P. JACOB : Mr Speaker, that was the question, and I am seeking to answer the member for Bunbury’s question. Point of Order Mr W.J. JOHNSTON : Mr Speaker, could I suggest that you draw to the attention of the minister standing order 148, which allows for personal explanations. Unfortunately, the minister has been asked a question under standing order 75, which is regarding his administrative responsibilities, not a personal explanation. The SPEAKER : Sit down. If you make spurious points of order, I am going to call you to order. Mr W.J. JOHNSTON : It is not spurious. Dr K.D. HAMES : Mr Speaker, further to that point of order, the question to the minister clearly asks for clarification and to set the record straight. He is trying, Mr Speaker, to set the record straight. The SPEAKER : The actual thing that you have to home in on is why this happened—why. So that is what I want you to address, through the Chair. Questions without Notice Resumed Mr A.P. JACOB : Thank you, Mr Speaker. The question related to the response in the midst of the Waroona fires—a response which ran over 17 days in January this year and which saw the firefighting services of this state significantly stretched. Indeed, in excess of 500 parks and wildlife staff alone were caught up in a direct response to that fire front of the Waroona fires over those 17 days. That is not including the Department of Fire and Emergency Services’ response, and, indeed, the important response from volunteer and local bush fire brigades. But the key point in my response is the claims that the firefighters in those communities, and, indeed, we as a government, were having to deal with in the midst of that response from the member for Girrawheen, who came out very strongly criticising the operational response to use contractors — Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Sit down, please. Next question.
Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Member for Wanneroo, I call you to order for, I think, the first time—the second time. Mrs M.H. ROBERTS : Minister, we have already wasted enough time hearing — Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : This is starting to get out of control. Something is going to happen if we do not bring it back on line. Mrs M.H. ROBERTS : We have finally ascertained that the member for Bunbury has now asked a question. I am calling upon the minister to answer it, rather than trying to redefine his answer from yesterday. The SPEAKER : Minister, through the Chair. Questions without Notice Resumed Mr A.P. JACOB : Thank you, Mr Speaker. Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : That is enough. Mr A.P. JACOB : Indeed, I think that although members opposite may not be in government, they are still members of Parliament, and they still have a responsibility to the Western Australian community, and to this place, to tell the truth and be honest, first of all, in the questions that they ask, and also to tell the truth and be honest in claims that they make frequently outside this place that are often found to have no basis whatsoever. Point of Order Mr W.J. JOHNSTON : Mr Speaker, we all know how dumb this guy is, but let us get it straight. He should just comply with the standing orders. That does not have anything to do with the — Questions without Notice Resumed The SPEAKER : Minister, I am going to sit you down. If you do not answer the question quickly, I am going to sit you down. Mr A.P. JACOB : What do you expect, Mr Speaker? I have only had — Several members interjected. Mr A.P. JACOB : I accept your ruling. The SPEAKER : I do not want to hear any more. Mr W.J. Johnston interjected. Withdrawal of Remark The SPEAKER : Member for Cannington, I never heard what you said, but if you said something untoward, withdraw it. Mr W.J. JOHNSTON : I withdraw. Questions without Notice Resumed The SPEAKER : Thank you. Now, please, a short answer, and I want it through the Chair. Let us move on. Mr A.P. JACOB : Thank you, Mr Speaker, and I would love nothing more than to come directly to the point. However, I draw to your attention that I am increasingly being shouted down. If the spotlight is turned back onto the integrity of members opposite — Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Minister, this is your last chance to answer the question. If you do not answer the question, you can sit down. Mr A.P. JACOB : Certainly, Mr Speaker. I am seeking the opportunity to set the record straight. Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Member for Cockburn! Mr A.P. JACOB : Mr Speaker, that was the question, and I am seeking to answer the member for Bunbury’s question. Point of Order Mr W.J. JOHNSTON : Mr Speaker, could I suggest that you draw to the attention of the minister standing order 148, which allows for personal explanations. Unfortunately, the minister has been asked a question under standing order 75, which is regarding his administrative responsibilities, not a personal explanation. The SPEAKER : Sit down. If you make spurious points of order, I am going to call you to order. Mr W.J. JOHNSTON : It is not spurious. Dr K.D. HAMES : Mr Speaker, further to that point of order, the question to the minister clearly asks for clarification and to set the record straight. He is trying, Mr Speaker, to set the record straight. The SPEAKER : The actual thing that you have to home in on is why this happened—why. So that is what I want you to address, through the Chair. Questions without Notice Resumed Mr A.P. JACOB : Thank you, Mr Speaker. The question related to the response in the midst of the Waroona fires—a response which ran over 17 days in January this year and which saw the firefighting services of this state significantly stretched. Indeed, in excess of 500 parks and wildlife staff alone were caught up in a direct response to that fire front of the Waroona fires over those 17 days. That is not including the Department of Fire and Emergency Services’ response, and, indeed, the important response from volunteer and local bush fire brigades. But the key point in my response is the claims that the firefighters in those communities, and, indeed, we as a government, were having to deal with in the midst of that response from the member for Girrawheen, who came out very strongly criticising the operational response to use contractors — Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Sit down, please. Next question.
The SPEAKER : Member for Wanneroo, I call you to order for, I think, the first time—the second time. Mrs M.H. ROBERTS : Minister, we have already wasted enough time hearing — Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : This is starting to get out of control. Something is going to happen if we do not bring it back on line. Mrs M.H. ROBERTS : We have finally ascertained that the member for Bunbury has now asked a question. I am calling upon the minister to answer it, rather than trying to redefine his answer from yesterday. The SPEAKER : Minister, through the Chair. Questions without Notice Resumed Mr A.P. JACOB : Thank you, Mr Speaker. Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : That is enough. Mr A.P. JACOB : Indeed, I think that although members opposite may not be in government, they are still members of Parliament, and they still have a responsibility to the Western Australian community, and to this place, to tell the truth and be honest, first of all, in the questions that they ask, and also to tell the truth and be honest in claims that they make frequently outside this place that are often found to have no basis whatsoever. Point of Order Mr W.J. JOHNSTON : Mr Speaker, we all know how dumb this guy is, but let us get it straight. He should just comply with the standing orders. That does not have anything to do with the — Questions without Notice Resumed The SPEAKER : Minister, I am going to sit you down. If you do not answer the question quickly, I am going to sit you down. Mr A.P. JACOB : What do you expect, Mr Speaker? I have only had — Several members interjected. Mr A.P. JACOB : I accept your ruling. The SPEAKER : I do not want to hear any more. Mr W.J. Johnston interjected. Withdrawal of Remark The SPEAKER : Member for Cannington, I never heard what you said, but if you said something untoward, withdraw it. Mr W.J. JOHNSTON : I withdraw. Questions without Notice Resumed The SPEAKER : Thank you. Now, please, a short answer, and I want it through the Chair. Let us move on. Mr A.P. JACOB : Thank you, Mr Speaker, and I would love nothing more than to come directly to the point. However, I draw to your attention that I am increasingly being shouted down. If the spotlight is turned back onto the integrity of members opposite — Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Minister, this is your last chance to answer the question. If you do not answer the question, you can sit down. Mr A.P. JACOB : Certainly, Mr Speaker. I am seeking the opportunity to set the record straight. Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Member for Cockburn! Mr A.P. JACOB : Mr Speaker, that was the question, and I am seeking to answer the member for Bunbury’s question. Point of Order Mr W.J. JOHNSTON : Mr Speaker, could I suggest that you draw to the attention of the minister standing order 148, which allows for personal explanations. Unfortunately, the minister has been asked a question under standing order 75, which is regarding his administrative responsibilities, not a personal explanation. The SPEAKER : Sit down. If you make spurious points of order, I am going to call you to order. Mr W.J. JOHNSTON : It is not spurious. Dr K.D. HAMES : Mr Speaker, further to that point of order, the question to the minister clearly asks for clarification and to set the record straight. He is trying, Mr Speaker, to set the record straight. The SPEAKER : The actual thing that you have to home in on is why this happened—why. So that is what I want you to address, through the Chair. Questions without Notice Resumed Mr A.P. JACOB : Thank you, Mr Speaker. The question related to the response in the midst of the Waroona fires—a response which ran over 17 days in January this year and which saw the firefighting services of this state significantly stretched. Indeed, in excess of 500 parks and wildlife staff alone were caught up in a direct response to that fire front of the Waroona fires over those 17 days. That is not including the Department of Fire and Emergency Services’ response, and, indeed, the important response from volunteer and local bush fire brigades. But the key point in my response is the claims that the firefighters in those communities, and, indeed, we as a government, were having to deal with in the midst of that response from the member for Girrawheen, who came out very strongly criticising the operational response to use contractors — Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Sit down, please. Next question.
Mrs M.H. ROBERTS : Minister, we have already wasted enough time hearing — Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : This is starting to get out of control. Something is going to happen if we do not bring it back on line. Mrs M.H. ROBERTS : We have finally ascertained that the member for Bunbury has now asked a question. I am calling upon the minister to answer it, rather than trying to redefine his answer from yesterday. The SPEAKER : Minister, through the Chair. Questions without Notice Resumed Mr A.P. JACOB : Thank you, Mr Speaker. Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : That is enough. Mr A.P. JACOB : Indeed, I think that although members opposite may not be in government, they are still members of Parliament, and they still have a responsibility to the Western Australian community, and to this place, to tell the truth and be honest, first of all, in the questions that they ask, and also to tell the truth and be honest in claims that they make frequently outside this place that are often found to have no basis whatsoever. Point of Order Mr W.J. JOHNSTON : Mr Speaker, we all know how dumb this guy is, but let us get it straight. He should just comply with the standing orders. That does not have anything to do with the — Questions without Notice Resumed The SPEAKER : Minister, I am going to sit you down. If you do not answer the question quickly, I am going to sit you down. Mr A.P. JACOB : What do you expect, Mr Speaker? I have only had — Several members interjected. Mr A.P. JACOB : I accept your ruling. The SPEAKER : I do not want to hear any more. Mr W.J. Johnston interjected. Withdrawal of Remark The SPEAKER : Member for Cannington, I never heard what you said, but if you said something untoward, withdraw it. Mr W.J. JOHNSTON : I withdraw. Questions without Notice Resumed The SPEAKER : Thank you. Now, please, a short answer, and I want it through the Chair. Let us move on. Mr A.P. JACOB : Thank you, Mr Speaker, and I would love nothing more than to come directly to the point. However, I draw to your attention that I am increasingly being shouted down. If the spotlight is turned back onto the integrity of members opposite — Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Minister, this is your last chance to answer the question. If you do not answer the question, you can sit down. Mr A.P. JACOB : Certainly, Mr Speaker. I am seeking the opportunity to set the record straight. Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Member for Cockburn! Mr A.P. JACOB : Mr Speaker, that was the question, and I am seeking to answer the member for Bunbury’s question. Point of Order Mr W.J. JOHNSTON : Mr Speaker, could I suggest that you draw to the attention of the minister standing order 148, which allows for personal explanations. Unfortunately, the minister has been asked a question under standing order 75, which is regarding his administrative responsibilities, not a personal explanation. The SPEAKER : Sit down. If you make spurious points of order, I am going to call you to order. Mr W.J. JOHNSTON : It is not spurious. Dr K.D. HAMES : Mr Speaker, further to that point of order, the question to the minister clearly asks for clarification and to set the record straight. He is trying, Mr Speaker, to set the record straight. The SPEAKER : The actual thing that you have to home in on is why this happened—why. So that is what I want you to address, through the Chair. Questions without Notice Resumed Mr A.P. JACOB : Thank you, Mr Speaker. The question related to the response in the midst of the Waroona fires—a response which ran over 17 days in January this year and which saw the firefighting services of this state significantly stretched. Indeed, in excess of 500 parks and wildlife staff alone were caught up in a direct response to that fire front of the Waroona fires over those 17 days. That is not including the Department of Fire and Emergency Services’ response, and, indeed, the important response from volunteer and local bush fire brigades. But the key point in my response is the claims that the firefighters in those communities, and, indeed, we as a government, were having to deal with in the midst of that response from the member for Girrawheen, who came out very strongly criticising the operational response to use contractors — Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Sit down, please. Next question.
Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : This is starting to get out of control. Something is going to happen if we do not bring it back on line. Mrs M.H. ROBERTS : We have finally ascertained that the member for Bunbury has now asked a question. I am calling upon the minister to answer it, rather than trying to redefine his answer from yesterday. The SPEAKER : Minister, through the Chair. Questions without Notice Resumed Mr A.P. JACOB : Thank you, Mr Speaker. Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : That is enough. Mr A.P. JACOB : Indeed, I think that although members opposite may not be in government, they are still members of Parliament, and they still have a responsibility to the Western Australian community, and to this place, to tell the truth and be honest, first of all, in the questions that they ask, and also to tell the truth and be honest in claims that they make frequently outside this place that are often found to have no basis whatsoever. Point of Order Mr W.J. JOHNSTON : Mr Speaker, we all know how dumb this guy is, but let us get it straight. He should just comply with the standing orders. That does not have anything to do with the — Questions without Notice Resumed The SPEAKER : Minister, I am going to sit you down. If you do not answer the question quickly, I am going to sit you down. Mr A.P. JACOB : What do you expect, Mr Speaker? I have only had — Several members interjected. Mr A.P. JACOB : I accept your ruling. The SPEAKER : I do not want to hear any more. Mr W.J. Johnston interjected. Withdrawal of Remark The SPEAKER : Member for Cannington, I never heard what you said, but if you said something untoward, withdraw it. Mr W.J. JOHNSTON : I withdraw. Questions without Notice Resumed The SPEAKER : Thank you. Now, please, a short answer, and I want it through the Chair. Let us move on. Mr A.P. JACOB : Thank you, Mr Speaker, and I would love nothing more than to come directly to the point. However, I draw to your attention that I am increasingly being shouted down. If the spotlight is turned back onto the integrity of members opposite — Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Minister, this is your last chance to answer the question. If you do not answer the question, you can sit down. Mr A.P. JACOB : Certainly, Mr Speaker. I am seeking the opportunity to set the record straight. Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Member for Cockburn! Mr A.P. JACOB : Mr Speaker, that was the question, and I am seeking to answer the member for Bunbury’s question. Point of Order Mr W.J. JOHNSTON : Mr Speaker, could I suggest that you draw to the attention of the minister standing order 148, which allows for personal explanations. Unfortunately, the minister has been asked a question under standing order 75, which is regarding his administrative responsibilities, not a personal explanation. The SPEAKER : Sit down. If you make spurious points of order, I am going to call you to order. Mr W.J. JOHNSTON : It is not spurious. Dr K.D. HAMES : Mr Speaker, further to that point of order, the question to the minister clearly asks for clarification and to set the record straight. He is trying, Mr Speaker, to set the record straight. The SPEAKER : The actual thing that you have to home in on is why this happened—why. So that is what I want you to address, through the Chair. Questions without Notice Resumed Mr A.P. JACOB : Thank you, Mr Speaker. The question related to the response in the midst of the Waroona fires—a response which ran over 17 days in January this year and which saw the firefighting services of this state significantly stretched. Indeed, in excess of 500 parks and wildlife staff alone were caught up in a direct response to that fire front of the Waroona fires over those 17 days. That is not including the Department of Fire and Emergency Services’ response, and, indeed, the important response from volunteer and local bush fire brigades. But the key point in my response is the claims that the firefighters in those communities, and, indeed, we as a government, were having to deal with in the midst of that response from the member for Girrawheen, who came out very strongly criticising the operational response to use contractors — Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Sit down, please. Next question.
The SPEAKER : This is starting to get out of control. Something is going to happen if we do not bring it back on line. Mrs M.H. ROBERTS : We have finally ascertained that the member for Bunbury has now asked a question. I am calling upon the minister to answer it, rather than trying to redefine his answer from yesterday. The SPEAKER : Minister, through the Chair. Questions without Notice Resumed Mr A.P. JACOB : Thank you, Mr Speaker. Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : That is enough. Mr A.P. JACOB : Indeed, I think that although members opposite may not be in government, they are still members of Parliament, and they still have a responsibility to the Western Australian community, and to this place, to tell the truth and be honest, first of all, in the questions that they ask, and also to tell the truth and be honest in claims that they make frequently outside this place that are often found to have no basis whatsoever. Point of Order Mr W.J. JOHNSTON : Mr Speaker, we all know how dumb this guy is, but let us get it straight. He should just comply with the standing orders. That does not have anything to do with the — Questions without Notice Resumed The SPEAKER : Minister, I am going to sit you down. If you do not answer the question quickly, I am going to sit you down. Mr A.P. JACOB : What do you expect, Mr Speaker? I have only had — Several members interjected. Mr A.P. JACOB : I accept your ruling. The SPEAKER : I do not want to hear any more. Mr W.J. Johnston interjected. Withdrawal of Remark The SPEAKER : Member for Cannington, I never heard what you said, but if you said something untoward, withdraw it. Mr W.J. JOHNSTON : I withdraw. Questions without Notice Resumed The SPEAKER : Thank you. Now, please, a short answer, and I want it through the Chair. Let us move on. Mr A.P. JACOB : Thank you, Mr Speaker, and I would love nothing more than to come directly to the point. However, I draw to your attention that I am increasingly being shouted down. If the spotlight is turned back onto the integrity of members opposite — Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Minister, this is your last chance to answer the question. If you do not answer the question, you can sit down. Mr A.P. JACOB : Certainly, Mr Speaker. I am seeking the opportunity to set the record straight. Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Member for Cockburn! Mr A.P. JACOB : Mr Speaker, that was the question, and I am seeking to answer the member for Bunbury’s question. Point of Order Mr W.J. JOHNSTON : Mr Speaker, could I suggest that you draw to the attention of the minister standing order 148, which allows for personal explanations. Unfortunately, the minister has been asked a question under standing order 75, which is regarding his administrative responsibilities, not a personal explanation. The SPEAKER : Sit down. If you make spurious points of order, I am going to call you to order. Mr W.J. JOHNSTON : It is not spurious. Dr K.D. HAMES : Mr Speaker, further to that point of order, the question to the minister clearly asks for clarification and to set the record straight. He is trying, Mr Speaker, to set the record straight. The SPEAKER : The actual thing that you have to home in on is why this happened—why. So that is what I want you to address, through the Chair. Questions without Notice Resumed Mr A.P. JACOB : Thank you, Mr Speaker. The question related to the response in the midst of the Waroona fires—a response which ran over 17 days in January this year and which saw the firefighting services of this state significantly stretched. Indeed, in excess of 500 parks and wildlife staff alone were caught up in a direct response to that fire front of the Waroona fires over those 17 days. That is not including the Department of Fire and Emergency Services’ response, and, indeed, the important response from volunteer and local bush fire brigades. But the key point in my response is the claims that the firefighters in those communities, and, indeed, we as a government, were having to deal with in the midst of that response from the member for Girrawheen, who came out very strongly criticising the operational response to use contractors — Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Sit down, please. Next question.
Mrs M.H. ROBERTS : We have finally ascertained that the member for Bunbury has now asked a question. I am calling upon the minister to answer it, rather than trying to redefine his answer from yesterday. The SPEAKER : Minister, through the Chair. Questions without Notice Resumed Mr A.P. JACOB : Thank you, Mr Speaker. Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : That is enough. Mr A.P. JACOB : Indeed, I think that although members opposite may not be in government, they are still members of Parliament, and they still have a responsibility to the Western Australian community, and to this place, to tell the truth and be honest, first of all, in the questions that they ask, and also to tell the truth and be honest in claims that they make frequently outside this place that are often found to have no basis whatsoever. Point of Order Mr W.J. JOHNSTON : Mr Speaker, we all know how dumb this guy is, but let us get it straight. He should just comply with the standing orders. That does not have anything to do with the — Questions without Notice Resumed The SPEAKER : Minister, I am going to sit you down. If you do not answer the question quickly, I am going to sit you down. Mr A.P. JACOB : What do you expect, Mr Speaker? I have only had — Several members interjected. Mr A.P. JACOB : I accept your ruling. The SPEAKER : I do not want to hear any more. Mr W.J. Johnston interjected. Withdrawal of Remark The SPEAKER : Member for Cannington, I never heard what you said, but if you said something untoward, withdraw it. Mr W.J. JOHNSTON : I withdraw. Questions without Notice Resumed The SPEAKER : Thank you. Now, please, a short answer, and I want it through the Chair. Let us move on. Mr A.P. JACOB : Thank you, Mr Speaker, and I would love nothing more than to come directly to the point. However, I draw to your attention that I am increasingly being shouted down. If the spotlight is turned back onto the integrity of members opposite — Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Minister, this is your last chance to answer the question. If you do not answer the question, you can sit down. Mr A.P. JACOB : Certainly, Mr Speaker. I am seeking the opportunity to set the record straight. Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Member for Cockburn! Mr A.P. JACOB : Mr Speaker, that was the question, and I am seeking to answer the member for Bunbury’s question. Point of Order Mr W.J. JOHNSTON : Mr Speaker, could I suggest that you draw to the attention of the minister standing order 148, which allows for personal explanations. Unfortunately, the minister has been asked a question under standing order 75, which is regarding his administrative responsibilities, not a personal explanation. The SPEAKER : Sit down. If you make spurious points of order, I am going to call you to order. Mr W.J. JOHNSTON : It is not spurious. Dr K.D. HAMES : Mr Speaker, further to that point of order, the question to the minister clearly asks for clarification and to set the record straight. He is trying, Mr Speaker, to set the record straight. The SPEAKER : The actual thing that you have to home in on is why this happened—why. So that is what I want you to address, through the Chair. Questions without Notice Resumed Mr A.P. JACOB : Thank you, Mr Speaker. The question related to the response in the midst of the Waroona fires—a response which ran over 17 days in January this year and which saw the firefighting services of this state significantly stretched. Indeed, in excess of 500 parks and wildlife staff alone were caught up in a direct response to that fire front of the Waroona fires over those 17 days. That is not including the Department of Fire and Emergency Services’ response, and, indeed, the important response from volunteer and local bush fire brigades. But the key point in my response is the claims that the firefighters in those communities, and, indeed, we as a government, were having to deal with in the midst of that response from the member for Girrawheen, who came out very strongly criticising the operational response to use contractors — Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Sit down, please. Next question.
The SPEAKER : Minister, through the Chair. Questions without Notice Resumed Mr A.P. JACOB : Thank you, Mr Speaker. Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : That is enough. Mr A.P. JACOB : Indeed, I think that although members opposite may not be in government, they are still members of Parliament, and they still have a responsibility to the Western Australian community, and to this place, to tell the truth and be honest, first of all, in the questions that they ask, and also to tell the truth and be honest in claims that they make frequently outside this place that are often found to have no basis whatsoever. Point of Order Mr W.J. JOHNSTON : Mr Speaker, we all know how dumb this guy is, but let us get it straight. He should just comply with the standing orders. That does not have anything to do with the — Questions without Notice Resumed The SPEAKER : Minister, I am going to sit you down. If you do not answer the question quickly, I am going to sit you down. Mr A.P. JACOB : What do you expect, Mr Speaker? I have only had — Several members interjected. Mr A.P. JACOB : I accept your ruling. The SPEAKER : I do not want to hear any more. Mr W.J. Johnston interjected. Withdrawal of Remark The SPEAKER : Member for Cannington, I never heard what you said, but if you said something untoward, withdraw it. Mr W.J. JOHNSTON : I withdraw. Questions without Notice Resumed The SPEAKER : Thank you. Now, please, a short answer, and I want it through the Chair. Let us move on. Mr A.P. JACOB : Thank you, Mr Speaker, and I would love nothing more than to come directly to the point. However, I draw to your attention that I am increasingly being shouted down. If the spotlight is turned back onto the integrity of members opposite — Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Minister, this is your last chance to answer the question. If you do not answer the question, you can sit down. Mr A.P. JACOB : Certainly, Mr Speaker. I am seeking the opportunity to set the record straight. Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Member for Cockburn! Mr A.P. JACOB : Mr Speaker, that was the question, and I am seeking to answer the member for Bunbury’s question. Point of Order Mr W.J. JOHNSTON : Mr Speaker, could I suggest that you draw to the attention of the minister standing order 148, which allows for personal explanations. Unfortunately, the minister has been asked a question under standing order 75, which is regarding his administrative responsibilities, not a personal explanation. The SPEAKER : Sit down. If you make spurious points of order, I am going to call you to order. Mr W.J. JOHNSTON : It is not spurious. Dr K.D. HAMES : Mr Speaker, further to that point of order, the question to the minister clearly asks for clarification and to set the record straight. He is trying, Mr Speaker, to set the record straight. The SPEAKER : The actual thing that you have to home in on is why this happened—why. So that is what I want you to address, through the Chair. Questions without Notice Resumed Mr A.P. JACOB : Thank you, Mr Speaker. The question related to the response in the midst of the Waroona fires—a response which ran over 17 days in January this year and which saw the firefighting services of this state significantly stretched. Indeed, in excess of 500 parks and wildlife staff alone were caught up in a direct response to that fire front of the Waroona fires over those 17 days. That is not including the Department of Fire and Emergency Services’ response, and, indeed, the important response from volunteer and local bush fire brigades. But the key point in my response is the claims that the firefighters in those communities, and, indeed, we as a government, were having to deal with in the midst of that response from the member for Girrawheen, who came out very strongly criticising the operational response to use contractors — Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Sit down, please. Next question.
Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : That is enough. Mr A.P. JACOB : Indeed, I think that although members opposite may not be in government, they are still members of Parliament, and they still have a responsibility to the Western Australian community, and to this place, to tell the truth and be honest, first of all, in the questions that they ask, and also to tell the truth and be honest in claims that they make frequently outside this place that are often found to have no basis whatsoever. Point of Order Mr W.J. JOHNSTON : Mr Speaker, we all know how dumb this guy is, but let us get it straight. He should just comply with the standing orders. That does not have anything to do with the — Questions without Notice Resumed The SPEAKER : Minister, I am going to sit you down. If you do not answer the question quickly, I am going to sit you down. Mr A.P. JACOB : What do you expect, Mr Speaker? I have only had — Several members interjected. Mr A.P. JACOB : I accept your ruling. The SPEAKER : I do not want to hear any more. Mr W.J. Johnston interjected. Withdrawal of Remark The SPEAKER : Member for Cannington, I never heard what you said, but if you said something untoward, withdraw it. Mr W.J. JOHNSTON : I withdraw. Questions without Notice Resumed The SPEAKER : Thank you. Now, please, a short answer, and I want it through the Chair. Let us move on. Mr A.P. JACOB : Thank you, Mr Speaker, and I would love nothing more than to come directly to the point. However, I draw to your attention that I am increasingly being shouted down. If the spotlight is turned back onto the integrity of members opposite — Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Minister, this is your last chance to answer the question. If you do not answer the question, you can sit down. Mr A.P. JACOB : Certainly, Mr Speaker. I am seeking the opportunity to set the record straight. Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Member for Cockburn! Mr A.P. JACOB : Mr Speaker, that was the question, and I am seeking to answer the member for Bunbury’s question. Point of Order Mr W.J. JOHNSTON : Mr Speaker, could I suggest that you draw to the attention of the minister standing order 148, which allows for personal explanations. Unfortunately, the minister has been asked a question under standing order 75, which is regarding his administrative responsibilities, not a personal explanation. The SPEAKER : Sit down. If you make spurious points of order, I am going to call you to order. Mr W.J. JOHNSTON : It is not spurious. Dr K.D. HAMES : Mr Speaker, further to that point of order, the question to the minister clearly asks for clarification and to set the record straight. He is trying, Mr Speaker, to set the record straight. The SPEAKER : The actual thing that you have to home in on is why this happened—why. So that is what I want you to address, through the Chair. Questions without Notice Resumed Mr A.P. JACOB : Thank you, Mr Speaker. The question related to the response in the midst of the Waroona fires—a response which ran over 17 days in January this year and which saw the firefighting services of this state significantly stretched. Indeed, in excess of 500 parks and wildlife staff alone were caught up in a direct response to that fire front of the Waroona fires over those 17 days. That is not including the Department of Fire and Emergency Services’ response, and, indeed, the important response from volunteer and local bush fire brigades. But the key point in my response is the claims that the firefighters in those communities, and, indeed, we as a government, were having to deal with in the midst of that response from the member for Girrawheen, who came out very strongly criticising the operational response to use contractors — Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Sit down, please. Next question.
The SPEAKER : That is enough. Mr A.P. JACOB : Indeed, I think that although members opposite may not be in government, they are still members of Parliament, and they still have a responsibility to the Western Australian community, and to this place, to tell the truth and be honest, first of all, in the questions that they ask, and also to tell the truth and be honest in claims that they make frequently outside this place that are often found to have no basis whatsoever. Point of Order Mr W.J. JOHNSTON : Mr Speaker, we all know how dumb this guy is, but let us get it straight. He should just comply with the standing orders. That does not have anything to do with the — Questions without Notice Resumed The SPEAKER : Minister, I am going to sit you down. If you do not answer the question quickly, I am going to sit you down. Mr A.P. JACOB : What do you expect, Mr Speaker? I have only had — Several members interjected. Mr A.P. JACOB : I accept your ruling. The SPEAKER : I do not want to hear any more. Mr W.J. Johnston interjected. Withdrawal of Remark The SPEAKER : Member for Cannington, I never heard what you said, but if you said something untoward, withdraw it. Mr W.J. JOHNSTON : I withdraw. Questions without Notice Resumed The SPEAKER : Thank you. Now, please, a short answer, and I want it through the Chair. Let us move on. Mr A.P. JACOB : Thank you, Mr Speaker, and I would love nothing more than to come directly to the point. However, I draw to your attention that I am increasingly being shouted down. If the spotlight is turned back onto the integrity of members opposite — Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Minister, this is your last chance to answer the question. If you do not answer the question, you can sit down. Mr A.P. JACOB : Certainly, Mr Speaker. I am seeking the opportunity to set the record straight. Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Member for Cockburn! Mr A.P. JACOB : Mr Speaker, that was the question, and I am seeking to answer the member for Bunbury’s question. Point of Order Mr W.J. JOHNSTON : Mr Speaker, could I suggest that you draw to the attention of the minister standing order 148, which allows for personal explanations. Unfortunately, the minister has been asked a question under standing order 75, which is regarding his administrative responsibilities, not a personal explanation. The SPEAKER : Sit down. If you make spurious points of order, I am going to call you to order. Mr W.J. JOHNSTON : It is not spurious. Dr K.D. HAMES : Mr Speaker, further to that point of order, the question to the minister clearly asks for clarification and to set the record straight. He is trying, Mr Speaker, to set the record straight. The SPEAKER : The actual thing that you have to home in on is why this happened—why. So that is what I want you to address, through the Chair. Questions without Notice Resumed Mr A.P. JACOB : Thank you, Mr Speaker. The question related to the response in the midst of the Waroona fires—a response which ran over 17 days in January this year and which saw the firefighting services of this state significantly stretched. Indeed, in excess of 500 parks and wildlife staff alone were caught up in a direct response to that fire front of the Waroona fires over those 17 days. That is not including the Department of Fire and Emergency Services’ response, and, indeed, the important response from volunteer and local bush fire brigades. But the key point in my response is the claims that the firefighters in those communities, and, indeed, we as a government, were having to deal with in the midst of that response from the member for Girrawheen, who came out very strongly criticising the operational response to use contractors — Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Sit down, please. Next question.
Mr A.P. JACOB : Indeed, I think that although members opposite may not be in government, they are still members of Parliament, and they still have a responsibility to the Western Australian community, and to this place, to tell the truth and be honest, first of all, in the questions that they ask, and also to tell the truth and be honest in claims that they make frequently outside this place that are often found to have no basis whatsoever. Point of Order Mr W.J. JOHNSTON : Mr Speaker, we all know how dumb this guy is, but let us get it straight. He should just comply with the standing orders. That does not have anything to do with the — Questions without Notice Resumed The SPEAKER : Minister, I am going to sit you down. If you do not answer the question quickly, I am going to sit you down. Mr A.P. JACOB : What do you expect, Mr Speaker? I have only had — Several members interjected. Mr A.P. JACOB : I accept your ruling. The SPEAKER : I do not want to hear any more. Mr W.J. Johnston interjected. Withdrawal of Remark The SPEAKER : Member for Cannington, I never heard what you said, but if you said something untoward, withdraw it. Mr W.J. JOHNSTON : I withdraw. Questions without Notice Resumed The SPEAKER : Thank you. Now, please, a short answer, and I want it through the Chair. Let us move on. Mr A.P. JACOB : Thank you, Mr Speaker, and I would love nothing more than to come directly to the point. However, I draw to your attention that I am increasingly being shouted down. If the spotlight is turned back onto the integrity of members opposite — Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Minister, this is your last chance to answer the question. If you do not answer the question, you can sit down. Mr A.P. JACOB : Certainly, Mr Speaker. I am seeking the opportunity to set the record straight. Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Member for Cockburn! Mr A.P. JACOB : Mr Speaker, that was the question, and I am seeking to answer the member for Bunbury’s question. Point of Order Mr W.J. JOHNSTON : Mr Speaker, could I suggest that you draw to the attention of the minister standing order 148, which allows for personal explanations. Unfortunately, the minister has been asked a question under standing order 75, which is regarding his administrative responsibilities, not a personal explanation. The SPEAKER : Sit down. If you make spurious points of order, I am going to call you to order. Mr W.J. JOHNSTON : It is not spurious. Dr K.D. HAMES : Mr Speaker, further to that point of order, the question to the minister clearly asks for clarification and to set the record straight. He is trying, Mr Speaker, to set the record straight. The SPEAKER : The actual thing that you have to home in on is why this happened—why. So that is what I want you to address, through the Chair. Questions without Notice Resumed Mr A.P. JACOB : Thank you, Mr Speaker. The question related to the response in the midst of the Waroona fires—a response which ran over 17 days in January this year and which saw the firefighting services of this state significantly stretched. Indeed, in excess of 500 parks and wildlife staff alone were caught up in a direct response to that fire front of the Waroona fires over those 17 days. That is not including the Department of Fire and Emergency Services’ response, and, indeed, the important response from volunteer and local bush fire brigades. But the key point in my response is the claims that the firefighters in those communities, and, indeed, we as a government, were having to deal with in the midst of that response from the member for Girrawheen, who came out very strongly criticising the operational response to use contractors — Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Sit down, please. Next question.
Mr A.P. JACOB : What do you expect, Mr Speaker? I have only had — Several members interjected. Mr A.P. JACOB : I accept your ruling. The SPEAKER : I do not want to hear any more. Mr W.J. Johnston interjected. Withdrawal of Remark The SPEAKER : Member for Cannington, I never heard what you said, but if you said something untoward, withdraw it. Mr W.J. JOHNSTON : I withdraw. Questions without Notice Resumed The SPEAKER : Thank you. Now, please, a short answer, and I want it through the Chair. Let us move on. Mr A.P. JACOB : Thank you, Mr Speaker, and I would love nothing more than to come directly to the point. However, I draw to your attention that I am increasingly being shouted down. If the spotlight is turned back onto the integrity of members opposite — Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Minister, this is your last chance to answer the question. If you do not answer the question, you can sit down. Mr A.P. JACOB : Certainly, Mr Speaker. I am seeking the opportunity to set the record straight. Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Member for Cockburn! Mr A.P. JACOB : Mr Speaker, that was the question, and I am seeking to answer the member for Bunbury’s question. Point of Order Mr W.J. JOHNSTON : Mr Speaker, could I suggest that you draw to the attention of the minister standing order 148, which allows for personal explanations. Unfortunately, the minister has been asked a question under standing order 75, which is regarding his administrative responsibilities, not a personal explanation. The SPEAKER : Sit down. If you make spurious points of order, I am going to call you to order. Mr W.J. JOHNSTON : It is not spurious. Dr K.D. HAMES : Mr Speaker, further to that point of order, the question to the minister clearly asks for clarification and to set the record straight. He is trying, Mr Speaker, to set the record straight. The SPEAKER : The actual thing that you have to home in on is why this happened—why. So that is what I want you to address, through the Chair. Questions without Notice Resumed Mr A.P. JACOB : Thank you, Mr Speaker. The question related to the response in the midst of the Waroona fires—a response which ran over 17 days in January this year and which saw the firefighting services of this state significantly stretched. Indeed, in excess of 500 parks and wildlife staff alone were caught up in a direct response to that fire front of the Waroona fires over those 17 days. That is not including the Department of Fire and Emergency Services’ response, and, indeed, the important response from volunteer and local bush fire brigades. But the key point in my response is the claims that the firefighters in those communities, and, indeed, we as a government, were having to deal with in the midst of that response from the member for Girrawheen, who came out very strongly criticising the operational response to use contractors — Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Sit down, please. Next question.
Several members interjected. Mr A.P. JACOB : I accept your ruling. The SPEAKER : I do not want to hear any more. Mr W.J. Johnston interjected. Withdrawal of Remark The SPEAKER : Member for Cannington, I never heard what you said, but if you said something untoward, withdraw it. Mr W.J. JOHNSTON : I withdraw. Questions without Notice Resumed The SPEAKER : Thank you. Now, please, a short answer, and I want it through the Chair. Let us move on. Mr A.P. JACOB : Thank you, Mr Speaker, and I would love nothing more than to come directly to the point. However, I draw to your attention that I am increasingly being shouted down. If the spotlight is turned back onto the integrity of members opposite — Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Minister, this is your last chance to answer the question. If you do not answer the question, you can sit down. Mr A.P. JACOB : Certainly, Mr Speaker. I am seeking the opportunity to set the record straight. Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Member for Cockburn! Mr A.P. JACOB : Mr Speaker, that was the question, and I am seeking to answer the member for Bunbury’s question. Point of Order Mr W.J. JOHNSTON : Mr Speaker, could I suggest that you draw to the attention of the minister standing order 148, which allows for personal explanations. Unfortunately, the minister has been asked a question under standing order 75, which is regarding his administrative responsibilities, not a personal explanation. The SPEAKER : Sit down. If you make spurious points of order, I am going to call you to order. Mr W.J. JOHNSTON : It is not spurious. Dr K.D. HAMES : Mr Speaker, further to that point of order, the question to the minister clearly asks for clarification and to set the record straight. He is trying, Mr Speaker, to set the record straight. The SPEAKER : The actual thing that you have to home in on is why this happened—why. So that is what I want you to address, through the Chair. Questions without Notice Resumed Mr A.P. JACOB : Thank you, Mr Speaker. The question related to the response in the midst of the Waroona fires—a response which ran over 17 days in January this year and which saw the firefighting services of this state significantly stretched. Indeed, in excess of 500 parks and wildlife staff alone were caught up in a direct response to that fire front of the Waroona fires over those 17 days. That is not including the Department of Fire and Emergency Services’ response, and, indeed, the important response from volunteer and local bush fire brigades. But the key point in my response is the claims that the firefighters in those communities, and, indeed, we as a government, were having to deal with in the midst of that response from the member for Girrawheen, who came out very strongly criticising the operational response to use contractors — Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Sit down, please. Next question.
Mr A.P. JACOB : I accept your ruling. The SPEAKER : I do not want to hear any more. Mr W.J. Johnston interjected. Withdrawal of Remark The SPEAKER : Member for Cannington, I never heard what you said, but if you said something untoward, withdraw it. Mr W.J. JOHNSTON : I withdraw. Questions without Notice Resumed The SPEAKER : Thank you. Now, please, a short answer, and I want it through the Chair. Let us move on. Mr A.P. JACOB : Thank you, Mr Speaker, and I would love nothing more than to come directly to the point. However, I draw to your attention that I am increasingly being shouted down. If the spotlight is turned back onto the integrity of members opposite — Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Minister, this is your last chance to answer the question. If you do not answer the question, you can sit down. Mr A.P. JACOB : Certainly, Mr Speaker. I am seeking the opportunity to set the record straight. Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Member for Cockburn! Mr A.P. JACOB : Mr Speaker, that was the question, and I am seeking to answer the member for Bunbury’s question. Point of Order Mr W.J. JOHNSTON : Mr Speaker, could I suggest that you draw to the attention of the minister standing order 148, which allows for personal explanations. Unfortunately, the minister has been asked a question under standing order 75, which is regarding his administrative responsibilities, not a personal explanation. The SPEAKER : Sit down. If you make spurious points of order, I am going to call you to order. Mr W.J. JOHNSTON : It is not spurious. Dr K.D. HAMES : Mr Speaker, further to that point of order, the question to the minister clearly asks for clarification and to set the record straight. He is trying, Mr Speaker, to set the record straight. The SPEAKER : The actual thing that you have to home in on is why this happened—why. So that is what I want you to address, through the Chair. Questions without Notice Resumed Mr A.P. JACOB : Thank you, Mr Speaker. The question related to the response in the midst of the Waroona fires—a response which ran over 17 days in January this year and which saw the firefighting services of this state significantly stretched. Indeed, in excess of 500 parks and wildlife staff alone were caught up in a direct response to that fire front of the Waroona fires over those 17 days. That is not including the Department of Fire and Emergency Services’ response, and, indeed, the important response from volunteer and local bush fire brigades. But the key point in my response is the claims that the firefighters in those communities, and, indeed, we as a government, were having to deal with in the midst of that response from the member for Girrawheen, who came out very strongly criticising the operational response to use contractors — Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Sit down, please. Next question.
The SPEAKER : I do not want to hear any more. Mr W.J. Johnston interjected. Withdrawal of Remark The SPEAKER : Member for Cannington, I never heard what you said, but if you said something untoward, withdraw it. Mr W.J. JOHNSTON : I withdraw. Questions without Notice Resumed The SPEAKER : Thank you. Now, please, a short answer, and I want it through the Chair. Let us move on. Mr A.P. JACOB : Thank you, Mr Speaker, and I would love nothing more than to come directly to the point. However, I draw to your attention that I am increasingly being shouted down. If the spotlight is turned back onto the integrity of members opposite — Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Minister, this is your last chance to answer the question. If you do not answer the question, you can sit down. Mr A.P. JACOB : Certainly, Mr Speaker. I am seeking the opportunity to set the record straight. Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Member for Cockburn! Mr A.P. JACOB : Mr Speaker, that was the question, and I am seeking to answer the member for Bunbury’s question. Point of Order Mr W.J. JOHNSTON : Mr Speaker, could I suggest that you draw to the attention of the minister standing order 148, which allows for personal explanations. Unfortunately, the minister has been asked a question under standing order 75, which is regarding his administrative responsibilities, not a personal explanation. The SPEAKER : Sit down. If you make spurious points of order, I am going to call you to order. Mr W.J. JOHNSTON : It is not spurious. Dr K.D. HAMES : Mr Speaker, further to that point of order, the question to the minister clearly asks for clarification and to set the record straight. He is trying, Mr Speaker, to set the record straight. The SPEAKER : The actual thing that you have to home in on is why this happened—why. So that is what I want you to address, through the Chair. Questions without Notice Resumed Mr A.P. JACOB : Thank you, Mr Speaker. The question related to the response in the midst of the Waroona fires—a response which ran over 17 days in January this year and which saw the firefighting services of this state significantly stretched. Indeed, in excess of 500 parks and wildlife staff alone were caught up in a direct response to that fire front of the Waroona fires over those 17 days. That is not including the Department of Fire and Emergency Services’ response, and, indeed, the important response from volunteer and local bush fire brigades. But the key point in my response is the claims that the firefighters in those communities, and, indeed, we as a government, were having to deal with in the midst of that response from the member for Girrawheen, who came out very strongly criticising the operational response to use contractors — Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Sit down, please. Next question.
Mr W.J. Johnston interjected. Withdrawal of Remark The SPEAKER : Member for Cannington, I never heard what you said, but if you said something untoward, withdraw it. Mr W.J. JOHNSTON : I withdraw. Questions without Notice Resumed The SPEAKER : Thank you. Now, please, a short answer, and I want it through the Chair. Let us move on. Mr A.P. JACOB : Thank you, Mr Speaker, and I would love nothing more than to come directly to the point. However, I draw to your attention that I am increasingly being shouted down. If the spotlight is turned back onto the integrity of members opposite — Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Minister, this is your last chance to answer the question. If you do not answer the question, you can sit down. Mr A.P. JACOB : Certainly, Mr Speaker. I am seeking the opportunity to set the record straight. Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Member for Cockburn! Mr A.P. JACOB : Mr Speaker, that was the question, and I am seeking to answer the member for Bunbury’s question. Point of Order Mr W.J. JOHNSTON : Mr Speaker, could I suggest that you draw to the attention of the minister standing order 148, which allows for personal explanations. Unfortunately, the minister has been asked a question under standing order 75, which is regarding his administrative responsibilities, not a personal explanation. The SPEAKER : Sit down. If you make spurious points of order, I am going to call you to order. Mr W.J. JOHNSTON : It is not spurious. Dr K.D. HAMES : Mr Speaker, further to that point of order, the question to the minister clearly asks for clarification and to set the record straight. He is trying, Mr Speaker, to set the record straight. The SPEAKER : The actual thing that you have to home in on is why this happened—why. So that is what I want you to address, through the Chair. Questions without Notice Resumed Mr A.P. JACOB : Thank you, Mr Speaker. The question related to the response in the midst of the Waroona fires—a response which ran over 17 days in January this year and which saw the firefighting services of this state significantly stretched. Indeed, in excess of 500 parks and wildlife staff alone were caught up in a direct response to that fire front of the Waroona fires over those 17 days. That is not including the Department of Fire and Emergency Services’ response, and, indeed, the important response from volunteer and local bush fire brigades. But the key point in my response is the claims that the firefighters in those communities, and, indeed, we as a government, were having to deal with in the midst of that response from the member for Girrawheen, who came out very strongly criticising the operational response to use contractors — Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Sit down, please. Next question.
Mr W.J. JOHNSTON : I withdraw. Questions without Notice Resumed The SPEAKER : Thank you. Now, please, a short answer, and I want it through the Chair. Let us move on. Mr A.P. JACOB : Thank you, Mr Speaker, and I would love nothing more than to come directly to the point. However, I draw to your attention that I am increasingly being shouted down. If the spotlight is turned back onto the integrity of members opposite — Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Minister, this is your last chance to answer the question. If you do not answer the question, you can sit down. Mr A.P. JACOB : Certainly, Mr Speaker. I am seeking the opportunity to set the record straight. Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Member for Cockburn! Mr A.P. JACOB : Mr Speaker, that was the question, and I am seeking to answer the member for Bunbury’s question. Point of Order Mr W.J. JOHNSTON : Mr Speaker, could I suggest that you draw to the attention of the minister standing order 148, which allows for personal explanations. Unfortunately, the minister has been asked a question under standing order 75, which is regarding his administrative responsibilities, not a personal explanation. The SPEAKER : Sit down. If you make spurious points of order, I am going to call you to order. Mr W.J. JOHNSTON : It is not spurious. Dr K.D. HAMES : Mr Speaker, further to that point of order, the question to the minister clearly asks for clarification and to set the record straight. He is trying, Mr Speaker, to set the record straight. The SPEAKER : The actual thing that you have to home in on is why this happened—why. So that is what I want you to address, through the Chair. Questions without Notice Resumed Mr A.P. JACOB : Thank you, Mr Speaker. The question related to the response in the midst of the Waroona fires—a response which ran over 17 days in January this year and which saw the firefighting services of this state significantly stretched. Indeed, in excess of 500 parks and wildlife staff alone were caught up in a direct response to that fire front of the Waroona fires over those 17 days. That is not including the Department of Fire and Emergency Services’ response, and, indeed, the important response from volunteer and local bush fire brigades. But the key point in my response is the claims that the firefighters in those communities, and, indeed, we as a government, were having to deal with in the midst of that response from the member for Girrawheen, who came out very strongly criticising the operational response to use contractors — Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Sit down, please. Next question.
Mr A.P. JACOB : Thank you, Mr Speaker, and I would love nothing more than to come directly to the point. However, I draw to your attention that I am increasingly being shouted down. If the spotlight is turned back onto the integrity of members opposite — Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Minister, this is your last chance to answer the question. If you do not answer the question, you can sit down. Mr A.P. JACOB : Certainly, Mr Speaker. I am seeking the opportunity to set the record straight. Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Member for Cockburn! Mr A.P. JACOB : Mr Speaker, that was the question, and I am seeking to answer the member for Bunbury’s question. Point of Order Mr W.J. JOHNSTON : Mr Speaker, could I suggest that you draw to the attention of the minister standing order 148, which allows for personal explanations. Unfortunately, the minister has been asked a question under standing order 75, which is regarding his administrative responsibilities, not a personal explanation. The SPEAKER : Sit down. If you make spurious points of order, I am going to call you to order. Mr W.J. JOHNSTON : It is not spurious. Dr K.D. HAMES : Mr Speaker, further to that point of order, the question to the minister clearly asks for clarification and to set the record straight. He is trying, Mr Speaker, to set the record straight. The SPEAKER : The actual thing that you have to home in on is why this happened—why. So that is what I want you to address, through the Chair. Questions without Notice Resumed Mr A.P. JACOB : Thank you, Mr Speaker. The question related to the response in the midst of the Waroona fires—a response which ran over 17 days in January this year and which saw the firefighting services of this state significantly stretched. Indeed, in excess of 500 parks and wildlife staff alone were caught up in a direct response to that fire front of the Waroona fires over those 17 days. That is not including the Department of Fire and Emergency Services’ response, and, indeed, the important response from volunteer and local bush fire brigades. But the key point in my response is the claims that the firefighters in those communities, and, indeed, we as a government, were having to deal with in the midst of that response from the member for Girrawheen, who came out very strongly criticising the operational response to use contractors — Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Sit down, please. Next question.
Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Minister, this is your last chance to answer the question. If you do not answer the question, you can sit down. Mr A.P. JACOB : Certainly, Mr Speaker. I am seeking the opportunity to set the record straight. Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Member for Cockburn! Mr A.P. JACOB : Mr Speaker, that was the question, and I am seeking to answer the member for Bunbury’s question. Point of Order Mr W.J. JOHNSTON : Mr Speaker, could I suggest that you draw to the attention of the minister standing order 148, which allows for personal explanations. Unfortunately, the minister has been asked a question under standing order 75, which is regarding his administrative responsibilities, not a personal explanation. The SPEAKER : Sit down. If you make spurious points of order, I am going to call you to order. Mr W.J. JOHNSTON : It is not spurious. Dr K.D. HAMES : Mr Speaker, further to that point of order, the question to the minister clearly asks for clarification and to set the record straight. He is trying, Mr Speaker, to set the record straight. The SPEAKER : The actual thing that you have to home in on is why this happened—why. So that is what I want you to address, through the Chair. Questions without Notice Resumed Mr A.P. JACOB : Thank you, Mr Speaker. The question related to the response in the midst of the Waroona fires—a response which ran over 17 days in January this year and which saw the firefighting services of this state significantly stretched. Indeed, in excess of 500 parks and wildlife staff alone were caught up in a direct response to that fire front of the Waroona fires over those 17 days. That is not including the Department of Fire and Emergency Services’ response, and, indeed, the important response from volunteer and local bush fire brigades. But the key point in my response is the claims that the firefighters in those communities, and, indeed, we as a government, were having to deal with in the midst of that response from the member for Girrawheen, who came out very strongly criticising the operational response to use contractors — Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Sit down, please. Next question.
The SPEAKER : Minister, this is your last chance to answer the question. If you do not answer the question, you can sit down. Mr A.P. JACOB : Certainly, Mr Speaker. I am seeking the opportunity to set the record straight. Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Member for Cockburn! Mr A.P. JACOB : Mr Speaker, that was the question, and I am seeking to answer the member for Bunbury’s question. Point of Order Mr W.J. JOHNSTON : Mr Speaker, could I suggest that you draw to the attention of the minister standing order 148, which allows for personal explanations. Unfortunately, the minister has been asked a question under standing order 75, which is regarding his administrative responsibilities, not a personal explanation. The SPEAKER : Sit down. If you make spurious points of order, I am going to call you to order. Mr W.J. JOHNSTON : It is not spurious. Dr K.D. HAMES : Mr Speaker, further to that point of order, the question to the minister clearly asks for clarification and to set the record straight. He is trying, Mr Speaker, to set the record straight. The SPEAKER : The actual thing that you have to home in on is why this happened—why. So that is what I want you to address, through the Chair. Questions without Notice Resumed Mr A.P. JACOB : Thank you, Mr Speaker. The question related to the response in the midst of the Waroona fires—a response which ran over 17 days in January this year and which saw the firefighting services of this state significantly stretched. Indeed, in excess of 500 parks and wildlife staff alone were caught up in a direct response to that fire front of the Waroona fires over those 17 days. That is not including the Department of Fire and Emergency Services’ response, and, indeed, the important response from volunteer and local bush fire brigades. But the key point in my response is the claims that the firefighters in those communities, and, indeed, we as a government, were having to deal with in the midst of that response from the member for Girrawheen, who came out very strongly criticising the operational response to use contractors — Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Sit down, please. Next question.
Mr A.P. JACOB : Certainly, Mr Speaker. I am seeking the opportunity to set the record straight. Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Member for Cockburn! Mr A.P. JACOB : Mr Speaker, that was the question, and I am seeking to answer the member for Bunbury’s question. Point of Order Mr W.J. JOHNSTON : Mr Speaker, could I suggest that you draw to the attention of the minister standing order 148, which allows for personal explanations. Unfortunately, the minister has been asked a question under standing order 75, which is regarding his administrative responsibilities, not a personal explanation. The SPEAKER : Sit down. If you make spurious points of order, I am going to call you to order. Mr W.J. JOHNSTON : It is not spurious. Dr K.D. HAMES : Mr Speaker, further to that point of order, the question to the minister clearly asks for clarification and to set the record straight. He is trying, Mr Speaker, to set the record straight. The SPEAKER : The actual thing that you have to home in on is why this happened—why. So that is what I want you to address, through the Chair. Questions without Notice Resumed Mr A.P. JACOB : Thank you, Mr Speaker. The question related to the response in the midst of the Waroona fires—a response which ran over 17 days in January this year and which saw the firefighting services of this state significantly stretched. Indeed, in excess of 500 parks and wildlife staff alone were caught up in a direct response to that fire front of the Waroona fires over those 17 days. That is not including the Department of Fire and Emergency Services’ response, and, indeed, the important response from volunteer and local bush fire brigades. But the key point in my response is the claims that the firefighters in those communities, and, indeed, we as a government, were having to deal with in the midst of that response from the member for Girrawheen, who came out very strongly criticising the operational response to use contractors — Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Sit down, please. Next question.
Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Member for Cockburn! Mr A.P. JACOB : Mr Speaker, that was the question, and I am seeking to answer the member for Bunbury’s question. Point of Order Mr W.J. JOHNSTON : Mr Speaker, could I suggest that you draw to the attention of the minister standing order 148, which allows for personal explanations. Unfortunately, the minister has been asked a question under standing order 75, which is regarding his administrative responsibilities, not a personal explanation. The SPEAKER : Sit down. If you make spurious points of order, I am going to call you to order. Mr W.J. JOHNSTON : It is not spurious. Dr K.D. HAMES : Mr Speaker, further to that point of order, the question to the minister clearly asks for clarification and to set the record straight. He is trying, Mr Speaker, to set the record straight. The SPEAKER : The actual thing that you have to home in on is why this happened—why. So that is what I want you to address, through the Chair. Questions without Notice Resumed Mr A.P. JACOB : Thank you, Mr Speaker. The question related to the response in the midst of the Waroona fires—a response which ran over 17 days in January this year and which saw the firefighting services of this state significantly stretched. Indeed, in excess of 500 parks and wildlife staff alone were caught up in a direct response to that fire front of the Waroona fires over those 17 days. That is not including the Department of Fire and Emergency Services’ response, and, indeed, the important response from volunteer and local bush fire brigades. But the key point in my response is the claims that the firefighters in those communities, and, indeed, we as a government, were having to deal with in the midst of that response from the member for Girrawheen, who came out very strongly criticising the operational response to use contractors — Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Sit down, please. Next question.
The SPEAKER : Member for Cockburn! Mr A.P. JACOB : Mr Speaker, that was the question, and I am seeking to answer the member for Bunbury’s question. Point of Order Mr W.J. JOHNSTON : Mr Speaker, could I suggest that you draw to the attention of the minister standing order 148, which allows for personal explanations. Unfortunately, the minister has been asked a question under standing order 75, which is regarding his administrative responsibilities, not a personal explanation. The SPEAKER : Sit down. If you make spurious points of order, I am going to call you to order. Mr W.J. JOHNSTON : It is not spurious. Dr K.D. HAMES : Mr Speaker, further to that point of order, the question to the minister clearly asks for clarification and to set the record straight. He is trying, Mr Speaker, to set the record straight. The SPEAKER : The actual thing that you have to home in on is why this happened—why. So that is what I want you to address, through the Chair. Questions without Notice Resumed Mr A.P. JACOB : Thank you, Mr Speaker. The question related to the response in the midst of the Waroona fires—a response which ran over 17 days in January this year and which saw the firefighting services of this state significantly stretched. Indeed, in excess of 500 parks and wildlife staff alone were caught up in a direct response to that fire front of the Waroona fires over those 17 days. That is not including the Department of Fire and Emergency Services’ response, and, indeed, the important response from volunteer and local bush fire brigades. But the key point in my response is the claims that the firefighters in those communities, and, indeed, we as a government, were having to deal with in the midst of that response from the member for Girrawheen, who came out very strongly criticising the operational response to use contractors — Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Sit down, please. Next question.
Mr A.P. JACOB : Mr Speaker, that was the question, and I am seeking to answer the member for Bunbury’s question. Point of Order Mr W.J. JOHNSTON : Mr Speaker, could I suggest that you draw to the attention of the minister standing order 148, which allows for personal explanations. Unfortunately, the minister has been asked a question under standing order 75, which is regarding his administrative responsibilities, not a personal explanation. The SPEAKER : Sit down. If you make spurious points of order, I am going to call you to order. Mr W.J. JOHNSTON : It is not spurious. Dr K.D. HAMES : Mr Speaker, further to that point of order, the question to the minister clearly asks for clarification and to set the record straight. He is trying, Mr Speaker, to set the record straight. The SPEAKER : The actual thing that you have to home in on is why this happened—why. So that is what I want you to address, through the Chair. Questions without Notice Resumed Mr A.P. JACOB : Thank you, Mr Speaker. The question related to the response in the midst of the Waroona fires—a response which ran over 17 days in January this year and which saw the firefighting services of this state significantly stretched. Indeed, in excess of 500 parks and wildlife staff alone were caught up in a direct response to that fire front of the Waroona fires over those 17 days. That is not including the Department of Fire and Emergency Services’ response, and, indeed, the important response from volunteer and local bush fire brigades. But the key point in my response is the claims that the firefighters in those communities, and, indeed, we as a government, were having to deal with in the midst of that response from the member for Girrawheen, who came out very strongly criticising the operational response to use contractors — Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Sit down, please. Next question.
The SPEAKER : Sit down. If you make spurious points of order, I am going to call you to order. Mr W.J. JOHNSTON : It is not spurious. Dr K.D. HAMES : Mr Speaker, further to that point of order, the question to the minister clearly asks for clarification and to set the record straight. He is trying, Mr Speaker, to set the record straight. The SPEAKER : The actual thing that you have to home in on is why this happened—why. So that is what I want you to address, through the Chair. Questions without Notice Resumed Mr A.P. JACOB : Thank you, Mr Speaker. The question related to the response in the midst of the Waroona fires—a response which ran over 17 days in January this year and which saw the firefighting services of this state significantly stretched. Indeed, in excess of 500 parks and wildlife staff alone were caught up in a direct response to that fire front of the Waroona fires over those 17 days. That is not including the Department of Fire and Emergency Services’ response, and, indeed, the important response from volunteer and local bush fire brigades. But the key point in my response is the claims that the firefighters in those communities, and, indeed, we as a government, were having to deal with in the midst of that response from the member for Girrawheen, who came out very strongly criticising the operational response to use contractors — Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Sit down, please. Next question.
Mr W.J. JOHNSTON : It is not spurious. Dr K.D. HAMES : Mr Speaker, further to that point of order, the question to the minister clearly asks for clarification and to set the record straight. He is trying, Mr Speaker, to set the record straight. The SPEAKER : The actual thing that you have to home in on is why this happened—why. So that is what I want you to address, through the Chair. Questions without Notice Resumed Mr A.P. JACOB : Thank you, Mr Speaker. The question related to the response in the midst of the Waroona fires—a response which ran over 17 days in January this year and which saw the firefighting services of this state significantly stretched. Indeed, in excess of 500 parks and wildlife staff alone were caught up in a direct response to that fire front of the Waroona fires over those 17 days. That is not including the Department of Fire and Emergency Services’ response, and, indeed, the important response from volunteer and local bush fire brigades. But the key point in my response is the claims that the firefighters in those communities, and, indeed, we as a government, were having to deal with in the midst of that response from the member for Girrawheen, who came out very strongly criticising the operational response to use contractors — Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Sit down, please. Next question.
Dr K.D. HAMES : Mr Speaker, further to that point of order, the question to the minister clearly asks for clarification and to set the record straight. He is trying, Mr Speaker, to set the record straight. The SPEAKER : The actual thing that you have to home in on is why this happened—why. So that is what I want you to address, through the Chair. Questions without Notice Resumed Mr A.P. JACOB : Thank you, Mr Speaker. The question related to the response in the midst of the Waroona fires—a response which ran over 17 days in January this year and which saw the firefighting services of this state significantly stretched. Indeed, in excess of 500 parks and wildlife staff alone were caught up in a direct response to that fire front of the Waroona fires over those 17 days. That is not including the Department of Fire and Emergency Services’ response, and, indeed, the important response from volunteer and local bush fire brigades. But the key point in my response is the claims that the firefighters in those communities, and, indeed, we as a government, were having to deal with in the midst of that response from the member for Girrawheen, who came out very strongly criticising the operational response to use contractors — Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Sit down, please. Next question.
The SPEAKER : The actual thing that you have to home in on is why this happened—why. So that is what I want you to address, through the Chair. Questions without Notice Resumed Mr A.P. JACOB : Thank you, Mr Speaker. The question related to the response in the midst of the Waroona fires—a response which ran over 17 days in January this year and which saw the firefighting services of this state significantly stretched. Indeed, in excess of 500 parks and wildlife staff alone were caught up in a direct response to that fire front of the Waroona fires over those 17 days. That is not including the Department of Fire and Emergency Services’ response, and, indeed, the important response from volunteer and local bush fire brigades. But the key point in my response is the claims that the firefighters in those communities, and, indeed, we as a government, were having to deal with in the midst of that response from the member for Girrawheen, who came out very strongly criticising the operational response to use contractors — Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Sit down, please. Next question.
Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Sit down, please. Next question.
The SPEAKER : Sit down, please. Next question.
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