Asbestos risk—Marble Bar
634. Hon Julie Freemanto theminister representing the Minister for Emergency Services:
I refer to the thunderstorm microburst that occurred in Marble Bar in January this year, which caused significant damage to residential properties.
(1) Has the government been made aware of the potential asbestos risk associated with housing debris that remains in the storm-affected area?
(2) Has the government conducted an assessment of the risk of asbestos contamination in the affected and surrounding areas?
(3) If yes to (2), what were the findings of that assessment?
(4) If asbestos is present, what measures are being taken to ensure the safe removal and disposal of contaminated materials?
Hon Matthew Swinbourn replied:
I thank the member for some notice of the question. The following answer has been provided to me by the Minister for Emergency Services.
(1) Yes. The Department of Fire and Emergency Services (DFES), as an active member of the local recovery coordination group (LRCG), is aware of the asbestos risks.
(2) DFES is aware from attendance at the LRCG that the local government coordinated an environmental health assessment in collaboration with the Department of Health.
(3) The Shire of East Pilbara is responsible for releasing the findings of any assessments.
(4) The Shire of East Pilbara is working with affected property owners to coordinate the clean-up.
