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Parliamentary Questions


Question Without Notice No. 39 asked in the Legislative Council on 12 February 2020 by Hon Diane Evers

Parliament: 40 Session: 1

FORESTRY — LEWANA PLANTATION FIRE

39. Hon DIANE EVERS to minister representing the Minister for Forestry:

I refer to the Lewana plantation fire in February 2019.

(1) Has the Forest Products Commission considered payment of any form of compensation to nearby landowners for the loss of property, clean-up and business income; and, if not, why not?

(2) Does the FPC have insurance for fire damage on its own plantations; and, if not, why not?

(3) Does the FPC confirm that contractors used in harvesting operations have necessary insurances in place prior to work being commenced?

(a) If yes, does it sight or require a copy of the policy or certificate of currency?

(b) If not, why not?

(4) Is the FPC seeking compensation from its contractor, given the fire was started as a result of the contractor's actions during harvesting operations?

(a) If not, why not?

Hon ALANNAH MacTIERNAN replied:

I thank the member for the question. The following information has been provided by the Minister for Forestry.

(1) No. The cause of the fire was investigated by the Department of Fire and Emergency Services, and it was determined that it was an accident caused by heavy machinery. Therefore, the Insurance Commission and the State Solicitor's Office have advised that liability for the fires does not fall with the Forest Products Commission.

(2) No. It is not customary for public agencies to require such insurance.

(3) Yes.

(a) Yes.

(b) Not applicable.

(4) The FPC is investigating all options.

(a) Not applicable.