Water and sewerage schemes
The Chair says he sympathises with concerns about basic water and sewerage infrastructure but cannot compel a Minister outside remit. Senator Conway-Walsh asks that the Minister hold a full discussion on the matter.
I am in a difficult position. If a Minister quotes Standing Orders, that is appropriate. I have some sympathy on these issues, having been a Deputy for a rural constituency. Water supplies and sewerage schemes are very basic and important matters. Perhaps the Leader could get someone to reflect on why Ministers are refusing to deal with those issues. That is a personal view. When I am informed that something does not come within the remit of a particular Minister, I cannot drag him or her into the House. However, I have sympathy for the plight of the Senator.
Comment on this
I suggest that we ask the Minister to have a full discussion on water supplies, sewerage schemes and the attendant responsibilities relating to both.