Seaforth TAFE Site Security

Thursday, 12th March 2009

The Rev Fred Nile, Leader of the Christian Democratic Party, has raised concern regarding the Seaforth TAFE Site during question time in the NSW Upper House.

Rev the Hon. Fred Nile: I direct my question without notice to the Minister for Health.

• Has the Government provided security for the now abandoned Seaforth TAFE site?
• Why is the site no longer protected?
• Is the Government aware that buildings have recently been gutted, with wiring pulled out, water flowing through the rooms and structural brickwork damaged?
• Is the Government aware that the police fear that it is only a matter of time before arsonists set fire to the abandoned buildings?
• Does the Government acknowledge it has a duty of care to protect this public property?
• Will the Government take immediate action to provide security for the Seaforth TAFE site and restore it as a valuable TAFE training and education facility?

The Hon. John Della Bosca: I am aware of some of the background to the Seaforth TAFE issue. Clearly obligations exist with regard to occupational health and safety issues and other matters. I will provide a response to the member's question as quickly as I can and report back to the House in a timely fashion.