Page 3857 - Week 13 - Tuesday, 4 December 2007

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prison on that basis, Mr Seselja. I think you are the only person who does. No other jurisdiction and no other government in the country cost prisons on that basis.”

Minister, during the recent estimates hearings, you were asked the same question and answered: “The current projected cost is $374,000 per bed.” Minister, this was an acknowledgement of an increase from $303,000 per bed. What is the reason for the discrepancy between your answers at the annual reports hearings and during estimates?

MR CORBELL: I will need to review the transcript to understand the issues Mr Mulcahy has raised.

Water—Cotter Dam

MR SMYTH: My question is to the Treasurer. On 23 October this year, you announced a range of initiatives to provide security of water supply to the ACT. Included in these initiatives is a proposal to spend $145 million to increase the capacity of the Cotter Dam. In regard to budget funding of this project you said:

No utility or no government in Australia funds infrastructure in that way. There’s a recognition of the need for intergenerational equity in relation to the provision of major infrastructure or projects.

Treasurer, how will your government fund the capital required to expand the capacity of the Cotter Dam?

MR STANHOPE: It is proposed that it will be funded by Actew.

MR SPEAKER: Supplementary question, Mr Smyth?

MR SMYTH: Thank you, Mr Speaker. Treasurer, what advice will you give Actew on how they will fund the building of the extra capacity for the dam?

MR STANHOPE: I have had many discussions with Actew on these matters. I ask that all further questions be placed on the notice paper.

Opposition members interjecting—

Mr Stanhope: I withdraw that. My apologies.

Opposition members interjecting—

MR SPEAKER: Order, members! That has been withdrawn. Mr Pratt.

Mr Stanhope: I am so unused to the silence. I was not aware that Mr Pratt was here.

MR SPEAKER: I could get used to it.

Ms Gallagher: He is the one sleeping up the back.


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