Libs move to ensure scrutiny of RAH deal
Feb 20, 2012
Hon Rob Lucas MLC
Shadow Minister for Finance
Libs move to ensure scrutiny of RAH deal
All details of the controversial Royal Adelaide Hospital project will be properly scrutinised by the Legislative Council Budget and Finance Committee, Shadow Finance Minister Rob Lucas said today.
“The Weatherill Labor Government last week blocked parliamentary scrutiny of the project by using its majority on the Public Works Committee to prevent scrutiny of all the details of the project and deal,” Mr Lucas said.
“I have discussed this issue with Independent MLC John Darley, who is also on the Budget and Finance Committee, and he has agreed to support moves to ensure proper scrutiny of this deal.
“The Budget and Finance Committee, as part of its regular meeting schedule, will be able to question Treasury and Health bureaucrats about the details of the project. However, the Committee also has the power to obtain documents about the deal as well as call for witnesses from companies and consultants working on the project.
“These powers were utilised by the Committee in relation to the Adelaide Oval project when both Ian McLachlan (SACA) and Leigh Wicker (SANFL) gave evidence on the project.
“Mr Darley has agreed that, if required, he would support similar moves to ensure proper scrutiny of this deal.
“When Mr Weatherill took over from Mr Rann he promised to listen to the people and to create a new era of transparency and accountability. Sadly, Mr Weatherill’s promise has been shown to be nothing more than political spin and rhetoric.
“Whilst Mr Weaterhill has the power to prevent scrutiny of this project by the House of Assembly committees, he does not have the power to prevent scrutiny by Legislative Council committees.
“South Australian taxpayers will be paying about $400 million every year for the 30 year life of this deal so it is unacceptable for Mr Weatherill to try and prevent scrutiny of the project.”