Legislative Council, Wednesday 22 March, 2023

Ms FORREST question to LEADER of the GOVERNMENT in the LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL, Mrs HISCUTT

With the Group 6 Metals Mine commencing operations at the Grassy Mine on King Island, and additional overburden being available in 2025 to potentially construct an all-weather safe harbour which King Island does not have:

(1) Will the minister and Government consider funding the development of a master plan for Grassy Harbour?

(2) will the minister keep an open mind about options to develop an all-weather safe harbour in Grassy; and

(3) is the minister aware that the development of an all-weather safe harbour in Grassy is a priority for the King Island Council?

ANSWER

I thank the member for her question. We have multiple answers for the member for Murchison today.

Member for Hobart, we are struggling to get your answers back within 24 hours but I understand it has been explained to you as to why.

Mr Valentine - Yes, I am happy to wait until next week.

Ms Rattray - What about McIntyre?

Mrs HISCUTT -

(1) TasPorts has advised there is no demonstrable need for a second safe harbour at Grassy. Neither is there a demonstrated need to develop a master plan for Grassy Harbour. The port of Grassy already has additional capacity beyond its current freight task. TasPorts would only review its position on the need for an additional safe harbour if demand were to significantly increase.

(2) The Government remains open to consider a second safe harbour at Grassy, provided there is a demonstratable need for it. TasPorts has advised there are no current or future plans to consider the second safe harbour at Grassy, given there is no demonstrable need for it.

Ms Forrest - Despite the fact that John Duigan cannot get in.

Mrs HISCUTT -

TasPorts is aware of the forecast overburden and has indicated to Group 6 Metals that it is willing to discuss productive use of the material to improve the existing port - for example, in strengthening the existing breakwater or for land reclaimed at the port.

(3) The Government and TasPorts are aware that King Island Council is supportive of an all-weather safe harbour at Grassy.