Gas explosion report must be public:Libs

Liberal leader Troy Buswell has called for the public release of the cause of the Varanus Island Gas explosion last week after the State Government indicated that the investigation report, currently underway, will remain confidential.

Full announcement from Mr Buswell's office pasted below:

Gas explosion report cannot be kept secret

Liberal Leader troy Buswell has called for the public release of the cause of the Veranus Island gas explosion last week after the Carpenter Government indicated it would keep the report secret.

Under intense questioning by the Opposition it was revealed that an inspection into the pipeline on Veranus Island had resulted in recommendations in relation to management of facility integrity and inspection and testing of emergency shutdown systems.

The minister also said, "The investigation into the cause and extent of the damage...is still underway. The investigation report will be confidential." Legislative Assembly, 12 June 2008

Mr Buswell said the secrecy was not acceptable.

"Western Australians should not be kept in the dark during this energy crisis," Mr Buswell said.

"Western Australian families and businesses have a right to know exactly what caused the fire that has resulted in them losing their jobs, closing their businesses or having to turn their heaters off at home.

"So far the government's lack of planning and ad hoc approach to the crisis has been disappointing, but secrecy surrounding one of the biggest crises the state has faced is unacceptable.

"The Opposition had to spur the government into action on setting up a hotline to help employees affected by the crisis and we are now trying to ensure that Western Australians are kept fully informed of what is going on.

"The lack of an energy plan which would have decreased the severity of this crisis is a major indictment on this government. It would be very disappointing if the Government sticks with its decision to keep secrets from the very people who are hurting the most because of this crisis."

Mr Buswell said the government must also disclose whether issues raised in relation to pipeline integrity and emergency shutdown systems, which were part of the recommendations from the last inspection of the Veranus Island facilities in March, were in any way linked to the explosion.