17 October 2007

WAPC Chairman, Mr Jeremy Dawkins, has questioned the accuracy of remarks made by Brian Burke in an interview on Perth radio station 6PR on Tuesday 9 October 2007 in relation to the report of the Corruption and Crime Commission on proposed development at Smiths Beach.

A transcript of the interview with 6PR Drive program host Howard Sattler shows Mr Burke referred to, "...an approach by me (Mr Burke) seeking the deferral of an item at the South-West Regional Planning Committee."

The transcript shows Mr Burke said, "My representation was sent to a number of people, including the chairman of the same committee." He also said, "And the chairman of the committee had the same approach from me and he didn't fail - he didn't declare it either, and wasn't called to give any evidence."

Mr Dawkins said Mr Burke is mistaken.
 
"If Mr Burke thinks he is referring to me he is wrong. I received no representation. I had no conversation or contact with Mr Burke.

"I went to the meeting to which he refers without knowing Mr Burke was involved.

"Given the seriousness of his allegation, I feel strongly that Mr Burke should take great care before making claims about information being withheld from the WAPC,“ Mr Dawkins said.

ends

Media contact: Natasha Farrell 9264 7518 / 0408 955 604