The Hon. R. T. M. BULL: I address my question to the Minister for Public Works and Services, representing the Minister for Agriculture, and Minister for Land and Water Conservation. Is the Minister aware that the Cooma Rural Lands Protection Board has been frustrated over the lack of funding commitment from the Department of Land and Water Conservation to eradicate a serious rabbit infestation which is causing land degradation and environmental damage on the Crown land of Middlingbank peninsula and Lake Eucumbene? Is he aware also that the eradication program is necessary to comply with the Rural Lands Protection Board Act 1989? Will he ensure that funds are provided immediately?

The Hon. R. D. DYER: I will be delighted to obtain a response to the honourable member’s question from my colleague the Minister for Agriculture, and Minister for Land and Water Conservation.