Given recent events in the south regarding the safety of water supply, the committee requested assurances that all municipal workers responsible for water maintenance systems are fully qualified and trained. The department stated that training to national standards is done by the Northern Territories Water and Waste Association. Site-specific training is then supplemented by the Department of Public Works and Services.
The department also stated that they are currently reviewing equipment, facilities, employee qualifications and operating procedures and policies.
Further discussion in the area of safe water supply revealed that while roles and responsibilities between departments may have been clearly identified within the government, there is still confusion in the communities about this complex system. When problems arise, communities are often directed from one department to another without a clear understanding of the responsible department. The committee is looking forward to seeing the results of the department's review.