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And from the current minister of the environment, to the former Chief environmental Officer. Martin Allegria testified on Tuesday before the Senate Special Select Committee. He wasn't of much use - because he was no longer chairing NEAC when the Portico proposal was tabled.
But he did speak generally about political influence on the NEAC approval process:
Glenfield Dennison, Labour Senator
"During the time you chaired the NEAC, was there any political interference?"
Martin Alegria, Former Chief Environmental Officer
"There were many tries. There have been many attempts. But like I mentioned from the onset, we tried to keep politics out of NEAC's technical deliberations."
Janelle Chanona, Chair - SSSC
"But you didn't keep records or a note, "please assist" - you didn't; insulate yourself from any?"
Martin Alegria, Former Chief Environmental Officer
"I have never even looked at those papers. I don't know, I may have been out of different public servant. People might say a stupid public servant, but I try to ignore things that are not correct and that has created a lot of friends and enemies."
Glenfield Dennison, Labour Senator
"Would you be surprised if you heard that ministers could make representations that they could control the outcome of the NEAC?"
Martin Alegria, Former Chief Environmental Officer
"You mean over the years?"
Glenfield Dennison, Labour Senator
"Right."
Martin Alegria, Former Chief Environmental Officer
"You meant that they did succeed in changing the decision of NEAC or something?"
Glenfield Dennison, Labour Senator
"Yes. That they could influence."
Martin Alegria, Former Chief Environmental Officer
"I don't think that had happened while I was there."
