Vickie Chapman is embroiled in a conflict-of-interest saga that is soaking up political oxygen for theWith a fortnight of parliamentary hearings complete and a report into Ms Chapman's handling of a port proposal on Kangaroos Island set to be tabled in Parliament next week, one of SA's most hardened politicians is sharply in focus.
In August, she used her powers to refuse an application to build a deep-sea port at Smith Bay on Kangaroo Island's north coast.When she revealed her decision, Ms Chapman said it was a "difficult" call. The report also found the proposal should be granted provisional development authorisation, subject to conditions being met.She grew up there and her father Ted was the local state MP for nearly 20 years.The house owned by Vickie Chapman, bottom, is next to a timber plantation on Kangaroo Island.
She has repeatedly rejected suggestions that she had a conflict of interest and has branded the committee a witch hunt.On the first day witnesses were called, a map was produced showing Ms Chapman's property was across the road from a forest which was to be felled if the port had been approved.Former executives from Kangaroo Island Plantation Timbers – the proponent of the port —with then-MP and now Mayor Michael Pengilly while still in opposition.
Clearly there is a conflict of interest and no parliamentary inquiry needs to say so. The ministers office were surprised there was no conflict declared as they had prepared for it!!!
Another day another LNP defamation lawsuit
On these sort of issue's, It's always imperative that persons with a interest on the outcomes on such, place themselves at 'arms length ' It's always looks good, That way.