Mayor calls for democracy in Central Darling

Published on 04 October 2019

darling.jpg

Mayor Darriea Turley AM has questioned today's decision to extend Central Darling Shire Council's administration period for a further four years.

The move was announced by Minister for Local Government Shelley Hancock, who said the four-year extension would allow for a comprehensive long-term plan to be developed and implemented to ensure a stronger future for the council and its communities.

Mayor Turley said she was deeply concerned by the extension and its possible effects on the electorate.

"This decision consigns Central Darling to another four years without democratic representation, and will result in the Council being under administration for almost a decade," she said.

"If a long term plan for the region couldn't be developed during the past five years of administration, then with the greatest of respect, I'm unsure what difference an extra four years is going to make.

"Central Darling is undergoing one of the toughest periods in its history due to the state of the Darling River and Menindee Lakes, and I believe it's more important than ever that residents have a democratically elected representative body to speak on their behalf."

Meanwhile the extension has been supported by Member for Barwon Roy Butler, and Mayor Turley said she would seek an urgent meeting with Mr Butler this afternoon to discuss the matter.

"I can certainly understand Mr Butler wanting to ensure the stability of the Shire, but I think it will be beneficial to discuss how that can best be achieved," she said.

"I'm keen to hear his thoughts and determine how Broken Hill can advocate in the best interests of the residents of our neighbouring Council.”