Clarified: Free to Speak

COUNCILLOR Sue Abbott raised a motion at last night’s Council meeting for Councillors to be able to express their own views publicly and to the media.

During the meeting the Mayor Wayne Bedggood said that the sentiment was already included in the policy and so there was no need to change it.

Cr Sue Abbott said she felt there had been ‘confusion’ about the ability for Councillors to speak as individuals and was glad the the matter was clarified.

“…I am disappointed that my motion did not get up but on the other I am glad that we had the conversation,” said Cr Abbott.

“In my opinion there has been some confusion on this point so the discussion at the Ordinary Council Meeting last night was welcome,” she said.

“So Councillors can express their opinions on council matters and decisions as long as they are not speaking on behalf of Council,” Cr Sue Abbott said.

scone.com.au can confirm several Councillors have previously told us they were unable to speak to the media without the express permission of the Mayor or general manager and could face code of conduct ramifications if they breached the arrangement. We are also pleased the matter has been clarified and look forward to providing our readership with more independent comments from local Councillors on a range of community issues.

Related stories:

• Editorial: Review of Councillor’s Gag November 28, 2017.
• Editorial: No Gaga Order Here March 2, 2017.
• Editorial: Who Is Keeping Who in the Dark? March 10, 2016.