Personal Explanation

BURNSIDE CITY COUNCIL

The Hon. G.E. GAGO (Minister for State/Local Government Relations, Minister for the Status of Women, Minister for Consumer Affairs, Minister for Government Enterprises, Minister Assisting the Minister for Transport, Infrastructure and Energy) (18:24): I seek leave to make a personal explanation.

Leave granted.

The Hon. G.E. GAGO: In response to an honourable member's question in the council today I reported that, although I was not absolutely certain and would have to check details, in relation to previous problems at the council extensive processes had been undertaken by the council and councillors, and my recollection was that the council reported or wrote to the minister and determined that things had progressed well and that matters were in hand.

I am advised that the mayor's response to my department in late August detailed a revised code of conduct, incorporating an independent investigation process, which had received no complaints since its inception in April 2008; an elected members' grievance policy, under which no such grievances had been lodged; that councillors had been reminded of their duty to make informed decisions in a professional and responsible manner and in the best interests of the community; and a mediation workshop for councillors and the CEO was to be arranged.

I am advised that the records have since been checked. I understand that a mediator was engaged. However, no formal report was provided to me or the chief executive of the department.

At 18:26 the council adjourned until Wednesday 15 July 2009 at 14:15.