Byron Ballina Greens -> media -> councilmeetings

Early to Bed for Byron Shire Councillors!

In what could be considered a slap in the face for democracy in Byron Shire, the local council last week voted 7-3 against a motion moved by Greens members of Council to change meeting times from daytime back to night-time.

The motion was brought forward by Councillor Tom Tabart,  who stated that the practice of having meetings during the day excluded many in the community from observing council processes, and making submissions. It also disqualified some of the most enthusiastic and gifted members of the local community who may wish to participate  in the democratic process by running for council.

The custom of having meetings during the day is not standard practice amoungst  councils around New South Wales.  We can only speculate that the councillors who voted against the motion were either afraid of the competition, or valued their early nights very highly. It does however, demonstrate the point that the youngest person on council is 50 and the job is restricted to those who are either retired or happily self-funded.