In each edition we feature the views of a Local Government Association president. The following is from Mayor Barry Easther, President of
the Local Government Association of Tasmania.
As I am in the final stages of writing this column, the question being asked is, “Is Tasmania destined to have a new Government?”
Well, it would appear that as a result of visits to Government House by the Labor and Liberal party leaders, it is clear that Premier David Bartlett has been given the opportunity by the Governor to form a minority government.
You would of course be aware that the Tasmanian election resulted in a ‘hung parliament’ – Liberal 10 seats, Labor 10 seats and the Greens five, making up the 25 seat House of Assembly.
This result must surely be seen as making the time ahead very interesting!
During the election campaign the three party leaders were given the opportunity to address a General Meeting of the Local Government Association of Tasmania on their vision for Local Government into the future, and with two months notice all three accepted.
Unfortunately, a week before the meeting, the Liberal leader advised he was not available, the day prior to the meeting the Labor leader advised of his inability to attend (both nominating alternatives), which left the Greens leader, who did attend, albeit only an hour prior to his party launch.
This was noted by the delegates, many of whom were asking the question, “Just how important is Local Government rated in the minds of the major parties?”
The time ahead will be very challenging, however it is our responsibility to ensure that Local Government is seen and respected by the State Government as being an important and vital component of the overall governance of the State.
I believe that whatever political party is in government in Tasmania, Local Government in this State does have an exciting future.
We are an extremely significant sphere of government and we play a critical role in the communities we serve.
There are going to be challenges ahead, but there will be opportunities not to be missed as we continue to grow as a strong and vital sector, providing to our communities the high level of services we are renowned for.
