It appears the GM and mayor of Ballina Council are somewhat confused about their roles.
The mayor is responsible for the behaviour of the councillors and the GM responsible for the staff.
The mayor is also responsible for the GM’s performance.
The controversy regarding alleged document leaks must be resolved in a fair and correct manner.
So it is inappropriate for the mayor to just stand by whilst the GM demands statements by affidavit that councillors have already provided in writing. The GM must at the same time make sure his house is in order and if he believes that an affidavit is required to prove anything he should apply the same rules to council staff.
I call on the mayor to show leadership and take control of the situation. The alleged leak has the potential to damage and split but it does not have to. The situation can be resolved using good process – a process that should be directed by the mayor with equal rules for all. That process can be open, fair and quick to allow the councillors and staff to get back to governing for us all.
Ratepayers are not interested in the latest round of point scoring divisive actions.
Tony Gilding, Newrybar