With just a few days until we head to the polls, The Echo asked the candidates for the seat of Lismore one last bunch of questions.
Here are the responses from the sitting member Janelle Saffin
– Labor
What is your policy on Cannabis?
Reform is long overdue, as the current regulatory framework is no longer fit for purpose. NSW Labor has committed to holding a drug summit early on in Government.
Do you support building on floodplains?
In some areas no, but there are many examples that show how we live on the floodplains in resilient homes and communities. The Living Lab, an evidence-based collaboration driven by the Southern Cross University (SCU), and forged with the University of Technology (UTS) and the Northern Rivers Reconstruction Corporation (NRRC) has extensive examples and experiences both domestically and internationally of how we can best do this.
We need to support this Living Lab venture more strongly as it can help us chart the way locally to reimagine our communities our land and river scapes and be a roadmap for others.
How would you address the issue of legacy floodplain approvals
(developments that have been approved but not yet built, that are on
floodplains)?
Case-by-case basis, with some solid expertise to help guide the decision making, but currently the law as it stands applies.
Do you consider that the current NSW government’s Short Term Rental
Accommodation laws (STRA) has contributed to the current housing crisis and
would you advocate for local councils to regain control over STRA?
On the first I would not say it singularly is the fault, as a lot of factors have contributed to the current housing crisis, not the least is the NSW Government’s failure to take responsibility, and yes to the second part, in that I support Byron Shire Council’s position on this.
What is your position on Domestic Violence?
Domestic Violence is a blight on our society and much more needs to be done to end it.
A tall order but with political will, sustained action and resources, it can be done. It is so destructive and no child, ever alone a woman or other person, should ever be subject to it.
How are you funding/paying for your campaign?
Donations and NSW Labor Party, and thanks to our wonderful local media for covering us.
How will you suggest to your supporters to preference on their ballot papers?
Janelle Saffin, Labor
Adam Guise, The Greens
Vanessa Rosayro, Animal Justice Party
Ross Honniball, Sustainable Australia Party-Stop Overdevelopment/Corruption
Matthew Bertalli, Shooters, Fishers and Farmers
Alex Rubin, The Nationals
Alan Crosthwaite, Independent
James McKenzie, Independent
Click here for more questions and information about your Lismore candidates.
Not much of a contest here Janelle Saffin is as good as it gets, the Greens are a wasted vote, while the Nationals don’t deserve your vote after their abysmal flood recovery effort.
Janelle is the easily the best we have in this area, light years above the other candidates in terms of experience, ability to listen and actions. Vote for the candidate not the party. Would be good if she was an independent (I just like independents overall and hate party politics) however if labor wins govt she will be more effective, while the other major parties; greens and nationals candidates are so far away from her ability its not even funny.