I am astounded at the lack of dignity and self-control shown by Mark Swivel in his comments to The Echo and other media.
As someone who has known Michael Lyon and his wife personally for several years now, I know what they are going through together as they try to navigate this difficult time. Then to see someone show what I consider is bald-faced, self-interested meanness is truly shocking.
Not content to have named Michael’s wife and exposed the whole situation to the world on his Facebook page, Mark now seeks to drag out an issue in the media, to his own personal advantage. He shows no empathy or compassion, in my opinion, for the reality of this particular situation. With his legal training, Mark would very well know that neither Michael or other parties involved can make comment on the matter*, and to publicly call them out in this manner I think demonstrates a lack of integrity and moral fibre.
Everybody is entitled to a fair go. Michael has stated that he will be cleared and whether people choose to believe that or not, they should give him a chance without listening to hearsay and making prior judgement. I am proud to stand with Michael Lyon as our mayor. He shares my values of truth, honesty, and compassion and unfortunately Mark Swivel has demonstrated none of these.
Jeannette Martin, Mullumbimby
*Ed: Cr Lyon was provided with a copy of Cr Swivel’s comments, and his response was published next to those comments in The Echo last week.
For four decades The Echo has printed the stories some people loved, some people hated, and some pretended not to read. If you want us to keep telling the truth, the real truth, not the sugar-coated version. We’ll need your support to keep the presses rolling. 
