I refer to the matter recently before Council regarding the provision of legal support for staff and Councillors who individually have to defend themselves for actions undertaken as a public official.  I urge anyone with an interest in the topic to acquaint themselves with the facts, which are:

• State legislation has always contained the ability for Council to support staff and Councillors who have the need to legally defend themselves personally over a matter related to their role as a public official.
•  Council has been requested by the Ombudsman to put in place policy guidelines around how this legislation is applied.
•  Clarifying how the existing provisions of the Local Government are applied is an action supported by the Department of Local Government and the Local Government Association of Queensland.
•  This policy has no impact whatsoever on anyone's ability to express views about local government.

I have already written to the Minister for Local Government suggesting that a state-wide approach should be taken.  

I urge the community to take the time to understand the issue and to be aware that Council whole-heartedly supports freedom of speech. 

Gympie Regional Council, nor any council can restrict any persons common law right to freedom of political speech.

Cr. Mick Curran, Mayor