Submissions to the public inquiry into council’s handling of its asbestos issues are now open.
The commissioner, Richard Beasley SC, was appointed by the Local Government minister to look at the asbestos issues and at recruitment processes.
His terms of reference involve looking at council, including the mayor and councillors, and whether their actions have conformed to various sections of the Local Government Act.
Mr Beasley is encouraging submissions from the council, individual councillors, the general manager, council staff, the Office of Local Government, government departments and authorities as well as interested members of the public
People who make submissions can request anonymity, a request which Mr Beasley may agree to “in appropriate circumstances”.
He may also release some of the submissions to invite public reaction and response to them.
People can choose to give evidence in person. The commissioner wants to know how many people might want to give oral evidence to allow him to allocate enough hearing days.
Mr Beasley is also able to compel people to testify.
The date and venue for the public hearings will be announced soon.
After the inquiry, the commissioner will make a written report to the Minister for Local Government and may make recommendations to the Minister, including whether all civic offices in relation to the Council should be declared vacant.
Submissions should be sent to Locked Bag 3012, Nowra NSW 2541 or bluemountainspublicinquiry@olg.nsw.gov.au by September 21.
Details about the inquiry can be found here.
Any further inquiries or information can be made to Angus Broad on 4428 4192.
