Council Expresses Profound Disappointment

February 15 2007

Port Macquarie-Hastings Council Mayor Councillor Rob Drew today expressed his extreme disappointment that contrary to strict advice from the Department of Local Government the Draft Report into the Glasshouse had been leaked to the media.

The Mayor said "Council received a direction in no uncertain terms from the department that the document could only be circulated to the General Manager, councillors and key advisers on the basis of strict confidentiality.  The fact that this direction has been contravened indicates the lengths that will be taken by individuals to compromise the process and undermine the integrity of Council."

"Council certainly wishes to acknowledge that it will be preparing an extensive response to the Draft Report, which it considers is incomplete. It will be strenuously responding to matters raised and the response will be extremely detailed.  Beyond that, in accordance with the Department's direction, Council does not wish to make any further comment."