I write in response to Ray Robinson’s letter ‘‘We have information rights’’ (Mercury, Thursday, December 18).
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In his letter, Mr Robinson praises a Mercury reporter for their ‘‘attempt to get Wollongong City Council to disclose financial expenditures’’ on the refurbishment of the Crown Street Mall.
I’m disappointed by the perception council is trying to hide information, which is absolutely not the case.
Transparency is paramount in everything we do. As is making sure council is spending the community’s rates wisely.
When finalising the payments for projects like the mall refurbishment we don’t just sign off on invoices provided by contractors and subcontractors.
Negotiation on variations is an essential part of finishing these projects and can take time. It’s time we’re willing to take to make sure council is getting the best value for money.
That’s why we occasionally say something is commercial in confidence. It’s not about hiding information, it’s protecting our business dealings. Once these costs have been finalised, we will share these details with the community.
David Farmer, general manager, Wollongong City Council
So many people were terribly saddened by Phillip Hughes’ death and yet a week later bowlers recommenced using the bouncer. Please ban the bouncer.
Yvonne McCallum, Mt Keira
The true terror of the Sydney siege was the absolute willingness of the media to facilitate and assist the aims of the perpetrator.
Even as the blanket media coverage drew into its umpteenth hour the breathless hosts interviewed the obligatory talking head experts asking what they thought was the perpetrator’s motive.
Lo and behold, the supposed chief purpose was to gain publicity for whatever the cause was and encourage other lunatics to carry out similar attacks.
Not even a pause for thought from the hypocritical broadcasting crews to consider what was being said and how it portrayed them and their methods.
If other nutcases follow on from this nutcase, perhaps the media outlets should be charged as accessories given the comfort they have enthusiastically given the enemy.
Andrew Sefton, Thirroul
Last Friday our dog was attacked near our home while on the lead, requiring extensive veterinary treatment.
The offending dog had to be put down, which is very sad, but when are some dog owners going to realise that owning a dog is a commitment and not a five-minute wonder.
They should be socialised and exercised regularly and not kept in small backyards.
We would like to thank the police and the animal services officer from Wollongong City Council who arrived promptly to assist with the situation.
Lee Scullion, Helensburgh
Whose judgment is out of whack? Or, more precisely, who’s advising the PM? On a day when Sydney had been placed on a terrorist footing, the Treasurer thought it a great idea to trot out the MYEFO.
A tip, PM: no-one gives a tinker’s toss about the economy while an imbecile has Sydney’s CBD in lockdown! MYEFO can wait for a more appropriate time.
DJ Preece, Balgownie