The new year has certainly brought a new approach from the NSW Government.
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In 2016 the NSW Government was taking a very hard line on a number of issues, but it seems the change of Premier has also seen the winds of change blow in regarding the government’s approach.
The stance on council mergers has certainly changed and that is likely to be sorted more formally next week.
The only question which now remains in relation to council mergers is whether the government will order plebiscites for the remaining councils scheduled to be merged.
It’s hard to know at this stage that will fall but it is a strong possibility.
It should be noted, despite Parliamentary Secretary for the Illawarra Gareth Ward has always maintained that stance.
He may well now get his way.
Now the NSW Government appears to be a lot more willing to listen in relation to the issue of hospital privatisation.
New State Health Minister Brad Hazzard will meet with Shellharbour Hospital staff to discuss their concerns.
‘’I have spoken to Gareth, who wants to make sure that whatever hospital facilities are delivered, are the best possible,” the Minister told the Illawarra Mercury.
“He told me he would like me to listen to the concerns of representatives in the area, including the union and I’m looking forward to that opportunity.’’
The new Minister is certainly singing from a different hymn book from previous Minister Jillian Skinner who refused to be moved on the matter.
Interesting times for the government.
SNAKES AND LADDERS
The Illawarra Hawks could almost seal a place in the National Basketball League finals with a win over the Cairns Taipans at the WEC on Friday night.
It has been a rollercoaster ride with the Hawks this season, but a big and vocal crowd could again play a role at the Sandpit.
The Hawks then head to Melbourne on Monday to take on Melbourne United in what was scheduled to be a historic open air match though the forecast suggests otherwise.
It will be a big weekend for our region’s national sporting team and hopefully by the end of it the Hawks have secured second spot on the NBL ladder and a homecourt advantage for the finals.
Get along to the WEC and get loud #Hawkheads.
