A TAXING TIME
There is no doubt about it. I'm in a depressed state-the government's economic strategy- low interest rates and easy credit-is flawed; their belief that the lowering of rates-leads to growth-is a failure. There has been little effect on the economy. Whatever little extra growth that might occur, will be offset by "cheap money" made available by banks and lenders to local and overseas borrowers on the Australian and overseas currency markets.
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The tax cut made as a whole, Australians poorer, and those on top income brackets richer; the wealthy amongst have increased purchasing power. With the advent of rock bottom cash rates, time is ripe for the government to borrow locally and revamp the financial sector by putting taxpayers-money to work. Oh, I forgot - the surplus.
John Macleod, Berry
COMMUNITY SPIRIT
In recent weeks, I have seen a number of small and large groups come together to do work for the community. We need to strengthen our community and reinforce our ties to the community and other citizens.
On August 7,the Mercury reported NSW Police were holding a BBQ for the homeless. Superintendent Cramer said that homeless people were valuable members of the community. From what I have seen, Superintendent Cramer sees the community as crucial to police success..On 4 August the Mercury reported that the chefs at Caveau were organising a community dinner to promote the issue of food waste..on August 4, the Mercury reported environment groups had come together to clean up waste, particularly building waste in west Dalton.
The notion of community is not dead but needs to be invigorated. It is time for each of us to think about how we can do simple things that reinforces the well being of our community.
Peter Corkish, Wollongong
THE ENEMY WITHIN
I have a message I would like to pass on to Anthony Albanese and anyone else inside the socialist Left of the Labor Party: "People in glass houses shouldn't throw stones". Sadly, however, I don't think he or anyone else on his side of Labor could ever understand the significance of this commonly-cited proverb.
Anthony, in an attempt to dump on a conservative political conference, has continued Kristina Keneally's seizing on a past, distasteful comment made by one of the British conference speakers. This offending speaker, however, has committed no crime and not seen by everyone in the same light as Anthony and his followers. Anthony has stated that those involved with the conference "are a parade of right-wing nutters". Of course, this is really code for "these people are connected to the winning side of politics in Australia, America, and Britain. And who disagree with my views".
If Anthony and Kristina want to take such "holier-than-thou" stances why don't they take steps or get behind any Government attempt to remove the vile, violent, and criminal behaviour of rogue unions and union bosses, along with similar activities by organisations such as GetUp. These local organisations and individuals are doing and will continue to do more harm to this country, its economy, and its citizens than any conservative conference ever will.
Richard Burnett, Wollongong
