Elected members on notice after attacks on staff members go too far
DARWIN council’s elected members have been put on notice after a number of recent heated exchanges
Northern Territory
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DARWIN council’s elected members are on notice after some heated exchanges at recent meetings.
The Sunday Territorian understands council staff have been increasingly unsettled by comments from elected members in criticising reports and the recommendations of managers and their departments.
Chief executive Scott Waters said that after the introduction of a new code of conduct at Tuesday night’s meeting, members acting out of order would be “supported”.
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“City of Darwin recognises the conduct of a smaller number of elected members does not currently meet expectations and further support and training will be provided,” Mr Waters said.
“Where elected members or City of Darwin officers do not abide by the code of conduct, action can be taken by the Department of Local Government or other authorities.
“A passionate exchange took place during the last ordinary council meeting on Tuesday, and City of Darwin encourages and supports open discussion and expression of opinion, as part of the democratic process of local government.”
At that meeting, alderman Gary Haslett was told he had “gone too far” in criticising staff.
Other recent incidents include claims from elected members that staff were not trusted in the elected members’ meeting room, had been leaking to the media and were influencing council decisions.
Mr Waters responded to allegations staff leaked information saying releasing information on the agenda was part of the council’s intent to be transparent and open.
“City of Darwin publishes ordinary council agendas on the afternoon of each Thursday prior to the meeting the following Tuesday, within the two business days required under the Local Government Act,” he said.
“This approach is consistent with due process and in line with other local governments across Australia. This time frame allows members of the community and the media to access council reports.”
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Mr Waters said council staff were employed to write reports and did so according to legislation. Criticism of their work was not warranted.
“What elected members can do, where they feel passionate about a certain issue, is they form their position either for or against and then they speak to that issue as part of a debate,” he said.
Mr Waters denied any workplace bullying or harassment, but did not answer questions regarding whether staff had taken time off on stress leave due to the situation.
Originally published as Elected members on notice after attacks on staff members go too far