Kerry Shine photo: Why photographer should come forward and apologise

The conversation around the photo of Kerry Shine in the council chambers continues because the person who did it refuses to own up to it and apologise. Here’s why we think it’s important they do.

There is a simple reason why the conversation around the Kerry Shine photo continues.

It is because many simply believe it is only possible for the Toowoomba Regional Council to truly move forward with a positive action plan once it is resolved.

This “new” council (nine of 11 councillors who remain in their positions from last term) has talked a big game early about its renewed resolve, cohesion and focus on the future.

Yet, the person who took the photo refuses to come forward and apologise for their actions.

I’d like to propose a scenario for anyone who thinks this is not a big deal.

Imagine a colleague took a photo of you in an embarrassing situation and it then circulated on social media pages – seen by thousands of people across the city.

Do you think that colleague should suffer no repercussions?

Would you then think it would be acceptable if your boss asked your colleagues to take ownership to step forward, no one did, and then that would be the end of it?

Would you trust your colleagues after such a malicious and embarrassing act?

Councillor Kerry Shine. Picture: Kevin Farmer

Mr Shine being in a public position is irrelevant to the conversation when it is a fellow colleague snapping the photo.

In the opinion of a number of people who have served in the same chairs, this is simply not on.

How can the person who took this photo ignore the chorus of former councillors and prominent figures who have called for them to come forward and for there to be an investigation.

Can they ignore it forever? Pretend it never happened?

Sure, but the truth eventually comes out and more people are stepping forward.

The longer this goes on, the worse it is for the council, our community, and the inevitable repercussions to the reputation of the person who took that photo.

The community’s business community, former councillors, politicians and major players, as well as this masthead, are simply asking for integrity and accountability – nothing more.

It is in the best interest of the council and the sentiment around cohesion that the person responsible owns the situation and apologises.

If they don’t, the belief this council is interested in positive change is hard to believe.

Responsibility for political coverage is taken by Chronicle Editor Jordan Philp 5 Keefe St, Toowoomba.