By Emily-Rose Toohey
Conflicts of interests discussed at the last Southern Downs Regional Council (SDRC) meeting on 23 March raised questions about the complaints and declaration process for councillors at meetings.
Cr Cynthia McDonald said she has two outstanding complaints being investigated by the Office of the Independent Assessor (OIA).
“They’ve been investigating now for the last 16 months regarding a potential conflict of interest that I may have with my use of Warwick Saleyards, and the fact that I’m a farmer who sells cattle through the saleyards,” Cr McDonald said.
This declaration was in regards to item 12.7 (Procurement Exception) on the agenda, and she said to the room of councillors that the OIA might want to work faster on those complaints due to the extended time length.
“However, I do ask my colleagues to allow me to utilise some of the knowledge I have and stay in the room for this item,” Cr McDonald said.
SDRC Mayor Vic Pennisi said they will never know the complaint authors as they are protected by whistle-blowers legislation.
“Unfortunately, people weaponise the ability to lodge a complaint – how do you stop that?” Cr Pennisi said.
The second conflict of interest declared by Cr McDonald was regarding item 13.1 (Heavy Vehicle Bypass Report).
“Given that I had somebody previously lodge a complaint about the fact that I received $2000 in electoral support from Wickham Freight Lines and also the fact that I have one truck in Rogers Creek transport, I’ll declare a prescribed interest and therefore leave the room for that,” she said.
“I think that’s the safest way to go.”
Cr Pennisi responded to this statement and said he does not believe leaving the room would do much.
“Nonetheless, I know why you’re doing it,” Cr Pennisi said.
Cr Sheryl Windle also declared a prescribed conflict of interest relating to item 13.2 (Market Square SPS Electrical Works) on the meeting agenda.
“My husband is employed by Ensbey Electrical, who are the contractors recommended by that particular work,” Cr Windle said.
“I’ll be leaving the room for that discussion.”
In terms of conflicts of interest, Cr Pennisi said declaring them are up to the individual councillor.
“It’s about being open and transparent, and erring on the side of caution – there are either declared or prescribed interests,” he said.
“We have submitted a review of OIA to review the whole body – the act and legislation.”
