OAKESHOTT INDEPENDENT

OAKESHOTT SEEKS MEETING WITH PERSSON AS A MATTER OF URGENCY

Independent MP for Port Macquarie, Robert Oakeshott, was today notified of the findings of the Department of Local Government Section 740 Inquiry into Port Macquarie-Hastings Council, and was at the same time informed of the Minister's response to accept all recommendations.

"I am now seeking to arrange a meeting with newly appointed Administrator, Dick Persson, as soon as is practicable. I am also seeking further advice from the Minister and his staff in relation to some of the key findings of the section 740 inquiry and their implications, Mr Oakeshott said.

"All of us need time to digest the full content of the Willan Report, and to consider its implications. The reality, however, is that we now have an Administrator, and that there are some operational matters identified in the Willan Report that must be addressed as a matter of urgency, so as to minimise unnecessary costs to the community, Mr Oakeshott said.

"There will obviously be a mix of opinion on the report and its recommendations, and the subsequent actions of both the Minister for Local Government and the Governor of NSW. From this point forward, my focus as local MP, is on the future of our community, and the new working arrangements now in place. " Mr Oakeshott said.

27 February 2008