Response to Stock Agents Association
Last week the Albury Wodonga Stock Agents Association mailed a “questionnaire” to all new candidates in the Wodonga Council election.
Dennis Black have spent some time examining the available information and considering the issues raised.
We do not think we can unequivocally offer the absolute “yes/no” answer that the Stock Agents Association demanded. We have instead drafted the following statement.
Statement from Kieran Bennett and Dennis Black on the Wodonga Livestock Exchange
We believe it is important to support the continuation of a viable Livestock Exchange within the City of Wodonga.
We believe that council must work with stock agents, farmers and other stakeholders when making decisions on the future of the Livestock Exchange.
We believe that any decision should consider the:
- The needs of users of the facility,
- The financial risk to ratepayers,
- The environmental and social impacts of the facility, And
- Issues of Animal Welfare.
Based on the information contained in the independent reports commissioned by council, specifically the Huefner and GHD reports, it appears that councils current course of action is appropriate.
We want to see a process whereby stakeholders and the proposed private operator work together in the design of any new facility.We are concerned that some stakeholders have been alienated from the decision making process. We are prepared to consider the ideas and proposals put forward by stakeholders. If these proposals better meet the criteria of: users need, ratepayers interest, environmental impact and animal welfare, we would be prepared to revisit councils decision.
To discuss this or any matter, please don’t hesitate to contact us.
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Kieran, I see the group wanting the saleyards to stay where they are is planning a protest rally on Saturday and is asking candidates to ‘front up and show their support’.
(http://www.bordermail.com.au/news/local/news/general/rally-cry-to-candidates/1355990.aspx)
It’s a bit confrontational. Will you be going?
We’ve been informed that we’re only welcome if we support their campaign. I might go along anyway, we’ll see how I go at living through it…