Greens point to urgency of yes vote at referendum
Sunday, June 24th, 2012The Greens in Eden-Monaro say that the High Court ruling that the Commonwealth acted outside its constitutional powers in funding the National School Chaplaincy Program (NSCP) is the biggest impetus yet in the campaign for constitutional recognition of local government.
Greens candidate for Eden-Monaro and Palerang councillor Catherine Moore says it is imperative for communities around the country to mobilise now to support the campaign for local government recognition in the constitution, to ensure a resounding “yes” vote at referendum.
“The viability of local government is at stake as a result of this ruling, as it sets a precedent that threatens local government funding. Many of the federal grants that councils currently receive, such as the Financial Assistance Grants (FAGS), could disappear.
“While this decision might be a big win for accountability, it also threatens the ability of local councils to function; many councils rely on their FAGS to carry out much-needed roadwork in country areas, for example.” (more…)