Gagging all the geese

Here's what some people think of Lipshutz's attempt to gag free speech at Glen Eira Clowncil. The following citations are taken directly from submissions published by clowncil -

1. "As a community member of Glen Eira I disagree completely with the proposed amendment to not allow comments made in the briefings to be brought up in the meetings. As community members we're entitled to know what is being discussed and transparency should be encouraged". (R. Flaherty).

2. " I submit that the proposed amendment is unnecessary, not in the interests of the community, contrary to the principle of free speech, and ambigious in its wording.
...it is not in the interests of the community to inhibit public reporting and discussion of matters which may come before council. I am not aware that there have been any requests from the community for such a clause." (A. Bunn)

3. Glen Eira Council's community plan calls for governance that is democratic, open, and responsible and benefits everybody equally.
A code of conduct for the community's elected representatives that is formulated by the councillors, for the benefit of councillors, is undemocratic in the extreme.' (S. Nolle).

The above are mere 'highlights' of the submissions and readers are directed to read them all in full by accessing clowncil's website. Also of note is that there was only ONE submission which favoured the amendment and this came from an ex-councillor!

Once this 'gag' is voted in (as I am sure it will be given this clowncil's past record of listening and adopting the views presented in submissions) the geese (ie councillors) will really be squeaking with identical 'honks'. Their 'geesehood' will be complete. The ugle ducklings will have been transformed into obedient and pliable gooses by their lords and masters. But, never mind, since this merely represents one more plank of policy which must be dismantled by an increasingly aware and fed-up community! It's time folks for a total clean-out!