Dear Editor, as per the story on 28/10/2016 regarding that “Council Quiet on China Trip” ( http://www.themercury.com.au/news/tasmania/hobart-city-council-remain-tightlipped-on-china-trip-with-tso/news-story/9a3c3f160c347d35f8d71341ed28ce83 ) the reference to Council would suggests that All alderman were secretive about this matter and supported the recommendation which is not the case.
Mind you in Council I made reference to why the matter was on a closed agenda and I would like to put on the record that I raised concerns and questioned why the matter was placed in closed Council and as far as I am concerned this matter should not have been placed in closed Council.
Secondly I did not support the recommendation nor agree with the direction this Council has taken in regards to overseas travel. As far as I am concerned and to ensure transparency all Aldermanic expenditure should be discussed and decisions made in open Council.
As for being “quiet” on this issue, unfortunately once an item is placed on closed Council an Alderman is hamstrung as per what they are able to say publicly I hope at this has clarified my position on the matter.
Maybe the Legislation should be amended to ensure that this type of expenditure is at all times placed in open Council if transparency is to be achieved and not at “the will” of any Council.
Alderman Marti Zucco
