Recent reports of senior politicians openly inviting selected leaders of industry to meet for a few exclusive hours of “Access for Cash” raise an interesting possibility.
Although the sums indicated are considerable, would it be feasible for a group of concerned citizens — voters— to induce a senior party member (any party) to come, say, to Errington to discuss policy options for an hour or so, plus travel-time?
I don’t envisage the very substantial amounts reported for our premier’s private meetings — perhaps a more modest $30,000 could reasonably be collected around the village for an hour’s chat, all ethical issues being strictly excluded.
Unfortunately the village hall may not be available in early January, the best time for such a discourse, as the May election will be looming. But the meeting could be held outside in the spacious car-park, and used umbrellas could be obtained on short loan from social service agencies, as government is well aware that the street people are happy to do without and don’t complain.
It is anticipated that volunteers would provide clean fresh Errington water and Fair Trade peanut refreshments for the guest speaker, although they may be asked to bring their own chairs — but these, and their transport, will be at taxpayer’s expense anyway.
Premier Christy Clark and other politicians have indicated that Parliament, Legislatures, even elections themselves are not necessary now except for rubber-stamping purposes — the business elite will create policy at enormous savings for the nation. This exciting development needs our full attention between now and next May.
Russ Vinden
Errington