Concerns over question time

I have been inundated by Island Voice members who are disappointed and angry regarding councillors Rooks and Laing’s actions at the last Council meeting, where they attempted to remove Public Question Time from Ordinary Council meetings. 

Our members are extremely upset that these elected representatives tried to prevent them asking a short question (50 words) and receiving a reply from council that is minuted and available for everyone to read after the meeting. 

Currently, Question Time is the only direct way that the community has to ask higher level questions about Council activities. 

People used to be able to talk directly with Councillors via Community Connection Sessions, but these halted during COVID and although supposed to resume, have not yet done so.

For operational issues such as a missing bin pickup, or the like, people are savvy enough to use online resources or, if they call Council they will be directed to the appropriate department by the receptionists. Question Time provides an opportunity to ask strategic questions or seek clarification on specific topics. Generally answering such questions takes between 10-30 minutes once a month, so the time required is not onerous.

Fortunately, the motion failed, thanks to our other Councillors, but the community has a right to know why councillors Rooks and Laing tried to stop Public Question Time? 

Linda Marston, Secretary, Island Voice