This is a very tense time for our region. An expected large police presence at Bentley, the imminent arrival of gas rigs and workers and a large community presence opposed to gas exploration has the potential for an overflow of emotions. The leaders at the Bentley Blockade are actively engaged in ensuring the protestors and protectors keep within the law and do not engage in any violent act towards anyone. The police are trained to deal with challenging situations and are carrying out their duty to uphold legal access for an approved activity. They are good men and women acting professionally and as they have been directed. Their personal opinion does not come into the equation and neither should it. They have my deep respect and always will. Some police officers may feel they are under attack by me and others. This is not the case. My protests about this use of police to break up a legal protest and force a risky industry on a community that does not want it are aimed at the NSW government- not the police. I believe that Police resources should not be used in this way. I have asked the Premier to intervene in this matter. If the State Gov calls a halt to this and other gas exploration in our region, this volatile situation and the huge costs associated with it could be avoided. While I am Mayor, I will not sit by and stay silent about this industry that I believe poses the greatest risk to our region ever. I will use my position to speak and draw attention to this matter. I do not want to reflect in years to come and think if only I had done more BUT please know my opposition is NOT aimed at the Police. If it has been seen as such, I apologise unreservedly.
Posted on: Mon, 12 May 2014 02:19:13 +0000
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