Queensland’s peak body for councils has renewed calls for protected speech laws for the state’s councillors.
According to the Western Star ($), the renewed push from LGAQ CEO Alison Smith follows a legal threat to a Maranoa Regional Councillor Cameron O’Neil over comments made in a council meeting.
Cr O’Neil was speaking in opposition to a proposed deal with Rex Airlines. According to the newspaper report, Rex Airlines has demanded an apology for what it described as ‘unfounded and malicious’ comments.
Ms Smith told the newspaper that mayors and councillors have a democratic right to discuss and represent their communities in decision-making processes, and they shouldn’t fear being sanctioned for asking questions and speaking out.