Democracy deals its hand

Democracy is dealing its hand and patience will be required while we await a clear outcome from the Queensland State Election, Sunshine Coast Mayor Mark Jamieson says.

Nicklin Independent MP Peter Wellington this morning confirmed he would support the ALP to form government, however two Queensland Katter party MPs have remained undecided

“Politics is never dull in Queensland and the 2015 State election results show that this is very much the case,” Mayor Jamieson said.

“The result is still unclear, with pre-poll and postal votes still to be counted and a possible legal challenge and by-election in Ferny Grove.

“So this is very different territory to 1998 when Peter Beattie clearly had 44 seats.

“I appreciate that Peter Wellington’s decision is based on achieving the greatest degree of stability in government.

“It’s not up to me to comment on the reasons why he has made that decision, nor can I speculate what may or may not have been discussed in his conversations with the major parties.

“If the ALP forms government with the support of Peter Wellington, I hope that he is able to bring a closer look at the priorities for the Sunshine Coast which I have made very clear to him.

“Naturally the North Coast Rail Line duplication from Beerburrum to Nambour is a high priority for Peter Wellington and this Council.”

Mayor Jamieson said it didn’t help anyone that the government of the State was on hold pending the outcome of postal and pre-poll votes.

“Something seriously needs to be done about getting more timely results,” Mayor Jamieson said. “To be held to ransom for 10 days, in this day and age of technology, is unbelievable.

“Queensland needs stability in the Parliament to move forward and create a strong economy.

“National and global markets need to know Queensland is a stable location in which to invest.

“And likewise, I believe the community wants stability in government as well to continue to deliver the programs and services the community requires.

“This Council will continue to push ahead so that no matter who eventually leads this state we will work together to achieve good outcomes for Sunshine Coast residents who live in one of the fastest growing regions in Queensland.

“I lead an independent Council and the advantage of that is that we can work with either party.

“Our job has always been – and will continue to be – to get a fair hearing from the State Government and ensure they understand our community’s priorities and infrastructure needs.

“This council values collaboration between both levels of government and is an approach I will pursue with the new Queensland Government.”

“Whatever the outcome – and I have made this very clear since the beginning of the election campaign – the Sunshine Coast Council stands ready to work with whoever is in government to achieve great outcomes for the Sunshine Coast.”