Is it too much to ask? …… or what would the Bishop from Chicago say? ...... or whatever happened to altruism?
It seems our politicians, whatever their level of government, can’t work out why their standing and popularity in the community is dwindling away. When examining policies and behaviour of our elected representatives, there is little doubt really why “populism” has gained so much grass roots support: no doubt it is being seen as a solution to the frustrations with on-going political posturing and moral and other corruption of many of our so-called leaders.
To stop this trend taking us further towards its extremes, and away from true democracy, it would be good to see some of the following changes (in no particular priority order) –
Parties issuing manifestos and sticking to them – no more reactive decisions on the hop.
Honest and direct answers to questions – no more evasiveness or porkies.
Responsibility for current performances – no more blaming the opposing parties or singling out leaders for their past actions.
Fair dinkum problem solving – no more cynical partisan manoeuvrings.
Decent standards of behaviour i.e. moral, ethical and honourable actions and reactions to situations – no more refusing responsibility or hanging on to the letter of the law despite its intention.
Sticking to the platform on which members are elected – no more switching allegiances mid-term. (Can we believe those switching or those recruiting them have “pure” motivation?)
Being aware of and appreciating what daily life is like for their constituents and how decisions will impact – no more statements or decisions illustrating their distance from reality.
Awareness of the importance of real national security, of retaining industries for this reason as well as for job creation and industrial skill retention – no more allowing jobs/industries to completely go off-shore leaving us reliant on imports and no more “selling off the farm” especially in essential services and supplies.
Protection of our environment and water security into the future – no more wishy-washy half-baked policies.
Sensible anti-terrorism and border control measures and defence alliances – no more internationally illegal/inhumane treatment of asylum seekers and no more blindly following the USA.
Fair and adequate treatment of people with disabilities and health issues and fair and stable regulation of pensions and superannuation – no more mucking around with Medicare and legislation relating to pensioners and superannuants.
Fair and equitable, stable taxation legislation for individuals and businesses – no more changes every few years and no more “giveaways” like negative gearing or refunds of taxation not even payed.
Highest priorities given to education, health, environmental protection, job creation and security/defence – no more relegation of these basic essentials to lower levels of importance for funding priority.
Proper recognition and care of our indigenous people – no more knee jerk solutions or failing to listen to their real needs. Jeff de Jager Coila Creek
