In a media release this afternoon from Greens MP, David Shoebridge, it was revealed that the Local Government NSW (LGNSW) annual conference representing 127 councils across NSW yesterday passed a motion declaring a climate emergency, reflecting the role of councils across NSW in responding to climate change, and supporting their residents in this challenge.
Residents and ratepayers of Eurobodalla are reminded that Eurobodalla Council withdrew its membership of the Local Government NSW (LGNSW) saying it was 'too political' in reference to it becoming 'too Labor dominated' (Note: Eurobodalla Councillors are predominantly Liberal supporters. Their withdrawal of LGNSW means that they can not put forward motions or vote on motions at the annual Local Government Conference yet they still send councillors, paid for from the public purse, to observe.)
Greens MP and Local Government Spokesperson David Shoebridge said of the Local Government NSW (LGNSW) declaration of a climate emergency said:
“It is significant that this conference with hundreds of voting delegates has drawn a line in the sand on climate change.
“Recognising the climate emergency is the first step in moving towards urgent action at all levels of government.
“Local Government is uniquely placed to understand the threat climate change poses to their area with councils close connections with local environment and community groups who are already witnessing the impacts of climate change.
“With Federal and State Governments controlled by climate deniers Local Councils have assumed a critical leadership role (this comment does not apply to Eurobodalla Council who recently adopted instead that "climate is 'variable and changing'")
“We all live on the same planet, and all levels of Government need to do their bit to save our natural world and ensure a liveable future," Mr Shoebridge said.
Above: a recent Student Strike for Climate change saw only Councillors Mayne and McGinlay acknowledge and meet the hundreds that assembled outside the Council Chambers to draw concerns to Climate Change and Climate Crisis
