In case you needed any more evidence of the breathtaking arrogance and anti-democratic practices of the previous council led by Mark Troy, a recent decision by Mackay Council should say it all.
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After canvassing their constituents about water fluoridation they found that 47% of those surveyed opposed fluoridation while 39% were in favour with 14% undecided. This is hardly what could be considered a landslide result. Even so they voted 6 to 5 to end this dubious practice of forced medication.
The mayor of Mackay said: “Everybody made a decision based on their research and the people they've spoken to along the way”.
How refreshing!
In Bellingen, however, when a plebiscite was conducted on the matter a full 70% of respondents voted against fluoridation. And what did we get as a result of this landslide? We were ignored and had fluoride put in our drinking water anyway.
Regardless of whether you think fluoride is good or bad for dental health putting any substance, medicinal or otherwise, in drinking water without the consent of the majority of people is draconian.
A little lesson on democracy is in order. We live in a representative democracy. That means those elected by, for and of the people are supposed to represent the people. It's not complicated- Mark Troy et al I'm talking to you.
Hopefully our new Green Mayor and his team will be more amenable to the needs and concerns of those he represents. Time will tell.
Meanwhile, I think it's time to review this ill considered decision.
Kate Henwood, Bellingen
- Further information about the fluoride debate
