First stage of amalgamation starts with Transition Committees: Fraser

17 August 2007

First stage of amalgamation starts with Transition Committees: Fraser

The Cairns City and Douglas Shire Councils are gearing up for their amalgamation by appointing representatives to their Local Transition Committee.

Local Government Minister Andrew Fraser today presented $200,000 in funding to Cairns Mayor Kevin Byrne and Douglas Mayor Mike Berwick to assist the smooth transition toward the new Cairns Regional Council.

Mr Fraser said the council was getting on with the job, just as others were around the state, by forming their Transition Committee.

The Beattie Government has allocated $27.1 million to the transition process which will be directed toward staff support and specific transition requirements within affected councils as well as the Local Transition Committees.

“This $200,000 handed over today is a downpayment for the future of sustainable local government for the far north region,” Mr Fraser said.

“Every council affected by local government reform will receive initial funding now as well as further funding to help with the transition process after the next local government elections in March 2008.

““This is about focusing on the future and moving on and I applaud the commitment of both Mayors to build the Cairns Regional Council of the future.

“The next step is to establish union representation on the Committees and then the first important job is to appoint an interim Chief Executive Officer to oversee transition.

“Interim CEOs will be critical in ensuring the transition for new councils over the initial six month period.”

The funding addresses the costs associated with transition – such as legal and statutory costs - as well as upgrades of existing financial systems and also specifically supports the new councils following the March 2008 elections.

Media Contact Chris Taylor or Chris Ward 3227 8825