Council considers inviting Gore here

By Callan Date
FORMER US Vice President Al Gore may be invited to Casey to talk about climate change.
Councillor Rob Wilson raised a motion at Tuesday’s council meeting calling on a ‘high profile guest’ to be invited to the city to deliver the inaugural address of a possible annual lecture series on the environment.
Cr Wilson received mixed support to his motion that outlined the potential of a yearly lecture series on the themes of sustainability and liveability.
Mr Gore was discussed as a possible high-profile candidate.
The director of the documentary, An Inconvenient Truth, has been outspoken in his views about climate change.
Cr Wilson said the annual education series would showcase Casey as being pro-active and a leader in tackling environmental issues.
Monash University Berwick will also be asked to take part in some involvement regarding the lecture series.
Council officers will prepare a report regarding the proposal detailing cost and logistical issues.
In a separate motion, Cr Wilson unsuccessfully attempted to invite Federal MPs Malcolm Turnbull and Peter Garrett to conduct a public debate on climate change.
Cr Wilson said the upcoming election provided an ideal time for the debate to happen.
“It would be a big coup if our city could get these two politicians.
“We would get national media exposure,” Cr Wilson said.
However, councillor Mick Morland said there was little chance of the two MPs having time in their busy schedule to come to Casey.
“It’s a waste of council time and a waste of money,” Cr Morland said.
Councillor Lorraine Wreford also voiced her concern saying she would prefer to see two scientists, who were experts on the topic, speak at a debate.