Independent thought

By Bridget Brady
TWO Casey councillors will battle it out for the same seat at next month’s State Election, with councillor Amanda Stapledon announcing she will run as an Independent.
She joins fellow councillor Geoff Ablett who is contesting the seat of Cranbourne for the Liberal Party.
Cr Stapledon said she had been considering running as a candidate, and decided to commit to standing after the recent debacle about Casey Council’s methane gas bill that is impacting on ratepayers.
“I believe MPs should fight for their community and I would definitely do that,” Cr Stapledon said.
Another of Cr Stapledon’s motivations for contesting the election is to shake up some of the “serious” issues that face people with a disability and their carers.
One of the major changes Cr Stapledon said she would like to see was a Minister for Disability, dedicated to delivering services, programs and support.
At the moment, disability matters come under the responsibility of the Minister of Community Services. “Disability services are a State Government responsibility,” Cr Stapledon said.
“Those currently in the disability sector are exasperated with funds being spent on forums, reviews and inquries that are not delivering outcomes that are desperately needed.”
“Things need to change and a minister for all disability would bring about better accountabilities and deliver real outcomes for those that need it most.”
Cr Stapledon said some issues that needed to be addressed were the absence of supported accommodation, adequate respite, out of school respite programs and transport to day placement programs.
Casey mayor Lorraine Wreford has also thrown her hat into the political ring, as the Liberal candidate for the seat of Mordialloc.