A good example of global issues taking root in local communities, such as Melbourne’s suburbs:
Moreland Council has publicly condemned the “Israeli massacre in Gaza”.
Cr John Kavanagh was the lone voice of dissent against Cr Enver Erdogan’s successful motion to condemn Israel’s actions at last week’s council meeting.
Although a ceasefire is now in place, Cr Erdogan said a flurry of phone calls from residents angry over the latest flare-up in the Middle East was behind his move.
“The Israeli massacre in Gaza has left over 1300 people dead and thousands more injured,” Cr Erdogan said.
“Quite a few people called me up expressing they wished to hear support from council about the issue which has deeply affected both them and their families living over there.”
Cr John Kavanagh urged his fellow councillors to reject the motion. “It’s outside our area,” he said.
“The motion is too biased for one side. I realise Israel are the aggressors but they have also had to put up with Hamas bombing them … for a long time.
“I think we shouldn’t be taking sides.”
But Cr Stella Kariofyllidis said the council should not remain silent.