City of Perth councillor Hasluck says he does not want fee while suspended

SUSPENDED City of Perth councillor Steve Hasluck says he does not want his sitting fee while he isn’t representing the community.

Cr Hasluck was, along with the rest of Perth council, suspended by Local Government Minister David Templeman on March 2.

Three commissioners were appointed to make decisions in place of councillors and held their first meeting on March 15, but a decision on fee payments was not made.

In a statement today Cr Hasluck said he would not accept his fee.

“I am aware of media reports that the commissioners are seeking legal advice on whether or not they are required to pay councillors’ sitting fees during this time,” he said.

“I respect that process and I’m not criticising the commissioners.

“But personally, I don’t want to be paid the sitting fee while the council is suspended.”

Cr Hasluck said if payments continued, he would donate them to charity.

“If the commissioners decide to pay it, I’ll find an appropriate charity or other non-profit organisation to donate the funds to,” he said.

Chair of Commissioners Eric Lumsden confirmed with the Guardian Express yesterday that legal advice was still being sought on whether to continue paying councillor’s their fees while suspended.

“Once the legal advice has been received, commissioners will make an informed decision and a recommendation will be brought to the next available council meeting,” he said.

“These processes have a legal standing and it would be irresponsible of the commissioners to act without receiving the correct legal advice.”

MORE: Body of Perth woman Alison Raspa found in Canada

MORE: Cancer Council research reveals Australian teenagers unaware of risks of ‘social’ smoking

MORE: South Perth armed robbery ends in dramatic citizen’s arrest