Fluoridation of water is a significant issue and informed choices should be made regarding its application. Assisting in making an informed choice on water fluoridation within the Port Macquarie-Hastings region is the result of a poll conducted in the early 1990’s, in which there was a resounding rejection of the proposal to include fluoride in the local water supply. In addition, there is much evidence and research to suggest a range of detrimental results of fluoridation of the water supply; I feel that greater awareness of these research findings will assist in citizens being provided with a balanced debate and discussion.
Weighing fluoridation up thoughtfully should, from my point of view, include a fresh vote on the issue – I believe this will give the community the voice it is entitled. A new poll on the issue would be the ideal platform for newly-elected councillors to base their decision upon, should new councillors be given the authority to debate and decide on this matter. A community vote on fluoridation would enable a new councillor group to make a qualified decision. I would humbly ask the State Members for Oxley and Port Macquarie to reiterate their previous positions on this issue in order to make clear to the local government area where it sits in relation to our State jurisdiction.
I feel it is also of importance to make mention that I have seen very little to suggest any considerable change from the response to the poll conducted in the early 1990s.
I believe that a final decision on this issue should be made through a community vote in conjunction with the next locally-elected council in the Port Macquarie-Hastings. I believe this is too significant and far-reaching an initiative to be implemented without thorough community consultation, particularly when considering previous sentiments witnessed throughout the Port Macquarie-Hastings region.
Jeff Styles
Candidate for Port Macquarie-Hastings Council
