Media Release:
Darling Downs Environment Council Disappointed at TRC's Disbanding of Environmental Advisory Committee
5th of June 2024
The Darling Downs Environment Council (DDEC) is deeply disappointed by the recent decision of the Toowoomba Regional Council (TRC) to discontinue its Environmental Advisory Committee, replacing it with an internal management reference panel. This decision raises significant concerns about the TRC's commitment to addressing critical environmental and sustainability issues in our region.
The dissolution of the Environmental Advisory Committee comes at a pivotal time as the new planning scheme is being finalised. The input and feedback from the community are crucial during this period to ensure that environmental considerations are thoroughly integrated into the planning process. The decision to replace the committee with an internal panel, without a clear mandate or structure for external community engagement, risks sidelining vital community perspectives and expertise.
"We hope that this decision does not signal a deprioritisation of environmental and sustainability issues by the TRC," said Ahri Tallon, Coordinator for the DDEC. "Community involvement and transparency are essential in shaping policies that impact our environment, and the Advisory Committee played a key role in facilitating this."
Additionally, DDEC is concerned about the absence of a councillor dedicated to the environment or sustainability portfolios. 'This lack of focused political leadership on environmental matters, coupled with the ongoing vacancies within TRC staff, exacerbates our worries about the effectiveness and depth of expertise within the newly formed internal management reference panel' said Ahri.
"We urge the TRC to reconsider this move due to the loss of contact it will mean for council staff with external environmental expertise and active community members who are passionate about local government community engagement," Ahri added. "Our region faces numerous environmental challenges, and it is imperative that the council demonstrates strong leadership and prioritises sustainable development."
DDEC remains committed to working with the TRC and the broader community to advocate for policies and practices that protect our environment and promote sustainability. We call on the TRC to engage transparently with community stakeholders and to reconsider the impacts of this decision on its commitment to environmental stewardship during this crucial period.
For media inquiries, please contact:
Ahri Tallon
Coordiantor
Darling Downs Environment Council
[email protected] 0455 619 454
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