Community
29 November, 2024
Concerns over footpath delay
MEMER for South West Coast Roma Britnell has this week called on the government to create a framework to manage cultural heritage assessments “in a timely manner.”
In a statement issued earlier this week, Ms Britnell claimed that delays in a cultural heritage assessment was holding up the construction of a footpath along the foreshore on Ocean Drive in Port Fairy.
“The Moyne Shire Council was in the process of improving the footpath when some items of indigenous cultural heritage were discovered,” Ms Britnell said.
“Since September, the project has stalled while these items are being assessed. Meanwhile the pavement is incomplete, causing obstructions, which is particularly difficult for families with prams and strollers and those with mobility aids such as wheelchairs.
“The fenced off area looks unsightly and disappointing for visitors and locals alike but allows limited access to the beach.”
Ms Britnell added that she had been told there was only one week of works remaining on the pavement to finish the job, but that the assessment may take months.
“Locals are left in the dark about the timeline for resumption,” she said.
“Now with the approaching summer season when visitors swell the population, this issue is causing disharmony and concern in Port Fairy.
“Of course, we want items of cultural heritage recognised and preserved, but assessments must be conducted in a timely manner.”
She said it was the government’s responsibility to make sure the process was balanced and timely.
“This delay is causing frustration on all sides,” she said.
“It has exacerbated feelings of resentment and confusion. It undermines reconciliation and respect and unfortunately the Indigenous community is caught in the crossfire, appearing to be the reason for these hold-ups.”
She believed there was no government framework in place to ensure transparency and accountability in the assessment of cultural heritage.
“We all need these assessments to be conducted in a timely manner with fairness and equity,” she said.
“The Port Fairy community raised its concerns with me and in parliament I requested the Minister to explain the rationale but have had no response - so this sitting week, I’ve raised the issue again.
“We blame the Allan Labor government, not the local indigenous peoples. The community needs transparency and accountability.”
