Saga over but will bitterness linger

Well, the prayer saga is over, although the repercussions may well live on, long after the memories of the last amen uttered during a council meeting.

While the decision has been made, it is unclear yet whether there will be any lasting bitterness or antagonism among our elected officials who debated the issue, or even among the various factions of the community who became embroiled in the discussion.

One thing is certain, some of the communication that occurred was at a disturbing level and reflects poorly on the parties involved. Personal attacks rather than focusing on the issue highlighted the depth of feeling but also clouded the issue.

It is not unusual for politicians to conduct themselves in a way that is less than becoming, as any regular watcher of Parliament TV could attest.

And, some of the email correspondence that has been fired about in cyberspace recently has indicated our local body representatives are no better. Not all, it must be said, but some are not above throwing a few personal insults about.

And that is something I find a tad distasteful.

A recent example of this puerile behaviour came to light in a flurry of emails. It was generated after one elected member sought details on various attendances. One fired back with a personal insult, copying the message to all manner of people, including media. Others then seemed to think it would be good to continue the gag.

Maybe the later emails were intended as a bit of a laugh, but then why include so many people and media?

Do our local body representatives deliberately intend to hold themselves and the organisation they represent up to ridicule?

It wouldn't be so bad if it was a one-off, but it seems to be that all too often personality conflicts get in the way of our councillors' ability to work effectively together for the good of those of us who voted them in and pay our rates.

No one expects them all to be best friends - they are elected to represent the diverse views of all of society, so conflicting views are to be expected. But surely the least other elected colleagues deserve is to be treated with dignity, respect and in a courteous and professional manner. It is likely a minimum expectation too of the ratepayers whose votes carried them into office.

One wonders what happened to the saying "treat others as you would have them treat you".

At least with the prayer issue seemingly resolved, focus can perhaps turn to other pressing matters.

It was interesting to read this week that councillor and DHB member Michael Laws was promoting the idea of a workshop on the maternity issue. Funny thing, but I seem to recall his objecting on several occasions to attending workshops and committee meetings at both council and health board because they are a waste of his time and contribute nothing to the decision-making process.

I wonder how he reconciles that past view with his suggestion this week?

It's good to see he can put aside his views for this all-important issue.