GLEN Innes mayor Colin Price has defended his council’s decision to become a refugee-welcome zone, after criticism from sections of the community.
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Council voted unanimously at its December meeting to become a welcome zone.
Cr Price acknowledged it was a decision that had upset many in the town, but that this was sometimes the fallout from making social policy.
“I recognise and validate the range of views within our community on this matter, and I do understand that there are real concerns about international terrorism,” he told The Glen Innes Examiner.
“I think the silent majority of people in town are opposed to welcoming refugees, many due to the lack of employment in Glen Innes, and cultural concerns, but we must make a statement that we are a welcoming and inclusive community.”
Cr Price said it was a major social policy for Glen Innes and “it makes a statement that includes the whole community”.
“I think there is a negligible chance of getting a religious extremist from any intake we get, but a good chance of getting someone who could positively contribute to our town,” he said.
Cr Price also asked though that those who were in favour of the settlement of refugees in the town respect that not everyone shared that opinion.
“Council certainly does acknowledge that,” he said.