There’s been an increasing issue for Canberra residents that people outside Canberra (at best enthusiasts, at worst not far off con men) have been projecting their own fantasies onto our city in ways that have not been welcome for the most part.
Immigration Bridge springs to mind but is by no means alone.
Member for Fraser Andrew Leigh has blogged that the National Capital and External Territories Committee has been asked by Simon Crean to examine the process for choosing National Memorials.
The’re taking a swing at these points:
1. To inquire into, and report on:
The administration of the National Memorials Ordinance 1928 (the Ordinance), with particular reference on:
o The membership of the Canberra National Memorials Committee (CNMC);
o The process for decision-making by the CNMC;
o Mechanisms for the CNMC to seek independent, expert advice; and
o Opportunities for improving transparency in the administration of the Ordinance.
— The appropriate level of parliamentary oversight for proposed National Memorials.
— The appropriate level of public participation in the development of proposed National Memorials.2. If changes to current arrangements are recommended, inquire into and report on transition provisions for current proposals for memorials which have not yet been constructed.
They’re taking submissions until 9 September 2011. Details are on the committee website.