McGowan confirms amalgamation stance

Opposition Leader Mark McGowan has reaffirmed his opposition to forced amalgamation of regional councils in his visit to Bunbury today.

Mr McGowan called on Local Government Minister John Castrilli to let the public know where he stood on the divisive issue.

``Western Australians and the local government sector should be able to look to the political leaders on this important issue,’’ he said.

``Labor does not support forced amalgamations of local councils. We have listened far and wide to the views of people around the regions.’’

Mr McGowan said he was not against local governments deciding to amalgamate or using incentives to amalgamate.

``I don’t object to using carrots with councils if there is some broader objective, what I don’t like is councils being forced or being threatened,’’ he said.

``It’s a matter for local people to decide, and there are processes under the law for local people to decide.’’