Local gov't bodies commended on setting up Local Agenda 21 concept

9/3/98

Environment Minister Cheryl Edwardes today congratulated a number of local government authorities for establishing a framework to guide them towards a long-term economic, social and environmentally sustainable program.

Mrs Edwardes said many of these initiatives were being realised through the Local Agenda 21 concept.

The Minister said she had granted $2,500 to assist the staging of 'Local Agenda 21 Week', beginning next Monday.

"Local Agenda 21 Week will provide an opportunity for the eight councils committed to the concept to gain knowledge of the processes involved and what to expect," she said.

Local Agenda 21 originated from the 1992 United Nations Earth Summit held in Rio de Janeiro. It commits local authorities to construct, operate and maintain environmental, social and economic infrastructure, oversee planning processes, establish local environment policies and regulations.

The week of seminars is being delivered by 'Environs Australia: the Local Government Environment Network'.

"As the level of government closest to people, local councils play a pivotal role in educating, mobilising and responding to the public to promote sustainable development," Mrs Edwardes said.

"Those councils which have committed to Local Agenda 21 are pursuing methods to ensure their decision making processes balance the environmental, economic and social costs associated with any action they may undertake."

WA Municipal Association president Cr. Ken Pech said the councils of Stirling, Nedlands, Subiaco, Wanneroo, Mandurah, Fremantle, Gosnells and Serpentine Jarrahdale have all committed to Local Agenda 21.

Cr Pech said Local Agenda 21 was a useful mechanism to improve intergovernmental relationships and integrate local and State Government strategic planning policies.

For those interested in learning more about Local Agenda 21, a public meeting is being held at the City of Subiaco on Tuesday, March 10 between 11am and 1pm.

"This public meeting will provide general information about the concepts of Local Agenda 21 and outline the process associated with implementation," Cr Pech said.

Media contacts: Ministerial - Nicole Trigwell 9421 7777

WAMA - Clare Walsh 9213 2042