Your chance to demand action

AS we head into campaign mode for the state election tomorrow, we can only hope the ugly politics displayed this week shifts on to more positive ground.

We have had accusations of FBI investigations directed toward LNP leader Campbell Newman’s family by Premier Anna Bligh, including comments about being behind bars, and of returning to the dark old days of crooked Queensland politics under an LNP rule.

We have had Mr Newman suggesting the Premier’s attacks were a sign of a woman in “meltdown” mode in this last week of the 53rd Queensland Parliament.

He has continued to attack Ms Bligh over her handling of the floods and cyclone Yasi last year.

One can only hope such negativity and distractions are shelved as the campaign for government proper begins and issues-driven debate takes hold in coming weeks.

Which is why today launches its online survey to give the community a united voice and the chance to steer debate into relevant territory.

The survey, which takes less than 10 minutes to complete, covers subjects as varied as crocodile culling and roadworks.

Voters who are tired of rhetoric can demand some answers.

The more voices taking part, the stronger the message to our candidates that we don’t want tit-for-tat, we don’t want clever one-liners and tenuous stories about crime links.

We want something we can touch, such as a newly-rebuilt family home at Cardwell.

We want action on major infrastructure projects for struggling Cairns builders.

We want to know about projects for indigenous youths and some honest discussion about alcohol management plans.

We want to know how our children will be schooled and whether our health system will improve.

The more information the community gives this newspaper, the more this newspaper can make our politicians more accountable.

It’s in your hands.