Wonderful optimism

What a delight it would be to see some fresh faced young and enthusiastic new members of parliament; ones who won’t fall into the same trap that others before them have.

Our current crop of politicians appear to see only as far as the next election. Some are intent on feathering their own nests on the way. Many do not seem to be representing their electorates, but rather the party that they belong to.

Some treat politics as a game that can be played at the public expense where they can bend and break rules, conventions or common practice to score a win over their opponents. Is it any wonder there is disenchantment by the general public.

Hopefully candidates in the next state election will come and ask what the community wants and needs, and try to deliver on those.

The real challenge will be when the successful candidate goes into parliament. Will that person be brow beaten and feel obliged to conform to the past way of doing things or will a stance be made and an electorate get what it really needs?

For a long time West Gippsland has needed a modern up to date 21st century hospital. It is more than overdue. Unless there is a major shift in attitude by members of the government and opposition it will not happen as they are too busy focusing on the city-centric needs of Melbourne.

Perhaps there will be a major change in electorates all over the state and the current crop of politicians will be moved on and a new culture will be formed. Optimism is wonderful isn’t it until it hits the cold harshness of reality.

Greg Tuck, Warragul

A brick to the motorist who smoked in the toilets at Civic Park, Warragul last Wednesday. You need to consider other people.