By CATHERINE WATSON
CASEY councillors have overwhelmingly rejected deputy mayor Sam Aziz’s call for a discussion of the dangers of Islam before they decide on a planning application for a mosque in Doveton.
At last Tuesday’s meeting, mayor Amanda Stapledon said such a discussion would create a poor perception in a multicultural community.
When Cr Stapledon said she would be proposing an alternative motion confirming Casey’s commitment to multiculturalism, Cr Aziz described it as a ‘‘ridiculous’’ motion that insulted him.
‘‘Are you aware that I would be deeply offended? That it would be suggesting I’m against multiculturalism?’’
Cr Stapledon: ‘‘I have had a week of discussions with you. The last thing I want to do is debate this with you in the council.’’
Cr Aziz: ‘‘I challenge you on a point of order. It’s not about multiculturalism, it’s about freedom of speech.’’
When it came to a vote, only Cr Rosalie Crestani supported him, with the other nine councillors voting against the motion.
Earlier, Cr Aziz said his notice of motion was not about restricting the religious freedom of others but about protecting freedom of speech and having an open debate.
‘‘I want to steer away from this silly banner of political correctness. All it does is bury things away. I want to follow the concept of democratic agility or robust liberalism and reflect the fears in the community.’’
Cr Aziz said such a debate had nothing to do with the planning application for the mosque, which would be decided solely on planning grounds. ‘‘If the mosque is approved I’ll be happy to go down and participate in the opening because I believe in freedom of religion.’’
Cr Wayne Smith said a debate on the dangers of Islam could be seen to influence a decision on the planning application.
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