Previously I have blogged about the plight of the Mok family (their story here) who own a small convenience store on Cambers Flat Road, Park Ridge.

Today I supported a motion in the Roads and Infrastructure Committee that the Mok family be provided compensation, but it did not gain the support of a majority of Councillors. I was astonished that not even the local divisional Councillor voted for the motion.

In the local newspaper, the Local Divisional Councillor, Phil Pidegon, said, “Certainly having seen the (shop’s) figures, these people are very substantially affected and I believe we should do everything possible to try and find a way to offer some compensation to them ,’’ (read full story here).

It is beyond comprehension that my colleagues would vote today to support $10,000 worth of useless 'climate change' studies, but refuse to help a small struggling business that may be forced to close because Council road works has ceased access to their property.

This is Government gone mad! Councillors have to realise that small business is not a bottom-less pit, and take responsibility should our actions adversely affect a person's livelihood.

Even more worrying, my colleagues were so frightened about the facts of this case becoming public that they moved to cut debate, not allowing local representatives the chance to air their views on the issue.

One thing is for certain. I will never give up on ensuring small business gets a fair go and will move a motion in full council next Tuesday so that this issue can be re-examined. Let's see if they will allow this issue to be debated next Tuesday.