Perth Voice Interactive

A BAN on recording council meetings will continue at Vincent city council.

Currently minutes are recorded by the council’s in-house microphone system and CD copies are available (if you’re prepared to wait a few days), but there’s a long-standing ban on people using their own personal recording devices.

Cr Dudley Maier wants to allow journalists to record meetings “to ensure accuracy”.

Cr John Carey, a former journo, backed the plan, but the rest of the council was shy.

Cr Ros Harley says it’s best to keep just one audio record of the meeting so the mysterious vagaries of iPhone recorders don’t cause mistakes.

She was also concerned that as the press table is very close to the main desk, media recorders may pick up inadvertent asides whispered between councillors.

Mayor Alannah MacTiernan says the fee is reasonable.

“I’m sure even the Voice would be prepared to pay $16,” Ms MacTiernan said.

The Ed says: No, we’re not. It’s a stupid ban and a ridiculous charge for a 10c bit of hardware. The council actually charges $31 for a recording of the meeting ($16 is just for the minutes).

by DAVID BELL