According to records, this issue has been debated since 1994. And unfortunately, the debate still continues. However, I believe the wider Parramatta community should be invited to participate in this debate about democracy.

We 'ordinary' parishioner of St Patrick’s Cathedral often need to be forgiven for casually regarding the Cathedral as our local parish church (except with a few more seats!) We have become so comfortable in our own Cathedral parish that we sometimes forget its significance as the Diocesan Church.

And in our rebuilt, modern Cathedral, one of the most important ceremonies we could ever have was the Installation of our new Bishop, Anthony Fisher OP, on 4 March 2010.

Many people have asked why I have always voted against all brothels. In all honesty, it is not because of some religious conviction, but simply the protection of women from violence.

Yes, despite the fact that there are some women who choose to become working girls, they are human beings and deserve protection from violence and harm. So, it came as no surprise that one day there would be a proposal for a brothel that features significant security measures to address this.

On Tuesday, 9 February 2010, I had the pleasure of standing with Labor Minister the Hon Paul McLeay MP, Labor Deputy Speaker the Hon Tanya Gadiel MP, and Ryde Mayor Clr Michael Butterworth, in opening the $600,000 revamp of the Ermington Boat Ramp.

Despite the different political allegiances, I must always give credit where credit is due. This revamped boat ramp looks terrific! As a member of the boating community myself, I was appreciative of the Labor State Government’s contribution.

30 September 2009 saw Clr Tony Issa hang up the mayoral chain as the first Liberal Lord Mayor in NSW history. It remains an honour to be part of a Liberal team who not only increased our number elected onto Council to our highest ever, but also to be part of the team that helped secure Parramatta Liberals with a special place in NSW history.

Defeating the two Labor candidates by a vote margin of 9 to 6, Parramatta’s new Lord Mayor is Clr Paul Garrard, and the new Deputy Lord Mayor is Clr Chiang Lim.