HOBART Lord Mayor Damon Thomas has cancelled a planned break from duties as tensions within the Hobart City Council continue to simmer.
In a memo to all aldermen yesterday morning, the Lord Mayor advised that he would no longer be taking leave until January 23, reversing the plan to leave deputy Ron Christie in charge.
The memo followed a letter to the editor, published in the Mercury, from Alderman Christie supporting Speaker Michael Polley, who had been in a stoush with the council over the use of Parliament House lawns for the Taste Festival.
A copy of Alderman Thomas' memo, obtained by the Mercury, reads: "I will not be taking leave as previously advised to aldermen.
"Accordingly, as there is now no administrative need for it, I revoke the authority for the Deputy Lord Mayor to act as Lord Mayor in my absence."
Ald Thomas' memo goes on to say: "I in no way could or do seek to prevent individual free speech on any issue.
"But in terms of speaking on behalf of the council, I request that no alderman other than myself speak to the media in relation to today's editorial or associated print comment in the Mercury." The in-house memo coincided with a media release from Ald Christie indicating that Ald Thomas would be taking part in a stunt called the "Globe of Death", involving motorbikes speeding around him at more than 80km/h, at the Moscow Charity Circus Show last night.
"I think this is very honourable of the Lord Mayor," Ald Christie said.
"I was asked to step into the Globe, but in terms of protocol and knowing the Lord Mayor will be attending, I thought it only appropriate he be given the first opportunity.
Nothing to do about politics -- everything to do about fun and circus."
Ald Thomas said yesterday he decided to remain in his role as Lord Mayor as he was holidaying in Tasmania and would be close at hand.
"I have every confidence in the Deputy Lord Mayor but the reality is I am so close I may as well remain in the role."
He said it was uncommon for a Lord Mayor to hand over the reins while in the state.
matthew.smith@news.com.au
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