WHILE other councils may be opposed to the federal government forcing citizenship ceremonies to be held on Australia Day, Leeton shire has no objections.
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Leeton has been holding citizenship formalities during its Australia Day awards ceremony for several years already.
It also includes a component each year where current residents can renew and reinforce their allegiance to the country.
Over the weekend Prime Minister Scott Morrison announced the government would be “forcing” local government to hold these citizenship ceremonies on Australia Day.
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Leeton Australia Day Committee chairman and deputy mayor George Weston doesn’t have a problem with the plan.
"Leeton has already been including citizenship ceremonies as part of Australia Day festivities for some years now," councillor Weston said.
"I think it is a good idea. Unless for some reason someone needs to have it done urgently, I think Australia Day is a great time to do it.
"It is a great way to welcome people into the community, in front of the community."
The concept is also being supported by Griffith mayor John Dal Broi, as well as Bland Shire mayor Brian Monaghan.
However, Murrumbidgee Council mayor Ruth McRae believes there should be a choice available.
Plans for Australia Day in Leeton are well underway and a citizenshop ceremony will be held as part of the festivities in Mountford Park on the morning of January 26.
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