Reflective Response: Political Science - Public Participation

This assignment is a reflective response analyzing the demolition of the Sydney stadium, prompted by a media article. The response examines the challenges governments face when undertaking infrastructure projects, particularly concerning public participation and the potential for court injunctions. The author argues that politicians must engage with their electorates, consider public opinion, and respect court orders. The author also emphasizes the importance of prioritizing public needs, such as education and healthcare, over new stadium construction. The reflection draws on the provided article, the author's personal opinions, and broader knowledge about government accountability and the ethical implications of public spending, ultimately advocating for transparency and community involvement in decision-making processes.

Reflective response 1
Reflective response
Name
Affiliation
Instructor
Date

Reflective response 2
Reflective response
In the spirit of improving infrastructure, governments and politicians always face
challenges. Citizens are enlightened and not delay in questioning the authenticity of certain
projects. They demand answers and go as far as seeking court directives so that certain
projects or activities can be halted. The case at hand- demolition of the Sydney stadium
presents a clear example of how government plans can face hurdles. However, it is a matter
of determination as to whether politicians and government administrators do due diligence.
As seen in the article, members of the public claim that public participation was overlooked,
(Megan, 2019). This is why court injunctions exist, (Gibson, 2017, 13).
Politicians are duly elected to represent the people and their views. As such, they
must reciprocate by engaging their electorates about issues such as the demolition of
infrastructure. The citizens become frustrated when they see that their taxes go to waste. It
is also important to ascertain whether the expansion and construction of a new world-class
stadium are really needed, (Richards, Parry Smith & Hall, 2018, 2). It is my opinion that
existing structures should be maintained as they are. The money supposedly being allocated
for a new stadium can be channeled to improving education and the healthcare system,
leaders must set priorities so that they do not get reprimands from the general public. Most
importantly, public participation and consultation are key, adherence to court injunctions
and orders must also be considered and the views of the public should be taken into
consideration. From past experiences, new infrastructure being proposed by leaders are
mechanisms of siphoning tax payer’s money.

Reflective response 3
References
Gibson, C. R. (2017). Instead of rebuilding stadiums, the NSW government should focus on
local sport and events. 3(1) 13
Megan, Gorrey. (2019). Sydney stadium demolition on hold as community group launches
appeal. https://www.smh.com.au/national/nsw/sydney-stadium-demolition-on-hold-as-
community-group-launches-appeal-20190307-p512ez.html accessed on 21 Mar. 19
Richards, J., Parry, K.D., Smith, M. and Hall, T.J., 2018. Note to governments: sports stadiums
should benefit everyone, not just fans.The Conversation. 2