Found some frenemies

I had my first political event... and also learnt what a portmanteau is!

I went to Lindsay Fox's fundraiser for the Premier's Relief Fund on the weekend and spoke to Anna Bligh and Major General Mike Slater. He is a humble, hard working and empathic.  I really like him.  I really like her too.  I told MG Mike GIVIT was busy and being effective with the resources we have, but also moving forward I would like a list of the flood affected so that they can be legitimised and contacted easily.

I asked him if we could have access to the Red Cross/Police records and he said that the (accurate) list was with the insurance companies.  I have already contacted the insurance companies and expected no reply, but MG Mike replies "the insurance companies will not give the Government access to the people's records due to the Privacy Act", but with one raised brow - he knew there was other reasons.  I usually respect the Privacy Act of 88, and consider is one of the most important features of GIVIT - but we need accurate records and insurance information to find those affected.    I am sure they would release their information to charities and the government for funds/donations.   He said they are (gridlocked) because of the insurance company's delays.  I dare say the government and insurance companies are now officially  "frenemies"!

Things are desperate for many families.  There are now several charities literally door knocking in the Lockyer Valley.  The 'door knocking groups' are arguing and seem to be in competition with each other too.  The competition isn't working, as it has now got to the point where we find out about a desperate farmer/individuals (with the credit card ready to buy what ever he needs) and he resents (or is very suspicious of) our call.  He doesn't want to explain what he needs one more time, he is sick of being let down or she is tired of broken promises. Honestly, most of these lists are overwhelming with farm equipment and things that just require large amounts of money..

Just today I have heard about a bigger charity trying to knock over a smaller hard working organisations, that has sprung up since the floods. They say they do not have DGR or something similar - as if that is a sign of efficiency!

I love GIVIT, and how it is inclusive of all charities and groups.  If they work hard with impoverished, marginalised or vulnerable people THEY ARE IN!  As I was reminded today "it takes a village.." so drop the claws and work together!

Jx

FYI - Apparently the word Frenemy is a term used to describe personal, geopolitical, and commercial relationships both among individuals and groups or institutions who is a friend or to a partner who is simultaneously a competitor and rival.  It has been used as "early as 1953" - but hey that wasn't that long ago!