The Aboriginal Legal Rights Movement executive came to Ceduna last Wednesday to discuss concerns about the District Council of Ceduna's decision to introduce safety and security patrols using dogs in the town.

Mayor Allan Suter and councillors met with ALRM board members Sandra Miller and Faith Thomas, CEO Neil Gillespie and general counsel Christopher Charles.

Mayor Suter detailed the background to the introduction of the security patrol and refuted allegations canvassed in the media that the use of patrols was an initiative to move Aboriginal people on from the foreshores of Ceduna.

He detailed examples of the problems faced by council of illegal camping on the foreshores by tourists and misuse of the boat ramp.

He assured the ALRM that the dogs were only intended for the personal security of the operators.

ALRM has repeatedly expressed concern that the safety and security patrol was specifically introduced to address problems associated with Aboriginal people. Mr Gillespie expressed concern that the use of dogs sent the wrong message about Ceduna, which in his opinion seriously affected the image of Ceduna, South Australia and indeed Australia.

At the meeting, Mr Suter detailed examples of where security personnel had assisted the local Aboriginal community by delivering kangaroo tails and blankets to a number of Anangu and taking people to hospital and similar generous activities.

Mr Gillespie confirmed that security staff had undertaken these activities and other services reported to him by local Aboriginal community members that rightly should be provided by other levels of government.

As a sign of good intent Mayor Suter asked ALRM to join council in its endeavours to address past racist behaviour in Ceduna by asking ALRM to partner council in its reward on racist graffiti.

Mr Gillespie indicated ALRM's support which is the first exercise in partnering between Council and ALRM.

Mr Gillespie detailed to Council ALRM's plans for the future of its operations in Ceduna which included the reinstatement of its solicitor following some increased funding received from the Federal Government, redevelopment of its Ceduna premises and the purchase of staff accommodation.

One initiative by ALRM is to allow its solicitor to provide legal services to the wider community and not just to Aboriginal people.

Whilst ALRM has some reservations regarding potential conflict of interest in providing legal services, both Mr Suter and Mr Gillespie agreed this is an example of what can be achieved through an MoU.