The Echuca ward councillor said his freedom of speech was restricted under the current policy.
‘‘Though I understand the intent behind the purpose and role of portfolios, I feel there is a major shortfall due to the restrictions of other policies especially in regard to several of the media policies which can restrict freedom of speech as a councillor and so reduces the positive effect that councillors have to assist council,’’ he said at the meeting.
‘‘I am in favour of further discussion and a further report in February (expected at the council meeting last night).’’
Councillors were discussing deferring making final decisions on council portfolios for four weeks when Cr Mackrell made the statement.
Cr Leigh Wilson, speaking about the portfolios, said they were a ‘‘very important function of council’’.
‘‘Providing a valuable experience to councillors and allowing them on behalf of council to contribute to the broader community,’’ he said.
The item was expected to return to council last night.
‘‘I’m sure there will be much discussion amongst the councillors over the coming weeks,’’ Cr Wilson said at the meeting last month.
‘‘Once again it’s really an opportunity for councillors with the appropriate experience to represent council as required.’’