The Saint Nicholas Greek Orthodox Church in Thebarton, Adelaide is preparing to undergo a soundproofing project, and the entire thing is already undergoing a great deal of scrutiny.
According to 7News in Australia, the church has received a grant of $5 million, causing a political upheaval. Why? The grant came directly from the federal government.
Politicians, like Nick Xenophon, one of the senators, believe the amount is ridiculously excessive. When questioned, Infrastructure Minister Anthony Albanese confirmed that the church is eligible for insulation under legislation that protects places impacted by the growing noise imprint within the city.
It is important to note that two other area churches have also received grants. One has received $3 million and the other has received $3.5 million. The government believes each has received the minimum amount necessary to conduct properly soundproof the facilities.
Funding for these projects is coming from a fund created by the Adelaide Airport levy – a fund put together to pay for changes caused by airport sound pollution. Of particular interest, however, is a current investigation of the priest, Father Prokopios Kanavas concerning an allegedly forged reference of character. Could there be other forms of fraud occurring in relation to the costs of these projects? Probably not, but we’ll know in time.