Issue - meetings

To consider a waiver of the six month non-attendance at meetings of the authority rule due to the ill health and recovery of a Councillor for a six month period up to 16 April 2019 pursuant to Section 85 (1) of the Local Government Act 1972.

Resolved:

To extend the waiver of the six month non- attendance at meetings of the authority rule due to ill health and recovery of a Councillor for a six month period up to 16 April 2019 pursuant to Section 85 (1) of the Local Government Act 1972.

To consider a waiver of the six month non- attendance at meetings of the authority rule due to ill health and recovery of a Councillor for a six month period up to 16 April 2019 pursuant to Section 85 (1) of the Local Government Act 1972.

Cllr Williams introduced the item and asked if Members agreed.

Cllr Peter asked that before the Council agree this, he would like to know who will pick up Cllr Clark’s ward work, stating that Cllr Clark has been ill for several years and that he (Cllr Peter) has picked up his ward work during that time, advising that he cannot continue with that so would like to request the decision goes to a formal vote.  Cllr Peter added that he has made his views very clear on this previously, asking that if this does go to a vote and that it is found in favour, there is recognition that he will not pick up the vacant work.

Mark Brookes advised that for a formal vote to go forward, two more Councillors would need to support the call for that, otherwise the objection would be recorded for the minutes only.

Cllr Peter confirmed he understands but just wants it to be recorded that he is not able to pick up that volume of work.

Cllr Howard expressed her strong objection to Cllr Peter comments, stating that as an Apsley Ward councillor she has done everything she can to pick up some of the vacant work.  Confirming that when Cllr Clark first became ill it was agreed between the Ward Councillors that she would cover the Aspley area and Cllr Peter would cover the Corner Hall; stating that has been the case.

Cllr Marshall commented on her disappointment to hear Cllr Peter comments and her disappointment at learning how he feels.  Further stating that there is no doubt that both Cllr Peter and Cllr Howard work for their constituents and recognising that it can be difficult when one member of your group is not available for some period of time.  Would expect colleagues to support Councillors in their ward in their workload if that is required.  Cllr Marshall offered assurance to Cllrs Peter and Cllr Howard, that whilst she would expect them to continue working hard for their constituents, they can always look to their colleagues for support.  Cllr Marshall stated that she does not support Cllrs Peter request but she does hear what he says.

Cllr Williams endorsed the comments made by Cllr Marshall, adding that if Cllr Clark could be here he would be; he is frustrated not to be fit to fulfil his duties.  Cllr Williams added that he does not support this motion but if Cllr Peter or Cllr Howard feel they need support, their colleagues will do that. 

Cllr Williams stated that he feels it is the appropriate thing to do to extend this waiver.

Waiver agreed.