There are ‘two bullies’ in Donegal County Council and they should not be allowed to take over meetings.
The bold claim was made by Independent representative, Michael McClafferty, at this afternoon’s rowdy monthly meeting of the local authority.
During a heated debate on whether or not to increase the Local Property Tax, there were several claims of ‘bullying and harassment’.
When the online meeting resumed after lunch, Fianna Fail’s Liam Blaney proposed it be adjourned due to derogatory remarks.
“Since I returned at 2:12 pm I have heard a number of awful comments including ‘you’re a tired old man’,” he said.
“Those comments are, at least, discriminatory and bullying at the highest order. We have councillors of all ages, and no one should have to listen to that. I propose we should adjourn today’s meeting. This should be followed by a meeting of all party whips.”
Seconding the proposal, Cllr McLafferty described the comments as ‘totally disgusting.’
“That is totally disgusting, we have the same type of carry on at Glenties meetings. We have two bullies in Donegal County Council and they shouldn’t be allowed to take over.”
The Cathaoirleach, Cllr Jack Murray, pointed out that, if Cllr Blaney’s motion was passed, today’s meeting would have to be adjourned until another date.
The motion on LPT was just the third of 35 items on the agenda.
“I don’t think it would be prudent to adjourn. Maybe we should all take a deep breath and show some respect for one another,” he said.
Cllr Frank McBrearty challenged Cllr Blaney to ‘have the guts’ to name the person he was referring to.
Cllr Niamh Kennedy tabled an amended motion, that the meeting continue, but that the Cathaoirleach make more use of his mute button.
Cllr Blaney added : “Anyone that would take those remarks seriously would not go ahead with this meeting today. We are being disrupted by the same people all morning. The party Whips should hold a meeting with the council CEO and put an end to this.”
Following a vote, Cllr Blaney’s proposal was overwhelmingly carried.
However, there was some confusion after Cllr Murray suggested they only adjourn for one hour.
The meeting may resume at 3:30.
Update 3:35pm : The meeting has been adjourned until next Monday, July 26, to allow councillors to “reflect on what was said.”
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