Milford Mercury | Local News, Sport & Entertainment

County cannot move forward

From the Milford Mercury, first published Friday 23rd May 2003.

Dear Sir Well done to the Mercury for its reporting and comment in the May 15 edition, informing your readers of the lack of democracy and public accountability at County Hall.

The `Surprise pay rise for councillors' was also a surprise to me. Few would question an inflationary increase, but double the inflation rate and the fact that it was not even brought before the last full council, cabinet or even a committee is a serious concern.

I was present at the last full council and extraordinary council meeting held on May 8 and was horrified at the blatant disregard of the ruling Independent group for democratic procedure and public accountability. In the past, responsibility for decisions was spread over the whole council, but now the buck stops with this cabinet of Independent councillors.

Pembrokeshire cannot move forward while important decisions are being made by this small group.

Your editorial clearly states that the Independents must go, but only the public has the power to do that through the ballot box, as long as the political parties produce the candidates and a manifesto of how they will open up the council to democracy and public accountability as they do in many councils across the UK (but not in Pembrokeshire), and other promises as after all, the Independents CANNOT produce a manifesto as they are all Independent (allegedly).

When the elections come in a year's time, as the Mercury says, Lets get them out.

Ann Lye (Mrs) Woodlands View, Johnston

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