Council undecided about public’s presence

January 1988

LOUTH county council can’t make up its mind whether or not to allow members of the public attend meetings.

Cllr. Hugh Conlon proposes a motion to rescind a previous decision, and allow people in.

He says they could apply to attend on specific dates, with a maximum of six getting in.

Cllr. Conlon thinks it only right, that in a controlled fashion, the public be given access to meetings.

However, acting county manager Brian Gormley says there is neither the facilities or accommodation in the chamber.

He adds the public is well informed of what happens at meetings.

Cllr. Nickey McCabe feels it’s not in the interests of the council that people be allowed attend.

They could put undue pressure on councillors on certain issues, even an attempt to ‘ blackmail’.

Cllr. Tom Bellew expresses his surprise at that remark, as more would be seen to be hidden by preventing the public from coming.

Cllr. Dermot Ahern TD notes when the press isn’t present, council meetings are well-conducted, otherwise members play to the gallery, and he says it would be even worse if the public is there.

Cllr. Fra Browne counters that Deputy Ahern isn’t a bad hand at playing to the gallery.

Some councillors might feel a bit embar- rassed by the public’s presence, says Cllr. John McGuinness.

Cllr. Joe Lennon remarks if they decide to not let in members of the public, it might be seen the council is hiding something.

It is suggested by Cllr. Michael Bell TD that the motion, as it stands, is too loose.

He proposes the matter be deferred to the next meeting, to come up with something better, and this is agreed.