Airdrie & Coatbridge Advertiser
Michael Coyle back on ballot
Councillor Michael Coyle has vowed to do everything within his power to work for his constituents following the SNP’s shock U-turn to allow him to stand as a candidate in May’s local government elections.
Just last month the veteran Airdrie South representative and his wife Agnes were told they had failed the party’s vetting process and were being deselected as candidates.
While Mr Coyle has been given a reprieve, his wife has been snubbed by the SNP, who confirm she was “not approved” for reselection, and is now understood to be considering her options.
Following the couple’s initial deselection, they say they were inundated with letters and messages of support from party colleagues and members of the community.
The SNP refused to make public the reasoning behind last month’s decision and has given no clear indication for the sudden change of heart.
Mr Coyle, who was first elected in 2007, said he is pleased to be able to campaign for the right to continue to represent the Airdrie South ward but declined to comment on his wife’s deselection.
He told the Advertiser: “I am delighted to be able to stand as a candidate.
“I hope that the people of Airdrie South allow me the opportunity to continue the good job I’ve been doing for the last 10 years.
“I will continue to do everything within my power to work for my constituents for as long as I am in a position to do so.”
Airdrie & Shotts MSP Alex Neil responded to the latest developments by telling the Advertiser: “Both Michael and Agnes Coyle are two outstanding councillors. They have done a power of work for the communities they represent.
“I am delighted that Michael will be standing as an SNP candidate again.
“However, I am very sad and disappointed that Agnes has not been approved as a candidate.
“She has been a brilliant campaigner for the party for nearly 20 years and is a true patriot.”
North Lanarkshire SNP group leader David Stocks said: “I am absolutely delighted that Michael is now back on the approved candidates list for the elections but disappointed that Agnes isn’t on it.
“They have both been tireless in their dedication to local people over the last decade.
“The Westminster election campaign two years ago was a bit late starting due to the referendum so we’re all just keen to get off and running with the local government elections now.”
An SNP spokesperson said: “Mr Coyle was approved by the assessment panel and is seeking selection for Airdrie South. Mrs Coyle was not approved and so will not be an SNP candidate in the election.”
I am disappointed that Agnes has not been approved