Councillorsrememberall thoselosttocoronavirus

The budget meeting began with a moment’s silence in memory of all those who have died of coronavirus in the past year.

Council leader Jim Logue, SNP finance spokesperson Jim Hume and Conservative leader Meghan Gallacher all expressed their groups’ thanks to North Lanarkshire staff for their response to the pandemic.

Airdrie Central representative Councillor Logue said: “Covid-19 has wreaked havoc in our communities.

“It has claimed some of our most vulnerable and it’s right that we remember them. Our thoughts will always stay with those who have lost loved ones.

“Our dedicated staff have been a beacon of hope, working to support businesses and communities, and it’s important we place on record our thanks to all of them.”

Councillor Hume agreed: “I formally thank everyone working for the council for the exceptional way they’ve responded, ensuring the best possible support could be provided to communities.

Councillor Gallacher added: “I’d like to thank all council staff for their hard work and dedication as we fight Covid-19, which has significantly impacted our communities.”

Labour have gained two additional seats on North Lanarkshire Council following this week’s delayed by-elections.

Helen Loughran won the Thorniewood ward vacancy created when Steven Bonnar of the SNP stood down shortly after his election as Coatbridge’s MP in December 2019.

Party colleague Peter Kelly won in the Fortissat ward which includes Salsburgh, replacing independent member Tommy Cochrane who resigned last April.

It means the Labour minority administration now has 32 councillors on the local authority, with the SNP having 29 while there are eight Conservatives and eight independents.

Only one in four voters in both wards took the opportunity to cast their vote for their new councillor, with the turnouts being 25.4 per cent in Thorniewood and 23.3 per cent in Fortissat.

Labour group leader Jim Logue said the results were“truly brilliant and a vindication of our administration.”he added:“our amazing team deserve all the credit for their hard work over the last few weeks.

“This victory cements our place as the largest Labour authority in Scotland and is a boost to our mission to make North Lanarkshire the place to live, learn, work, invest and visit.”

Returning officer Des Murray said:“i would like to congratulate Helen and Peter on their election, and I look forward to seeing them at the next council meeting.”