Councillor’s anger at being branded party ‘ dead wood’
AGLASGOW councillor has slammed party officials for referring to him as “dead wood” after he received a British Empire Medal for his services to the community.
Paul Carey, who has served the Drumchapel and Anniesland area since 2001, is understood to be the second Scottish councillor to ever receive the accreditation from the Queen.
However, the Labour politician says the news is not all celebratory after a source cited new leaders Malcolm Cunning and Eva Murray were keen to get rid of the “dead wood” – prompting him to resign his position as opposition spokesperson for cleansing, roads and parks.
He said: “Myself and my colleagues will continue to work hard in our wards, therefore, the comment from an unknown source describing some of my colleagues as ‘ dead wood’ was disgraceful.
“I very much hope they reflect on why they said that.”
Despite the jibe, Cllr Carey says he plans to go forward as a “united group” when he finishes celebrating his new accolade.
Cllr Carey, who also works in a residential children’s home in West Dunbartonshire, has dedicated the award to the “real heroes” in his ward – the local groups who work to protect the most vulnerable.
The dad- of- three said: “It was with great delight and surprise that her Majesty the Queen has awarded me the BEM for my work as a councillor in my ward.
“I would like to thank the constituents in ward fourteen for putting their trust in me and I can assure them that I will continue to work as hard as I can for them … I would like to thank my partner and my family for their support over the years.
“I would also like to thank West
Dunbartonshire Council and my colleagues in the children’s home, particularly my Manager, Wilma Kennedy, for their understanding and co- operation.
“Without this, I would not be able to carry out my duties as an Elected Member in one of the greatest cities in the world.
Labour group leader Cllr Malcolm Cunning said: “I am delighted that Paul’s doughty and dedicated work on behalf of his community in Drumchapel has been recognised in the Queen’s Birthday Honours List.
“He has been an effective and hardworking councillor both in his community and in the chambers since he was first elected in 2003.
“I have no doubt that the entire Labour Group, when we meet on Monday, will take the opportunity to express our unanimous congratulations.”