REQUEST TO DISCUSS BRAY BOXING CLUB IS REJECTED
CLLR BRENDAN Thornhill was accused of lacking ‘sensitivity’ after seeking a suspension of standing orders so issues relating to Bray Boxing Club could be discussed.
Speaking near the start of Monday’s meeting of Wicklow
County Council, Cllr Thornhill called for the suspension of standing orders following a shooting at the club last week which resulted in the death of Bobby Messett and injury to two others.
‘We need to discuss Bray Boxing Club and the fall-out. It is something we should really take on board. It could have turned into a massacre. Look at Dunblane...’ said Cllr Thornhill.
However, other elected members interrupted to say that it wasn’t the appropriate time to discuss the issue given that the Gardaí were still investigating the incident.
Cllr Pat Vance interjected, stating: ‘A man was murdered and it’s not appropriate to discuss at this time. There is a garda investigation which remains live.’
Cllr Thornhill replied that he only wanted to discuss the running of the club.
‘ This happened on property belonging to Wicklow County Council. It has nothing to do with the murder or the investigation. I want to discuss the running of the club and the lease.’
Cllr Gerry Walsh said it was ‘ totally inadvisable’ to talk about the matter at this time.
‘ This is a highly sensitive matter and a young man lost his life. I would urge that it isn’t debated in this council chamber today,’ said Cllr Walsh.
Cllr Daire Nolan said: ‘ There is a live, ongoing garda investigation taking place. It does need to be discussed but today isn’t the right day. Of course I and everyone in this chamber wants to see the perpetrators brought to justice but by discussing it in an open chamber we could potentially hamper the garda investigation.’
An angry Cllr John Ryan criticised Cllr Thornhill for his use of words.
‘I am astonished that someone would actually mention the word massacre. The complete lack of sensitivity is completely breathtaking,’ he said.
Cllr Michael O’Connor felt Bray Boxing Club needed to be discussed but at a more appropriate time.
‘I have no doubt and believe that Cllr Thornhill’s heart is in the right place and I think it is possible to discuss without impacting on the investigation. However, it might be better to discuss this further down the line – but we do need to have that conversation.’
Cllr Thornhill insisted: ‘I only want to find out about the club and the way it is run. It is meant to be a community club. Were Wicklow County Council ever approached by other people? There were 20 people in that club.’
No one was willing to second Cllr Thornhill’s request for a suspension of standing orders so cathaoirleach Cllr Edward Timmins continued with the agenda for the meeting.