County cabinet member’s work is praised as she is forced to resign due to ill health

There was a standing ovation and a fair few tears at County Hall when ill health forced one of West Sussex County Council’s cabinet members to resign.

Debbie Kennard, cabinet member for safer, stronger communities, had a lung transplant in 2015 and told fellow councillors that she had since developed some serious health problems.

Struggling to speak at first, a tearful Mrs Kennard said she had ‘absolutely loved’ the role she has held for the past two years.

Lauding the work of the county libraries and the fire and rescue service, she said: “It’s been a great privilege to work with teams of amazing, dedicated staff. It’s been inspiring and I count myself truly blessed. It’s been an honour to see all the work you all do.”

She dissolved into tears after explaining she had to reduce her work load on the advice of her doctors.

A comforting arm words of and encouragement from leader Louise Goldsmith saw her regain her composure and tell colleagues she planned to ‘get some rest and get well again’.

Chairman Janet Duncton said it had been an ‘honour and a pleasure’ to work with Mrs Kennard, adding: “You were nothing but kindness and hard-working. I know everybody in this council chamber wishes you the very best.”

There were supportive words from Lib Dem and Labour councillors as well.

Dr James Walsh (Lib Dem, Littlehampton East) said for Mrs Kennard to have carried out her challenging role over the past two years ‘must have been a considerable strain on her’.

He added: “I join in wishing her the best of health and a recovery to full health and we will all attempt to support her in that.”

Mrs Goldsmith announced that Jacquie Russell (Con, East Grinstead South & Ashurst Wood) would take over as cabinet member.