Administration has failed (Carmarthen Journal)

Carmarthen Journal - 19/03/08

"IT'S shameful that there are people out there who are so stupid, 'twp' and who talk nonsense," were the words used by Councillor Ieuan Jones, of Llandeilo, the executive board member for education at a recent county council meeting.

Councillor Jones was referring to those who have showed their opposition and protested against Carmarthenshire Council's policy regarding the closure of rural schools.

At the same meeting, Councillor Meryl Gravell, leader of the council, referring to Plaid councillors, said: "Some members exhibit extreme weakness and are prepared to listen to people protesting against school closures in the public gallery and out there in the community."

This goes to the heart of how Carmarthenshire has been run over the last four years. Democracy stands for nothing. It is a "we know best" attitude every time, with little respect for different points of view.

Since Councillor Jones is responsible for education, he should surely encourage respect for different viewpoints.

It is a sad day if education does not teach our children to see all sides of an argument, and tolerance and respect to those who do not agree with their views.

Time and time again, the Independent and Labour groups who run the council have failed to listen to the electorate.

Decisions are made by a small number of individuals and high-ranking officers of departments.

Plaid will work to ensure Carmarthenshire Council is more open and answerable to the public. A Plaid-run council will operate on a non-partisan basis, building robust scrutiny mechanisms, so that decision-making power is not merely concentrated in the hands of the 10 executive board members.

Peter Hughes Griffiths

Leader of Plaid councillors on Carmarthenshire Council