Councillors from across the political divide were left disappointed with Armagh City, Banbridge and Craigavon Borough Council’s handling of a request to light up civic buildings.
At June’s monthly council meeting it was agreed that civic buildings would be lit up red to display council’s support for anti-racism.
Councillor Catherine Nelson brought the proposal to the floor initially but speaking during July’s full council meeting on Monday (July 27) she expressed her disappointment with the way it was handled.
“I have to say I am disappointed that I was not made aware of when the buildings were to be lit up until I saw the social media post on the evening of the event.
“Also the group who submitted the initial request received no reply from Council. That, in my opinion, shows a disregard to that community and I want to put on record that is that played out.”
The Lord Mayor, Councillor Kevin Savage said the group’s disappointment with Council’s lack of response had been noted and that going forward, Council will aim to respond to every successful light up request.
At this point, DUP group whip Councillor Darryn Causby asked the Lord Mayor which group wrote the letter Councillor Nelson was referring to as he had not seen it.
“Why did that not come in via correspondence,” asked Cllr Causby.
“Surely somebody in senior management knows where that letter went to or at the very least someone in senior position should be able to get that information very quickly.”
Council’s Chief Executive, Roger Wilson, then addressed the chamber.
“It is my understanding the letter came in to me or the Lord Mayor’s office and when the report was being presented the correspondence had been received and it was reflected in the report when officers presented it last month.”
When asked by the Local Democracy Reporting Service, if correspondence is normally circulated to members and why this letter was not circulated, a spokesperson for Council issued the following statement: “Council has an annual calendar agreed with members for the lighting up of civic buildings.
“Any additional requests received follow a standard procedure whereby they are passed to the senior officer responsible who then consults with party leaders, followed by consideration at the relevant committee, if required.
“In this instance the procedure was followed and agreement was reached with party leaders to light civic buildings red on July 1st.”
