Plaid Cymru councillors boycott mayor making

Plaid Cymru councillors will not be attending Wrexham Council's mayor making on Tuesday.

In a statement they said: 

"We regret that we are unable to attend because it is an important day for the incoming mayor Andy Williams, who we wish all the best in his forthcoming term, and a chance to say thanks to the outgoing mayor, Brian Cameron.

"However, the mayoral role - which is meant to be the highest civic honour rather than a political gift - has become tainted by the actions of the ruling coalition. Four mayoral nominations in recent years have been councillors who have joined the ruling Independent group after being elected. The perception is that the mayoralty is in the gift of the ruling coalition rather than being bestowed impartially on the basis of long service and seniority. It undermines the role and reflects badly on the council as a whole. 

"As a result, we will not be taking part in this mayor-making process but do give our full backing to Cllr Andy Williams and his new deputy, Cllr Beryl Blackmore.

"We would also like the council to review the way the annual council meeting is held. Tradition had dictated that the Tuesday meeting is always adjourned after the mayor is elected for a buffet and then the meeting is reconvened a day later to complete the business of the annual meeting. Do we really need two meetings with the extra work and cost for officers?"