I won't be silenced' vows councillor after complaint thrown out

 

A councillor has vowed to continue campaigning for improved village facilities and against Hafod tip after a complaint against her was dismissed by the Ombudsman.

The complaint against Ruabon Community Councillor Donna O'Brien was made by the council's clerk David Alyn Thomas, who alleged the councillor had breached the Code of Conduct in campaigning to save the village's Multi-Use Games Area (MUGA).

The Ombudsman decided not to investigate further, stating:

"The role of a councillor is to represent their area and the people who live in it, be an advocate for local people and keep them informed about issues. It appears that the Member’s actions could be considered to be fulfilling that role when posting comments or videos on community social media pages, convening public meetings or when speaking to the press concerning an issue, as in this case. It is not the purpose of the Code to inhibit free speech and the robust expression of political differences."

The Ombudsman said there was no evidence to substantiate many of the complaints made - which amounted to Cllr O'Brien disagreeing with the council's decision to keep the MUGA closed. She was also criticised in the complaint for organising a public meeting.

Cllr O'Brien also organised a clear-up of the site, which was covered in broken glass. This was also included in the complaint by the clerk, who also objected to her voicing her opinion on the controversial Hafod landfill site.

Cllr O'Brien said: "I was surprised, to say the least, to see that a complaint had been made against me by the clerk without informing me or the community council of his intention. Having said that, I'm pleased that the Ombudsman decided not to investigate the complaint and made it clear that I have the right to an opinion and to campaign on issues that are important to the community I represent. 

"The complaint had no merit and was more about getting me to stop campaigning - it's shocking that an officer would try to shut down free speech and campaigning by a councillor just because they disagree with them.

"I will continue to speak up for better facilities for the community and will not be silenced by anyone in campaigning to close Hafod tip - which is having such a negative impact on the communities surrounding it."