Western Trust cites pre-election sensitivity as it cancels Council meeting

Fermanagh and Omagh District Council were informed of the move by Chief Executive, Alison McCullagh, at the Policy and Resources Committee meeting.

She advised while the Health and Social Care Subcommittee meeting of April 27 could still go ahead, it would only be to discuss the previous minutes, and to go through other routine matters.

She told members: “It’s unfortunate, as the election date has been known for some time, and the Western Trust had previously committed to the date. We are liaising with them to get availability as soon as practicable after the election.”

Independent Councillor Josephine Deehan said: “It is unfortunate, and in my view, we should proceed with our meeting. We have a number of very important issues which need to be discussed.”

Agreeing, SDLP Councillor Mary Garrity added: “It’s disappointing, and hopefully as soon as the election is over this meeting can be prioritised.”

Ulster Unionist Councillor Diana Armstrong pointed out questions had been submitted by members to be addressed at the meeting, and enquired if the Western Trust could respond to these in writing.

In response, Ms. McCullagh said: “My understanding is they won’t be dealt with until the next meeting when the Trust is available. In the event any communication is received, we will share it at the meeting, but I wouldn’t anticipate it.”

Sinn Fein’s Councillor Tommy Maguire also expressed disappointment, noting: “In recent times it seems to be more difficult to get a response or to engage.

"After forming the subcommittee, I thought that would have formalised and enhanced the meeting, but there seems to be continual reasons [from the Trust] not to attend, and insufficient answers. Even not to respond to pre-written questions is totally unacceptable.”

He proposed expressing the Council’s disappointment “in the strongest possible terms”.

This was seconded by Councillor Deehan, and agreed by all members.