By Dan Walsh at April meeting of Wexford County Council
A large number of fuel protesters from Rosslare district attended in the public gallery at last Monday’s Wexford County Council meeting held at County Hall, but two emergency motions supporting them failed to be put to a vote.
Cllr Jim Codd strongly criticised the government’s “heavy-handed” response to the protests, which he said; “have been driven by ordinary workers and families struggling with rising costs.”
However, it must be said that Cllr Codd expressed admiration for the Rosslare protesters who did so peacefully, were courteous to passing motorists and emergency vehicles at all times and called off the four day protest quietly and without resistence on Sunday.
Cllr AoifeRose O’Brien said the current government has mishandled the cost-of-living crisis and other issues like housing and healthcare. She said the people have spoken and they have no confidence in this government.
Cllr Oliver Walsh showed sympathy for the protesters but called the motions “populist” and criticised the Council for prioritising national over local issues.
Cllr Walsh voiced concern about protesters’ blockade tactics, especially self-appointed wardens preventing people from their daily activities.
Cllr Codd proposed a motion condemning the government’s actions, expressed frustration that the protest had been ignored by the government, who only wanted to engage with official groups like the IFA and Irish Road Hauliers Association, despite the protest being about broader concerns.
Cllr Aoife Rose O’Brien also introduced a motion to hold the government accountable, calling for a vote of no confidence in the coalition.
Amendments were subsequently proposed to both motions, and proceedings were temporarily paused. It was clarified that, in the event of an emergency motion—which may be called on short notice—a majority of 18 votes is required for amendments to be considered acceptable.
Cathaoirleach Cllr Joe Sullivan restarted the meeting, leading to a roll-call amid some confusion in the chamber. County Secretary Michael Drea had a busy session quoting the rulebook. Some called for an ‘in-committee’ vote, but the Cathaoirleach was adamant and all names were recorded.
Cllr Codd’s motion failed – 17 (for), 13 (against) and one abstention. Cllr O’Brien’s motion failed by just one vote – 16 in favour and 15 against. Neither motion reached 18 votes, so they were not adopted.
WexfordLocal.com 