Tempers flare over U.S. trip on St. Patrick's Day
BID TO STOP COUNTY COUNCIL 'HOOLEY' IS UNSUCCESSFUL
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Wednesday March 03 2010
A WICKLOW County Council trip to New York for St. Patrick's Day is to go ahead despite allegations that it would be a waste of money at a time of such financial difficulty at home.
The decision was taken only after raging debate at the Council meeting on Monday, as a bid was made to stop the planned visit by Council Chairman Pat Vance, and County Manager Eddie Sheehy.
In a motion tabled by Sinn Féin councillors John Brady and John Snell, the practice of foreign travel was slated in a time where they said people in Co. Wicklow are losing jobs and having difficulties providing basics for their homes. 'We tabled this in light of the current economic situation. Sending people for a hooley in New York on St. Patrick's Day is not a way to get out of economic difficulties. Never once during any discussion have I heard this mooted as a key component of economic recovery. In light of the fact that the council has laid off 70 people it would be totally inappropriate for us to send public representatives abroad,' said Cllr. John Brady.
' If I thought you would bring back even one job I would welcome you going. Those here who are sniggering and laughing can't condone sending people to America when people in Wicklow are struggling. Shame on you,' added Cllr. Snell. Outrage broke out within the chamber when Cllr. Brady told Cllr. George Jones to go to ' fascist Germany' when he suggested that Sinn Féin leader Gerry Adams went on many such trips at the expense of the British taxpayer.
' That is a disrespectful remark. You should take it back,' Chairman Pat Vance instructed Cllr. Brady, which he did later in the meeting, adding he did not intend to cast a slur over Germany or its people.
Cllr. Nicky Kelly said that the reality is that hundreds of people have lost their jobs and that while the politicians take the brunt of criticism, nobody questions where funding comes from for trips by management officials, which are also paid for by the council.
Around the chamber however, the tone of remaining members was one of large support for the trip.
'I don't want to waste money but I had to emigrate fifty years ago and was looked after and I later helped others when they did the same. I know people who cannot come home and it would mean a lot to them to see representatives at the parade,' said Cllr. Pat Doran.
Cllr. John Byrne concurred with this and said it was the duty and responsibility of Cllr. Vance and Mr. Sheehy to take the trip and show leadership. 'As regards tourism it is a no-brainer and we should sell Wicklow at every opportunity. What a time to be promoting our county when the whole world becomes Irish for a few hours on St. Patrick's Day,' said Cllr. Tom Fortune.
- Deborah COLEMAN
