Council Meeting Highlights Contentious Discussion

A recent Wexford County Council meeting saw a spirited exchange after Councillor Vicky Barron raised concerns about the lack of training for council members and staff in recognizing domestic, sexual, and gender-based violence. The discussion unfolded during a routine round of congratulations following achievements within the county.

Focus on Consent and Training

Cllr Barron initially commended those who commemorated International Women’s Day, specifically highlighting the work of Wexford Women’s Refuge, where she serves as chairperson. She then recounted a recent presentation at the refuge on online abuse and consent, including information on how to respond when you’re told no.

“The understanding of men and boys around consent is especially critical in the current climate, conversations around consent are really important, those conservations need to be had in this chamber.”

Cllr Vicky Barron

She referenced a motion jointly submitted with Cllr Bridín Murphy in November of last year, calling for councillors to receive training on recognizing domestic, sexual, and gender-based violence. However, she expressed frustration that that still hasn’t progressed.

Debate and Adjournment

As Cllr Barron began to elaborate on the legal definition of assault, she was interrupted by Cllr Sullivan, who questioned whether she was straying away from the the topic. Cllr Barron responded with a firm request for her allotted five minutes to speak.

After a brief period of contention, Cllr Barron was granted the opportunity to continue, but only after all other congratulations had been issued. She reiterated her call for training, emphasizing the need to include all Wexford County Council (WCC) staff and to clarify the ethical boundaries for councillors during meetings held in various locations.

The situation escalated, leading Cllr Sullivan to announce a ten-minute adjournment to consult with party whips.

“I’m going to adjourn for ten minutes,” announced Cllr Sullivan. “I want to meet the whips from each party and have a short word.”

Cllr Sullivan

Cllr Barron protested, stating This needs to be addressed and you are silencing me, with support from Cllr Lisa McDonald, who argued that closing down debate like Here’s not fair.

Resolution and Continued Advocacy

Following a break exceeding 20 minutes, Cllr Sullivan reconvened the meeting and allowed Cllr Barron to resume her remarks. She emphasized the importance of consent applying to both men and women and the need for the council to promote open and honest transparency in all we do.

Cllr Sullivan concluded the discussion with a simple Thanks particularly much, Vicky.