Labour Councillor Vicky Barron Slams Chaotic Wexford Council Meeting and Stops Short Of No Confidence Vote In Chair

Wexford County Councillor Vicky Barron has spoken out about the highly charged and mismanaged council meeting on Monday, where tensions soared after a group of protesters from the recent fuel protests attended, seeking action on national issues.

Labour councillor Barron, who fully supports the protesters’ cause, expressed frustration over the lack of preparation and clarity regarding what could be realistically achieved at the meeting.

“There was confusion over motions, and the public was misled about what could be accomplished,” Barron explained. “Motions to address national issues like carbon tax and government policies don’t belong in a local council meeting, yet that’s what some protesters expected.”

The councillor also condemned the misinformation spread during the meeting. While Councillor Jim Codd claimed his motion was voted down, Barron clarified that it wasn’t even presented to the council for a vote. Instead, a counter-motion from the government parties was passed.

Barron emphasized the need for clearer communication in council meetings, urging that protestors be better informed about the process. She also criticized the chair for not properly managing the meeting and setting expectations for attendees.

“I’m here to tell people what they need to hear, not what they want to hear,” Barron said. “Unfortunately, Monday’s meeting turned into a fiasco and failed to deliver any meaningful outcomes for the protesters.”

Barron concluded by calling for greater transparency and a return to more effective council procedures. She also voiced support for future motions that could help address local issues but stressed that national concerns need a different platform for resolution.

When asked if she was expressing no confidence in the Chair she said she was considering her options

Meanwhile, Joe Sullivan, Chair of Wexford County Council, responded to the criticism from Councillor Vicki Barron.

Speaking on Morning Mix he has defended his actions, stating he informed protesters at the door that they could not participate in the meeting and denied any intimidation occurred, despite Barron’s claims.

He acknowledged a spat with Councillor Lisa McDonald but rejected the notion that the meeting was poorly managed.

Sullivan emphasized that the fuel crisis and cost of living were urgent issues for discussion, defending the time spent on the topic.