Conservatives in Perth and Kinross are embroiled in a heated dispute with the SNP and Liberal Democrat councillors over committee membership, with accusations of shirking responsibilities flying back and forth.
John Duff, the leader of the Conservative group in Perth and Kinross Council, has condemned the decision by SNP and Lib Dem councillors to reduce the membership of a council committee, despite each group gaining an additional member in recent by-elections. Duff labelled the move as scandalous and a dereliction of their duty as elected officials.
The controversy arose after councillors voted to cut the membership of the Planning and Placemaking Committee from 13 to 11 members, a decision supported by 22 SNP and Lib Dem councillors but opposed by 11 Conservative councillors. Independent councillors abstained from the vote, and three councillors were absent, including the only Labour councillor.
Duff criticised the SNP and Lib Dem groups for not nominating members to fill the vacancies on the committee, stating that it was their responsibility to share the additional workload. He expressed disappointment in their failure to meet their duties, which he believed put unnecessary pressure on those councillors who take their responsibilities seriously.
Councillor Ian James, a member of the Planning and Placemaking Committee, described the decision as disrespectful and unacceptable, highlighting the increased burden on existing members to fulfil their roles effectively. Planning and Placemaking Committee convener Ian Massie, however, expressed confidence that the current members could maintain the necessary level of scrutiny and debate despite the reduced membership.
In response, SNP councillor Ian Massie emphasised that political balance is not always crucial in quasi-judicial committees and stressed the importance of an informed and engaged membership for effective decision-making. Council leader Grant Laing supported the decision to reduce the committee size, citing the need for passionate and committed members to handle the workload effectively.
The dispute underscores the challenges faced by local councillors in balancing their responsibilities and workload, particularly in committees with significant decision-making authority. As the issue unfolds, it raises questions about the accountability and dedication of elected officials to fulfilling their duties effectively for the benefit of the community.