Councillors in row over attack on low attendance record for meetings

A row has broken out after one Blackpool councillor called out another about his low attendance record for meetings.

Cllr Paul Galley, leader of the Conservative opposition on Blackpool Council, pointed out that Reform UK member Cllr Jim O’Neill had attended just 22 percent of his official meetings at council.

He said this was the worst attendance record of any councillor in Blackpool by a considerable margin, compared to the average of around 80% attendance.

Cllr Galley said this reflected a wider lack of commitment from Reform councillors across the country.

But Cllr O’Neill hit back, stating that he worked for a living and was not always able to get to meetings, but that he was frequently busy with other council work on behalf of his constituents.

He said Cllr Galley was launching his attack as he feared Reform would eclipse the Conservatives as the older party became irrelevant.

Cllr Galley, member for Anchorsholme, said: “Cllr O’Neil’s poor record raises serious questions about his dedication to the role and his constituents.

“This is symptomatic of what we’re seeing from many Reform councillors across the country with over 5% resigning so far since their elections in May.

“They over-promise on issues like stopping immigration — something local councillors have absolutely no power over — and when the reality of the job sets in, which is about fixing drains, attending community meetings, tackling dog mess, and improving neighbourhoods, they simply don’t turn up.

“Blackpool deserves better. Cllr O’Neill needs to start attending his meetings or seriously consider whether being a councillor is right for him. If he’s not willing to represent his residents properly, he should step aside and let someone who actually wants to do the job take his place.”

He said Cllr O’Neill’s attendance record would be under increasing scrutiny, adding: “Residents expect their elected representatives to show up, speak up, and deliver for their communities.”

Cllr O’Neill, who represents Marton ward responded: “I can understand Cllr Galley’s panic as the Conservative Party is being consigned to history, but that really doesn’t excuse his lack of diligence or forced flare for amateur dramatics.

“I have been extremely active in the ward working closely with my Labour counterpart on the important issues affecting residents.Like most ordinary folk, I work full time, and often irregular hours to meet the needs of my employer, this also the case when it comes to the residents I represent.

“Some of the committee spaces were not compatible with my work routine and that is why in September, these roles were taken up by the deputy leader of the Reform UK group, Cllr Emma Ellison.

“I’m surprised Cllr Galley doesn’t appear to know this. Other than the ceremonial event of the “Mayor Making,” I have attended all full council meetings, an accolade many of the Tory Councillors cannot claim. I would suggest Cllr Galley should pay more attention to his group’s activities instead of pretending the Tories hold any relevance. “