Report Paul Murphy
It was a small victory in the overall history of the battle between the power of the internet and the perceived influence of hard copy society. Today (Monday) Fine Gael Cllr Paddy Meade was given his papers by Meath County Council – in the figurative sense, of course. Lobinstown may not be at the centre of the universe but it is a very important place in Meade’s eyes and yet it still has to savour the delights of a good internet connection.
The councillor raised what he sees as a critical issue when it comes to representing his area – the lack of the ability to receive or send emails. He has often told fellow councillors that he has to drive for miles before he can get proper internet connection and it leaves him at a disadvantage. When the council meeting convened today he put forward his case for a printed agenda. He had attempted to raise the matter on umpteen occasions but had failed to get a resolution.
Cllr Paddy Meade
He is a member of the Laytown Bettystown Municipal District which includes areas like Lobinstown, Rathkenny and Donore, communities affected by Storm Eowyn. He stressed the importance of receiving council agendas a week in advance, thus allowing him to review material, conduct research and “prepared thoroughly for meetings in order to make well-considered decisions”. Due to an internet outage he was unable to access the agendas online and had requested a printed copy which he said had not been provided.
Cathaoirleach Cllr Sharon Tolan gave him the opportunity to present his case. He emphasise that while many sectors of the State provided services to people without internet access, Meath County Council had failed to accommodate members in similar situations. This gap not only affected people without internet access in rural areas but also those with disabilities. Cllrs Alan Lawes, Maria White and Joe Bonner supported him.
Director of Services Des Foley said he would address the situation and ensure that Cllr Meade would get printed copies of the agenda in future.
