Laois councillor voted down by Fine Gael and Fianna Fáil colleagues
Cllr Aisling Moran outvoted on live streaming request for council meetings
A Laois councillor has been voted down by Fine Gael and Fianna Fáil councillors, at the April meeting.
Cllr Aisling Moran who left the Fine Gael party some years ago, tabled what is a repeated motion by her, asking for Laois County Council meetings to be streamed live online for the public to tune in.
Cllr Moran who represents the Portarlington Graiguecullen Municipal District, was supported by her non FG and FF colleagues, seconded by Cllr James Kelly.
"In an era where technology is everywhere, and AI is making it difficult to distinguish fact from fiction, it is a necessity for Laois County Council to provide live streaming in the chamber. At least record our meeting and put them online.
"It holds us accountable, not only for our actions, but our words, and would show the people of Laois the work we do. I've lost track of the amount of times I've raised this in here, there have been deterrants from many in the chamber. Sixteen councils have passed this. What are you afraid of? We already have the technology," she said.
Cllr Kelly said he did not have a problem with live streaming the meetings. Cllr Tommy Mulligan and Cllr Marie Tuohy also spoke in favour.
However Cllr Paddy Buggy from Laois Fine Gael said he opposed it.
"I don't see the benefit to us doing our work here. I'll call for a vote," he said.
It was voted down by nine votes to four, with Cllr Moran adding "I'll be back".