Fate of bin charges and lord mayor will be decided in next 10 days
Following last night's council meeting, it appears councillors will vote again on the controversial budget on the 15th or 16th of the month. But Cllr Lacey still faces possible expulsion from Labour for voting in favour of an increase in bin charges from 121 to 156. Before the main meeting last night, Labour members on the city council discussed the situation in relation to the estimates.
Labour group leader Tommy Broughan said Cllr Lacey's disciplinary position hinges upon the council's final vote. "On that night, I would expect everyone to be in attendance and that they will vote against the estimates," he said.
Although Cllr Lacey was not present at the Labour group meeting, Cllr Broughan said he would inform him of the position. Effectively, Cllr Lacey lost the party whip by voting for the 30% bin charges increase contrary to party policy.
Environment Minister Martin Cullen has the power to abolish the council and appoint an overseer who could introduce even higher charges.
