Labour split ensures Council survival

A COMPROMISE offer by executive staff and a split in the Labour Party vote ensured slender majority support for the passing of Waterford Co Council’s budget for 2003.

But Cork Co Council members yesterday refused to pass the proposed estimates and run the risk of abolition.

Waterford County Manager Donal Connolly agreed to a 0.5% reduction in the proposed commercial rates hike of 8.5%, a drop in the wheelie bin charges and a cut in recyclable collection charges to secure 11-9 majority support.