In the news (From Barry And District News)

In the news

AS winter turned to spring and we waited to hear the first cuckoo, that other species - homo erectus councillorus - emerged from it's more lengthy dormancy.

It is, of course, election time, and the occasional sighting has been made of this species, acting its obsequious best, while leaving its droppings in letterboxes and soliciting votes. Nothing new there then.

Nothing new either to see (true to the nature of the beast) that lesser species - ex-councillorus - maligning his erstwhile colleagues.

The ex-councillor is given the full treatment by the Barry & District News, (May 13, 2004, 'Gravy train') almost half a page, a banner headline, a reporter, and a large photograph of the "angry" ex-councillor.

The report allows him to say what we already know: that all the money goes to the "gravy train" and thus nothing is ever done.

Again, nothing new, but it's taken almost a decade since he himself 'disembarked' to admit it.

The article gives the impression that he now identifies with us poor suffering ratepayers, and, as if to prove that he really is a poacher turned gamekeeper, he states that councillors should not get paid at all.

But why this tirade now, just before the elections?

Could the answer lie in something the article fails to mention - that he is again seeking election?

It is my belief therefore that the unwarranted status afforded his comments by publishing the piece as a 'news' item does nothing to enhance the perceived integrity of those involved, particularly in view of the proximity of the elections.

The powers that be ask why people are disenchanted with politics. I wonder why?

John H Williams

Ex-worker, Ex-voter,

Ex-asperated

Rheidol Drive

Cwm Talwg

Barry