Wexford County Council passed a motion on Monday 11 May 2026 requiring all debates to be conducted with respect for every elected member and all views expressed.
Labour Councillor Vicky Barron brought forward the motion, which was seconded by Councillor Catherine “Biddy” Walsh. It passed by 20 votes to three.
The motion stated: “This Council resolves to ensure that all debates in this Council will be conducted with respect for all elected members and for all views expressed. That this Council acknowledges that these standards have not always been upheld in recent times and calls on the Cathaoirleach, and all members and officials to commit to restoring the highest standards of democratic debate and freedom of expression for every member.”
Cllr Barron said the motion aimed to address professionalism and ensure members could contribute without fear or favour. She cited past disruptions and limited opportunity for some voices to be heard. “My biggest worry and I fear that we are heading down a very dangerous path whereby our code of conduct is being ignored, standing orders abandoned and through the actions of some our democratic values are being eroded,” she said.
Fianna Fáil Councillor and Chair of the Council Joe Sullivan acknowledged the importance of respecting procedures but said his focus remained on serving the people of Wexford. He pointed to local issues such as the fuel crisis and ongoing ambulance disputes. Cllr Sullivan suggested some motions were political rather than procedural, emphasising that meeting order should not overshadow urgent community concerns.
Cllr Barron clarified her motion was not personal but about improving how the council operates. She called on Cllr Sullivan to “reflect upon your position as Chair.”
Cllr Sullivan dismissed speculation about him leaving Fianna Fáil to join the Independents, confirming he remains a party member. “I won’t be considering my position and I will see you all at the next County Council meeting in June,” he said.
Several councillors contributed to the debate. Cllr Tom Forde reflected on times before Cllr Sullivan’s chair when he was “not allowed to speak on his own motion.” Cllr Pat Bardon said “Cllr Sullivan is not blinded by party lines” and asked Cllr Barron to withdraw the motion.
Cllr Michael Sheehan and Cllr Tom Forde referred to acoustic difficulties in the chamber. Cllr Nicky Boland said “Cllr Sullivan is a fair chair.” Cllr Marty Murphy disagreed with the motion, saying “Disagreement doesn’t mean disrespectful in politics.”
Cllr Jim Codd said he invited protesters into the public gallery. Cllr AoifeRose O’Brien stated “respect in the workplace is the priority here.”
Cllr Lisa McDonald said she was “very shocked at the last two meetings” and had never seen anything like it before. She noted people were intimidated in the gallery and “standing orders were not adhered to.” Cllr Leonard Kelly mentioned female members feeling unsafe in the chamber and backed more female representation.