Campaigners to march 'for democracy' (From South Wales Argus)

Campaigners to march 'for democracy'

9:03am Thursday 19th June 2008 in News By Darren Evans

CAMPAIGNERS who are angered that Labour retained control of Torfaen council are planning a protest march to call for democratic change.

Independent Pontypool councillor Fred Wildgust is calling for a system where all parties are represented on their share of votes.

The authority remained in Labour hands despite the party's poor performance at the local elections on May 1, thanks to the support of five newly-elected councillors.

The three Plaid Cymru and two independent members were then rewarded with committee chairmanships and extra paycheques, sparking a huge backlash from the electorate.

Councillor Wildgust is organising a Torfaen-wide petition calling for proportional representation, and is planning a major protest march from county hall in Cwmbran to the civic centre in Pontypool at the beginning of July.

He said: "I have had dozens of letters and e-mails calling on me to act. I want to motivate the population and get people marching for democracy.

"My message to the Labour leadership is democracy is coming."

Councillor Wildgust took legal advice on whether a referendum could be held on the matter, but solicitors said the process could take up to three years.

He says he has the backing of other councillors, including the three People's Voice members.

People's Voice Torfaen chairman Ian Williams said: 'I have never seen an issue in Torfaen that has struck the public mind in such a way. Labour was cut in half but it still leads the council. People felt that they needed change and they didn't get that."

Independent councillor Stuart Evans, who leads the opposition Torfaen PeopleÕs Coalition, said members are waiting for further details from councillor Wildgust before deciding whether to support his actions.

The Argus was inundated with letters and e-mails from dozens of Torfaen residents who were furious that Labour retained control of the council despite failing to win a majority.

Torfaen council leader Bob Wellington refused to comment when approached by the Argus.

darren.evans@southwalesargus.co.uk Ends