WITH regard to two letters recently published about Carmel Napier’s sudden resignation, I make the following observations.

With respect to Mr Gammond’s assumption that she was “time served” and therefore her sudden resignation is a media-created “big deal”, I would disagree.

As the chief executive of a large organisation of 1,435 persons, she has an obligation to those who she commands, to give good notice of her decision to retire.

This is so that prospective replacements can be canvassed, and that the morale of the force is sustained during this process.

It’s called leadership and professional judgement, not forgetting good manners.

With regard to Cllr Kirby’s asinine comments that “she’s not accountable to us for the timing of her departure”, all I can say is I’m glad I’m not a resident of Pontllanfraith.

If Cllr Kirby were to resign today without comment, then by the councillors logic the people of that ward would not be given any reason for this, and speculation would abound as per our chief constable.

That transparency is treated with such disdain leaves one questioning the future of local democracy.

Jonathan Williams,
Talywain