‘This is insane’ - Carlow councillors clash over size of delegation for Italy pilgrimage
A number of Carlow councillors are due to take part in a pilgrimage to Lodi in July
A number of Carlow councillors have clashed over the size of a delegation for an upcoming pilgrimage to Italy.
A pilgrimage is set to take place from the Diocese of Kildare and Leighlin to Lodi this July, with the group set to participate in the 27th International Columban Meeting.
The issue of who would represent the council on this trip was discussed at the May plenary meeting of Carlow County Council.
Fianna Fáil councillor Fintan Phelan said that it was originally envisaged that four councillors would go on the trip.
This delegation would be comprised of the Mayor of Carlow, the Cathaoirleach and two other nominated councillors.
When Cllr Phelan suggested this, a number of other councillors objected, stating that the council executive’s recommendation was for two members to go on the trip.
Cllr Andrea Dalton backed the suggestion of her party colleague, saying that it was “so important” that the council has a strong delegation for the trip.
She added that Carlow has “significant ties” to St. Columbanus and there is “great interest” in that connection locally.
Independent councillor Charlie Murphy asked how much it would cost the council to send the delegation on the trip.
The council executive responded by saying that it has yet to calculate the costs but would let councillors know once it has.
People Before Profit-Solidarity councillor Adrienne Wallace questioned whether the council would get value for money from the pilgrimage.
In response, Cllr Dalton said that she would be happy to pay for herself to go on the trip, given its importance.
Fine Gael councillor Brian O'Donoghue grew frustrated at the length of the debate, saying: “Just go with one, this is insane”.
After a long back and forth, it was eventually decided that the council would send four councillors on the trip, as originally envisaged.