The Ombudsman received a complaint that a member (“the Member”) of Gwersyllt Community Council (“the Council”) had breached the Code of Conduct (“the Code”). It was alleged that, during a Council meeting, the Member bullied and intimidated a Council employee (“the Employee”) and that his conduct put pressure upon the Employee to disclose personal information.
The Ombudsman determined that investigation was appropriate and that the following paragraphs of the Code should be considered:
- 4(a) – members must carry out their duties with due regard to the principle that there should be equality of opportunity for all people, regardless of their gender, race, disability, sexual orientation, age or religion.
- 4(b) – members must show respect and consideration for others.
- 4(c) – members must not use bullying behaviour or harass any person.
- 6(1)(a) – members must not conduct themselves in a manner which could reasonably be regarded as bringing their office or authority into disrepute.
Information was obtained from the Council, including the minutes of the relevant meeting. Several witnesses were interviewed, including the Complainant and the Employee. The Member also provided comments.
The evidence suggested that there was a tense and robust discussion between the Member and the Employee at the meeting and that the Employee disclosed personal information. However, the evidence did not suggest, on balance, that the Member’s comments or manner were so inflammatory, disrespectful or egregious as to amount to a breach of any aspects of the Code considered.
Therefore, the Ombudsman concluded that there was no evidence of a failure by the Member to comply with the Code.