Newquay Councillors call on Cornwall Councillor to attend meetings

Newquay Town Councillors have voted to write to the Cornwall Councillor for St Columb Minor and Colan, asking her to attend the town council’s monthly full meetings.

Town members have criticised Christine Parsonage for her lack of attendance. She was elected in May, replacing long-serving councillor John Fitter.

Her absence was discussed at last week’s full council meeting, with some councillors expressing the view that she should be present to represent residents in her ward, as has been the case with Cornwall Councillors in the past. 

Following the May 1st election, the town clerk wrote to all newly elected Cornwall Councillors inviting them to attend future meetings, continuing the practice of their predecessors. Three of the current Cornwall Councillors - Mayor Drew Creek, Joanna Kenny, and Kevin Towill - also serve as town councillors and attend regularly.

Councillor Parsonage had previously informed the council that she was unavailable on certain days. The member, who is a nurse, lives outside of the area in East Cornwall.

However, during the meeting, Councillor Creek said that as a Cornwall Councillor “it’s incumbent on you to serve your electorate.” He said he had spoken to other Cornwall Councillors who manage responsibilities across six or seven parishes, whereas Councillor Parsonage represents just two - Newquay and Colan.

One councillor suggested that the letter should be made public.

Councillor Joanna Kenny pointed out that attendance is voluntary, saying: “It’s a good idea if you do attend, but not required.”

The motion was carried, and the letter will be made public.

Radio Newquay has invited Councillor Parsonage to comment.