I disagree with you entirely Gary, The ability to scrutinise and question in public the decisions of elected politicians and civil servants is a powerful tool and a cornerstone of democracy.
Why has the government spent so much time and effort on spin and media relations if not to counter the effects of bad news on public opinion? The biggest threat to this democratic right is allowing the standard of political probity to slip to the extent that we stop expecting our politicians to tell the truth.
Community councils may not have the teeth, but as long as they have a voice they can influence public opinion and political process - undermine them at your pearl.





