MHK weighs in on Peel Commissioner row

Kate Lord-Brennan issues statement in support of Katryna Baptist

An MHK for Peel has thrown her support behind the commissioner at the centre of a row at the town's local authority.

Kate Lord-Brennan says Katryna Baptist - who raised concerns about governance, transparency and accountability at the town hall - deserves support.

In response to Ms Baptist's claims this week, Peel Town Commissioners issued a statement saying her comments are inaccurate and do not reflect the views of the Board.

It also confirmed that the matter would be subject to an internal investigation.

In a post on social media today (25 March), Kate Lord-Brennan says both Ms Baptist and former MHK and Commissioner Hazel Hannan were right to speak out about the issues they've experienced.

She's described the statement from PTC as 'inaccurate' and questioned why ratepayer funds have been used in its drafting.

Ms Lord-Brennan says the town 'deserves better' and residents and businesses in Peel 'just want things to work properly - to be delivered properly'.

One issue being focussed on in the ongoing row is that of the beach stage; the Commissioners' statement says a vote didn't take place, whereas Ms Baptist and others say it did. 

On that, Ms Lord-Brennan says: "It's not about the beach stage. It's not about infighting and everyone being on the same page. It's much bigger."

The Glenfaba and Peel MHK adds: "I expect there will be more to come on this.  I only comment on it as there is concern in the town generally and repeatedly (all the time!!!) and I want to represent that view amongst everything going on.

"I also know what it's like to have contrived and inaccurate statements come out from the Town Hall. Once the powers that be get their teeth behind the bit, they really go for it and it is hard to get anyone to listen or even make sense.

"For some, that might not matter if things actually happened, got done or even responded to - but they often don't!"

You can find the full response from Peel Town Commissioners - published earlier this week - here.

Manx Radio has contacted Peel Town Commissioners and Chairman Ray Harmer for comment in relation to this issue, and has invited Ms Lord-Brennan for an interview.