The disgraceful action by Mayor Reilly to try to silence Councillor Karen Renkema-Lang has been discredited through her court appeal, and Council has now agreed that their censure motion against her was invalid. 

At a time when the community is questioning unacceptable gender-based intimidation and coercive behaviour, Cl Renkema Lang should not have to endure this harassment, let alone go to court to defend herself against it? 

But let’s be clear, those who instigated and supported her censure are rewarded. Cl Renkema-Lang has been more hesitant to scrutinise Council decisions, it has cost her personally and financially to defend her right to express her viewpoint, and she will think twice about putting herself through such bullying behaviour again. 

The CEO and Mayor have not provided a safe, respectful and inclusive workplace on Council where all councillors can contribute and represent their constituencies democratically. This is not okay and we should not accept it. 

 Howard H Jones