The meeting covered several administrative and procedural matters, including substitutions, declarations of interest, and a motion to exclude the public for part of the session.

Substitutions

Councillor Helen Brown substituted for Councillor Bill Crease, and Councillor Mel Buckley substituted for Councillor Paul Conaway.

Declarations of Interest

A point of order was raised by Councillor Healy regarding potential conflicts of interest for members who attended a meeting with ORRA¹ earlier in the day. Councillor Ibertsen clarified that under the Code of Conduct, there is no prejudicial interest simply from having conversations about an issue that is to be discussed. The discussion also noted that the current agenda did not involve awarding a specific contract, which further reduced the need for declaring an interest.

Exclusion of the Public

The Chair requested a motion to exclude the public from part of the meeting, citing reasons outlined on page 2 of the report. Councillor Mel Buckley proposed the motion, and Councillor Gladys Healy seconded it. The motion was carried with seven votes in favor, none against, and three abstentions.