The Standards Committee of Carmarthenshire Council met on Tuesday 30 April 2024 to consider an application for dispensation. The committee unanimously resolved to grant a dispensation to Councillor Hazel Evans of Newcastle Emlyn Town Council, allowing her to speak and make written representations on matters concerning the tenancy of the Old Courthouse, but not to vote. This dispensation will remain valid until the end of the current electoral term.

Application for Dispensation for Councillor Hazel Evans

The committee considered an application from Councillor Hazel Evans of Newcastle Emlyn Town Council for a dispensation to speak and vote on town council business related to the grant of tenancy for the Old Courthouse in Newcastle Emlyn. Councillor Evans has a personal and prejudicial interest as she is a non-remunerated director of one of the charities applying for the tenancy.

The application was made under Regulation 2(d) of the Standards Committees (Grant of Dispensations) (Wales) Regulations 2001, which states that a dispensation may be granted if the nature of the member’s interest is such that the member's participation in the business to which the interest relates would not damage public confidence in the conduct of the relevant authority's business. Councillor Evans also cited Regulation 2(f), arguing that her participation would be justified by her particular role or expertise.

Following a discussion, the committee unanimously resolved to grant the dispensation. Councillor Evans will be permitted to speak and make written representations on matters concerning the Old Courthouse tenancy at Newcastle Emlyn Town Council meetings. However, she will not be allowed to vote on these matters. The dispensation was granted until the end of the current electoral term.

The meeting also noted apologies for absence from Mrs Mary Dodd, Mr Frank Phillips, and Councillor Gareth Thomas. There were no declarations of personal interest made by the members present. No other urgent items of business were raised.