This week's Llanelli Star reports on a recent altercation at a meeting of Llanelli Rural Council. A "men only" invitation to a £35 a head gala dinner from the Welsh Guards Rugby Reunion Club in aid of a soldiers charity had been received. The 'blue humour' of the after-dinner speaker might offend female ears, and it was, apparently, an "all male preserve". Presumably 'blue' equates to 'misogynist'.
County Councillor Sian Caiach, who is also on the Rural Council, was understandably, er, surprised and suggested they "...write back to them and say it is very ignorant in this day and age to invite public representatives to something that is men-only."
However, it was no problem at all for Deputy Leader of Carmarthenshire County Council and Executive Board Member for EQUALITIES, Cllr Tegwen Devichand (Lab) who is also on the Rural Council. She clearly recognises her place in society and is quoted as saying; "I have no problem. It is the old boys' brigade and it is set in stone."
Oh dear. At least we know that if the 'old boys' brigade' exists in County Hall it will remain fully supported and safe in the hands of Tegwen. She is one of two deputy Leaders (yes, there are two, the other is Cllr Pam Palmer leader of the 'Independent' Party) and they both enjoy a generous allowance of £31,120 per year plus expenses, each.
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| Equalities Champion...and supporter of the 'old boys' brigade', Cllr Devichand |