Councillors’ divorce fears stymie Torbay dog poo legislation

By PRSD, on Friday, March 6, 2009

Here’s an unusual way to decide legislation. A ban on dogs on Torbay beaches and parks as a solution to the problem of fouling was rejected cos community councillor David Butt feared his wife might leave him if it was passed.

And that’s not all – St Marychurch Tory Peter Addis, who proposed the measure, went along with the decision in case his wife dumped him as well.

Butt grimmaced: “People who allow their dogs to foul in public and then not pick the mess up are unspeakable and it is disgusting.”

Addis agreed: “We will have to ban dogs in parks it is so serious. Visitors are appalled. They can’t stay on the beach or walk on the Downs.”

Sounds pretty bad, doesn’t it? But Butt decided: “A ban would be unfair. If we tried to push this through I would be divorced.”

Addis added: “So would I.”

And with that, they skipped off to the pub, arm in arm. Nice work if you can get it, eh?

posted by Cptn

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graham

Kevin,

I'm with reggers, you need to lighten up!! You try to make it sound that you are enlightening us all with your knowledge of how councillors are paid; its a matter of public record and can be gleaned from their web sites.

Still the dogs probably love you

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Bill Bailey

Wanted to post a comment but my wife wouldn't let me! Erk!

Reggers

Come on, can't you recognise a joking throwaway line when you see it?
Dog fouling is part of the anti social side of society. In Teignmouth dogs on beaches are restricted during Summer to a specific part of the beach and owners are required to pick up mess always.
Irresponsible owners now have a new ruse! Pick it up, bag it and leave the bags anywhere they fancy! These little presents can now be found everywhere. Special bins are provided - beats me!

Kevin

The Council is run by a mayor and 36 councillors who are elected by the residents of Torbay every 4 years. All councillors currently receive a £7,680 basic allowance plus travelling and subsistence expenses. Those with special responsibilities such as Cabinet Members and Committee Chairmans receive additional allowances. They are responsible for making decisions on behalf of the local community about services provided by the Council. As the Council is funded by public money, it has to make sure that the decisions it takes are available and accountable to the people it serves.

Alternatively, they can just take the cash and have a quiet word with the wife.