More women councillors needed (From Western Telegraph)

More women councillors needed

DEAR EDITOR, - In June, we all have an opportunity to get involved in the democratic process by voting for our county councillors. Welsh local government has been through a process of modernisation and in order to maintain the momentum, council chambers must be rejuvenated.

According to the Welsh Local Government Association, the typical Welsh councillor is a 59-year-old white male. Local democracy will only remain credible if it is revitalised in the June election and we need a diverse and representative range of candidates from which to choose.

In 1999, 15.7% seats in Wales were uncontested and only 23.4% of candidates were women. It would be wonderful if every seat in Pembrokeshire was contested - local electors really deserve a choice. At present, we only have eight women councillors out of 60.

Women are already contributing a great deal to the local community. Can I urge some of you to be brave and consider becoming candidates?

MAGGIE THOMAS 1 Gilgal Terrace Pembroke Dock