I refer to a situation which occurred at the council meeting on April 28 where a member of the public was seen to pass what appeared to be a note to a councillor.

The mayor noted this action and made a comment along the lines that as councillors, we are to use our own words when at council meetings.

Maybe our mayor is not aware of her actions, as observed by members of the gallery, when on many occasions she appears to be sending text messages to a certain councillor during meetings.

Quite often she is noted drawing his attention to read what is displayed on his phone, to which he appears to reply to the message.

Is this just coincidence, or could it be that by her actions, she is attempting to influence the manner in which councillors respond to items under debate?

Paul Hockey

Shellharbour