Cyngor Gwynedd reaffirms commitment to respect in public life

Last week, Cyngor Gwynedd elected members came together to mark the 10th anniversary of the tragic and shocking death of Jo Cox MP, reflecting on her life, her public service, and the powerful message she championed – that we have “far more in common than that which divides us.”

The event to remember Jo Cox, and also to reflect on the death of Sir David Amess MP, who was murdered in 2021 while serving his community – reaffirmed the councillors’ commitment that there is no place for violence or intimidation in politics.

In an increasingly aggressive and divided world, concern continues to grow about the treatment of those who serve in public life. Evidence shows that 72% of councillors have experienced some form of threat – whether verbal abuse or more serious intimidation – within the past 12 months. This highlights the need to promote respect, understanding, and safety for elected representatives at all levels.

Earlier this year, Council Members supported a motion backing the Civility and Respect Pledge campaign. Through this commitment, Cyngor Gwynedd councillors have pledged to model the highest standards of respect and courtesy in their conduct, both in their interactions with one another and with the public. In turn, they are calling for that same respect to be extended to them.

Councillor Nia Jeffreys, Leader of Cyngor Gwynedd, said:

“Jo Cox’s tragic murder 10 years ago reminds us that the tensions and hatred that can emerge in politics have real and serious consequences.

“As elected members, we accept that people will disagree with us – that is the nature of democracy. But no one who serves their community should face threats, abuse or intimidation because of their public role.”

Councillor Angela Russell, Leader of the Independent Group on Cyngor Gwynedd, said:

“It is important to have events like these to remember Jo Cox and to learn more about how we can protect ourselves as we go about our work.

“We need to learn to be kinder and more considerate towards one another, and we need to learn from what we have heard today as we move forward.”

Councillor Stephen Churchman, Leader of the Liberal Democrat Group on Cyngor Gwynedd, said:

“From time to time, we have to make decisions which are not always popular and some people seem to take exception to the decisions that councillors make.

“We need to raise awareness of safety and of attitudes of everybody - including councillors... whatever your political persuasion, respect, look after yourself when you’re campaigning, and keep safe.”