Frome’s two new Somerset Councillors John Clarke and Martin Dimery have negotiated a deal with other parties to secure important positions on two of the authority’s major power- wielding committees.
Clarke and Dimery made history in May when they were the first Green candidates elected to the County Council based in Taunton. Representing two of the three Frome seats on the Council, they have joined the opposition benches, and despite not having a direct right to any committee places, have worked to secure representation.
John Clarke has been allocated a seat on the Regulation Committee which was given to him by the Labour and Independent groups. This discusses, amongst many other issues, fracking sites planned for Somerset. Fracking is the controversial oil and gas extraction process which has significant environmental implications. Councillor Clarke, a long standing opponent of fracking, expressed his delight at being offered the position, saying: “This represents a real opportunity to help get Green policies across.”
Martin Dimery has been allocated a place on the Children, Policy and Families Committee which deals with the welfare of children and education. Councillor Dimery who was a teacher for 26 years, welcomed the opportunity, “After consultation with the Liberal Democrat group, they were keen to use my experience and award me one of their places on this important committee. It is very heartening, after such a fiercely fought election, we as Greens, have been invited to work with other parties in the best interests the people of Somerset.”
Martin Dimery will also serve on the Constitution and Standards Committee, while John Clarke has been appointed a representative to the Mendip Hills Quarrying Association.
