A MEMBER of Fermanagh and Omagh District Council has fallen foul of technology during a meeting of the Policy and Resources Committee. 

Despite insisting his microphone was off, the Ulster Unionist councillor’s remarks were clearly heard after he was caught off-guard.

A lengthy and fractious discussion around new governance arrangements for council meetings had just ended, in which Councillor Robert Irvine contributed.

With meetings continuing to take place virtually due to Covid restrictions, technical glitches often creep in, ranging from loss of connection to difficulties indicating when wishing to speak on a subject.

Some, however, are down to 'hot mic' gaffes with members forgetting to keep their microphones on mute when not addressing the chamber.

This has occurred on a number of occasions, and is generally picked up fairly quickly by whoever is chairing the meeting.

However, despite the best efforts of the Policy and Resources Committee Chair to alert Councillor Irvine, it wasn’t enough to prevent his commentary being heard.

Councillor Stephen McCann was attempting to move to the next item on the agenda, when his voice was overshadowed by remarks not intended for the chamber.

Councillor Irvine was heard to say: “I don’t know. I couldn’t care less, to be honest. They’re all arguing among themselves.”

Trying to be helpful, Councillor McCann advised him: “If you could just make sure you’re on mute before you continue, it might be better.”

 

“I was on mute there,” Councillor Irvine retorted.

The Chair said: “No. We could hear you loud and clear.”