A series of online sessions are being held aimed at giving prospective candidates all the information they need to run in the next local Welsh elections.
The briefings, which include discussions on what people need to stand for election either at county or community/town council level, are being held on 19th January and 27th January at 6:30pm. The sessions will give candidates the opportunity to hear from current councillors on the duties and role of being a councillor and the expectation placed upon them. The sessions will also cover the election timetable, nomination requirements and qualifications/disqualifications and the election campaign.
The briefings held via Microsoft Teams come ahead of the Welsh local elections being held on the 5th of May to elect members across all 22 local authorities in Wales. They are being run alongside other local elections in the United Kingdom. In Monmouthshire voting will go towards selecting 46 Monmouthshire County Council councillors, and nearly 300 community/town councillors across 30 community and town councils.
Although there is no previous experience or qualifications needed for people wanting to run for local council, community or town councils, prospective candidates should be;
- at least 18 years old
- be a British citizen,
- an eligible Commonwealth citizen a citizen of any member state of the European Union or a qualifying foreign citizen,
- And meet one of four additional qualifications based on residency including being a registered elector for the area.
Speaking ahead of the sessions, Monmouthshire County Council Chief Executive and Returning Officer Paul Matthews said: “The upcoming elections due to be held on May 5th not only provide a mechanism for people’s voices to be heard and for the democratic process to take place but it also opens the floor to people wanting to make a difference. Anyone wanting to take on new challenges and people who care passionately about their community – this is your opportunity to put yourself forward.”
Interested candidates are invited to register for the events should email to elections@monmouthshire.gov.uk and to specify which date they wish to attend.
Further information for prospective candidates can also be found: mcc-elections-2022.webnode.co.uk