The executive of Comhairle Paroiste Chill Chartha are both surprised and disappointed at the misleading comments by the previous chairperson James McBrearty, on Radio na Gaeltachta yesterday.
Contrary to the comments made, here are the facts:

• The Parish Priest has in the past, been an honorary member of Comhairle Paroiste Chill Chartha - An honorary member is a none voting member.
  
• In the 1960 constitution there was no reference to the clergy.
  
• The following submission was made by Fr. Eddie Gallagher PP of Kilcar in advance of the recent meeting of the Parish Council held in Aislann Chill Chartha 03.11.2011. “That the Parish Priest or Priest working in Kilcar would be a full member of the Parish Council”. This submission to the constitution was defeated by 12 votes to 4.
  
• The Parish Priest has the same status on the Parish Council as he had before the adoption of the new constitution.

It was also suggested that the Parish Council are not functioning as a council. This is simply untrue as various sub-committees have been formed and are actively pursuing various projects. At present, the Parish council are dealing with various state agencies and are receiving very positive feedback and support. This is due to the enthusiasm of the current members who are active in voluntary organisations in both the Parish and the wider community.

The Parish Council hold their monthly meetings the first Thursday of every month and are open to the public.