In reference to another incident two years ago, Mitchell said: “I touched Councillor Mulcahy on the shoulder at a public event I attended with my wife. This incident is unrelated to hosting any seminars on human trafficking. There were no intent to offend and she said nothing to me at the time. I’ve known Councillor Mulcahy for a long time. We grew up in the same town and have gone on family vacations together. I have never meant to show her any lack of respect.”
The mayor said as head of council, “I also recognize that I have responsibility of leadership and must take action. As such I will participate in individual sensitivity training in order to build on my skills and knowledge and I will make similar training available to any member of council wanting to participate in the same.
“While I regret the circumstances that led to Councillor Mulcahy’s comments last night, I hope that she will work with me and the rest of the council to identify issues that can be addressed for the balance of this term in a productive and civil manner,” added Mayor Mitchell.