Councillor defeated in bid to save money by banning social work conference attendance

There has been a failed attempt to prevent any Dundee councillor from attending a conference.

Tory councillor Donald Hay said no elected members should go to Crieff Hydro Hotel in October for a two-day criminal justice conference organised by the Association of Directors of Social Work.

Noting that it would cost £380 plus VAT per person, he said taxpayers would feel this was a waste of money.

He was backed by colleague Derek Scott, who said: “These conferences always seem to be organised at venues with swimming pools and other leisure facilities.”

Labour supported the Tories on a vote but the SNP administration won 15 to 12, paving the way for either social work and health convener Jim Barrie or his nominee to attend.

No decision has yet been made on how many city council officials will go to the conference, which will be addressed by Justice Secretary Kenny MacAskill. The council will lead a workshop on working with women offenders.