County Manager Hubert Kearns confirmed that he did meet investigators before their investigation into allegations against Clr. Bree.

"And wouldn't I be foolish not to?" he said, adding that he met them to ensure they were competent to do the job — and he made no apology for that.

He insisted the investigation was properly carried out in accordance with the rules of natural justice.

He said it was done in private because that was the procedure and because it involved very personal issues, medical issues, and how it affected people, and this could not be divulged publicly.

He said if Clr. Bree was unhappy with the report, he could have appealed it. In the event, no appeal was lodged. "Bullying is a very invidious and complex issue," said Mr. Kearns, adding that it was psychological, so "we never know how people are affected."

"Sadly, one of the common features is that perpetrators rarely acknowledge their behaviour," he said.

Clr. Bree thanked the Manager for confirming he met the investigators six weeks before the investigation.

He said the Manager saying the footbridge would have been excellent value for money "tells us about the mindset of the Manager."

Clr. Veronica Cawley said it was perceived that the rest of the councillors had a role to play in all of this.

"I do not see how there is a role for us to play. All we can do is monitor our own behaviour," she said.

Manager: "This meeting is not regulated by me or the staff. It's regulated by you, the councillors."