A MESSAGE of thanks to workers and volunteers who gave their all during the pandemic was marked by tense exchanges over pay and accusations of hypocrisy. 

Stockton Council backed a motion to officially recognise its “profound gratitude and admiration” for the bravery of all frontline workers during the Covid crisis on Wednesday night – but not before some terse words were shared in the virtual council chamber.

Criticism was aired after a tense debate over the number of councillors in the borough.

Conservative group leader Cllr Tony Riordan had pointed to cases where some officers had “hampered” meetings, claiming they “couldn’t be bothered to turn up”. 

Later, Cllr Riordan thanked NHS staff, care workers and council staff for their work in the pandemic. However, this angered Labour cabinet member Cllr Ann McCoy. “What a hypocrite,” she said. “Five minutes ago he said we had staff who couldn’t be bothered to come to meetings and face questions.

“I’m outraged about that. Our staff and all staff in the NHS have bothered to go to work every day above and beyond what they do. 

“I am so angry about what was said earlier – but I support this motion 100 per cent because our staff, particularly in the NHS, have gone above and beyond what has been expected of them.”

Former mayor Cllr Lynn Hall was appalled by Cllr McCoy’s suggestion – pointing to a recent crime and disorder select committee where some officers didn’t appear. 

The Conservative member said: “How dare Cllr McCoy say she’s outraged and call Cllr Riordan a hypocrite – she’s obviously not on the crime and disorder committee. I’m disappointed I had to push for a vote (earlier) but I think that typifies the lack of challenge of this council. 

“We are humbled by the effort by all our council employees in this pandemic – we have stood shoulder with the Labour group in supporting everything they’ve done. 

“More than that, we have been humbled by all the employers who have stepped up to do all the wonderful work in our borough. 

“This is a pandemic facing everybody – and we need to work together to get through it, so how dare we call people hypocrites.”

Staff in the NHS, the care sector, blue light services, teachers and school staff, transport workers, essential retail workers, post and parcel delivery staff, the Armed Forces, volunteers and council workers were all thanked in the motion. 

It added: “They have been a lifeline to many and an inspiration to us all, showing the whole borough of Stockton at its finest and we thank you on behalf of our residents.”

Cllr Ray Godwin, Thornaby independent, paid tribute to the “unsung heroes” on Stockton Council's “care for your area” team who pick up rubbish and keep streets clean. 

But he also warned NHS workers were facing a “wage freeze”. 

“We also know the council is under tremendous pressure with budget cuts,” added Cllr Godwin.

“The sad thing is the people working the hardest on the front line may find they’re facing a pay freeze, if not a pay cut. It’s important we remember that.”

Earlier in the meeting, all group leaders had sounded their appreciation for workers and volunteers who’d given their all in the crisis. 

The motion was backed by all councillors with applause in the aftermath.