Cllr Keith Laird, Leader of the St Helens Labour Group, has called out the local Reform UK administration for “manufacturing grievance” rather than delivering for residents on regional waste and recycling.
Addressing recent claims regarding representation on the Merseyside Recycling and Waste Authority (MRWA), Labour clarified that St Helens holds full, equal voting rights and representation on the Authority board through its appointed councillor.
“St Helens has a full seat and equal voice at the table,” said Cllr Laird. “However, appointment to specific committees requires the confidence of regional peers. Sitting on a board doesn’t grant an automatic right to every committee—roles are decided democratically based on merit, attendance, and a track record of constructive working.”
Labour highlighted that rather than engaging constructively on waste reduction and improving local recycling rates, Reform leadership is playing political games to distract from a lack of regional engagement.
“Effective regional partnerships rely on showing up and building relationships, not political grandstanding,” Cllr Laird added. “Regardless of Reform’s posturing, Labour remains fully committed to ensuring the people of St Helens borough receive the high-quality, efficient waste and recycling services they deserve.”