FLINTSHIRE LIBERAL DEMOCRATS WELCOME CLLR FRAN LISTER TO THE GROUP

The Flintshire Liberal Democrat Group on Flintshire County Council has today confirmed that Cllr Fran Lister has joined the Group.

Cllr Andrew Parkhurst, Leader of the Flintshire Liberal Democrat Group, said:

‘We are very pleased to welcome Fran to our team. She is a thoughtful and principled councillor who has consistently put the interests of children and families first.

‘Over recent months Fran has shown real determination in standing up for transparency and high standards within the education service. Her focus has always been on safeguarding, accountability, and ensuring that decisions are taken openly and honestly. 

‘That commitment to education, and to doing what is right rather than what is easy, aligns very closely with our values as a group.

‘We know this will not have been a decision she has taken lightly. Crossing the chamber is never straightforward. It reflects her strength of character and her willingness to act when she believes standards must be upheld.

‘Fran will be a strong voice for parents, pupils, and school staff. We look forward to working with her to build confidence and ensure that education governance in Flintshire is robust, transparent, and accountable.’

Cllr Fran Lister said:

‘When I was elected, I promised to work hard for our communities, be a strong voice when things are not right, and hold the council to account. That commitment has not changed.

‘Over recent months it has become increasingly difficult for me to do that within the Labour group. On a number of issues I felt it was important to vote in the interests of residents rather than simply follow a party position. That has made my place within the group untenable.

‘This is my decision, which has not been taken lightly. I have taken it so I can continue doing the job I was elected to do and be supported in doing so.

‘The Liberal Democrats at Flintshire County Council are a strong and constructive voice within the council. They share my belief that politics should be about improving people’s lives, tackling inequality, and making sure working families and education are properly supported. I will continue to be a strong voice for Brynford and Halkyn and work hard for the wider Flintshire community.’