A REQUEST for a copy of a controversial report into child abuse in North Wales has been kicked out.
The Leader requested a copy of the shelved Jillings Report, which investigated allegations of abuse at Bryn Estyn, in Wrexham, from Wrexham and Flintshire councils under the Freedom of Information Act in November.
Last week Wrexham Council said it was still considering legal advice over its publication.
Yesterday Flintshire Council said it would not release the report until the conclusion of a police investigation.
A spokesman said: “The council’s commitment to wishing to publish the report remains, subject to advice on timing and what may be published.
“However, it has concluded that due to the ongoing police investigation it is unable to release any of the report at this time.
“The council will make its decision on publication once it is clearer what impact its publication might have on the ongoing police investigation.”
Yesterday Cllr William Baldwin pressed Wrexham Council leader Neil Rogers for an update at a meeting of the executive.
Cllr Rogers said: “The only copy of the Jillings Report known to be held by Wrexham Council was delivered into the possession of police employed on Operation Pallial on December 6.
“During this process it has been necessary to consult Operation Pallial to seek their views on release of all or any part of the report.
“Officers on behalf of Operation Pallial objected in the strongest terms to the release of this document at this time and having considered those objections, the North Wales authorities have agreed that no part of the Jillings Report can be released into the public domain at this time, due to the detrimental impact such publication may have on the progress of criminal investigations currently being pursued by Operation Pallial.”
Operation Pallial, led by Keith Bristow of the National Crime Agency, is investigating fresh allegations of abuse. Its findings are expected to be published in April.