SNP and Labour councillors have clashed during a debate on disgraced Renfrewshire MSP Derek Mackay.
The former Renfrewshire Council leader has remained in hiding since it was revealed he pestered the teenager on social media with 270 messages.
Elected members on the SNP-run council backed a motion yesterday stating he was unfit for office and should resign with immediate effect.
READ MORE: Derek Mackay: The rise and fall of SNP's golden boy
Although none of the SNP members spoke on the motion – which was lodged by Labour group leader Eddie Devine and seconded by Councillor Jim Sharkey – there was no amendment presented and no members voiced any opposition.
Following the revelations earlier this month, Mr Mackay quit his position as finance minister just before he was due to deliver the nation’s budget, but he has continued to collect his salary as MSP for Renfrewshire North and West.
READ MORE: Voters want Derek Mackay to stand down
In a heated full council debate, Labour councillor Jim Sharkey was told he was “out of order” by Provost Lorraine Cameron when he hit out at the SNP group and asked them what they knew about Mr Mackay.
Cllr Sharkey said: “I think there is a serious issue and I think it’s how the SNP have treated a 16-year-old boy.
“What did you know about Derek? If you can’t answer ‘nothing’, you are not absolved from that.”
Provost Cameron interrupted Cllr Sharkey and said: “Councillor Sharkey you are out of order. That is an outrageous slur and I will not have it from either side of the chamber.”
Mr Mackay is currently suspended by the SNP, pending a full investigation into his conduct.
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