THREE South Lanarkshire councillors have now tested positive for coronavirus.

A further two cases were identified within the council’s elected members after a first case was announced last week.

It has also been revealed that the three councillors are all members of the Labour group and that other members of the group are self-isolating as a precaution.

None of the group physically attended the full council meeting on Wednesday, September 23, and instead chose to participate remotely via Microsoft Teams.

Councillor Joe Fagan (East Kilbride Central North), leader of the Labour group, said the group had been following public health guidelines and that it was difficult to establish if the cases were linked in any way.

Cllr Fagan said: “After one Labour councillor tested positive, members of the Labour group were encouraged to get tested, even where they were displaying only minor symptoms.

“This led to two further positive tests. The councillors concerned have been self-isolating and a number of others have also been asked to self-isolate as a precaution.

“The extent to which these cases are linked is not clear and it is important to stress that all councillors appreciate steps taken by council staff to make council buildings safer.

“Meetings are socially distanced with online attendance allowed, hand sanitizer is available, there is more home working than ever before and procedures are in place to limit the spread of the virus. However, it is clear that we are seeing a general increase in infections nationwide and in Lanarkshire too.

“We will continue to follow public health guidance.”

A spokesman for South Lanarkshire Council said: “The safety of our employees, the public and elected members is our priority, and the council has put in place a number of arrangements to augment our safe working practices during the Covid-19 pandemic.

“As well as a thorough programme of cleaning in all our buildings and the issuing of advice on how everyone can stay safe, we have made it possible for many people to work remotely, including virtual meetings through Microsoft Teams.

“As part of this, elected members can engage with each other and with council officers, and participate in the council’s committees and other forums, via Teams.

“Where they choose to do so, elected members can join such meetings in person in the council’s headquarters, which have been set out to maintain physical distancing.”