A SCOTTISH councillor who served his community for more than three decades has lost his job because he struggled to work his computer.

Jim Coleman represented the Baillieston ward for Labour, but has now been “sacked” because of strict legislation that means any councillor who fails to attend a meeting for six months is automatically removed from their position.

Coleman is a member of six committees but has not attended any since at least last July.

However, a Labour source told Glasgow Live that Coleman’s problems with the “council-issued technology” were to blame for his departure.

The source said: "Jim worked in a very traditional way. He could not attend virtual meetings but no one could accuse him of not doing the duties of a local councillor over this past year.

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"Jim's laptop wasn't properly operative. We've all been experiencing problems with council-issued technology. Before the pandemic he was in the council building on every business day."

The now former Labour councillor was unable to use the equipment necessary to participate online after being told to self isolate for health reasons.

Coleman failed to attend any one of 44 committee meetings between July and December last year, according to the Glasgow Times.

Coleman said: "I am deeply disappointed to be leaving the council after 33 years in this fashion.

"I had intended to continue to serve my community until the council elections in 2022.

"I have been caught out by legislation which fails to recognise the work that I have continued to do and have always done in my community.

"I wish my Council colleagues, particularly those in the Labour Group, all the best for the future.”

The Leader of the Glasgow Labour Group, Malcolm Cunning, said: “This is not the end of a remarkable 33 year career in Local Government that I, or anyone else who knows Jim Coleman, would have hoped for.

"He has continued to actively represent his constituents in Baillieston throughout the pandemic but has fallen foul of strict and unforgiving legislation.

"From the time that I was first elected, Jim has been a constant source of advice, ideas and wise council.

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"He has served in almost every capacity possible during his three decades from Acting Leader of the Council downwards.

"There are few councillors who are held in such respect and genuine affection both within the City Chambers and the community they represent.

"The entire Labour Group is saddened beyond words that Jim will no longer be our council colleague. He will, however, remain our good friend and someone who we can be rightly proud of and thankful for his years of service.”

Coleman is believed to be the second Glasgow councillor to have lost his role to this legislation.

Earlier this month the Glasgow Times revealed how former Conservative councillor Tony Curtis lost his role after he failed to attend once in six months.