A dispute has broken out over a move by the Co Monaghan Vocational Education Committee to disqualify a Sinn Fein councillor from the body because of his non-attendance at six consecutive monthly meetings. Councillor Owen Smith claimed he was abroad working to help the peace process. Co Monaghan VEC's chief executive officer, Mr Larry McCluskey, said there was a legal procedure to be complied with and under the legislation Mr Smith's membership had automatically lapsed. The VEC has decided to adjourn the matter for legal advice.