Issue - meetings

Report of Chief Officer (Governance)

(a)       That the Committee confirms that all Members are given the support that is necessary to enable them to fulfil their duties effectively; and

(b)       That the Chief Officer (Governance) be requested to investigate whether the IRPW had intended that councils should provide internet access at Member’s homes

The Chief Officer (Governance) introduced a report for the Committee to satisfy itself that all Members are given as much support as necessary to enable them to fulfil their duties effectively.  He provided background information and referred to the key considerations in the report around the determinations made in the Independent Remuneration Panel for Wales (The Panel)  Annual Report issued in February 2015.  The Chief Officer advised that Officers believed the level of resources provided to Members met the recommendations of the Welsh Local Government Association (WLGA) Charter for Members’ Support and Development.

Councillor Dave Mackie drew attention to the information contained in Appendix 1, paragraph 3.23, of the IRPW report that Members should have electronic access to appropriate information via an internet connection, and sought  further clarification on the statement in terms of internet and telephone provision for Members.   Following discussion the Committee requested that the Chief Officer (Governance) investigate what the Independent Remuneration Panel’s intention had been when it stated in relation to internet access:

‘It would not be appropriate for such facilities (electronic access) only to be available within council offices within office hours.’

The Chief Officer (Governance) responded to a further query raised by Councillor Clive Carver regarding Determination 7, page 41, and the claiming and  payment of expenses.

Members requested that for future meetings, the agenda and reports be displayed on screen in the Committee meeting rooms to alleviate any potential IPad reception problems.

RESOLVED

 (a)      That the Committee confirms that all Members are given the support that is necessary to enable them to fulfil their duties effectively; and

(b)       That the Chief Officer (Governance) be requested to investigate whether the IRPW had intended that councils should provide internet access at Member’s homes