Issue - meetings

That the Committee notes the number and type of complaints.

(a)       That the number and type of complaints be noted; and

(b)       That the Monitoring Officer contact the PSOW on behalf of the Committee to enquire about the resolution of outstanding reports from previous years.

The Monitoring Officer presented the report on ethical complaints alleging a breach of the Code which had been submitted to the Public Services Ombudsman for Wales (PSOW).  The report summarised details of the number and types of complaints made and the outcomes following consideration by the PSOW.  Since the last report, seven complaints had been received, one of which was being investigated.  A further complaint received after publication of the agenda would be included in the next update report.

It was noted that following discussions with Group Leaders, the Member training programme currently being developed would include a session on respectful communications with others, whether in person or via social media.

In response to concerns about outstanding reports from previous years, the Monitoring Officer agreed to contact the PSOW on behalf of the Committee to enquire about completion dates.

It was observed that some complaints related to the same individuals which led to a suggestion for more information to be shared in closed session to identify any behavioural patterns and consider whether intervention was appropriate.

The Monitoring Officer advised the Committee against taking such action whilst complaints were still under investigation and a breach of the Code had not yet been determined.  He explained that where a number of complaints relating to an individual had been closed without further investigation, the PSOW often included a comment to reflect that the behaviour was not condoned which should be taken on board by that individual.

Whilst acknowledging the need to prevent issues escalating, the Committee noted the advice and recognised that intervention was not appropriate at this time.

The recommendation, as amended, was moved and seconded by Councillors Antony Wren and Councillor Ian Papworth.

RESOLVED:

(a)       That the number and type of complaints be noted; and

(b)       That the Monitoring Officer contact the PSOW on behalf of the Committee to enquire about the resolution of outstanding reports from previous years.