Issue - meetings

As detailed in the recommendation.

The Director of Lifelong Learning provided information on the arrangements for the launch of the new Nofio Clwyd scheme for progression in swimming.

                        In 2010 it was proposed to end the Council’s support for Swim Flintshire as a cost saving measure.  At its meeting on 14 December 2010, Executive decided instead to accept offers of £10,000 per annum from Swim Wales and £10,000 from Swim Flintshire with additional support from parents and to continue to support the programme.

                        The cost of supporting the programme was never included in the Leisure Services annual budget.  The shortfall in funding, which was £52,000 in 2012/13, contributed to an unsustainable service overspend which needed to be addressed.  The 2013/14 budget strategy was based on the cessation of funding for the current Swim Flintshire programme.

                        The Council had consulted Swim Flintshire and the National Governing  Body, Swim Wales, about alternative approaches to developing elite swimming.  This promoted discussions between those parties and local swimming clubs.

                        Negotiations had been concluded for the creation of a new body, Nofio Clwyd, for the delivery of a progression and elite programme of swimming.  The National Governing Body would take the lead role in the programme from the start of the new swimming season in September 2013.  Four of the five local swimming clubs had joined Nofio Clwyd.

            RESOLVED:

            That the new Nofio Clwyd scheme be welcomed and supported and the new partnership be endorsed.