Issue - meetings

A report on handling casework for the ‘Parental Leave Policy’ is attached.

The Democratic Services Manager, Jo Morrison, introduced the report.

Panel members raised the following issues and asked the following questions:

Councillor Myers felt that this should be determined on a case by case basis and asked that there is a way to record the way cases are dealt with. He asked about the cover for the Councillor – same party or same ward. The officer agreed on the point regarding good record keeping and explained that it would be up to the Councillor themselves as to how their work would be covered. A flexible approach.

Councillor Singleton asked about the reference to a Councillor being able to employ a case worker. The officer explained that she had the impression that this had been a private arrangement and confirmed that Democratic Services would not usually get involved in members ward case work.

Councillor Warrington stated that there are two Councillors for some wards for a good reason and if this was cut down to one for an amount of time, this person could be overwhelmed. She also asked if there will be a procedure to provide proof of the circumstances (such as the MATB1 form in case of pregnancy) so that the process is transparent to the public – as this is public money. The officer agreed that, while Councillors are not employees, it would be good for the process to be clearly spelt out.

Councillor Hodge asked how the 9 months of work would be covered. The officer explained that this cannot be spelt out until it happens as it would depend on the Councillor and the HR advice given on that case. Councillor Myers stated that the process allows for a recognition and assessment of the level of work, the Group Leader may get involved in this. He asked what happens to Panel/Committee members – do they keep their allowance? The officer responded that this was covered in the policy that was agreed by Council in September last year.

The officer responded to a point raised by Councillor Myers acknowledging that a Councillor’s work is not just ward work but Committee memberships and that this could be covered by several different people and that flexibility is the key.

Councillor Myers suggested that the Panel see this item again after the first year and review lessons learned and comment to Council at that stage. The officer agreed that this would be kept under review.

Councillor Warrington suggested a holistic approach in order to be part of a package to encourage people to stand as Councillors.

It was RESOLVED that the Chair and Vice Chair would draft feedback to Council based on the Panel’s discussion.

(note Councillor Dr Kumar abstained from this vote)