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ERC - Open and Accountable Local Government.
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TOPIC: ERC - Open and Accountable Local Government.

ERC - Open and Accountable Local Government. 4 years, 11 months ago #1

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This email was sent to all 18 elected members (some peronalised like this one which went to Cllr Bamforth) of East Renfrewshire Council.

It should be self explanatory.

Re: ERC - Open and Accountable Local Government. 4 years, 11 months ago #2

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Dear Councillor,

I have been in correspondence with the Minister for Communities, Aileen Campbell, regarding consideration as to a possible alteration in the Local Government (Scotland) Act 1973

I have been advised to consider submitting a public petition in this regard.

As you will be aware I require to demonstrate that I have taken previous steps to resolve this issue.

I have contacted you on a number of occasions with regards audio recording 'Cabinet' meetings and you have not responded.

I am once again raising this issue with you as my local councillor.

As you are also aware the Scottish Government firmly believes that Government at all levels should be open and transparent.

At present within East Renfrewshire Council, Audit & Scrutiny Committee, Planning Application Committee and Full Council permit me to audio record their meetings, but you and your colleagues prevent audio recording of your meetings at 'Cabinet'.

I am of the opinion that the Press and Public should be in a position to audio record the 'Cabinet' meeting.

In addition I feel very strongly that the press and public should be permitted to both audio and video all public meetings held within Scottish Councils and would advocate an alteration of the legislation.

I would suggest similar legislation to that brought in 2014 which now permits just as I have suggested in England.

I would be obliged if you would respond as soon as possible as I would intend to add your reply as part of my supporting documentation to the Scottish Government.

Kind Regards

Tom Taylor

Re: ERC - Open and Accountable Local Government. 4 years, 11 months ago #3

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Cllr Bamforth kindly replied as follows.

Mr Taylor,

As you are aware, all East Renfrewshire Cabinet meetings are open to the public, press and external auditors.

In addition, there is a call in process whereby any Councillor can call in decisions made by Cabinet, to be debated at the Full Council or Audit and Scrutiny Committee.

The recording of Planning was a decision made in relation to one meeting only and does not imply that any future meeting will be recorded.

I am therefore satisfied, as is Audit Scotland, that there is openness and transparency in our process.

www.audit-scotland.gov.uk/uploads/docs/r...ast_renfrewshire.pdf


Regards,

Councillor Caroline Bamforth
Convener of Social Work and Health
Ward No.5 Newton Mearns South & Eaglesham

Re: ERC - Open and Accountable Local Government. 4 years, 11 months ago #4

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Cllr Swift replied as follows

Dear Mr Taylor,

Thank you for your email.

I can confirm I support your proposition.

I do not however sit on the Cabinet, as I am a member of the opposition.

It is my opinion that the public should have access to all meetings and be able to record the business transacted therein.


Sincerely,

Jim Swift BA MSc
Conservative Councillor
Newton Mearns South, Waterfoot & Eaglesham

Re: ERC - Open and Accountable Local Government. 4 years, 11 months ago #5

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Cllr Macdonald replied as follows

Dear Mr. Taylor,

You have my full support in your efforts which I also thank you very much for.


Yours sincerely,

Cllr. David Macdonald (IND)
Ward 4
Clarkston, Netherlee & Williamwood.

Re: ERC - Open and Accountable Local Government. 4 years, 11 months ago #6

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Cllr Miller replied as follows

Dear Sir

Thank you for your correspondence and would refer you to previous correspondence on this issue from Mr Daly

Kind regards

Stewart
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