Local Government (Democracy) (Wales) Bill

Consultation Response:

Responses to sections that specifically affect Community and Town Councils.

Question 7: Local Government Boundary Commission

Is there a need for a Bill to make charges to the constitution and functions of the Local Government Boundary Commission for Wales and to make various provisions relating to Local Government?

Response: Yes – this will ensure greater transparency in the process.

Question 4 – Local Government Arrangements

Do you think the provisions relating to procedures for Local Government reviews are appropriate?

Response: Yes, there is definitely a need for change to the procedures based on past history when the reviews have not been completed in a timely manner by the local authority. The commission’s power to undertake the Community review in place of the local authority if necessary is welcomed. 

Question 7 – Independent Remuneration Panel for Wales

Do you think the provisions relating to the Independent Remuneration Panel for Wales are appropriate?

Response: -The council would support any measure that speeds up the process.

It is also important that the IRP addresses allowances payable to Community and Town Councils as a matter of urgency taking on board the diversity and range of services provided by the sector and the size of the Councils. It is appreciated that this will not be a quick process.

Question 8 – Access to Information (Town and Community councils)

Do you think the provisions relations to improving access to information (Town and Community Councils) are appropriate?

Response: Yes - the proposal is brilliant and Community and Town Councils must be enabled to have websites to advertise the services they offer and Council meetings.

However there must be specific provisions for the councils to have the power to acquire the hardware not just for the Council but for Councillors as well. Genuine savings on postages, stationery or photocopying will not be achieved if the members do not have the opportunity or the Council be given the resources to achieve the objectives of communicating mainly through IT.

Advice, support and training must also be widely available  to enable Community and Town Councils to achieve the 2015 deadline.