Issue - meetings

RESOLVED:

1. The Gap Analysis identified within the Scrutiny Governance Review attached as Appendix 1 is endorsed.

2. Approval of the delivery of a programme of training and facilitated workshops on effective Scrutiny for all Members, Cabinet Members and relevant officers following agreement of the budget with the section 151 officer.

3. Following completion of the training and the workshops, a further report is to be presented outlining any options for the future structure and operation of the Scrutiny function along with a revised Scrutiny and Executive Protocol, which are to be considered as part of the workshop sessions.

REASON FOR DECISION: To recognise the development gaps in the Council’s Scrutiny function and to provide the opportunity for all Members and relevant officers to develop a shared understanding of what effective Scrutiny looks like before considering structural change options.

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Cabinet noted that the Joint Panel had considered Scrutiny Governance Arrangements had recommended that the status quo be maintained, with additional training and workshops to aide work programming be arranged.

The Monitoring Officer presented the findings of the scrutiny governance review and the recommendations to enhance training and workshops for members and addressing the gap analysis.

Councillor Morley referred to recommendation two and asked that the training be available to all Members, not just Scrutiny Members.  Cabinet agreed to this amendment.

Councillor Moriarty acknowledged that training had been provided and was glad to see more training planned. 

Councillor Squire and Rust commented on the importance of scrutiny being Member-led and encouraging Councillors to put forward policy ideas to influence the direction of the Council.

Councillor Ring supported strengthening the role of scrutiny in holding the executive to account and collaborative working. 

RESOLVED:

1. The Gap Analysis identified within the Scrutiny Governance Review attached as Appendix 1 is endorsed.

2. Approval of the delivery of a programme of training and facilitated workshops on effective Scrutiny for all Members, Cabinet Members and relevant officers following agreement of the budget with the section 151 officer.

3. Following completion of the training and the workshops, a further report is to be presented outlining any options for the future structure and operation of the Scrutiny function along with a revised Scrutiny and Executive Protocol, which are to be considered as part of the workshop sessions.

REASON FOR DECISION: To recognise the development gaps in the Council’s Scrutiny function and to provide the opportunity for all Members and relevant officers to develop a shared understanding of what effective Scrutiny looks like before considering structural change options.