- A 20 MPH zone on Church Lane
- A Zebra crossing and railings on Creighton Avenue
- The junction of Church Lane and East End Road
We need these changes and I hope you can demonstrate the interest and need for them by submitting your views!
Wednesday, 19 December 2012
Have your say on pedestrian safety on Church Lane
The Council are consulting on what was agreed at the Area Environment Forum with regards to the acceptance of the Walksafe N2 campaign's requests namely:
We need these changes and I hope you can demonstrate the interest and need for them by submitting your views!
We need these changes and I hope you can demonstrate the interest and need for them by submitting your views!
The library that refuses to die.
... As Friern Barnet Library is called.
The court proceedings were not pretty, and there is little cheer to take from the final verdict, as we thought.
However, the judge did accept that what was going on there was a coherent protest, and that there were Human Rights aspects. She did not accept in the balance the damage was to severe though, which is why she ruled as she did. There will be an appeal, and I think we can see the defence of that.
There was also a ruling that the occupation was a bias against other bidders, and that they would be put off by the occupation. The judge agreed with this, despite a categorical assurance that any bidder would be shown the site without hindrance. I was also confused by the ruling that having people sleep over in the building to secure its state was a breech of planning regulations, making it residential. Are the security guards in Church Farmhouse Museum who stay at night in breech?
What is does mean in the medium term is that the library will be open in the New Year, and that there will be 6 weeks of negotiations. There may even be a 6 month trial period, so the current form of the library might have some life left in it yet!
It would apparently take between 6 to 18 months to market and sell the site, but I am skeptical. I can't be sure there isn't someone round the corner waiting to snap it up, but let's see.
I would also say well done to Reema Patel, who did much of the legal work and instruction, and Sarah Sackman, the Barrister. Both were exceptional, and I hope they will be a double act again!
The court proceedings were not pretty, and there is little cheer to take from the final verdict, as we thought.
However, the judge did accept that what was going on there was a coherent protest, and that there were Human Rights aspects. She did not accept in the balance the damage was to severe though, which is why she ruled as she did. There will be an appeal, and I think we can see the defence of that.
There was also a ruling that the occupation was a bias against other bidders, and that they would be put off by the occupation. The judge agreed with this, despite a categorical assurance that any bidder would be shown the site without hindrance. I was also confused by the ruling that having people sleep over in the building to secure its state was a breech of planning regulations, making it residential. Are the security guards in Church Farmhouse Museum who stay at night in breech?
What is does mean in the medium term is that the library will be open in the New Year, and that there will be 6 weeks of negotiations. There may even be a 6 month trial period, so the current form of the library might have some life left in it yet!
It would apparently take between 6 to 18 months to market and sell the site, but I am skeptical. I can't be sure there isn't someone round the corner waiting to snap it up, but let's see.
I would also say well done to Reema Patel, who did much of the legal work and instruction, and Sarah Sackman, the Barrister. Both were exceptional, and I hope they will be a double act again!
Lottery funding forThe Grange
It was announced that the lottery would pund projects in the Grange estate in East Finchley as part of a package worth £1 for london estates. These estates were selected on issues such as crime and unemployment.
It isn't yet certain what the allocation for the Grange will be, but I welcome any funds that come our way. This year Alison, Colin, myself and a team from Barnet Homes did a walk of the Grange to pick up outstanding issues. I was very glad to hear the report back from them, and I see that many of the things we picked up have been looked into or sorted. There are some outstanding issues, but I think we have had an impact. I hope we can move on to the next level with this new funding.
Clearly, the anti-social behaviour and crime worries are beyond the remit of Barnet homes, and seem to be seasonal. We have also seem similar problems on Strawberry Vale, and in the New Year we will be looking into them in greater detail.
Whilst I welcome this money, I think it's a shame that funding for the poorest parts of the community have to come this way, instead of directly through Government or Council. The funding that is being allocated does not nearly cover for the serious cuts the Government have inflicted in other areas. A one off grant will not fundamentally tackle the unemployment, crime, health or education problems we have, and the Government is letting down residents of the Grange there without any plan to tackle them.
I will keep you posted on what comes out of this funding.
It isn't yet certain what the allocation for the Grange will be, but I welcome any funds that come our way. This year Alison, Colin, myself and a team from Barnet Homes did a walk of the Grange to pick up outstanding issues. I was very glad to hear the report back from them, and I see that many of the things we picked up have been looked into or sorted. There are some outstanding issues, but I think we have had an impact. I hope we can move on to the next level with this new funding.
Clearly, the anti-social behaviour and crime worries are beyond the remit of Barnet homes, and seem to be seasonal. We have also seem similar problems on Strawberry Vale, and in the New Year we will be looking into them in greater detail.
Whilst I welcome this money, I think it's a shame that funding for the poorest parts of the community have to come this way, instead of directly through Government or Council. The funding that is being allocated does not nearly cover for the serious cuts the Government have inflicted in other areas. A one off grant will not fundamentally tackle the unemployment, crime, health or education problems we have, and the Government is letting down residents of the Grange there without any plan to tackle them.
I will keep you posted on what comes out of this funding.
Monday, 17 December 2012
404 Great North Road
I have had some correspondence over the building site at 404 Great North Road, with concerns being expressed at the lack of building progress. There is some confusion about the state of the developers finances, and I have referred the matter to officers, though please note, the site is just over the boundary in the Garden Suburb ward.
This has been reported in the Archer paper, but there is sadly little the Council can do from what I gather.
As always, please feel free to email me at cllr.a.mittra@barnet.gov.uk if you are concerned.
This has been reported in the Archer paper, but there is sadly little the Council can do from what I gather.
As always, please feel free to email me at cllr.a.mittra@barnet.gov.uk if you are concerned.
Friern Barnet Library
Tomorrow is decision day for the community project in Friern Barnet Library.
They can be hugely proud of the work they have done, doubling the footfall, opening up new services, getting the library re stocked with 10,000 books and bringing the whole community together.
At court today they were well served by Reema Patel and their barrister, Sarah Sackman. There was good evidence given by Keith Martin (a very courageous man indeed) Fiona Brickwood (whowiped the floor with the prosecutor) and Pete Phoenix, who's talents have gotten us further than we might ever have thought.
It's funny to look back. The library was closed on April 5th, just 6 days before my election. I recall going to the Business management meeting where they voted to keep it open a while longer, and going to Cabinet where they finally decided to close it.I attended these meetings in a sense of bewilderment. It was not my ward and I was not yet a Councillor, but I felt it would be important to support Pauline Coakley-Webb and Barry Rawlings.
I think everyone on the campaign will look back with pride at the unity that was achieved, and the comradeship and spirit that those involved have acted in. Whatever is said tomorrow, it will still be a community library in the new year, and I hope the Council see sense and have a real negotiation and dialogue with the groups. That was the only way this was ever going to be resolved.
They can be hugely proud of the work they have done, doubling the footfall, opening up new services, getting the library re stocked with 10,000 books and bringing the whole community together.
At court today they were well served by Reema Patel and their barrister, Sarah Sackman. There was good evidence given by Keith Martin (a very courageous man indeed) Fiona Brickwood (whowiped the floor with the prosecutor) and Pete Phoenix, who's talents have gotten us further than we might ever have thought.
It's funny to look back. The library was closed on April 5th, just 6 days before my election. I recall going to the Business management meeting where they voted to keep it open a while longer, and going to Cabinet where they finally decided to close it.I attended these meetings in a sense of bewilderment. It was not my ward and I was not yet a Councillor, but I felt it would be important to support Pauline Coakley-Webb and Barry Rawlings.
I think everyone on the campaign will look back with pride at the unity that was achieved, and the comradeship and spirit that those involved have acted in. Whatever is said tomorrow, it will still be a community library in the new year, and I hope the Council see sense and have a real negotiation and dialogue with the groups. That was the only way this was ever going to be resolved.
Hi, We're Capita...
Hello, I'm Capita, and you're going to be dependent on me for the next 15 years...Sadly for Barnet, after the failure of the business management committee to refer the NSCSO contract back to Cabinet, It seems we could end up being run by Capita. I hope the judicial reviews are successful, but if not then there will be a very swift transition towards being integrated into the Capita Borg.
And it seems there will be no time for democracy- the timetable says that they will start on transition from April Fools day next year and be ready by December, so they will be making their big fat profits fairly quickly.
The grubby process that has gotten us to this lamentable point has not been robust. Councillors were given just a week to read the papers, with no time to submit written questions and get written answers for a 2,500 page contract. we were given a few hours before the meeting to see the contract. I don't believe that was enough time to do my job.
If there is a silver lining, it is that people now really know what this arrogant and out of touch administration is like. The opposition to them is getting stronger and more capable, and there ought to be a lot of worried Tory Councillors.
But there is still the DRS contract, and you canstill donate or volunteer your time to campaign against one Barnet by signing up to the better Barnet campaign.
Thursday, 13 December 2012
Tacking crime in Barnet
Yesterday, the cabinet member for safety and policing, Cllr David Longstaff arranged a visit for some Councillors to see some aspects of crime prevention in the borough.
We started by visiting a centre in Hendon that deals with those released from prison on parole and probation. I was impressed by the work they did, they have a re-offending rate of just 18%,well below the usual rate of 58%.
They focus on the various issues those who come out of prison face, and by dealing with them, help reduce reoffending. We know many former prisoners have employment, health, housing and educational issues, and I was pleased to see a dedicated team successfully help tacklemany of those problems.
But this is no softly softly approach. They are very strict about making sure people turn up, and deliver exactly the kind of personal interaction that is necessary to the service user. This is not the sort of thing the Daily Mail get upset about, quite the opposite in fact.
I have had casework in this kind of area, and I am now in a better position to deal with it and help residents after this visit. I want to thank Cllr Longstaff for arranging the visit.
After that, we visited the centre where the CCTVs in Barnet are monitored. Again, an impressive service, with excellent staff. Highly trained and professional, it's clear they have an impact, even if sometimes people don't see or appreciate it.
They are in need of some investment to reduce overheads and improve service though, and I am glad this is being taken seriously. I hope the police will also properly support their work as well, it was good to hear how well integrated they had become over time with the police. I think they are well respected and appreciated.
We started by visiting a centre in Hendon that deals with those released from prison on parole and probation. I was impressed by the work they did, they have a re-offending rate of just 18%,well below the usual rate of 58%.
They focus on the various issues those who come out of prison face, and by dealing with them, help reduce reoffending. We know many former prisoners have employment, health, housing and educational issues, and I was pleased to see a dedicated team successfully help tacklemany of those problems.
But this is no softly softly approach. They are very strict about making sure people turn up, and deliver exactly the kind of personal interaction that is necessary to the service user. This is not the sort of thing the Daily Mail get upset about, quite the opposite in fact.
I have had casework in this kind of area, and I am now in a better position to deal with it and help residents after this visit. I want to thank Cllr Longstaff for arranging the visit.
After that, we visited the centre where the CCTVs in Barnet are monitored. Again, an impressive service, with excellent staff. Highly trained and professional, it's clear they have an impact, even if sometimes people don't see or appreciate it.
They are in need of some investment to reduce overheads and improve service though, and I am glad this is being taken seriously. I hope the police will also properly support their work as well, it was good to hear how well integrated they had become over time with the police. I think they are well respected and appreciated.
Martin School expansion - update
I campaigned in my recent election on the issue of school places, and you will know of my support for the Archer Academy in the secondary school places sphere.
There is also an issue of primary school places, and the Council have received a pot of money for primary expansions. Some of that money will go to Martin School to expand it into a three form entry. Martin School is rated outstanding by Ofsted, and we are keen that they maintain that well deserved status, and that there is a managed, sustainable and successful expansion.
Alison, Colin and I had a meeting at the school to discuss the expansion, and it was a very productive and helpful meeting. I am glad I have properly met Mr Pickering, the acting Headteacher. We discussed the plans, and the outstanding issues in preparation for a meeting Alison and I had with a Council officer.
We raised a number of issues, and attained some assurances on some, but not on others. It won't be the last such meeting so we will have more bites of the cherry.
I won't go into details of what we discussed, as not all details are finalised, and I don't wish to put out details or information that isn't true. Nor would I want to break confidences! I feel it important to let residents know that Alison, Colin and I are on the case, we are dealing with the issues that people raise, and are listening to all those interested.
If you do want to contact me on any details, please email cllr.a.mittra@barnet.gov.uk as I am keen to listen to residents.
There is also an issue of primary school places, and the Council have received a pot of money for primary expansions. Some of that money will go to Martin School to expand it into a three form entry. Martin School is rated outstanding by Ofsted, and we are keen that they maintain that well deserved status, and that there is a managed, sustainable and successful expansion.
Alison, Colin and I had a meeting at the school to discuss the expansion, and it was a very productive and helpful meeting. I am glad I have properly met Mr Pickering, the acting Headteacher. We discussed the plans, and the outstanding issues in preparation for a meeting Alison and I had with a Council officer.
We raised a number of issues, and attained some assurances on some, but not on others. It won't be the last such meeting so we will have more bites of the cherry.
I won't go into details of what we discussed, as not all details are finalised, and I don't wish to put out details or information that isn't true. Nor would I want to break confidences! I feel it important to let residents know that Alison, Colin and I are on the case, we are dealing with the issues that people raise, and are listening to all those interested.
If you do want to contact me on any details, please email cllr.a.mittra@barnet.gov.uk as I am keen to listen to residents.
Christmas festival
We had a really good first East Finchley Christmas festival on the High Road on Saturday. I hoped we might have success, and perhaps this could be an annual thing. There was a joke going round that the weather in December was better than it had been during the cancelled Cherry Tree Woods festival in March! I hope this added a boost to the European market, who were there as well.
I think this was a really good boost to the traders, who are suffering badly from the Council's parking policies. It is a real statement about how strong volunteering and community are in East Finchley as well that this was such a success. I want to belatedly thank all those involved, and thank them for their hard work.
I know Alison and Colin enjoyed it immensely as well. I can tell you that the next summer festival is shaping up nicely as well, so look out for updates on that!
I think this was a really good boost to the traders, who are suffering badly from the Council's parking policies. It is a real statement about how strong volunteering and community are in East Finchley as well that this was such a success. I want to belatedly thank all those involved, and thank them for their hard work.
I know Alison and Colin enjoyed it immensely as well. I can tell you that the next summer festival is shaping up nicely as well, so look out for updates on that!
Friday, 7 December 2012
Take a stand- join Labour
If you think last night was the end of it, you are badly wrong. Cllr Marshall thinks One Barnet cannot be delayed even a week, well I have some news for you!
There are different routes still available on the NSCSO, judicial review, call in etc.
But the NSCSO is only half the battle. We must stop the awful DRS contract, which will see core council services- the things you shouldn't get rid off en masse, like planning or environmental services. Losing these services would be a hammer blow to the Council's ability to function independently. For all the big talk, there are NO guarantees of success. The only certainty is uncertainty.
But you can help us to convince Barnet Council to change their minds. You can join the Labour Party.
We don't have the finite resources of the Tory Party, what we do have are hardworking dedicated members. We don't get fundraisers at the Carlton Club, but we do talk to the people we represent. If you've always been inclined to support us, this is the moment for you to take a stand against barnet Council and Join the Labour Party.
If you don't feel comfortable joining the Party, but you want to get involved, then contact us here. If all you can do is deliver leaflets, or want to do something fun like canvassing, we can use any help you can give!
There are different routes still available on the NSCSO, judicial review, call in etc.
But the NSCSO is only half the battle. We must stop the awful DRS contract, which will see core council services- the things you shouldn't get rid off en masse, like planning or environmental services. Losing these services would be a hammer blow to the Council's ability to function independently. For all the big talk, there are NO guarantees of success. The only certainty is uncertainty.
But you can help us to convince Barnet Council to change their minds. You can join the Labour Party.
We don't have the finite resources of the Tory Party, what we do have are hardworking dedicated members. We don't get fundraisers at the Carlton Club, but we do talk to the people we represent. If you've always been inclined to support us, this is the moment for you to take a stand against barnet Council and Join the Labour Party.
If you don't feel comfortable joining the Party, but you want to get involved, then contact us here. If all you can do is deliver leaflets, or want to do something fun like canvassing, we can use any help you can give!
Welcome to the London Borough of Capita
So it's agreed. Months, years even of campaigning and hard work have come down to now. I won't say all is lost, because we still have the even worse DRS contract, which must be stopped. I feel disappointed becuase nothing has monopolised more of my seven and a half months on Barnet Council more than this.
When I was first elected, I thought being a councillor would be an extension of much of what I already did organising and helping out in the community. I thought I would be more of a ward Councillor than one who did a lot of work in the Town Hall, then this landed on my desk. After Andreas' stunning victory in Brunswick Park, we got two extra Committee seats, and I got one on Budget and Performance, to go with subbing on Auditing. So I have been on the scrutiny frontline!
We will need to do a stocktake and see what scrutiny can really achieve in a Council where we aren't actually delivering the services ourself, and that we are in effect reviewing an oganization we will, in my view, have little control or influence over. Once we are run by Capita, I think it will be their way, and we will be a sideshow.
For all the promises, guarantees and assurances, I don't believe any of it. From what I hear about Capita, from what I know about the Council's own terrible record on contracting and procurement and what I read about what is going on in local government elsewhere, I fear for this Borough. I am not convinced there is anything Capita have to fear. They are staking just 12% of their management fee on meeting performance targets. Piddling amount. nothing to lose if they fail our borough. Any of the management fee they lose out on will be compensated for by the dirty great mounds of profit they will be making at my constituent's expense. Pass me the sickbag.
Last night was a night to remember, for all the wrong reasons. The public were treated with contempt when they asked questions, there was no real debat, just a set of pre-written questions, and pre-written answers. Formailities for form's sake. That wans't scrutiny, open minded decision making or thorough research. It was a blind leap into darkness.
But let's not be too disheartened, there is still so much more to fight for. The DRS as I mentioned, but I hope there might be a judicial review of the NSCSO as well. Let's get back on our saddles and fight the next battle.
When I was first elected, I thought being a councillor would be an extension of much of what I already did organising and helping out in the community. I thought I would be more of a ward Councillor than one who did a lot of work in the Town Hall, then this landed on my desk. After Andreas' stunning victory in Brunswick Park, we got two extra Committee seats, and I got one on Budget and Performance, to go with subbing on Auditing. So I have been on the scrutiny frontline!
We will need to do a stocktake and see what scrutiny can really achieve in a Council where we aren't actually delivering the services ourself, and that we are in effect reviewing an oganization we will, in my view, have little control or influence over. Once we are run by Capita, I think it will be their way, and we will be a sideshow.
For all the promises, guarantees and assurances, I don't believe any of it. From what I hear about Capita, from what I know about the Council's own terrible record on contracting and procurement and what I read about what is going on in local government elsewhere, I fear for this Borough. I am not convinced there is anything Capita have to fear. They are staking just 12% of their management fee on meeting performance targets. Piddling amount. nothing to lose if they fail our borough. Any of the management fee they lose out on will be compensated for by the dirty great mounds of profit they will be making at my constituent's expense. Pass me the sickbag.
Last night was a night to remember, for all the wrong reasons. The public were treated with contempt when they asked questions, there was no real debat, just a set of pre-written questions, and pre-written answers. Formailities for form's sake. That wans't scrutiny, open minded decision making or thorough research. It was a blind leap into darkness.
But let's not be too disheartened, there is still so much more to fight for. The DRS as I mentioned, but I hope there might be a judicial review of the NSCSO as well. Let's get back on our saddles and fight the next battle.
Thursday, 6 December 2012
Make a stand against the NSCSO
Today's the day.
Cabinet will vote on whether to approve the NSCSO contract at 7pm at Hendon Town Hall.
I urge people to come to Hendon Town Hall this evening to show the Tories how much people don't want this. They need to know that they will lose the next election badly if they don't listen to ordinary residents. They always say that the campaign against One Barnet is led by the same left wing activists (As if that means they have no rights to be heard). I know this isn't true, When we talk to voters, even Tory ones, there is deep concern.
I understand there will be a petitioning of North London Business Park at 7.30-10.30 this morning as well.
Conservative Councillors need to understand that there is an alternative. They don't need to do this. I have never questioned the sincerity or decency of Conservative Councillors, but I sincerely believe they are thoroughly wrong. They must look seriously at service transformation, they must look seriously at a public sector comparitor and they must consult the public to ask them what they think.
No one doubts the challenges ahead, but the options before us are not the right way forward. We got an email from Andrew Dismore AM about how he is working on getting out of the contracting failures on London Underground. He says that once a contract is signed, there is no way back, even if it goes wrong. And the failure of the contract should be the foremost concern at the front of the Cabinet's mind. They tell us it is reckless to carry on the way we are, but it is even more reckless to go ahead with One Barnet, with so little scrutiny, so little consultation, and so little consideration of alternatives.
Mr Dismore also raised the question which I feel is most pertinent to us, which is what is being handed on. If there is a failure, there is no council to take things back. Once we go in, they take everything, and we will never have the capacity to bring things back wholesale if the contract fails, whatever these nonsensical guarantees, and non existent assurances.
But we all, as residents, have a duty to the borough as well. We need to stand up and be counted. I hope that if you agree with me, you will be sitting next to me in Committee rooms 1 and 2 tomorrow.
UPDATE: Apologies, I had heard the meeting was to be held at 6pm, rather than the normal time of 7pm. Needless to say, it is a genuine error on my part, and I ought to have checked the frontsheet when I read the papers. Many thanks to Daniel Hope of Barnet Bugle for letting me know my error.
I have cut the following paragraph, as it is innaccurate, however I stand by my criticism of the treatment of staff in general. The staff I met outside NLBP this morning as we gave them leaflets seemed to agree with me. But nontheless, apologies for the innaccuracy.
"That in itself is a cheap trick, holding the meeting an hour earlier, making it harder for campaigners and activists to come along, specifically their own staff at NLBP. I said at last weeks Budget and Performance meeting that they treated the staff abysmally, and this is just one example."
Cabinet will vote on whether to approve the NSCSO contract at 7pm at Hendon Town Hall.
I urge people to come to Hendon Town Hall this evening to show the Tories how much people don't want this. They need to know that they will lose the next election badly if they don't listen to ordinary residents. They always say that the campaign against One Barnet is led by the same left wing activists (As if that means they have no rights to be heard). I know this isn't true, When we talk to voters, even Tory ones, there is deep concern.
I understand there will be a petitioning of North London Business Park at 7.30-10.30 this morning as well.
Conservative Councillors need to understand that there is an alternative. They don't need to do this. I have never questioned the sincerity or decency of Conservative Councillors, but I sincerely believe they are thoroughly wrong. They must look seriously at service transformation, they must look seriously at a public sector comparitor and they must consult the public to ask them what they think.
No one doubts the challenges ahead, but the options before us are not the right way forward. We got an email from Andrew Dismore AM about how he is working on getting out of the contracting failures on London Underground. He says that once a contract is signed, there is no way back, even if it goes wrong. And the failure of the contract should be the foremost concern at the front of the Cabinet's mind. They tell us it is reckless to carry on the way we are, but it is even more reckless to go ahead with One Barnet, with so little scrutiny, so little consultation, and so little consideration of alternatives.
Mr Dismore also raised the question which I feel is most pertinent to us, which is what is being handed on. If there is a failure, there is no council to take things back. Once we go in, they take everything, and we will never have the capacity to bring things back wholesale if the contract fails, whatever these nonsensical guarantees, and non existent assurances.
But we all, as residents, have a duty to the borough as well. We need to stand up and be counted. I hope that if you agree with me, you will be sitting next to me in Committee rooms 1 and 2 tomorrow.
UPDATE: Apologies, I had heard the meeting was to be held at 6pm, rather than the normal time of 7pm. Needless to say, it is a genuine error on my part, and I ought to have checked the frontsheet when I read the papers. Many thanks to Daniel Hope of Barnet Bugle for letting me know my error.
I have cut the following paragraph, as it is innaccurate, however I stand by my criticism of the treatment of staff in general. The staff I met outside NLBP this morning as we gave them leaflets seemed to agree with me. But nontheless, apologies for the innaccuracy.
"That in itself is a cheap trick, holding the meeting an hour earlier, making it harder for campaigners and activists to come along, specifically their own staff at NLBP. I said at last weeks Budget and Performance meeting that they treated the staff abysmally, and this is just one example."
East Finchley War memorial
There has been some concern relating to a proposed development at number 78-80 Brackenbury Road. The former British legion building is to be converted into two houses, but there is a memorial to 22 local residents who died in the first world war. The Planning officers had already attached strong conditions to the application that the plaque would have to be re-located (at developer's expense) and preserved, however, I felt that more had to be done to keep the plaque in a very local area.
As I explained to the committee, Church Lane is one of the oldest inhabited parts of East Finchley, and there are a number of long settled families still living in the area. In fact, I know some descendents of people listed on the plaque still living in East Finchley. As such, It is extremely important that that specific part of East Finchley retained the plaque. The Borough Archivists have been negotiating, and I understand that Trinity Church on Church lane are interested in having the plaque. This would present an ideal solution in my view.
At the committee, we attached a condition that the plaque would be relocated as close as possible to the current site, and an informative that the plaque should be retained in the East Finchley Ward. We were saisfied with this, though initially I had pressed for a condition that it be retained in the ward, officers advising that it is up to the Borough Archivist, hence the informative. I had also reieved legal advice earlier stating that to be the case.
So the plaque is saved, and will be relocated nearby, within East Finchley. I have recieved a number of complaints on the issue and hope this clarifies the position, and is acceptable.
As I explained to the committee, Church Lane is one of the oldest inhabited parts of East Finchley, and there are a number of long settled families still living in the area. In fact, I know some descendents of people listed on the plaque still living in East Finchley. As such, It is extremely important that that specific part of East Finchley retained the plaque. The Borough Archivists have been negotiating, and I understand that Trinity Church on Church lane are interested in having the plaque. This would present an ideal solution in my view.
At the committee, we attached a condition that the plaque would be relocated as close as possible to the current site, and an informative that the plaque should be retained in the East Finchley Ward. We were saisfied with this, though initially I had pressed for a condition that it be retained in the ward, officers advising that it is up to the Borough Archivist, hence the informative. I had also reieved legal advice earlier stating that to be the case.
So the plaque is saved, and will be relocated nearby, within East Finchley. I have recieved a number of complaints on the issue and hope this clarifies the position, and is acceptable.
Excellent LINk meeting, and my near mental breakdown
Tuesday evening I went to the Local Involvement Network (LINk) AGM at the Greek Cypriot centre in Britannia Road in North Finchley.
There were some fascinating presentations from health professionals. As any of my followers of my twitter account will know, I had a near meltdown as the dietitian spoke, she basically slated my diet. Apparently, waffles and creme brulee are bad for you. Adding banana to a nutella crepe does not "cancel out the calories" as I earnestly believed. And a juicy fruits chewing gum is not one of your five a day. Neither are five banana crepes. I now smpathise with the US Republicans and their science denial on climate change. Why believe science if it tells you things you don't like? The dietitian was young, she couldn't possibly know how healthy a walnut whip really is...
Also good advice prom a podiatrist. Apparently, chiropodists changed their names to podiatrists 20 years ago, without telling anyone, hence the confusion. As someone who gets really sore feet, i found the session useful. And just like the dietitian I will ignore the advice because it seems like a lot of hard work.
Then an optician spoke. I had some questions for her, but was unable to ask due to time pressures. I am thinking of getting laser eye surgery, as I hate my glasses, and wanted o know how you can take care of your eyesight better.
An interesting theme that came out from the optician, and the speaker from MIND and some of the others is how ethnic minorities are far more susceptible to certain health problems. interesting, as there were so few ethnic minorities in the room.
In fact, that was a general issue afterwards. one speaker was concerned that not enough was being done by LINk to go out to estates like Graeme Park to give people free health advice like this, and that this meeting was very middle class. In fact, during a show of hands, I turned out to be the only person there who lived in a housing estate. I don't count though, apparently, as I am a Councillor. thought that was very unfair, I thought people wanted more young people, ethnic minorities and poor people from estates in politics, and when you get one, we don't count. Anyways, it was pointed out to the gentleman that they had done exactly as he had suggested- in Graeme Park!
But a really good session, I'm glad Barry Rawlings and I attended.
There were some fascinating presentations from health professionals. As any of my followers of my twitter account will know, I had a near meltdown as the dietitian spoke, she basically slated my diet. Apparently, waffles and creme brulee are bad for you. Adding banana to a nutella crepe does not "cancel out the calories" as I earnestly believed. And a juicy fruits chewing gum is not one of your five a day. Neither are five banana crepes. I now smpathise with the US Republicans and their science denial on climate change. Why believe science if it tells you things you don't like? The dietitian was young, she couldn't possibly know how healthy a walnut whip really is...
Also good advice prom a podiatrist. Apparently, chiropodists changed their names to podiatrists 20 years ago, without telling anyone, hence the confusion. As someone who gets really sore feet, i found the session useful. And just like the dietitian I will ignore the advice because it seems like a lot of hard work.
Then an optician spoke. I had some questions for her, but was unable to ask due to time pressures. I am thinking of getting laser eye surgery, as I hate my glasses, and wanted o know how you can take care of your eyesight better.
An interesting theme that came out from the optician, and the speaker from MIND and some of the others is how ethnic minorities are far more susceptible to certain health problems. interesting, as there were so few ethnic minorities in the room.
In fact, that was a general issue afterwards. one speaker was concerned that not enough was being done by LINk to go out to estates like Graeme Park to give people free health advice like this, and that this meeting was very middle class. In fact, during a show of hands, I turned out to be the only person there who lived in a housing estate. I don't count though, apparently, as I am a Councillor. thought that was very unfair, I thought people wanted more young people, ethnic minorities and poor people from estates in politics, and when you get one, we don't count. Anyways, it was pointed out to the gentleman that they had done exactly as he had suggested- in Graeme Park!
But a really good session, I'm glad Barry Rawlings and I attended.
Monday, 3 December 2012
East Finchley Christmas festival
This Saturday will see the very first East Finchley Christmas festival. Running concurrently with the French Market, we are hoping to give East Finchleyans some festive cheer, especially as we were unable to hold the Cherry Tree Woods festival in June.
The High Road will be shut off in sections, at the junctions with some of the County Roads. Please come and have a look. If it is successful we may be encouraged to see this run in perpetuity. Needless to say, the Next summer festival is being organised as we speak.
I hope this can provide a boost to the economy here, and a boost to the shops in the area, which are still suffering badly from the parking changes.
The High Road will be shut off in sections, at the junctions with some of the County Roads. Please come and have a look. If it is successful we may be encouraged to see this run in perpetuity. Needless to say, the Next summer festival is being organised as we speak.
I hope this can provide a boost to the economy here, and a boost to the shops in the area, which are still suffering badly from the parking changes.
Some alternative ideas to One Barnet
The Barnet Labour Party have suggested some of the different ways we would approach administration in the Council. These are important and deliverable changes to the way the Tories are doing this now. I think consulting the public is hugely important. One of the most distressing aspects of One Barnet has been that it has been slipped under the carpet, with no overall consultations.
In addition, Cllr Geof Cooke, my colleague in Woodhouse ward, has made some important obervations about the NSCSO contract. This is a point all four of us repeatedly questioned at Budget and Performance last week, and in private too. I am simply not confident about the credibility of the guarantees.
In addition, Cllr Geof Cooke, my colleague in Woodhouse ward, has made some important obervations about the NSCSO contract. This is a point all four of us repeatedly questioned at Budget and Performance last week, and in private too. I am simply not confident about the credibility of the guarantees.
See the One Barnet contract
...or at least the volumes we saw last thursday. We read a volume each in the three hours we had with them.
Tuesday, 27 November 2012
Arts are important
On my way home today I saw the front page of the odious Evening Standard. Unusually, it saved the Boris Johnson love-in for the middle pages. On the front were the theatre actors who had won awards last night. I gather a fair few have been lambasting the Government for the Arts Council funding cuts.
I have a lot of sympathy. Whilst people like me struggle to find money for the basic casework needs of our constituents, you might think I would take excpetion to spending on "luxury" goods like theatre and arts. But really, if things are to get better for my constituents in East Finchley, Arts funding is important.
As Danny Boyle said, we don't make cars anymore (we do need an industrial policy, but that's for another blog entry) and the future growth and prosperity for the country will have to be on Britain as a great place to live. An important part of why that's true is our phenomenal cultural heritage. Our history and culture is world renown, and it does draw people here to invest, to set up companies and employ people here. The future jobs of East Finchleyans will depend to some extent on London keeping and enhancing that artistic and cultural "vibe" we have and makes us so attractive abroad.
As we have seen with the Phoenix cinema, East Finchley Open and the Cherry Tree Woods festival, Arts and Culture are very much part of the fabric of the community, and I know that all over the ward we value it. We don't do much culture here in Barnet, but one place we do is East Finchley.
Going back to the original question, why do I think Arts funding is still important when there are other, more basic and important needs; I say there are a number of things. Firstly, the Arts funding is £450 million (Being cut to £350 million). A drop in the ocean of the £700 Billion national budget. Just like international development aid, cutting it does nothing to reduce the deficit, and probably does more harm in the process.
Secondly, that money is an investment. Many American film companies were re-locating bacuse of the generousity and success of our system. Cutting the funding will jeopardise our worl leading position, and compromise future jobs. There are many East Finchleyans who work in the Arts, and cuts there are making the ward directly worse off.
Thirdly, where there are those in need of financial assistance for thier problems, this funding is tiny, and simply will not cover even the most desperate of needs. We would lose all that we gain for money that won't fix the full problem.
Fourthly, Britain is doing well abroad. Our TV is internationally recognized for it's quality. Our Actors are all over films and TV around the world. They are helping to change the image of the country, and these cuts might diminish the "soft power" of Britain's international media. Soft power is increasingly recognised as important in diplomacy, and there is really nothing for good press sometimes!
So in short, Arts funding is very important to the economy, our culture, and our image abroad. All these things help East Finchley. We should be very proud of our Culture sector, and I hope the Government are doing everything they can to mitigate against their cuts.
I have a lot of sympathy. Whilst people like me struggle to find money for the basic casework needs of our constituents, you might think I would take excpetion to spending on "luxury" goods like theatre and arts. But really, if things are to get better for my constituents in East Finchley, Arts funding is important.
As Danny Boyle said, we don't make cars anymore (we do need an industrial policy, but that's for another blog entry) and the future growth and prosperity for the country will have to be on Britain as a great place to live. An important part of why that's true is our phenomenal cultural heritage. Our history and culture is world renown, and it does draw people here to invest, to set up companies and employ people here. The future jobs of East Finchleyans will depend to some extent on London keeping and enhancing that artistic and cultural "vibe" we have and makes us so attractive abroad.
As we have seen with the Phoenix cinema, East Finchley Open and the Cherry Tree Woods festival, Arts and Culture are very much part of the fabric of the community, and I know that all over the ward we value it. We don't do much culture here in Barnet, but one place we do is East Finchley.
Going back to the original question, why do I think Arts funding is still important when there are other, more basic and important needs; I say there are a number of things. Firstly, the Arts funding is £450 million (Being cut to £350 million). A drop in the ocean of the £700 Billion national budget. Just like international development aid, cutting it does nothing to reduce the deficit, and probably does more harm in the process.
Secondly, that money is an investment. Many American film companies were re-locating bacuse of the generousity and success of our system. Cutting the funding will jeopardise our worl leading position, and compromise future jobs. There are many East Finchleyans who work in the Arts, and cuts there are making the ward directly worse off.
Thirdly, where there are those in need of financial assistance for thier problems, this funding is tiny, and simply will not cover even the most desperate of needs. We would lose all that we gain for money that won't fix the full problem.
Fourthly, Britain is doing well abroad. Our TV is internationally recognized for it's quality. Our Actors are all over films and TV around the world. They are helping to change the image of the country, and these cuts might diminish the "soft power" of Britain's international media. Soft power is increasingly recognised as important in diplomacy, and there is really nothing for good press sometimes!
So in short, Arts funding is very important to the economy, our culture, and our image abroad. All these things help East Finchley. We should be very proud of our Culture sector, and I hope the Government are doing everything they can to mitigate against their cuts.
Policing in Barnet
Andrew Dismore carries the message from the Barnet Metropolitan Police Service on the future of policing in the borough. it isn't a pretty sight. Mayor Johnson sits in City Hall, promises more police but really cuts them. He is a real let down for Londoners, and it is astonishing that the media are giving him a free pass for having failed, within months, on another election pledge. I am in particular concerned by the reduction in front counter services. At a time when residents are very worried by burglaries, and there has been a spike in the number of them recently, despite a major operation. I see nothing about how to tackle that.
Re: Changing the way front counter service is delivered in Barnet Borough
In September 2011, the Commissioner set out the vision for the MPS – the ‘One Met Model’ – under the banner of Total Policing. It has three targets: cut crime, cut costs and change the culture. We will focus on:
Better ways of working
Better use of technology
Better use of communication and visibility.
MetChange is the programme that will deliver higher quality policing services in a more effective and cost-efficient way. The MPS must change the way it delivers its services to modernise, become more responsive and put the public at the heart of what it does. The ‘One Met Model’ is being developed with neighbourhood policing at the foundation and response by dynamic and flexible pan-London investigative and specialist units. The support functions will be rationalised and more resources will be focused at the front line.
The MPS will cut crime and improve services and performance by:
-More officers from non-operational roles to the front line
-Streamlining operational support services
-Making the MPS and its services more accessible to the public.
-Our objective is to deliver a 20% reduction in crime, a 20% reduction in costs and a 20% improvement in public confidence.
-One part of the MetChange programme is a review of how the MPS delivers its front
counter service.
There are a variety of reasons that a member of the public visits a front counter. 18% of all contacts relate to court imposed bail conditions (normally a requirement to present yourself at a police station) or the requirement to present driving documents as a result of a traffic violation or police check. 18% of contacts are as a result of visitors meeting officers or custody suite enquiries in the larger police stations. The remaining 64% of contacts, therefore, relate to visits that could potentially be made to any police officer in any location; the principal activities are: finding out general information or collectingforms 17%, lost or found property 14%, reporting a crime 12%, discussing general police matters 11% and collision report/civil dispute/missing persons/complaints 8%.
Usage of front counters is declining, with 12.3% of all crime in 2011 being reported
in front counters, compared with 13.7% in 2008. With the developments in face-to-
face service provision and improvements in technology, demand at front counters will
continue to fall. At present Barnet Borough has 4 police stations that provide a front counter service. Colindale is open 24 hours a day. Barnet, Golders Green and Whetstone are open 15
hours a day. In order to maintain this service I have to remove uniform police officers
from active patrol duties. Recent survey data shows that no station takes more than 3
crime reports in any 8 hour period and only Colindale and Barnet exceed a proposed
minimum standard of footfall.
In order for the MPS to put 2,000 more officers back into neighbourhood policing it has identified that it needs to reduce up to 65 front counters. To maintain and improve access by the public it will replace them with over 200 Contact Points in popular locations such as community centres, supermarkets and shared local authority buildings. The services at these contact points will be delivered by local Safer Neighbourhood Officers at a time when they can be most efficient.
To support the MPS position the proposal in Barnet is:
-To close the front office at Whetstone Police Station and Golders Green Police Station.
-To reduce the service at Barnet form 15 hours a day 7 days a week to 8 hours 5 days a week.
-To keep Colindale open 24hrs a day 7 days a week.
-To increase the number of advertised Neighbourhood Police contact points across the borough in line with a shared services policy, i.e. police surgeries in hospitals,
local authority buildings, supermarkets etc.
-There is no requirement for a statutory consultation process with the community at large but it is important that I canvass the issues and concerns of our key stakeholders.
One anticipated concern is the closure of the Golders Green front counter service and its impact on the Jewish communities. To alleviate these concerns an alternative front counter service will be created at the Golders Green safer neighbourhood patrol base on a Friday and Saturday.
As is often the case for such matters the time scale for stakeholder engagement is short. It would be preferable to have a face to face meeting to discuss the proposal in more depth and I am available to do just that. However, given your undoubtedly busy schedule I thought it would be best to provide what I can via letter.
If you require any clarification on the above or the background statistics to support the
MPS case please don’t hesitate to contact me.
Monday, 26 November 2012
BAWA
Last Friday I visited the Barnet Asian Women's Association, BAWA at thier base in Friary House, Friern Barnet. Theyw ere having a late Diwali celebration, and as always with BAWA, they did it in some style. Good food, good company and a warm celebration is the standard for them, and this time they topped my previous visits.
Unfortunately the issue with the gate is still occuring, and I am continuing to press the Council. The lack of access is leaving vulnerable elderly people at home, alone and depressed. They need dial-a-ride to drop them off to the front door.
I stayed at the end to have a chat with some of the members. It's really very sad in a way to talk to these remarkable women and hear the difficulties many are going through. Many do not speak English well, and some are widowed, so self-reliant for the first time in thier lives. I picked up some casework, but more importantly got a little taster of the issues a very under-represented minority are suffering from.
But I am always impressed by what happy people they are despite their problems, and how much they contribute. I hope we can get a resolution to the gate and make this a real success.
Unfortunately the issue with the gate is still occuring, and I am continuing to press the Council. The lack of access is leaving vulnerable elderly people at home, alone and depressed. They need dial-a-ride to drop them off to the front door.
I stayed at the end to have a chat with some of the members. It's really very sad in a way to talk to these remarkable women and hear the difficulties many are going through. Many do not speak English well, and some are widowed, so self-reliant for the first time in thier lives. I picked up some casework, but more importantly got a little taster of the issues a very under-represented minority are suffering from.
But I am always impressed by what happy people they are despite their problems, and how much they contribute. I hope we can get a resolution to the gate and make this a real success.
Friday, 23 November 2012
Read for yourself the impending One Barnet disaster
The papers have been published for the Budget and Performance Overview and Scrutiny Committee meeting next thursday, which I encourage all Barnet residents to attend.
I have not yet had a chance to go through them in detail, but my first impressions are that this will be a horrific disaster. And the New Support and Customer Services Organisation contract, despite being bigger at £700 million, is the less contrvoversial one.
The Labour group have had our briefing, which I will not go into detail, as they were behind closed doors, and we had an opportunity to put some questions about this contract. Whilst some fears were allayed, and some benefits were pointed out, I remain thoroughly unconvinced.
You will hear more of my arguments on Thursday, though they will be recognizeable as the points I have been making for months. I feel this is a bad deal, and it is us who are taking the risks, not Capita. I also feel there has been no consultation, no proper scrutiny, no public involvement, and no mandate. God help us all if this gets through.
I have not yet had a chance to go through them in detail, but my first impressions are that this will be a horrific disaster. And the New Support and Customer Services Organisation contract, despite being bigger at £700 million, is the less contrvoversial one.
The Labour group have had our briefing, which I will not go into detail, as they were behind closed doors, and we had an opportunity to put some questions about this contract. Whilst some fears were allayed, and some benefits were pointed out, I remain thoroughly unconvinced.
You will hear more of my arguments on Thursday, though they will be recognizeable as the points I have been making for months. I feel this is a bad deal, and it is us who are taking the risks, not Capita. I also feel there has been no consultation, no proper scrutiny, no public involvement, and no mandate. God help us all if this gets through.
The amazing work of Elysian House
As a member of the Health Overview and Scrutiny Committee, I visited Elysian House in Colindale, not far from the station. I visited with the chair of the committee, Cllr Alison Cornelius, a fellow Labour member of the committee, Cllr Julie Johnson and her husband, Cllr Geoff Johnson, who is a ward Councillor in Colindale.
Its common to be either impressed or unimpressed on a visit, but rare to be moved. Today, I was thoroughly moved by visiting this house.
Elysian House is a recovery centre for people with mental health issues. It is usually a halfway point between hospital and home, or a refuge for people when times get too tough for them. Designed like a hotel, but with a more homely feel, it is a place for patients to recover and re-learn their old lives, and get them ready and prepared to go back home. It has quiet areas, TV areas, a big kitchen, activities and large rooms, which seem to be a real effort to meet the various needs of patients, such as double beds.
They have a hugely caring and loving staff, who are passionate and committed individuals. Extremely well trained, and offering international leadership in outpatient services for those who have had breakdowns. They do everything they can for their patients, and show what is best practice is. I hope this becomes the national model.
We spoke to a service user, who happened to be a constituent of mine in East Finchley, and it is very clear that Elysian house is making a huge difference for its users. I was very moved talking to them, and I can see how important this service is to a successful recovery. They have excellent statistics, and re-admission rates are low. It's amazing, that just like the primary care strategy, there are things you can do that both cut costs and are of huge benefit to patients.
I understand there is a similar facility on Fortis Green, and I would like to arrange a visit there as well, to see how the smaller facility there operates. I am hugely impressed with the service, and I wish them great success in rolling out their delivery model accrossthe country the world.
Its common to be either impressed or unimpressed on a visit, but rare to be moved. Today, I was thoroughly moved by visiting this house.
Elysian House is a recovery centre for people with mental health issues. It is usually a halfway point between hospital and home, or a refuge for people when times get too tough for them. Designed like a hotel, but with a more homely feel, it is a place for patients to recover and re-learn their old lives, and get them ready and prepared to go back home. It has quiet areas, TV areas, a big kitchen, activities and large rooms, which seem to be a real effort to meet the various needs of patients, such as double beds.
They have a hugely caring and loving staff, who are passionate and committed individuals. Extremely well trained, and offering international leadership in outpatient services for those who have had breakdowns. They do everything they can for their patients, and show what is best practice is. I hope this becomes the national model.
We spoke to a service user, who happened to be a constituent of mine in East Finchley, and it is very clear that Elysian house is making a huge difference for its users. I was very moved talking to them, and I can see how important this service is to a successful recovery. They have excellent statistics, and re-admission rates are low. It's amazing, that just like the primary care strategy, there are things you can do that both cut costs and are of huge benefit to patients.
I understand there is a similar facility on Fortis Green, and I would like to arrange a visit there as well, to see how the smaller facility there operates. I am hugely impressed with the service, and I wish them great success in rolling out their delivery model accross
Wednesday, 21 November 2012
Have Your Say
Here are the latest consultations Barnet Council are running. If they are important to you, please contribute to them.
There are important ones on the Inclusion Strategy Principles, and the Children's service budget.
There are important ones on the Inclusion Strategy Principles, and the Children's service budget.
Keep putting pressure on Freer, Offord and Villiers
I understand Barnet's three Tory MP's email in boxes sould have a few comments from members of the public angry about the One Barnet Programme. I am glad that people are taking my advice and asking their MPs why Councillors of their own party are leading them down the garden path.
We knowMr Dr Offord, the former deputy leader of the Council is having a few tough words from his own side, though given how rude he is to them perhaps he will become irrelevant. Mr Freer is the architect, and one of his former colleagues, Cllr John Hart of Mill Hill, thinks he is still pulling the strings, according to Roger Tichborne's blog. Given the furore over parking already in the Finchley and Golders Green constituency, One might have thought Mr Freer would like to stop his colleagues from scuppering his re-election chances.
The real question though, is Theresa Villiers. Ms Villiers has not expressed a public position on One Barnet as far as I am aware. Given the extremely large swings we saw in May in Chipping Barnet, she would do well to engage with the issue. Cllr Longstaff, Cllr Rams, Cllr Tambourides, Cllr Rajput and Cllr Cornelius are Chipping Barnet Councillors. She must have some clout with half the cabinet surely?
I hope people will put pressure on the Tory Councillors and MPs.
We know
The real question though, is Theresa Villiers. Ms Villiers has not expressed a public position on One Barnet as far as I am aware. Given the extremely large swings we saw in May in Chipping Barnet, she would do well to engage with the issue. Cllr Longstaff, Cllr Rams, Cllr Tambourides, Cllr Rajput and Cllr Cornelius are Chipping Barnet Councillors. She must have some clout with half the cabinet surely?
I hope people will put pressure on the Tory Councillors and MPs.
More good work from Andrew Dismore AM
I am glad to see Barnet and Camden's Labour GLA member Andrew Dismore is still hard at work. He and Labour Party Leader Ed Miliband sent Diwali greetings to the Hindu and Sikh community, which is warmly appreciated.
He also asked residents to identify dangerous roads and junctions in Barnet for road safety week. This is a vital issue of concern to many residents, after the success of the Walksafe N2 campaign, I hope there will be a sea-change in Barnet Council's aattitude to pedestrian safety. I campaigned with Cllr Anita Campbell and Andrew earlier in the year on the Stirling Corner issue, and again it seems that the change in the Cabinet means a little more sense is seen on road safety.
He is also camapigning against the closure of Whetstone and Golders Green police stations. Given that crime is a serious issue for a lot of people in the borough, it seems a little odd that the party which calls itself the party of law and order would propose this. It seems that the only 24/7 police station in Barnet will be Colindale. I don't yet know where any replacement desks will be, but as with the reduction of hours at the Barnet station to working day, working week hours, I can't be sure that'll be enough.
Andrew has also published his November report from City Hall.
He also asked residents to identify dangerous roads and junctions in Barnet for road safety week. This is a vital issue of concern to many residents, after the success of the Walksafe N2 campaign, I hope there will be a sea-change in Barnet Council's aattitude to pedestrian safety. I campaigned with Cllr Anita Campbell and Andrew earlier in the year on the Stirling Corner issue, and again it seems that the change in the Cabinet means a little more sense is seen on road safety.
He is also camapigning against the closure of Whetstone and Golders Green police stations. Given that crime is a serious issue for a lot of people in the borough, it seems a little odd that the party which calls itself the party of law and order would propose this. It seems that the only 24/7 police station in Barnet will be Colindale. I don't yet know where any replacement desks will be, but as with the reduction of hours at the Barnet station to working day, working week hours, I can't be sure that'll be enough.
Andrew has also published his November report from City Hall.
I'm proud to be a Governor at Friern Barnet School
Before I was elected to be a Councillor, my main contribution to the community was as an LEA Governor at Friern Barnet School. I love the school, and I think we achieved a huge amount in the last few years. The Headteacher, the Senior Leadership Team, the Chair of Governors, the staff and the pupils make this a great local school. The Arts focus is very much welcomed even by a relative philistine such as I, and winning the prestigious Jack Petchey award for the glee club last year was a major achievement.
Today there was a Governor's day, where we Governors spent the day at the school, talking to staff and students. I was, as usual, hugely impressed with both. I spoke to a range of students, and I was pleased to hear how much they like being at the school and how good they think the school is. They were a very articulate group of students, and I hope they will all go far in life.
As the maths faculty link governor, I was really impressed with the department, and the level of achievement in the last year has been phenomenal. I observed a lesson and couldn't believe the stark differences between teaching now and when I was at school 10 years ago. Vast improvements to the quality of teaching, and the engagement of pupils in the lesson.
We sat in with the student parliament, and helped them come up with some ideas for anti-bullying week. Again, they are an innovative bunch!
As a thank you, a cross section of year groups did various performances, all of which were absolutely excellent, particularly the dancers.
I think any visitor to the school would see why the school is now rated outstanding by OFSTED, and how and why the school achieve so much in attainment for the students. I can only wish them further success in the future, and I hope to stay as a Governor there for some time to come.
Today there was a Governor's day, where we Governors spent the day at the school, talking to staff and students. I was, as usual, hugely impressed with both. I spoke to a range of students, and I was pleased to hear how much they like being at the school and how good they think the school is. They were a very articulate group of students, and I hope they will all go far in life.
As the maths faculty link governor, I was really impressed with the department, and the level of achievement in the last year has been phenomenal. I observed a lesson and couldn't believe the stark differences between teaching now and when I was at school 10 years ago. Vast improvements to the quality of teaching, and the engagement of pupils in the lesson.
We sat in with the student parliament, and helped them come up with some ideas for anti-bullying week. Again, they are an innovative bunch!
As a thank you, a cross section of year groups did various performances, all of which were absolutely excellent, particularly the dancers.
I think any visitor to the school would see why the school is now rated outstanding by OFSTED, and how and why the school achieve so much in attainment for the students. I can only wish them further success in the future, and I hope to stay as a Governor there for some time to come.
The Billion Pound Gamble in Parliament
Monday night saw the screening of the film Billion Pound Gamble in Committee room 12 of the Houses of Parliament. We had excellent overviews from Bill Esterson MP, who's own Sefton Council has brought services back in house after 5 years. He also spoke with great knowledge about the national picture of councils rejecting their failed outsourcing contracts, such as Southwest One, Liverpool Council and others. There was an introduction from David Anderson MP, who also talked about the national picture, and how it was affecting vulnerable people. Hilary Benn MP also came down briefly at the start to show his support as well.
They showed first the brilliant cartoon that explains the One Barnet idea in a simple and easy to follow way, and must be watched. This recieved one of the biggest applauses of the night.
I have seen the film before, and if you haven't then buy it! I'm not going to describe it, other than to say it is very much worth seeing.
in the Q & A afterwards there was an excellen discussion, very enlightening and elightened. There were a lot of people who were not usual activists, and a lot of young people as well. Some were not inhenerntly against outsourcing, but agreed that the biggest problem was the failure to consult, and the failure to do a proper in house comparison bid.
I think this was a worthwhile session and I am glad members of Parliament are sitting up and taking notice.
They showed first the brilliant cartoon that explains the One Barnet idea in a simple and easy to follow way, and must be watched. This recieved one of the biggest applauses of the night.
I have seen the film before, and if you haven't then buy it! I'm not going to describe it, other than to say it is very much worth seeing.
in the Q & A afterwards there was an excellen discussion, very enlightening and elightened. There were a lot of people who were not usual activists, and a lot of young people as well. Some were not inhenerntly against outsourcing, but agreed that the biggest problem was the failure to consult, and the failure to do a proper in house comparison bid.
I think this was a worthwhile session and I am glad members of Parliament are sitting up and taking notice.
Monday, 19 November 2012
London Councils
I went to the London Councils annual conference at the Guildhall in London on Saturday. It is a very good conference, and I recommend it to all London Councillors.
It startedwith an introduction from Hackney Mayor Jules Pipe, the 'day-mayor' to Boris Johnson's 'night-mayer'. He did a very good speech, talking about the Olympics and the riots. Boris then spoke. He didn't really say anything, he never does. He doesn't seem to know very much really. He had one good line though, he congratulated us on coming, as the turnout here far exceeded the PCC elections on Thursday!
In the first plenary session, I went to a talk on housing. It was interesting, but we need to make sure people understand that we have existing issues like school places, transport, amenity spaces etc. which need to be addressed alongside new housing. Unfortunately, There is a degree of resistance by some to sensible solutions. One Tory Councillor for Merton asked why we don't build more housing in Scotland to sort out London's housing needs.
Lunch was good, I had a nice lamb and risotto dish first, then went to another line and claimed a salmon and risotto dish. Very nice chocolate mousse too. Poor Richard Cornelius was given his desert by Alison Cornelius, and she seemed to have given him these multi-coloured things called "fruit". Whoever heard such like?! Sadly the desert was on one line, so I couldn't sneak back for seconds like I had on the mains.
After lunch, a talk on adult social care. Less interesting discussion, though there was a strong riposte to the "graph of doom". Barry Rawlings and I helpfully pointed Alison Cornelius out to everyone else. Primary care is more and more important to get right.
Finally a talk about the political changes in London. This is what I live for, statistical data on politics. Swings, changes, data, graphics and insight. I was in heaven. There was one funny bit when they said the GLA had previously only seen the Brent and Harrow seat change hands, and that this time Ealing and Hillingdon and "Barnet and Coleman" had changed hads- cue guffawing from just about everyone there.
They looked at Council by elections since 2010, and yours truly got a mention, as my 16.6% swing is apparently the largest recorded in London since then. I did take a bow. Honourable mention for Andreas Ioannidis (who was sadly not in the room at the time) as one of only two seats that had changed hands in the 22 London By-elections since 2010.
I had a good time there, saw some good old friends and colleagues, learnt a lot and picked up some good advice. I know David Shepherd hates the City of London Corporation, but the Guildhall is some place, with a beautiful art gallery and big neo-gothic halls. Nowhere to have a drink though.
It startedwith an introduction from Hackney Mayor Jules Pipe, the 'day-mayor' to Boris Johnson's 'night-mayer'. He did a very good speech, talking about the Olympics and the riots. Boris then spoke. He didn't really say anything, he never does. He doesn't seem to know very much really. He had one good line though, he congratulated us on coming, as the turnout here far exceeded the PCC elections on Thursday!
In the first plenary session, I went to a talk on housing. It was interesting, but we need to make sure people understand that we have existing issues like school places, transport, amenity spaces etc. which need to be addressed alongside new housing. Unfortunately, There is a degree of resistance by some to sensible solutions. One Tory Councillor for Merton asked why we don't build more housing in Scotland to sort out London's housing needs.
Lunch was good, I had a nice lamb and risotto dish first, then went to another line and claimed a salmon and risotto dish. Very nice chocolate mousse too. Poor Richard Cornelius was given his desert by Alison Cornelius, and she seemed to have given him these multi-coloured things called "fruit". Whoever heard such like?! Sadly the desert was on one line, so I couldn't sneak back for seconds like I had on the mains.
After lunch, a talk on adult social care. Less interesting discussion, though there was a strong riposte to the "graph of doom". Barry Rawlings and I helpfully pointed Alison Cornelius out to everyone else. Primary care is more and more important to get right.
Finally a talk about the political changes in London. This is what I live for, statistical data on politics. Swings, changes, data, graphics and insight. I was in heaven. There was one funny bit when they said the GLA had previously only seen the Brent and Harrow seat change hands, and that this time Ealing and Hillingdon and "Barnet and Coleman" had changed hads- cue guffawing from just about everyone there.
They looked at Council by elections since 2010, and yours truly got a mention, as my 16.6% swing is apparently the largest recorded in London since then. I did take a bow. Honourable mention for Andreas Ioannidis (who was sadly not in the room at the time) as one of only two seats that had changed hands in the 22 London By-elections since 2010.
I had a good time there, saw some good old friends and colleagues, learnt a lot and picked up some good advice. I know David Shepherd hates the City of London Corporation, but the Guildhall is some place, with a beautiful art gallery and big neo-gothic halls. Nowhere to have a drink though.
Billion Pound Gamble in Parliament Tonight
Today, Monday 19th, the film Billion Pound Gamble will be showing in Committee Room 12 of the Houses of Parliament from 6.30 PM. Arrive by 6 to get security checked and into the estate in time though.
This is an important film about One Barnet and the Parking issue we have in Barnet. At London Councils on Saturday, a number of people came up to to express their disgust at what Barnet's Tory administration is doing, and congratulations to us for getting the message out.
People are taking notice of this reckless gamble and Barnet's Tories are taking a hammering in their credibility. Lets keep up the pressure.
This is an important film about One Barnet and the Parking issue we have in Barnet. At London Councils on Saturday, a number of people came up to to express their disgust at what Barnet's Tory administration is doing, and congratulations to us for getting the message out.
People are taking notice of this reckless gamble and Barnet's Tories are taking a hammering in their credibility. Lets keep up the pressure.
Have your say on the Archer Academy
The Archer Academy are doing their section 10 consultation, a link can be found here.
I hope this can be the school people in East Finchley want, and can help solve the places for girls problem we have. The team behind it have worked very hard, and it's interesting the parallel with the Walksafe N2 campaign. Both driven by excellent leadership, real commitment, support from the community, an understanding of reality, a desire to compromise and attention to detail.
I found out how important the issue was during my by-election, when school places came up again and again on the doorstep. I also know how important it is to send your children to the right school for them, because I decidedly did not go to the right school for me, and my school days were miserable and soul destroying because of it.
I have serious problems with the free schools policy, and the way they are implemented. I know that many of these concerns are shared by others, but I feel very strongly that the Archer Academy people have gone out of their way to mitigate against those concerns as best as they have been able. I also believe that the school we will get at the end of it will be one that people with concerns can be very proud of, and supportive of. I think the school has very strong principles underpinning it, and will be as inclusive as possible.
I wish the school every success in the future.
I hope this can be the school people in East Finchley want, and can help solve the places for girls problem we have. The team behind it have worked very hard, and it's interesting the parallel with the Walksafe N2 campaign. Both driven by excellent leadership, real commitment, support from the community, an understanding of reality, a desire to compromise and attention to detail.
I found out how important the issue was during my by-election, when school places came up again and again on the doorstep. I also know how important it is to send your children to the right school for them, because I decidedly did not go to the right school for me, and my school days were miserable and soul destroying because of it.
I have serious problems with the free schools policy, and the way they are implemented. I know that many of these concerns are shared by others, but I feel very strongly that the Archer Academy people have gone out of their way to mitigate against those concerns as best as they have been able. I also believe that the school we will get at the end of it will be one that people with concerns can be very proud of, and supportive of. I think the school has very strong principles underpinning it, and will be as inclusive as possible.
I wish the school every success in the future.
Council Tax Benefit
One issue I am very concerned about is the scrapping of Council Tax Benefit (CTB) and replacing it with Council Tax Support (CTS). This means the Council will have greater responsibility for Council Tax revenues, though the Revenues and Benefits department. This is a concern to me, because Revs & Bens is going in One Barnet, and I am worried that overzealous collection by a company for whom this will be part of their profitability will put vulnerable people at risk.
The change is completely undemocratic, as Councils have had to design their new systems, consult and will have to implement this by April, despite the bill for it not yet having passed Parliament! And almost as soon as ours is up and running, it's going to be bundled off to the One Barnet winner.
But what is unfair about Eric Pickles Poll Tax, is that there will be a funding shortfall of £4.4 million to Barnet. (In fact I understand it's £4 million or slightly less, but they want to create a reserve). This shortfall will have to be plugged with various new things. for example, empty properties will have to make a contribution. This is not necessarily a bad thing, as we won't want to incentivise empty homes in a borough with a severe housing problem.
But the real 'Poll Tax' is that many may be required to make a minimum contribution. in the presentation to Councillors, it was pitched to as much as 25%. This is potentially hundreds of pounds a year for people already struggling financially. This could be crippling if you're a single parent, a low paid worker, vulnerable or disabled. This is particularly pernicious when you consider other benefit caps and cuts, loss of tax credits, high housing costs in the Borough, high energy and transport bills and cuts to affordable childcare.
All the while, the Government are giving millionaires thousands of Pounds worth of tax cuts. Kerching as the Private Eye might say. This Government make Mitt Romney look compassionate to the poor. At least the are dropping the 'we're all in this together' rhetoric. I suppose it was too hard to say it with a straight face.
The change is completely undemocratic, as Councils have had to design their new systems, consult and will have to implement this by April, despite the bill for it not yet having passed Parliament! And almost as soon as ours is up and running, it's going to be bundled off to the One Barnet winner.
But what is unfair about Eric Pickles Poll Tax, is that there will be a funding shortfall of £4.4 million to Barnet. (In fact I understand it's £4 million or slightly less, but they want to create a reserve). This shortfall will have to be plugged with various new things. for example, empty properties will have to make a contribution. This is not necessarily a bad thing, as we won't want to incentivise empty homes in a borough with a severe housing problem.
But the real 'Poll Tax' is that many may be required to make a minimum contribution. in the presentation to Councillors, it was pitched to as much as 25%. This is potentially hundreds of pounds a year for people already struggling financially. This could be crippling if you're a single parent, a low paid worker, vulnerable or disabled. This is particularly pernicious when you consider other benefit caps and cuts, loss of tax credits, high housing costs in the Borough, high energy and transport bills and cuts to affordable childcare.
All the while, the Government are giving millionaires thousands of Pounds worth of tax cuts. Kerching as the Private Eye might say. This Government make Mitt Romney look compassionate to the poor. At least the are dropping the 'we're all in this together' rhetoric. I suppose it was too hard to say it with a straight face.
Sunday, 18 November 2012
Mitzvah Day
Sunday has seen Mitzvah day, the Jewish day of volunteering. I went to Long Lane Pastures to help with a bit of gardening. I haven't done gardening for about 15 years, since I was in primary school, but I had a lot of fun, and see how gardening is both exercise, but also a bit of relaxation. I also realised that I have just two coats. A smart one and an even smarter one!
Cllr Jim Tierney, Cllr Anne Hutton and Cllr Alison Moore joined me and some friends of the pastures to do a little work on the land.
We were raking the old dead grass and putting it onto a big compost heap. Apparently the pastures have always been grassland, but has poor soil. This is a good thing because the poor soil is good for flowers, which we want to encourage. Letting the dead grass rot and decompose will let nutrients into the soil, which improves the quality for the grass, but is bad for the flowers. I'm not sure I understand that, and Jim Tierney was a little perplexed by it too, but we did as asked.
It was good teamwork too, Anne, Alison and the regulars raked the hay, Jim and I collected it in wheelbarrows and dumped it on the compost heap. Having never seen, let alone used a real pitchfork before, I soon got the hang of it. It was a bit like using a fork to eat noodles. Just on a bigger scale.
It was a mild day, the sun was out and it wasn't too cold. during the break time I had this very refreshing elderflower cordial. I usually prefer my cordials entente, but never mind. I have to say, I really enjoyed the experience. Living in a block of flats, and being decidedly urban in my outlook, I've never really done any serious gardening, but I felt today was worthwhile and enjoyable. It was fun to work with the others, particularly Jim, who was more than handy with his pitchfork I can tell you! I bet Colin would be good at this sort of thing too.
It's a shame they do the work on Saturday mornings when we are busy because I would love to do this again some time.
Cllr Jim Tierney, Cllr Anne Hutton and Cllr Alison Moore joined me and some friends of the pastures to do a little work on the land.
We were raking the old dead grass and putting it onto a big compost heap. Apparently the pastures have always been grassland, but has poor soil. This is a good thing because the poor soil is good for flowers, which we want to encourage. Letting the dead grass rot and decompose will let nutrients into the soil, which improves the quality for the grass, but is bad for the flowers. I'm not sure I understand that, and Jim Tierney was a little perplexed by it too, but we did as asked.
It was good teamwork too, Anne, Alison and the regulars raked the hay, Jim and I collected it in wheelbarrows and dumped it on the compost heap. Having never seen, let alone used a real pitchfork before, I soon got the hang of it. It was a bit like using a fork to eat noodles. Just on a bigger scale.
It was a mild day, the sun was out and it wasn't too cold. during the break time I had this very refreshing elderflower cordial. I usually prefer my cordials entente, but never mind. I have to say, I really enjoyed the experience. Living in a block of flats, and being decidedly urban in my outlook, I've never really done any serious gardening, but I felt today was worthwhile and enjoyable. It was fun to work with the others, particularly Jim, who was more than handy with his pitchfork I can tell you! I bet Colin would be good at this sort of thing too.
It's a shame they do the work on Saturday mornings when we are busy because I would love to do this again some time.
Thursday, 15 November 2012
The East Finchley Village Project
Today I attended the second introductory meeting for the East Finchley Village Project. I am still not 100% certain about what the aim of the project is, and one fellow attendee thought it was "nebulous". It seems to be an effort to foster greater communication between residents, and designed to help direct people to the right place for things. In many such cases, in fact that is the job of Councillors. The examples cited were mainly social services, for which people should be encouraged to contact Colin, Alison and myself.
In my view, the most useful form of this project would be if it set up a forum for the already strong local community and voluntary groups. It could be a hub for people to share ideas, communicate, co-operate, spread news and share best practice. I suggested that they should meet all over East Finchley, and go to the "forgotten" or under used places. Make sure all of the ward is involved on a micro basis.
That might involve dropping the term "village", which if the signs are anything to go by really only seem to include the High Road. Never mind that Church Lane is the original village. I something is branded "East Finchkey", it ought to be all of East Finchley. I have always said there is more to East Finchley than just the County Roads. We should not forget Briar Close, Deansway, Manor Cottages Approach or Strawberry Vale.
It seems like this is being run by very well intentioned people, who really want to make a success of it, but I feel they lack a certain direction. They seem to want it to be all encompassing, when in reality there is a smaller but important role of residents association for voluntary and community groups which they could play.
I wish them well in their endeavours, and let's see what they can bring.
In my view, the most useful form of this project would be if it set up a forum for the already strong local community and voluntary groups. It could be a hub for people to share ideas, communicate, co-operate, spread news and share best practice. I suggested that they should meet all over East Finchley, and go to the "forgotten" or under used places. Make sure all of the ward is involved on a micro basis.
That might involve dropping the term "village", which if the signs are anything to go by really only seem to include the High Road. Never mind that Church Lane is the original village. I something is branded "East Finchkey", it ought to be all of East Finchley. I have always said there is more to East Finchley than just the County Roads. We should not forget Briar Close, Deansway, Manor Cottages Approach or Strawberry Vale.
It seems like this is being run by very well intentioned people, who really want to make a success of it, but I feel they lack a certain direction. They seem to want it to be all encompassing, when in reality there is a smaller but important role of residents association for voluntary and community groups which they could play.
I wish them well in their endeavours, and let's see what they can bring.
Recent Labour comments on One Barnet
Cllr Geof Cooke of Woodhouse ward is our spokesperson on Finance and resources. I am on the Audit Committee with him, and he is very impressive on detail. Here, is his speech in last weeks Council meeting, comparing One Barnet to the book 1984 by George Orwell.
Then my colleague Cllr Kath McGuirk, of West Finchley ward on the more for less approach.
And finally the leader on our new leaflet.
Then my colleague Cllr Kath McGuirk, of West Finchley ward on the more for less approach.
And finally the leader on our new leaflet.
Tuesday, 13 November 2012
One Barnet and the transparency problem
At the last Audit Committee meeting, I spoke about how the Council did not consider transparency to be important. In thier own internal audit, they said they planned to comply with the minimum standards, and shift to a more demand side approach. Basically they will publish information you ask for, not by choice. Given they put up a fight against any request for information, what does it say about moving to a system where all information release will be on request? This flies against even what Eric Pickles says. Barnet Council is a banana republic as far as the level of democracy goes, but it's even more shadowy when it comes to publishing information.
Where are the director's group minutes I have requested, and that they said would be published quarterly? Wy did I have to battle for a month to get the list of assets held for sale? A list which should be publicly available? Where is the special Parking revenue account we asked for at Budget and Performance? Why has the blogger Mr Mustard had to get an information commissioner ruling to get the full unredacted One Barnet risk register? why are so many of Mr Mustard's freedom of Information requests deemed "vexatious"? He is a resident and has a right to see information about the running of the Council which is supposed to work for him.
Most opaque of all, when three bloggers visited the Council and exerised their statutory rights to examine the accounts, was the information redacted?
If Councillors currently are denied access to information we have a right to see, and residents can't see anything for all the redactions, then what is it going to be like when all the performance criteria for the Council will be commercially confidential, because it relates to the performanc of a company? If it's bad enough now, imagine what it will be like under One Barnet?
As it is, we get information at committee meetings, and have to ask our own questions and follow the discussion while reading new information and asking questions on these as well. It isn't good practice in scrutiny. As it is they provide us with our committee papers far too late.
I see my colleague Cllr Alison Moore has similar concerns. It's not entirely surprising that a Council which spends more money closing a library than keeping it open can't tell the difference between an 8 page summary of the One Barnet risk register than the full 59 page version.
Where are the director's group minutes I have requested, and that they said would be published quarterly? Wy did I have to battle for a month to get the list of assets held for sale? A list which should be publicly available? Where is the special Parking revenue account we asked for at Budget and Performance? Why has the blogger Mr Mustard had to get an information commissioner ruling to get the full unredacted One Barnet risk register? why are so many of Mr Mustard's freedom of Information requests deemed "vexatious"? He is a resident and has a right to see information about the running of the Council which is supposed to work for him.
Most opaque of all, when three bloggers visited the Council and exerised their statutory rights to examine the accounts, was the information redacted?
If Councillors currently are denied access to information we have a right to see, and residents can't see anything for all the redactions, then what is it going to be like when all the performance criteria for the Council will be commercially confidential, because it relates to the performanc of a company? If it's bad enough now, imagine what it will be like under One Barnet?
As it is, we get information at committee meetings, and have to ask our own questions and follow the discussion while reading new information and asking questions on these as well. It isn't good practice in scrutiny. As it is they provide us with our committee papers far too late.
I see my colleague Cllr Alison Moore has similar concerns. It's not entirely surprising that a Council which spends more money closing a library than keeping it open can't tell the difference between an 8 page summary of the One Barnet risk register than the full 59 page version.
Abbots Gardens residents concerned about parking
We recently spoke to residents of Abbots Gardens, and the issue that came up time and time again has been the parking. They are the same concerns we hear all over East Finchley, all over Barnet really. They feel it's a rip off paying £4 for visitors permits, they think the price hike in the CPZ permit from £42 to £105 was too much in one go, they think the pay-by-phone parking system on the High Road is atrocious. I would not normally focus on the issues of just one road, but given this is one of the better roads for the Tories in East Finchley, I was surprised by the level of support there was for our position on this issue. They feel let down by Mr Freer, and don't trust the Council at all.
It was good to hear some positive comments about us councillors individually as well, with some very kind comments about Colin and Alison, and a few people said how nice it was to see us back after the by election working hard. Given the level of criticism Councillors face, it's very nice to hear residents appreciate our efforts.
Clearly, residents are hearing a lot more about One Barnet, and are raising it with us on the doorsteps. Given their anger about parking, they think it's incredible that the dodgy thinking that underpins the failed parking policies are being applied to the whole Council. This is a particular concern, as planning applications can be very contentious here, and they don't like the idea of the planning department being privatised.
It was good to hear some positive comments about us councillors individually as well, with some very kind comments about Colin and Alison, and a few people said how nice it was to see us back after the by election working hard. Given the level of criticism Councillors face, it's very nice to hear residents appreciate our efforts.
Clearly, residents are hearing a lot more about One Barnet, and are raising it with us on the doorsteps. Given their anger about parking, they think it's incredible that the dodgy thinking that underpins the failed parking policies are being applied to the whole Council. This is a particular concern, as planning applications can be very contentious here, and they don't like the idea of the planning department being privatised.
Happy Diwali
Diwali is the best time in the Hindu calendar. More than being an excuse for eating a lot (and in my case, a hell of a lot) of sweets, it's a time for the community gather together in an annual reunion. Sort of like Party Conferences, but with better food and closer to home.
On the Council, Cllr Ansuya Sodha, Cllr Sachin Rajput and Cllr Sury Khatri are the other Hindu Councillors celebrating. All four of us get along very well, despite political differences, and I guess that's the point of Diwali.
These sort of celebrations can get a little tricky. People still pull my cheeks and tell me how sweet I am. I'm 25, and I moved beyond being describable as "sweet" when I was 3. More worryingly I am now entering the crucial phase of 25-30 in my life, i.e the "why aren't you married yet?" phase. Already this year, eight people have mentioned to me that they have daughters my age looking to get married. Cue awkward shiftiness and unconvincing laugh.
On the Council, Cllr Ansuya Sodha, Cllr Sachin Rajput and Cllr Sury Khatri are the other Hindu Councillors celebrating. All four of us get along very well, despite political differences, and I guess that's the point of Diwali.
These sort of celebrations can get a little tricky. People still pull my cheeks and tell me how sweet I am. I'm 25, and I moved beyond being describable as "sweet" when I was 3. More worryingly I am now entering the crucial phase of 25-30 in my life, i.e the "why aren't you married yet?" phase. Already this year, eight people have mentioned to me that they have daughters my age looking to get married. Cue awkward shiftiness and unconvincing laugh.
Unfortunately for me, I will be spending most of the week working, and will only get to enjoy the food that gets brought home. I suppose we all have to make sacrifices. At least I got to see some fireworks.
Happy Diwali folks!
Friday, 9 November 2012
CommUNITY Barnet
I decided to skip Cabinet and Cabinet resources on Wednesday and go to the CommUNITY Barnet meeting for charity trustees at Hendon Town Hall on Wednesday night. It was an excellent even (and not just because there was some nice food) but a couple of really engaging speakers. The first lady spoke about the role of trustees. I tell you, if she had a few jokes in there it would have been a brilliant stand up routine. She perfectly encapsulated the problems you can get with any sort of organisation, such as members who take over everything, members who are disinterested and absent etc. It could have related to school governors or councillors as well! I thought there was some very good advice, which was that it doesn't matter who appointed you, or whom you are there as a representative of, yur concerns should be for the organisation who's board you are on. So very true, and hits home for some of the committees for this and that I have sat on in my time.
The second speaker talked about working in partnership, and the organisational challenges of dealing with separate organisations, which was interesting from a one Barnet point of view. He also said how good the staff for the Council were, and it is absolutely true. We have a wonderful staff at Barnet, and are lucky to have such a hard working, dedicated, conscientious, professional and expert workforce. One of the reasons I am so against One Barnet is I don't think these great employees should be treated so shabbily.
Some great people there, such as Julia Hines, the very impressive chair of Age UK Barnet. Hugely knowledgeable and capable, and a great person as well.
There was a lovely man from a Barnet elderly Asians group, the one based in Friary House. He said they still have the problem with Dial-a-ride at Friary House. I am quite annoyed that this issue is back again, as I thought we had solved it. He also mentioned that there is no bus shelter at the nearest stop, which I shall pass on.
And then there was the food....
Anyways, congratulations to the excellent CommUNITY Barnet, I hope they can continue their excellent services to the people of Barnet.
The second speaker talked about working in partnership, and the organisational challenges of dealing with separate organisations, which was interesting from a one Barnet point of view. He also said how good the staff for the Council were, and it is absolutely true. We have a wonderful staff at Barnet, and are lucky to have such a hard working, dedicated, conscientious, professional and expert workforce. One of the reasons I am so against One Barnet is I don't think these great employees should be treated so shabbily.
Some great people there, such as Julia Hines, the very impressive chair of Age UK Barnet. Hugely knowledgeable and capable, and a great person as well.
There was a lovely man from a Barnet elderly Asians group, the one based in Friary House. He said they still have the problem with Dial-a-ride at Friary House. I am quite annoyed that this issue is back again, as I thought we had solved it. He also mentioned that there is no bus shelter at the nearest stop, which I shall pass on.
And then there was the food....
Anyways, congratulations to the excellent CommUNITY Barnet, I hope they can continue their excellent services to the people of Barnet.
East Finchley Festival
I attended an organising meeting for the East Finchley festival on Monday, Just thought I would say what a really great bunch of hard working people are involved, and I think that after the disappointment of this year being rained off, next year is looking really good.
I am continuing to press the Council about Cherry Tree Woods, the drainage, the litter, the cleanliness and the play equipment. There is no money to improve it, or improve the collection rate, but I am determined that the Council will take the needs of the park seriously and make sure it's up to the high standards we expect of Barnet Parks.
Stay tuned!
I am continuing to press the Council about Cherry Tree Woods, the drainage, the litter, the cleanliness and the play equipment. There is no money to improve it, or improve the collection rate, but I am determined that the Council will take the needs of the park seriously and make sure it's up to the high standards we expect of Barnet Parks.
Stay tuned!
Hustings show who is a real leader
Tonight was the Barnet Alliance for Public Service panel debate on One Barnet. Council Leader Cllr Richard Cornelius, Labour leader Cllr Alison Moore, Lib Dem leader Cllr Jack Cohen and Andy Mudd of the Association of Public Service Excellence.
A really good panel and full credit to Richard Cornelius for coming and engaging with the public to debate One Barnet. This is the first time the Tories have held themselves accountable for One Barnet. Well, it's actually the first time the Tories have held themselves accountable!
The event was filmed, and when it is available, I would suggest people watch it for themselves, becuse people should form their own views on this, they had the full range of opinion, and a fair, well mannered and open exchange of views. Richard was not in front of a crowd of supporters, but I was surprised to talk to some people afterwards who were Tories, and came with an open mind, and left horrified. I think we are getting real traction, and I was both surprised and ecstatic at how many East Finchley residents came, many of whom were not people I know from doing the rounds, but ordinary people, who are genuinely worried about this One Barnet fiasco.
There were 10 Labour Councillors, almost half the group. Supporting Richard, there were just two that I saw (plus Cllr Coleman, who is no longer a Conservative Councillor) out of 37. Despite the performance of the Tory Councillors on Monday night, that they couldn't be bothered to turn up and support him in the biggest public test of his leadership thus far was, in my opinion, extremely rude. I don't know about what that says about the power balances in the Tory Group (nor do I actually care very much) but they should have turned out to support him. Given the ALL voted with him on the Extraordinary Council Meeting on Tuesday and they would not even vote to pause and re-think the process, we can safely assume ALL Tory Councillors are fully behind the One Barnet programme, with no exception. If that was the case on Tuesday, why wasn't it on Thursday? Rudeness.
Andy Mudd is real value for money, with good insights and experiences. Alison argues long and hard at the last Budget and Performance meeting to get him as a witness to the committee about outsourcing, but sadly the opportunity wasn't taken up.
Cllr Cohen, whom I like personally a great deal, spoke well, and was fairly balanced in his approach, as he always is.
Richard tried his best, but really he was hamstrung by the reality, which is that no one knows what is really in the programme. Despite only apparently being weeks away from the signing of the first contract, they still don't know what's even in them! He had no real response about the thin client model, nor on why an inhouse bid wasn't considered. When asked about what the benefits were, he said about keeping taxes low. when it was pointed out that this would lead to worse services for disabled and vulnerable residents, he said they had a duty to taxpayers. It's like the 47% thing in America, disabled people and vulnerable people are taxpayers too!
But I thought Alison was excellent. not just because she is my leader, my ward colleague and my friend, but I really felt I could see her as leader of the Council. She was on top of detail (she always is- it's freakish), compassionate and understanding of peoples concerns, but also forthright and honest about some important issues. For example, she said that there will be tough choices for us if we win the Council in 2014. She also gave the right answer about the committee system, which was that we are slating the Council for not considering properly all the options, how can we agree to changing the system of the council without properly discussing that as well? I myself have never seen the committee system, and have questions about how it would work, but I keep an open mind.
I spoke briefly about how it was already difficult for Councillors to get some information, and my own struggles. We are not allowed to see commercially sensitive information, and this is before all the services and performance date is commercialised as performance of a private company. I also said that the bloggers tried to exercise their rights to audit the accounts, and these had been redacted to worthlessness. If we can't scrutinise properly now, what will it be like when the entire Council is commercially sensitive in it's performance stats?
Members of the public were really engaged, and had some excellent questions. What was truly satisfying was that many of these questioners were not people I recognised as being the usual political activists, but normal members of the public, with a great deal of common sense, understanding and practicality. I thought there were some odd points from the Greens about austerity. Rather strange given the Green Council in Brighton are cutting by something like 40% to my understanding. We have to be realistic, and most of the people there understand that. This is a debate about how we deliver services and change them to cope with the realities, and I am glad that all the public understand that.
I was very happy with Alison's performance, and I thought she got better as she went on. She gave herself a good birthday present to herself today.
A really good panel and full credit to Richard Cornelius for coming and engaging with the public to debate One Barnet. This is the first time the Tories have held themselves accountable for One Barnet. Well, it's actually the first time the Tories have held themselves accountable!
The event was filmed, and when it is available, I would suggest people watch it for themselves, becuse people should form their own views on this, they had the full range of opinion, and a fair, well mannered and open exchange of views. Richard was not in front of a crowd of supporters, but I was surprised to talk to some people afterwards who were Tories, and came with an open mind, and left horrified. I think we are getting real traction, and I was both surprised and ecstatic at how many East Finchley residents came, many of whom were not people I know from doing the rounds, but ordinary people, who are genuinely worried about this One Barnet fiasco.
There were 10 Labour Councillors, almost half the group. Supporting Richard, there were just two that I saw (plus Cllr Coleman, who is no longer a Conservative Councillor) out of 37. Despite the performance of the Tory Councillors on Monday night, that they couldn't be bothered to turn up and support him in the biggest public test of his leadership thus far was, in my opinion, extremely rude. I don't know about what that says about the power balances in the Tory Group (nor do I actually care very much) but they should have turned out to support him. Given the ALL voted with him on the Extraordinary Council Meeting on Tuesday and they would not even vote to pause and re-think the process, we can safely assume ALL Tory Councillors are fully behind the One Barnet programme, with no exception. If that was the case on Tuesday, why wasn't it on Thursday? Rudeness.
Andy Mudd is real value for money, with good insights and experiences. Alison argues long and hard at the last Budget and Performance meeting to get him as a witness to the committee about outsourcing, but sadly the opportunity wasn't taken up.
Cllr Cohen, whom I like personally a great deal, spoke well, and was fairly balanced in his approach, as he always is.
Richard tried his best, but really he was hamstrung by the reality, which is that no one knows what is really in the programme. Despite only apparently being weeks away from the signing of the first contract, they still don't know what's even in them! He had no real response about the thin client model, nor on why an inhouse bid wasn't considered. When asked about what the benefits were, he said about keeping taxes low. when it was pointed out that this would lead to worse services for disabled and vulnerable residents, he said they had a duty to taxpayers. It's like the 47% thing in America, disabled people and vulnerable people are taxpayers too!
But I thought Alison was excellent. not just because she is my leader, my ward colleague and my friend, but I really felt I could see her as leader of the Council. She was on top of detail (she always is- it's freakish), compassionate and understanding of peoples concerns, but also forthright and honest about some important issues. For example, she said that there will be tough choices for us if we win the Council in 2014. She also gave the right answer about the committee system, which was that we are slating the Council for not considering properly all the options, how can we agree to changing the system of the council without properly discussing that as well? I myself have never seen the committee system, and have questions about how it would work, but I keep an open mind.
I spoke briefly about how it was already difficult for Councillors to get some information, and my own struggles. We are not allowed to see commercially sensitive information, and this is before all the services and performance date is commercialised as performance of a private company. I also said that the bloggers tried to exercise their rights to audit the accounts, and these had been redacted to worthlessness. If we can't scrutinise properly now, what will it be like when the entire Council is commercially sensitive in it's performance stats?
Members of the public were really engaged, and had some excellent questions. What was truly satisfying was that many of these questioners were not people I recognised as being the usual political activists, but normal members of the public, with a great deal of common sense, understanding and practicality. I thought there were some odd points from the Greens about austerity. Rather strange given the Green Council in Brighton are cutting by something like 40% to my understanding. We have to be realistic, and most of the people there understand that. This is a debate about how we deliver services and change them to cope with the realities, and I am glad that all the public understand that.
I was very happy with Alison's performance, and I thought she got better as she went on. She gave herself a good birthday present to herself today.
Thursday, 1 November 2012
Report from Fiona Twycross AM
Standing up for Londoners - working for you and with you
Over the past few months, I have been working on a number of issues including:
Launching an investigation on behalf of the Assembly in to food poverty and the growing scandal of hunger in our city - for more information and to take part in the consultation which ends on 5 November, please follow the link below: http://www.london.gov.uk/who-runs-london/the-london-assembly/assembly_investigation/food-poverty
Challenging the Mayor on a range of issues from public mental health; the likely impact on affordable housing that will be caused by Universal Credit to accessible transport. See the following link to see the questions I have raised with the Mayor and his response: http://www.london.gov.uk/who-runs-london/the-london-assembly/questions-to-the-mayor (search 'Fiona Twycross'). Please let me know if you have issues you would like to be raised with the Mayor in the future.
Fighting cuts to suburban rail services, like the South London Line and the Sutton Loop - see information on the recent motion passed by the assembly: http://www.london.gov.uk/media/press_releases_london_assembly/assembly-calls-mayor-take-urgent-action-avoid-loss-south-london-train-services
As a member of the Fire Authority, I was delighted to vote to reverse the proposed privatisation of the Merton Control Centre http://www.gmb-southern.org.uk/gmb-campaigns/previous-campaigns/london-fire-control-centre/
Along with colleagues on the Labour Group and members across
Re-establishing the Regional Phonebank on Tuesdays from 6 pm - 8 pm at Labour Party London Region, 1 Brewers Green,
For information on my work, please see my new website:
Making work pay & a future that works
Shockingly, despite his promises, the Mayor has failed to ensure all workers working within the remit of the Greater London Authority get the London Living Wage. This includes some cleaners working for TfL. Along with other Labour Assembly members, I recently welcomed members of the RMT to City Hall demanding the living wage.
Thousands of people from across the
Following the march I raised issues relating to the government's failed economic policies and youth unemployment in
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Tom Copley AM October Report
October has been a busy month, with Labour on the London Assembly challenging the mayor over cuts to emergency services in London
I've questioned the mayor about what he's doing to tackle the appalling scandal of homeless families housed for months in overcrowded bed & breakfast accommodation. I've also urged him to make representations to the Education Secretary Michael Gove on behalf of the thousands of young Londoners affected by the unfair and arbitrary change in GCSE English grade boundaries. You can read more about this in my report below.
In addition to my monthly report I occasionally send out more regular updates and exclusive news and content to registered supporters. If you would like to be part of my supporters list please click here to sign up.
Best wishes,
Tom Copley AM
LabourLondon
Labour
PS – you can keep up to date with the work I’m doing on the Assembly and around London
October Report contents:
Rising homelessness: the appalling scandal of families housed in overcrowded bed & breakfast accommodation
Standing up for young Londoners affected by unfair GCSE English grade boundary changes
Challenging the Tory austerity agenda
Tory support for gay rights is a victory for Labour
Rising homelessness: the appalling scandal of families housed in overcrowded bed & breakfast accommodation
In a shocking report, the BBC's Newsnight revealed the scandal of homeless families housed for months on end in overcrowded bed & breakfast accommodation, in breach of regulations. At October's Mayor's Question Time I asked Boris Johnson what he is doing to work with boroughs and the government to tackle this problem.
The mayor admitted that the Tory-led government's housing benefit changes had undoubtedly made an impact and admitted that the problem had increased this year.
Standing up for young Londoners affected by unfair GCSE English grade boundary changes
The London Assembly has called on the mayor to intervene with Michael Gove on behalf of young Londoners affected by Ofqual's unfair and arbitrary last minute decision to change the GCSE English C/D grade boundary. The mid-year decision has meant students who took their exam later in the year were marked more harshly than their peers who took the exam early, with thousands losing out on a vital C grade as a result.
The mayor has asked the government for powers over education in London
Challenging the Tory austerity agenda
The London Assembly has backed a motion in support of the TUC's march for A Future That Works. With youth unemployment in London
Tory support for gay rights is a victory for Labour
It's always worth reminding ourselves about the huge strides for LGBT equality made under the last Labour government. After Conservative Future chair, Ben Howlett, penned an article in which he attacked Labour's record on gay rights I responded with a piece on Labour's achievements, and argued that the transformation in the views of the Conservative Party leadership is itself a victory for Labour:
Barnet goes in-house on waste and green spaces
I am very glad that the Council look like they are going to go for an in-house bid for the waste and green spaces.
As a ward Councillor, I have written many times here about my concerns with the state of Cherry Tree Woods. I am concerned about litter, the regularity of bin collections and the filthy state of play equipment. I hope that any changes could lead to improvements in the service and tackle these problems.
Politically, I think this is a good step forwards as well, as it shows that in-house bids can be acceptable to the Council. I do not regard the One Barnet process to have had a proper competitive tendering process, as in-house bids were not considered a all.In fact they gave it less consideration than they did a joint venture for the DRS contract.
I think the council could learn from this and look more sympathetically at in-house bids and proper competitive dialogues.
As a ward Councillor, I have written many times here about my concerns with the state of Cherry Tree Woods. I am concerned about litter, the regularity of bin collections and the filthy state of play equipment. I hope that any changes could lead to improvements in the service and tackle these problems.
Politically, I think this is a good step forwards as well, as it shows that in-house bids can be acceptable to the Council. I do not regard the One Barnet process to have had a proper competitive tendering process, as in-house bids were not considered a all.
I think the council could learn from this and look more sympathetically at in-house bids and proper competitive dialogues.
Wednesday, 31 October 2012
Some more on libraries
Yesterday was a fast paced day, but here s some commentry on what it meant for the libraries services, which are in complete chaos.
First the news that the Artsdepot had been dropped as the site of the "landmark" library. The magical all singing all dancing landmark library.
Then comes Cllr Anne Hutton's response exposing the chaos in the libraries service. I am particularly glad she slayed the nonsense about people wanting to set up a community library in Friary House. Also, the idea of having a "landmark" library in the small North Finchley library makes it seem as if "landmark libraries" are not quite so magical.
Finally, we brought the debate round the full circle, and asked for Friern Barnet Library to be re-opened. It really is simple, that library ha overheads of £6,300. Piddling. Having a full time librarian, and a cafe with social space could easily help with the cost of running the building. There are plenty of other options as well.
And then Cllr Hutton showed how the Council hadwasted invested £91,000 in the failed landmark library, far more than the costs of keeping FBL open.
I am seriously concerned about the state of the libraries service. I understand there is a large overspend, and I want to make sure it is covered without damaging the service in the long term. the £91,000 is a huge chunk of the overspend, and would be a pity is librarians had to pay for Rams' folly.
First the news that the Artsdepot had been dropped as the site of the "landmark" library. The magical all singing all dancing landmark library.
Then comes Cllr Anne Hutton's response exposing the chaos in the libraries service. I am particularly glad she slayed the nonsense about people wanting to set up a community library in Friary House. Also, the idea of having a "landmark" library in the small North Finchley library makes it seem as if "landmark libraries" are not quite so magical.
Finally, we brought the debate round the full circle, and asked for Friern Barnet Library to be re-opened. It really is simple, that library ha overheads of £6,300. Piddling. Having a full time librarian, and a cafe with social space could easily help with the cost of running the building. There are plenty of other options as well.
And then Cllr Hutton showed how the Council had
I am seriously concerned about the state of the libraries service. I understand there is a large overspend, and I want to make sure it is covered without damaging the service in the long term. the £91,000 is a huge chunk of the overspend, and would be a pity is librarians had to pay for Rams' folly.
Tuesday, 30 October 2012
Barnet Council- welcome to the circus!
With the announcement today that the magical all singing all dancing "landmark" library in he Artsdepot will not be going ahead, and instead they will be turning the existing library in North Finchley into a "landmark" library, credibility has left Barnet. It joins prudence, transparency and community as words that have emigrated out of the borough.
The Council seems to be in chaos. They took the decision to move to the Artsdepot last year, closed down Friern Barnet Library 6 months ago, but did not have the deal for the "landmark" library settled. How incompetent. How shambolic. A farce only a clown could do well.
But the Council are persisting with their eviction order, and will not negotiate over the use of the building, only wishing to talk about this unwanted "community" library in Friary House. That they still won't listen is mean.
But negotiating with the occupiers in the first place, then breaking off negotiations abruptly and evicting the pop up library, in the basis they never had dialogue, is just bungling.
So who do you get with a clown, who is mean, but never implements his plans successfully?
And the funny thing about Cllr Robert Rams is that last night, he replied to a tweet from me in support of the Christmas parking plans we have promoted. I was asleep, and out all day today, so didn't see the tweet till about half an hour ago, but my response is simple. I don't need lectures on costing from a man who spends more closing a library than keeping it open.
Perhaps if Barnet need a theme tune or anthem, this might do?
UPDATE: My colleague Barry Rawlings makes the point that the decision not to go ahead with the "landmark" library has been announced 6 months afer the closure of FBL, and so out of time for a judicial review. How cynical.
Continuing the circus theme, it seems one Councillor has been fired from a cannon!
And I have had a complaint from Dan Hope, who objects to using the joker as a picture. It is the joker from the 1960's batman series, and the point is that the Cesar Romero Joker got up to naughty things, but wasnt very good at it.
The Council seems to be in chaos. They took the decision to move to the Artsdepot last year, closed down Friern Barnet Library 6 months ago, but did not have the deal for the "landmark" library settled. How incompetent. How shambolic. A farce only a clown could do well.
But the Council are persisting with their eviction order, and will not negotiate over the use of the building, only wishing to talk about this unwanted "community" library in Friary House. That they still won't listen is mean.
But negotiating with the occupiers in the first place, then breaking off negotiations abruptly and evicting the pop up library, in the basis they never had dialogue, is just bungling.
So who do you get with a clown, who is mean, but never implements his plans successfully?
And the funny thing about Cllr Robert Rams is that last night, he replied to a tweet from me in support of the Christmas parking plans we have promoted. I was asleep, and out all day today, so didn't see the tweet till about half an hour ago, but my response is simple. I don't need lectures on costing from a man who spends more closing a library than keeping it open.
Perhaps if Barnet need a theme tune or anthem, this might do?
UPDATE: My colleague Barry Rawlings makes the point that the decision not to go ahead with the "landmark" library has been announced 6 months afer the closure of FBL, and so out of time for a judicial review. How cynical.
Continuing the circus theme, it seems one Councillor has been fired from a cannon!
And I have had a complaint from Dan Hope, who objects to using the joker as a picture. It is the joker from the 1960's batman series, and the point is that the Cesar Romero Joker got up to naughty things, but wasnt very good at it.
Monday, 29 October 2012
Let's have a memorial for Horace
I have submitted a motion for council for the Cabinet to consider commemorating recently deceased street legend Horace White with a bench in Finchley.
A small token, but I felt, having been to his funeral, that people would like to have some way of properly remembering him.
A small token, but I felt, having been to his funeral, that people would like to have some way of properly remembering him.
Town Centres need Christmas parking boost
We have called for a couple of measures to improve trading conditions for traders in the run up to Christmas.
We are calling for parking to be free after 3pm on weekdays and all day on weekends. This comes after our parking pledges campaign have forced some changes to the way the system is operated, such as the introduction of scratchcards. We don't believe that's enough however, hence our lattest calls.
At the last Budget and Performance meeting, the Council endorsed an idea most Conservatives cherish- that lowering the price of parking will increase the demand. Barnets high streets need the boost in the all important run up to Christmas, which can make or break businesses.
We are calling for parking to be free after 3pm on weekdays and all day on weekends. This comes after our parking pledges campaign have forced some changes to the way the system is operated, such as the introduction of scratchcards. We don't believe that's enough however, hence our lattest calls.
At the last Budget and Performance meeting, the Council endorsed an idea most Conservatives cherish- that lowering the price of parking will increase the demand. Barnets high streets need the boost in the all important run up to Christmas, which can make or break businesses.
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