Local democracy under threat (Fylde Liberal Democrats)

Fylde Liberal Democrats <info@fyldelibdems.org.uk>

Local democracy under threat

March 14, 2007 1:09 PM

Liberal Democrat councillors have long expressed their disquiet about the way decisions are being made on Fylde Borough Council. And it's not just the Libdems who are concerned. At recent Civic Awareness Meetings councillors of different political persuasions have registered their concerns about the 'Cabinet' system of decision-making. Recent letters in the local press have highlighted the domination of Conservative councillors on the scrutiny committees and allege that it is stifling the views of other elected members. Fylde Libdems feel that some councillors are failing to attend meetings and when they do attend they aren't asking the right questions to challenge decisions. Other political groups on the Fylde, namely the Ratepayers and the Independents have formed an alliance to try to counter this threat to local democracy. Fylde Libdems want the Cabinet system to be reviewed so that a decision-making process is the best it can be for the benefit of ALL Fylde residents.

Whilst Fylde Liberal Democrats support an efficient and effective decision-making structure, campaigners have vowed to review the Cabinet system so that all the residents of Fylde and their elected representatives can have their voices heard.