Thanks to Ipswich Spy, everyone can take a look at what goes on in executive and council meetings
The following is a recording of this weeks exec meeting and I urge you to at least watch the first paper being discussed. This was the only paper I voted against because I refuse for us to be hypocrites and patronising to our local small companies.
Blacklisting companies who previously blacklisted employees, makes us as bad as them. We think we have a good reason for blacklisting and yet tell others they cannot do it! Furthermore, we may end up blacklisting innocent employees of a company that has long since changed the directors involved in any blacklisting. Dreadful, dreadful policy.
I didn't discuss the living wage, not this time anyway, as I do not think it was relevant in this instance. I do not know any qualified local plumber, electrician etc who pay their staff less than the living wage anyway. If they did then said staff would soon be off to another company. This is what business is about and it doesn't need lip service and blackmail from the Labour administration.
This was less to do with what's good for local businesses in Ipswich and more to do with appeasing unions. Typical left rubbish speak.
Recorded coverage of the IBC Executive 17th June 2014
http://wp.me/pOvEL-2YM
via @IpswichSpy
Showing posts with label nadia cenci. Show all posts
Showing posts with label nadia cenci. Show all posts
Friday, 20 June 2014
Thursday, 5 June 2014
Ready for the Ride
The yearly ceremony for bringing in the new mayor and confirming the executive, committee members and outside body commitments, took place last evening and as usual was a fine occasion.
Bill Quinton will make a good mayor and is liked by all members across the parties. I sincerely wish him well and hope he as a fantastic year, as it seems all the mayors do.
The difference this year is that I have accepted the seat on executive, offered every year by the Labour leader and I do not do this lightly.
Councillor Ellesmere will tell you that he offers this in the interest of openness and of course, it does help us to see what's going on.
BUT, The labour group (and I mean as a group, not any particular individual) never do us Conservatives any favours, not even if it helped the people of Ipswich. Like the Unions they are protectionists and they will not be making my life easy. I will not win any vote where I disagree with them and they will see this as an opportunity to scrutinise everything I say.
But I will not make their lives too easy either and it will be an interesting ride.
I don't believe the people of Ipswich enjoy the childishness that goes on, although I will say that there's not a grown-up in the entire world that doesn't behave in a childlike way at one point. Football, politics, relationships, hobbies, debate, social media can all make us resort to silly stuff.
But I also don't believe that people would find total collaboration that interesting either. While on the campaign trail someone asked me why we couldn't just get together and do what needs to be done.
I replied that we do - but here's the rub - we want roughly the same things but it's HOW we get there that makes us fall into different camps.
No, you would definitely have the right to say we all look and sound the same if we were to totally collaborate. How could we possibly show you our differing values, beliefs, plans, desired outcomes if we just 'all got along and agreed'?
I intend to make it interesting - being on the executive will make it interesting - having to be at my best while I am scrutinised and vice versa - will make it interesting.
When my group agrees, we will say so. When we don't we will give you reasons why.
Over the coming weeks I will continue to use social media to take our council to the people of Ipswich. I intend to dispel the myths of what a Conservative is and why I have always been one, despite growing up in a council flat until I was 11 in the East End of London and being a single parent with no help from the government whatsoever, during the fantastic Thatcher years.
I will show you that we do not adopt the unionistic method, in which Labour group always cherish, but that we are a team with a common sense of duty, compassion, teamwork, values, beliefs and fondness for each other, even if we have the odd disagreement. We are family. Small but powerful!
We are going to make some mistakes - but in the words of the great Maya Angelou:
'I've learnt that people will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but they will never forget how you made them feel'.
I intend to show the people of Ipswich, that if you want to be proud of Ipswich, see the people empowered with confidence, then you need to vote Conservative.
We believe in empowering the people, the officers who run the council and giving residents what they want, not what we think they want.
I'm ready for the ride!
Bill Quinton will make a good mayor and is liked by all members across the parties. I sincerely wish him well and hope he as a fantastic year, as it seems all the mayors do.
The difference this year is that I have accepted the seat on executive, offered every year by the Labour leader and I do not do this lightly.
Councillor Ellesmere will tell you that he offers this in the interest of openness and of course, it does help us to see what's going on.
BUT, The labour group (and I mean as a group, not any particular individual) never do us Conservatives any favours, not even if it helped the people of Ipswich. Like the Unions they are protectionists and they will not be making my life easy. I will not win any vote where I disagree with them and they will see this as an opportunity to scrutinise everything I say.
But I will not make their lives too easy either and it will be an interesting ride.
I don't believe the people of Ipswich enjoy the childishness that goes on, although I will say that there's not a grown-up in the entire world that doesn't behave in a childlike way at one point. Football, politics, relationships, hobbies, debate, social media can all make us resort to silly stuff.
But I also don't believe that people would find total collaboration that interesting either. While on the campaign trail someone asked me why we couldn't just get together and do what needs to be done.
I replied that we do - but here's the rub - we want roughly the same things but it's HOW we get there that makes us fall into different camps.
No, you would definitely have the right to say we all look and sound the same if we were to totally collaborate. How could we possibly show you our differing values, beliefs, plans, desired outcomes if we just 'all got along and agreed'?
I intend to make it interesting - being on the executive will make it interesting - having to be at my best while I am scrutinised and vice versa - will make it interesting.
When my group agrees, we will say so. When we don't we will give you reasons why.
Over the coming weeks I will continue to use social media to take our council to the people of Ipswich. I intend to dispel the myths of what a Conservative is and why I have always been one, despite growing up in a council flat until I was 11 in the East End of London and being a single parent with no help from the government whatsoever, during the fantastic Thatcher years.
I will show you that we do not adopt the unionistic method, in which Labour group always cherish, but that we are a team with a common sense of duty, compassion, teamwork, values, beliefs and fondness for each other, even if we have the odd disagreement. We are family. Small but powerful!
We are going to make some mistakes - but in the words of the great Maya Angelou:
'I've learnt that people will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but they will never forget how you made them feel'.
I intend to show the people of Ipswich, that if you want to be proud of Ipswich, see the people empowered with confidence, then you need to vote Conservative.
We believe in empowering the people, the officers who run the council and giving residents what they want, not what we think they want.
I'm ready for the ride!
Wednesday, 17 July 2013
I Laughed so Much at Ipswich Labour's Rose - Now Here's the Truth
As a rule, I don't often feel compelled to reply to any of the usual Labour B.S. that I read in their Rose but I'm afraid today, all decorum is going to go out of the window to burn off in the midday sunshine.
I laughed so much at all the latest triumphs Ipswich Labour have tried to hoodwink you into believing was all down to them, that I wouldn't have been surprised if they'd also announced that the sunshine in the last week was down to them campaigning to the Great Sun God himself!
Where do I begin?
The item you might have expected me to reply to - yes, that good old number bus route 16 - is not the one that finally made me keel over. As I've said before, it was down to the petition that I instigated and the signatures I received, and since passed onto IBC, that got things moving. Thanks to the resounding return from residents, Ipswich Labour moved very quickly and Ipswich Buses changed it's mind in a matter of days.
They also want you to believe that they are awaiting a reply from SCC on bus no 22 but fail to mention that SCC asked them for help on another route and were refused.
No - It wasn't even the fact that at the SW committee where we ALL agreed (yes, they forget that there is one Tory councillor - little ol' me) to fund various projects such as goal posts at Lavenham Road, A CCTV camera at Lavender Hill etc that prompted me to write this blog post.
Not even the fact that Councillor Barry Studd took all the credit for raising the issue of the need for renovation of a bus shelter in Stoke Park Drive - the real person was a resident in Whitland close who then reprimanded councillor Studd and Councillor Ellesmere for not stating that it was he who brought this to a councillors attention. It will be corrected at the next meeting, because of that confrontation, and if the resident wants to make himself known then he can reply in the comments.
This proves that they are not worried about bringing people closer to the decisions making. If that had been me, I would've told everyone in the room 'See you can make a difference - a resident has asked for this and got what he asked for'. No, not Labour councillors, the chief makers of all that is good and useful.
It wasn't even the fact that, with all their failings in the NHS - and boy, are they big ones, they have the audacity to talk about asking David Cameron to listen to them. There are no cuts to the NHS, Labour had an open door policy that has seen our NHS groan under the strain, as well as our schools and other public services and they completely ignore Andy Burnham's role in so many deaths. It is the Coalition that has carried out reviews but councillor Ellesmere would have you believe that the demise of the NHS is down to the Coalition. Not so laughable. That's when the smile started to be wiped from my face.
But it wasn't even that which prompted me to put digit to keyboard. It was the final story. 'New Building At Last for Suffolk New Academy (Chantry High)'.
They have absolutely nothing whatsoever to do with this new build. It has taken a while but that decision was accomplished by Ben Gummer MP - He fought hard and long to get the government to agree to a new build. He brought Gove to our town to show him why it was a priority. He talked and talked and talked about it at Westminster until we got the go ahead many months ago. We had done leaflets to that effect at the time. HOW DARE THEY TAKE CREDIT FOR THIS ONE!!! I was so shocked but then I laughed - it dawned on me then they will take the credit for absolutely anything. Perhaps, as well as the sun, they might want to pat themselves on the back for the reduction in crime that has been so massive in our town, and all that success with less money and a PCC (Tim Passmore), even though they were against elected PCCs in the first place. Look out for the crime stats in the near future and know this - They had nothing to do with that either.
So ladies and gentlemen - they have stepped up their sleight of hand, misdirection and downright fibs (meaning the witholding of relevant information that would change the meaning of what is being read) on their leaflets for several reasons but the number 1 is the fact that councillor Ellesmere is using his position as leader of the council and the exaggeration of anything good happening in this town being down to him and his colleagues, so that he can win in the General Election. Watch this space and mark my words. I will be highlighting more of the same if they shove more of this rubbish through my door.
When that happens I might resurrect that good old song I used to sing in the playground.
Pants on Fire Councillor Ellesmere - Pants on Fire...
I laughed so much at all the latest triumphs Ipswich Labour have tried to hoodwink you into believing was all down to them, that I wouldn't have been surprised if they'd also announced that the sunshine in the last week was down to them campaigning to the Great Sun God himself!
Where do I begin?
The item you might have expected me to reply to - yes, that good old number bus route 16 - is not the one that finally made me keel over. As I've said before, it was down to the petition that I instigated and the signatures I received, and since passed onto IBC, that got things moving. Thanks to the resounding return from residents, Ipswich Labour moved very quickly and Ipswich Buses changed it's mind in a matter of days.
They also want you to believe that they are awaiting a reply from SCC on bus no 22 but fail to mention that SCC asked them for help on another route and were refused.
No - It wasn't even the fact that at the SW committee where we ALL agreed (yes, they forget that there is one Tory councillor - little ol' me) to fund various projects such as goal posts at Lavenham Road, A CCTV camera at Lavender Hill etc that prompted me to write this blog post.
Not even the fact that Councillor Barry Studd took all the credit for raising the issue of the need for renovation of a bus shelter in Stoke Park Drive - the real person was a resident in Whitland close who then reprimanded councillor Studd and Councillor Ellesmere for not stating that it was he who brought this to a councillors attention. It will be corrected at the next meeting, because of that confrontation, and if the resident wants to make himself known then he can reply in the comments.
This proves that they are not worried about bringing people closer to the decisions making. If that had been me, I would've told everyone in the room 'See you can make a difference - a resident has asked for this and got what he asked for'. No, not Labour councillors, the chief makers of all that is good and useful.
It wasn't even the fact that, with all their failings in the NHS - and boy, are they big ones, they have the audacity to talk about asking David Cameron to listen to them. There are no cuts to the NHS, Labour had an open door policy that has seen our NHS groan under the strain, as well as our schools and other public services and they completely ignore Andy Burnham's role in so many deaths. It is the Coalition that has carried out reviews but councillor Ellesmere would have you believe that the demise of the NHS is down to the Coalition. Not so laughable. That's when the smile started to be wiped from my face.
But it wasn't even that which prompted me to put digit to keyboard. It was the final story. 'New Building At Last for Suffolk New Academy (Chantry High)'.
They have absolutely nothing whatsoever to do with this new build. It has taken a while but that decision was accomplished by Ben Gummer MP - He fought hard and long to get the government to agree to a new build. He brought Gove to our town to show him why it was a priority. He talked and talked and talked about it at Westminster until we got the go ahead many months ago. We had done leaflets to that effect at the time. HOW DARE THEY TAKE CREDIT FOR THIS ONE!!! I was so shocked but then I laughed - it dawned on me then they will take the credit for absolutely anything. Perhaps, as well as the sun, they might want to pat themselves on the back for the reduction in crime that has been so massive in our town, and all that success with less money and a PCC (Tim Passmore), even though they were against elected PCCs in the first place. Look out for the crime stats in the near future and know this - They had nothing to do with that either.
So ladies and gentlemen - they have stepped up their sleight of hand, misdirection and downright fibs (meaning the witholding of relevant information that would change the meaning of what is being read) on their leaflets for several reasons but the number 1 is the fact that councillor Ellesmere is using his position as leader of the council and the exaggeration of anything good happening in this town being down to him and his colleagues, so that he can win in the General Election. Watch this space and mark my words. I will be highlighting more of the same if they shove more of this rubbish through my door.
When that happens I might resurrect that good old song I used to sing in the playground.
Pants on Fire Councillor Ellesmere - Pants on Fire...
Monday, 3 June 2013
Strengthening Families Parenting Programme Ipswich
This is a high recommend from me - please pass on
Strengthening Families
Parenting Programme
Starts 5th June, 3.30pm – 6pm
At Pipers Vale Community Primary School Raeburn Rd, Ipswich, IP3 0EW
Refreshments provided
Strengthening Families is a seven week programme for parents and young people aged between 10 and 14 years. It is a DVD and activity based programme, which supports families to have a positive outlook as young people approach their teenage years.
Parents aim to improve their nurturing and support skills while considering effective discipline and guidance strategies. Young people build skills for resisting peer pressure and dealing with stress. During the sessions the families work together to reflect on the strengths of their family.
Please call Carole Williams for more information: 07921941620
Strengthening Families
Parenting Programme
Starts 5th June, 3.30pm – 6pm
At Pipers Vale Community Primary School Raeburn Rd, Ipswich, IP3 0EW
Refreshments provided
Strengthening Families is a seven week programme for parents and young people aged between 10 and 14 years. It is a DVD and activity based programme, which supports families to have a positive outlook as young people approach their teenage years.
Parents aim to improve their nurturing and support skills while considering effective discipline and guidance strategies. Young people build skills for resisting peer pressure and dealing with stress. During the sessions the families work together to reflect on the strengths of their family.
Please call Carole Williams for more information: 07921941620
Friday, 17 May 2013
The Step by Step Guide to Leaving Europe - by David Bannerman MEP
Previous posts on my blog have seen me post comments on Europe myths and truths as expressed by Bannerman MEP in his book The Ultimate Plan B.
I met David a couple of years ago when he presented this discussion, in Ipswich, and also chatted more to him when I gave him a lift to Ipswich station. He is a credible, intelligent guy and had been speaking to us about the virtues of leaving Europe, which by definition will mean him losing his job! He was party chairman for UKIP for 7 years before returning to the conservatives in 2011 (he had previously served for 20 years with the Conservatives including as a special advisor on the Northern Ireland peace process)
Now if I'm going to fall down any side of an argument, when I am still undecided, it will be down the same side as those who are willing to speak the truth, even if it cuts off their own nose to spite their face. David is on the inside and knows a lot more then most people in this country or in Westminster.
David sent me an up to date version of his book recently and so I wanted to expand my posts to complement the previous ones and to share what he says about the practicalities of leaving, should we decide to in the referendum.
I will update my previous posts but in the meantime, I would like to summarise his chapter 3 - Why leaving is Easy.
I have spent many years undecided about Europe, going backwards and forwards depending on whose points of view I was listening to. It is not a decision to take lightly but I have finally made up my mind, mainly through an intuitive reason built on all the pieces of information I have gathered (& also some forgotten on a conscious level)over the years.. I am willing to see what David Cameron can do in Europe to allow us to take back our power and introduce caps on immigration of European members, because it's only fair and honest that we should all have as many choices as possible in the debate leading up to the referendum. However if I am not happy with their concessions, I will be voting OUT.
So here are the steps:
1) The government to announce an immediate halt to implementation of new EU directives or enforcing new EU Regulations. Open negotiations for a UK/EU Free Trade Agreement with the EU and start the drafting of an ECA Repeal Bill
2) Repeal Bill introduced and passed by both houses to become the Repeal Act.
Continue to honour certain regional grants and other payments until the Special Independence Budget is announced. A draft EU/UK Free Trade Agreement would be produced and Deregulation committees established
3) The Trade Agreement would be presented for approval to UK Parliament and ratified. Withdraw representatives from the European Parliament and all financial contributions ceased.
Once free of EU, measures to be introduced to reassert control.
4) Establish key areas of co-operation in the new Trade Agreement with EU such as sea navigation, telecommunications, air safety, respect for property, intellectual rights, transition time-scales.
Following public consultation, the Deregulation committees would present ongoing legislation to Parliament which allows time for UK citizens to plan for the changes and this would be supported by Transition committees in each govt department. Funds normally dedicated to EU membership could be re-allocated to individuals and companies to aid the transition.
and I quote fully the last paragraph:
'Once this procedure is complete, Britain will have restored full sovereignty and total control over British laws to the British people and their representatives in Westminster. Moreover, the relationship with the EU would now be mutually beneficial as it will be based on friendly trade, not political control by remote, unaccountable EU bureaucracy.
Next time I will update previous posts and share with you some of teh EU regulation burden that we will be free of, if when we leave.
I met David a couple of years ago when he presented this discussion, in Ipswich, and also chatted more to him when I gave him a lift to Ipswich station. He is a credible, intelligent guy and had been speaking to us about the virtues of leaving Europe, which by definition will mean him losing his job! He was party chairman for UKIP for 7 years before returning to the conservatives in 2011 (he had previously served for 20 years with the Conservatives including as a special advisor on the Northern Ireland peace process)
Now if I'm going to fall down any side of an argument, when I am still undecided, it will be down the same side as those who are willing to speak the truth, even if it cuts off their own nose to spite their face. David is on the inside and knows a lot more then most people in this country or in Westminster.
David sent me an up to date version of his book recently and so I wanted to expand my posts to complement the previous ones and to share what he says about the practicalities of leaving, should we decide to in the referendum.
I will update my previous posts but in the meantime, I would like to summarise his chapter 3 - Why leaving is Easy.
I have spent many years undecided about Europe, going backwards and forwards depending on whose points of view I was listening to. It is not a decision to take lightly but I have finally made up my mind, mainly through an intuitive reason built on all the pieces of information I have gathered (& also some forgotten on a conscious level)over the years.. I am willing to see what David Cameron can do in Europe to allow us to take back our power and introduce caps on immigration of European members, because it's only fair and honest that we should all have as many choices as possible in the debate leading up to the referendum. However if I am not happy with their concessions, I will be voting OUT.
So here are the steps:
1) The government to announce an immediate halt to implementation of new EU directives or enforcing new EU Regulations. Open negotiations for a UK/EU Free Trade Agreement with the EU and start the drafting of an ECA Repeal Bill
2) Repeal Bill introduced and passed by both houses to become the Repeal Act.
Continue to honour certain regional grants and other payments until the Special Independence Budget is announced. A draft EU/UK Free Trade Agreement would be produced and Deregulation committees established
3) The Trade Agreement would be presented for approval to UK Parliament and ratified. Withdraw representatives from the European Parliament and all financial contributions ceased.
Once free of EU, measures to be introduced to reassert control.
4) Establish key areas of co-operation in the new Trade Agreement with EU such as sea navigation, telecommunications, air safety, respect for property, intellectual rights, transition time-scales.
Following public consultation, the Deregulation committees would present ongoing legislation to Parliament which allows time for UK citizens to plan for the changes and this would be supported by Transition committees in each govt department. Funds normally dedicated to EU membership could be re-allocated to individuals and companies to aid the transition.
and I quote fully the last paragraph:
'Once this procedure is complete, Britain will have restored full sovereignty and total control over British laws to the British people and their representatives in Westminster. Moreover, the relationship with the EU would now be mutually beneficial as it will be based on friendly trade, not political control by remote, unaccountable EU bureaucracy.
Next time I will update previous posts and share with you some of teh EU regulation burden that we will be free of, if when we leave.
Thursday, 9 May 2013
Post Suffolk County Election Reflection
I've learnt in the last few years to reflect on situations and events, especially in politics before making comment. A week is a long time in this arena and often something that seemed detrimental is forgotten quite quickly. So I have given myself time to rest up from the campaign and to think about my special ward Stoke Park and my important work within it.
First of all I would like to show gratitude to all those that voted for me - Thankyou.
The Chantry result was no surprise to any of us. We fully expected Labour to regain the seat that Paul West won at SCC elections 2009. Chantry includes Gipping which is a very safe borough seat for Labour.
What I think surprised all of us is how well UKIP did, especially the fact that they gained a seat in Ipswich.
So I tried to put myself in the shoes of the electorate to work out why they would pick a candidate that:
Had not delivered a leaflet - certainly not to the people I spoke to anyway.
Had not done any work for the community, past or present
Did not knock on doors to show his character or explain beliefs and values
Had so little interest that he didn't even turn up at he Count!
Let me start with the last point. When I first started out in politics, about 10 years ago, I stood in what's known as a straw seat, (not winnable) in Gipping. This was to give me experience before I stood in my own ward where I lived and still do - Stoke Park. My first count was one of the most exciting things I had done for years and I still love it! So who was this candidate that he couldn't even get to the most important part of the election campaign? I'll leave you to think about that.
To the residents who voted for an invisible UKIP candidate (either Labour or Tory residents, because in fact more labour supporters voted for him than Tory as the analysis at the count proved itself to my helpers) I would ask - Why? This is not an accusatory Why but a really curious Why? These are local elections that bring people in to represent you on local issues, not national policy.
Why would people mix up national policies with local policies just to show how displeased they are with EU and immigration? To the people in north Ipswich who gave a seat to UKIP - Why risk a really good proven councillor who worked hard for you to replace them with a one trick pony who might not do one single bit of hard work in your community? Surely at the very least, you would've wanted to see him at your door, telling you what he will do for the community, even if he hadn't been a councillor before that?
Now don't get me wrong - this is every person's prerogative - but then they have to understand that if they continue to vote someone in that does nothing, other than ride on the back of a national issue, it will only encourage more local politicians to just give you headlines, soundbites, scaremongering leaflets or empty promises. In other words people will get what they deserve!
I will be watching the new UKIP councillors, in Suffolk, very closely to see if they even have a clue how to represent the people of Suffolk and do all the necessary hard work. Being a councillor takes up hours and hours of our time each week. It is not easy - have they really got the skills needed and have they entered local politics for the right reasons or is it just to build up traction for the General Election?
It's up to us to prove to you all how hard we work in our wards. I must admit, I've not been brilliant at communicating this in the written form because I put working for the residents to solve their problems as a priority, not the shouting about it afterwards. And not everyone is on twitter or follow my blog which is my preferred way of communicating. However, I will have to find more ways of regular contact.
I want Stoke Park residents to know how much I care about them, that they can rely on me for a thoughtful and prompt response, as many others can already testify to.
You tell me what you would like to see from me, tell us what we can do to enhance our communications. Do you like leaflets? More knocking on your door (which I try to do all year round and not just at election time)? Surgeries? or even 'No thankyou - I know where you are if I need you!' Let me know please.
Communication is a two way thing and although I know people are fed up with politicians, at a local level most councillors are genuinely interested in helping people and get pleasure in making a difference, whether its just as a sounding board, a person to use to kick someone into action or a champion who will make the right decisions for their areas.
So once again Thankyou to those who voted for me - I know that you know & understand! I continue to be your borough councillor and
You can follow me on twitter
@stokeparkcllr
for a reply on the same day (unless I'm away on holiday)
or e-mail me for a reply within 2 days
nadia.cenci@councillors.ipswich.gov.uk
First of all I would like to show gratitude to all those that voted for me - Thankyou.
The Chantry result was no surprise to any of us. We fully expected Labour to regain the seat that Paul West won at SCC elections 2009. Chantry includes Gipping which is a very safe borough seat for Labour.
What I think surprised all of us is how well UKIP did, especially the fact that they gained a seat in Ipswich.
So I tried to put myself in the shoes of the electorate to work out why they would pick a candidate that:
Had not delivered a leaflet - certainly not to the people I spoke to anyway.
Had not done any work for the community, past or present
Did not knock on doors to show his character or explain beliefs and values
Had so little interest that he didn't even turn up at he Count!
Let me start with the last point. When I first started out in politics, about 10 years ago, I stood in what's known as a straw seat, (not winnable) in Gipping. This was to give me experience before I stood in my own ward where I lived and still do - Stoke Park. My first count was one of the most exciting things I had done for years and I still love it! So who was this candidate that he couldn't even get to the most important part of the election campaign? I'll leave you to think about that.
To the residents who voted for an invisible UKIP candidate (either Labour or Tory residents, because in fact more labour supporters voted for him than Tory as the analysis at the count proved itself to my helpers) I would ask - Why? This is not an accusatory Why but a really curious Why? These are local elections that bring people in to represent you on local issues, not national policy.
Why would people mix up national policies with local policies just to show how displeased they are with EU and immigration? To the people in north Ipswich who gave a seat to UKIP - Why risk a really good proven councillor who worked hard for you to replace them with a one trick pony who might not do one single bit of hard work in your community? Surely at the very least, you would've wanted to see him at your door, telling you what he will do for the community, even if he hadn't been a councillor before that?
Now don't get me wrong - this is every person's prerogative - but then they have to understand that if they continue to vote someone in that does nothing, other than ride on the back of a national issue, it will only encourage more local politicians to just give you headlines, soundbites, scaremongering leaflets or empty promises. In other words people will get what they deserve!
I will be watching the new UKIP councillors, in Suffolk, very closely to see if they even have a clue how to represent the people of Suffolk and do all the necessary hard work. Being a councillor takes up hours and hours of our time each week. It is not easy - have they really got the skills needed and have they entered local politics for the right reasons or is it just to build up traction for the General Election?
It's up to us to prove to you all how hard we work in our wards. I must admit, I've not been brilliant at communicating this in the written form because I put working for the residents to solve their problems as a priority, not the shouting about it afterwards. And not everyone is on twitter or follow my blog which is my preferred way of communicating. However, I will have to find more ways of regular contact.
I want Stoke Park residents to know how much I care about them, that they can rely on me for a thoughtful and prompt response, as many others can already testify to.
You tell me what you would like to see from me, tell us what we can do to enhance our communications. Do you like leaflets? More knocking on your door (which I try to do all year round and not just at election time)? Surgeries? or even 'No thankyou - I know where you are if I need you!' Let me know please.
Communication is a two way thing and although I know people are fed up with politicians, at a local level most councillors are genuinely interested in helping people and get pleasure in making a difference, whether its just as a sounding board, a person to use to kick someone into action or a champion who will make the right decisions for their areas.
So once again Thankyou to those who voted for me - I know that you know & understand! I continue to be your borough councillor and
You can follow me on twitter
@stokeparkcllr
for a reply on the same day (unless I'm away on holiday)
or e-mail me for a reply within 2 days
nadia.cenci@councillors.ipswich.gov.uk
Friday, 26 April 2013
Dream of the day - Margaret Thatcher
Dream of the day (received via e-mail)
Margaret Thatcher arrived at the gates of heaven.
St. Peter apologetically said -"Sorry we are not quite ready for you yet.
We are sending you back to your old job for a few days."
In a puff of smoke she was back in Westminster.
In a puff of smoke she was back in Westminster.
Ten minutes later, Abu Qatada was on a plane to Jordan.
Friday, 22 March 2013
Work Hard and Succeed
A Budget for People who aspire to
work hard and get on ..... That's how Mr Osborne outlined his Budget
this week. And I was pleased to hear that the theme was Aspiration.
Personally, I wanted to see something
that would help business owners. There has been a lot of debate about
welfare benefits, cuts, the EU and people who are on the poverty line. These
are important issues but they are not the only ones. We need to be able to attract and build businesses to continue the upward trend of employment in the private sector
and to give hope to thousands of youngsters. Under Labour the youth
unemployment just kept going up and up, so this is not a recent problem. There is so much more to do, so much more to help young people. These 4 things are a good start.
1. Reduction in the Rate of
Corporation Tax. Company taxation has been in
the headlines a lot recently with anger directed at some large organisations that seem able to avoid paying tax in the UK.
But now we have the Chancellor trying to attract international Companies by
reducing the Tax Rate to 20% by 2015. The benefit of this is reliant on making money in the first place but is much needed.
2. A new employment allowance. From April 2014 - employers will receive an
allowance that will cut the first £2000 from their National Insurance bills. In
real terms this means that 450,000 - a third of all employers won't pay any NI
at all. And this one move will benefit up to 1.25 million employers overall. This
is an effective way for the government to support Entrepreneurs as they grow
their business.
3. Fuel Duty. Mr Osborne announced a Fuel Duty freeze,
scrapping a petrol duty escalator that had been planned for the autumn. Fuel affects
all of us whether it’s running a haulage firm, driving to work or just buying
food in the shops. This is really good news.
4.
Infrastructure. George Osborne also announced
that an extra £3bn will be pumped into infrastructure projects such as road,
rail and power station building from 2015–16 - He said investing in the "economic arteries" of the UK will get growth flowing to "every part of it"..
I didn’t expect the budget to blow us all away but overall it
felt quite positive and in line with an Aspiration Nation. Much better than
One Nation Notion.
Tuesday, 12 March 2013
Latest from SIT on Windfarms and court actions
I have been collating the latest completed surveys from residents and in fact will be delivering further survey forms this week in the final areas of Stoke Park.
In the meantime Stop Ipswich Turbines latest e-mail is full of good news and gives me renewed hope that we are spending good time in fighting the Thorington proposal
Thanks to jenny, I quote here
In the meantime Stop Ipswich Turbines latest e-mail is full of good news and gives me renewed hope that we are spending good time in fighting the Thorington proposal
Thanks to jenny, I quote here
I'm sure you saw or heard something of the news about the National Trust winning their case about wind turbines close to Lyveden New Bield. In case you didn't catch it all, here's a clip from the ITV news
http://www.itv.com/news/anglia/story/2013-03-08/high-court-windfarm-ruling/ and a piece in the Telegraph
Although it is not comparable to our situation, it is an implicit acknowledgement that there needs to be some restraint and consideration given to each local situation. The more important case for people like us is the Milton Keynes Council action, about setback distances and the right of a council to determine them. That still awaits a decision.
Here's a story that was carried in the EADT and the BBC about the transport issues at the construction phase. We have been told very little about this by PfR, except the route. I hope to have some more news on that soon.
http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-england-essex-21711938Daily Mail Thursday 7th March - page 13. Incidentally this is a smaller turbine than those under consideration here.
Finally, to give us all a little encouragement, there are people in high places who share our point of view about appropriate siting of wind energy projects.
Tuesday, 19 February 2013
Through The Tears - Buy my book for International Womens Day and Oxfam
Last night I went to a presentation by Oxfam in readiness for the launch of International Womens Day 8th March 2013.
We heard how Oxfam transforms lives across the world helping people, especially women and children to make something of their lives - this is an extract from their website
We heard how Oxfam transforms lives across the world helping people, especially women and children to make something of their lives - this is an extract from their website
Oxfam is working towards a world where everyone has enough to eat and where women especially have the opportunity to earn a decent living.
Life is tough for millions of poor food producers, but the current economic crisis is hitting them particularly hard. And it's women that are worst affected. Many women work the land or are employed in informal, casual work, so when things go wrong, they're the first to lose their jobs and go without when household budgets shrink.
Lasting solutions to poverty
"Oxfam believes in giving a 'hand up' out of poverty rather than just a 'hand out'.
...the story of farmer Leyla, her community and how with Oxfam's help they built an irrigations system for their crops and now harvests make enough money to put food on the table, build homes and send their children to school."
We were asked to promote the GET TOGETHER day on 8th March to raise funds so I am going to do 2 things.
1) I am going to promote the Get together day by tweeting, blogging and word of mouth
2) I am going to donate ALL profits from the sale of a book I co-wrote a few years ago, called Through The Tears which is about 2 friends, one that is suffering from domestic violence and one that is grieving over a lost relationship.
We realised we were not going to make money out of the project but it was something we wanted to do as friends. It was fun, therapeutic and we did sell a few dozen!
It's been sitting gathering dust on Amazon, Barnes and Noble and so I have decided to resurrect it for the purpose of raising funds.
Anything made from now until 11th March 2013 will be sent to Oxfam. After that I will pick another worthy charity probably NSPCC
So 2 websites for you to look at. the first is the Oxfam site
http://www.oxfam.org.uk/get-together?intcmp=hp_163_hych2_get-together_2013-02-15
and the second is where you can take a look at the book and then buy!
http://www.lulu.com/shop/nadia-cenci-and-stella-lever/through-the-tears/paperback/product-392804.html
Wednesday, 13 February 2013
Latest on Thorington Windfarm proposals
Ben and I met up over the weekend to discuss the latest on Thorington wind turbines.
The picture shows us at the top of Bridgewater Road and if you look in the distance just past the telegraph pole, this is where the turbine will be seen, in all its glory.
The proposals have shifted the siting of the turbines a little and residents were able to discuss this with Ben Gummer during one of his regular 'Ben in the Pub' evenings at the Kingfisher last week. I was unable to attend as it was my mums 80th birthday and I had a surprise lined up.
SIT also send out regular newsletters and the following is an extract taken from their most recent.
The picture shows us at the top of Bridgewater Road and if you look in the distance just past the telegraph pole, this is where the turbine will be seen, in all its glory.
The proposals have shifted the siting of the turbines a little and residents were able to discuss this with Ben Gummer during one of his regular 'Ben in the Pub' evenings at the Kingfisher last week. I was unable to attend as it was my mums 80th birthday and I had a surprise lined up.
SIT also send out regular newsletters and the following is an extract taken from their most recent.
If you are feeling just the slightest bit bored with the subject of wind turbines, look at the youtube clip of a moment in the final construction phase of the two turbines at Eye airfield!
Imagine that going along the little road to Belstead!
Eye now has two 130 metre turbines standing, but not yet working. I'm told they are right by the A140, so if you have a chance drive to Eye - you can't miss them.
The developer there is Triodos, the same as at Kessingland.
I will be consulting with residents again in the very near future but, in the meantime, if any of you want to contact me you can put comments below this post, tweet me on @stokeparkcllr (I'd like you to follow me and vice versa too) or e-mail me at nadia.cenci@councillors.ipswich.gov.uk
Thursday, 31 January 2013
Full Council Meeting and Thorington Windfarm
Once again, the administration received questions from the public on why they refuse to nail their colours to the mast and/or do something about the majority concern over the proposed turbines at Thorington, overlooking SW Ipswich.
The leader of the council et al chose to repeat like parrots - 'the contract, which was signed by the previous administration' in other words 'it has nothing to do with us'.
Then up pops Sally Wainman, a real campaigner who challenges any party in administration and has the town in her heart, who wasn't going to let him off so lightly.
She challenged Cllr Ellesmere in a supplementary question, asking him when he was going to stop blaming everyone else and take responsibility for the wishes of the residents in SW Ipswich. Labour are in administration so what was he going to do?
Nothing is the answer.
Nothing of any consequence.
Yes, it wasn't his administration that signed the options contract. Yes, it would be hard for IBC as a council to make a stand against PfR, in fact it would be illegal. However there is nothing legally stopping any of the numerous labour councillors in SW (I am the only Tory) as individuals, in showing they truly represent their people by joining me and SIT in bringing evidence to Babergh that will show lives will be blighted.
I am the only councillor to be doing this. I have learnt much from SIT and Kessingland. This is not what I want for my residents and those in my street because it's not what they want - 92%. So I am choosing to fight hard by collecting evidence along with Ben Gummer, distributing information and attending all relevant meetings.
If other labour councillors did the same, we might get somewhere.
When asked if any labour councillors attended the latest consultation, the leader stated that they all knew the facts by now. Not true. The proposals have been changed and it was useful for me at least to see them, discuss them with PfR and have further conversations with the many residents who attended. Isn't that our job for goodness sake?!
So they do have another get out clause. If Babergh agree at their planning meeting for this to go ahead, we can expect to start hearing them blame Babergh sometime this year. In fact I can already hear it.....
The leader of the council et al chose to repeat like parrots - 'the contract, which was signed by the previous administration' in other words 'it has nothing to do with us'.
Then up pops Sally Wainman, a real campaigner who challenges any party in administration and has the town in her heart, who wasn't going to let him off so lightly.
She challenged Cllr Ellesmere in a supplementary question, asking him when he was going to stop blaming everyone else and take responsibility for the wishes of the residents in SW Ipswich. Labour are in administration so what was he going to do?
Nothing is the answer.
Nothing of any consequence.
Yes, it wasn't his administration that signed the options contract. Yes, it would be hard for IBC as a council to make a stand against PfR, in fact it would be illegal. However there is nothing legally stopping any of the numerous labour councillors in SW (I am the only Tory) as individuals, in showing they truly represent their people by joining me and SIT in bringing evidence to Babergh that will show lives will be blighted.
I am the only councillor to be doing this. I have learnt much from SIT and Kessingland. This is not what I want for my residents and those in my street because it's not what they want - 92%. So I am choosing to fight hard by collecting evidence along with Ben Gummer, distributing information and attending all relevant meetings.
If other labour councillors did the same, we might get somewhere.
When asked if any labour councillors attended the latest consultation, the leader stated that they all knew the facts by now. Not true. The proposals have been changed and it was useful for me at least to see them, discuss them with PfR and have further conversations with the many residents who attended. Isn't that our job for goodness sake?!
So they do have another get out clause. If Babergh agree at their planning meeting for this to go ahead, we can expect to start hearing them blame Babergh sometime this year. In fact I can already hear it.....
Wednesday, 30 January 2013
Thorington Windfarm Consultation
I, along with many Stoke Park residents, attended the PfR consultation at Belstead Brook hotel on Monday to see the new positioning and proposed designs of turbines for Thorington.
They have finished analysing environmental data and are begininning their impact assessment for the planning application to Babergh Council.
There will be 2 turbines - one on Ipswich owned land, just slightly further back from the original site, and one on private land near Jimmys farm. Both fall under Babergh Council jurisdiction.
This is a small improvement to those in Stoke Park but not much consolation to all the residents who really just do not want this next to homes.
I spoke to the management team at length about positioning and residents concerns and of course they are only doing their job. they were extremely knowledgeable and tried very hard to alleviate peoples fears but I'm afraid not much has changed.
Pictures, showing how the turbines will look, were pinned up around the room but we couldnt fail to notice that none of them were at an angle that would truly show the turbines at their most hideous. All of the takes were, without exceptional, at a camera angle that implied the turbines would look much smaller but were partly hidden in dips. If they had mocked scenarios to show them to scale with nearby houses, we would have seen very different pictures!
They continue to state that the common concerns of flicker, noise, lower house prices are not a problem but we beg to differ.
Apparently Kessingland was awful yesterday and Peter Evans of SIT (Stop Ipswich Turbines) has invited people to go along today. That may not be possible but we can take his word on this. We now know that Kessingland residents are in despair.
Will we be able to convince Babergh planning that this is not what we want and give them sufficient evidence to help them reject this? We must try.
Ben Gummer and I have completed a survey which overwhelmingly states we do not want this and so we must put the new Localism Act to test.
Please continue to write to our Mps in Suffolk. All hands on Decks please.....
They have finished analysing environmental data and are begininning their impact assessment for the planning application to Babergh Council.
There will be 2 turbines - one on Ipswich owned land, just slightly further back from the original site, and one on private land near Jimmys farm. Both fall under Babergh Council jurisdiction.
This is a small improvement to those in Stoke Park but not much consolation to all the residents who really just do not want this next to homes.
I spoke to the management team at length about positioning and residents concerns and of course they are only doing their job. they were extremely knowledgeable and tried very hard to alleviate peoples fears but I'm afraid not much has changed.
Pictures, showing how the turbines will look, were pinned up around the room but we couldnt fail to notice that none of them were at an angle that would truly show the turbines at their most hideous. All of the takes were, without exceptional, at a camera angle that implied the turbines would look much smaller but were partly hidden in dips. If they had mocked scenarios to show them to scale with nearby houses, we would have seen very different pictures!
They continue to state that the common concerns of flicker, noise, lower house prices are not a problem but we beg to differ.
Apparently Kessingland was awful yesterday and Peter Evans of SIT (Stop Ipswich Turbines) has invited people to go along today. That may not be possible but we can take his word on this. We now know that Kessingland residents are in despair.
Will we be able to convince Babergh planning that this is not what we want and give them sufficient evidence to help them reject this? We must try.
Ben Gummer and I have completed a survey which overwhelmingly states we do not want this and so we must put the new Localism Act to test.
Please continue to write to our Mps in Suffolk. All hands on Decks please.....
Friday, 18 January 2013
Minimum Alcohol Pricing
IBC are about to respond to a consultation on government alcohol policy.
There are 5 key areas that are set out and whilst 4 seem pretty straightforward and was welcomed by councillors at the last committee meeting, the idea of a minimum alcohol price is one that has the jury out for me personally.
A sub committee is meeting next week, of which I am one, to go over all the areas with a fine toothed comb but I would really like your opinion on what you think the government should do about pricing.
So let me outline the proposals (and they are just proposals!).
Introduction of minimum price - around .45p per unit as this has been justified in an impact assessment.
The Off trade would be most affected by this minimum price
Based on evidence, there would be a reduction in 'harmful' use of alcohol
Ban on multi buy for the off licensed trade (on-trade was dealt with in 2010) which would be on on promotions that allow people to buy multiple products for cheaper than if they had purchased each one as a single item
Promotions for half price single items will not be banned (this is probably because people will not be so likely to buy, for example, several cans or bottles of wine, in single promotions whereas multi buy would result in more cans/bottles being bought and consumed).
The reason I am on the fence is because I believe that many responsible drinkers who can afford only cheap alcohol just once or twice a week, will be penalised. However all parties seem to want this and there is the upside of reducing alcohol intake as a real benefit - if it works. I always prefer to not have a nanny state when it comes to policy but this is a serious issue and this measure will be one of many to combat misuse.
Of course like anything it will be reviewed - so what do you think?
Is 45p too high, too low?
What other factors should be considered when setting a minimum price?
What groups of people do you think will be affected by this?
Of course we are liaising with all the relevant associations who have to deal with the effects of alcohol misuse but I really would like to hear your opinions.
Over to you... You could comment below or email me on nadia.cenci@councillors.ipswich.gov.uk
There are 5 key areas that are set out and whilst 4 seem pretty straightforward and was welcomed by councillors at the last committee meeting, the idea of a minimum alcohol price is one that has the jury out for me personally.
A sub committee is meeting next week, of which I am one, to go over all the areas with a fine toothed comb but I would really like your opinion on what you think the government should do about pricing.
So let me outline the proposals (and they are just proposals!).
Introduction of minimum price - around .45p per unit as this has been justified in an impact assessment.
The Off trade would be most affected by this minimum price
Based on evidence, there would be a reduction in 'harmful' use of alcohol
Ban on multi buy for the off licensed trade (on-trade was dealt with in 2010) which would be on on promotions that allow people to buy multiple products for cheaper than if they had purchased each one as a single item
Promotions for half price single items will not be banned (this is probably because people will not be so likely to buy, for example, several cans or bottles of wine, in single promotions whereas multi buy would result in more cans/bottles being bought and consumed).
The reason I am on the fence is because I believe that many responsible drinkers who can afford only cheap alcohol just once or twice a week, will be penalised. However all parties seem to want this and there is the upside of reducing alcohol intake as a real benefit - if it works. I always prefer to not have a nanny state when it comes to policy but this is a serious issue and this measure will be one of many to combat misuse.
Of course like anything it will be reviewed - so what do you think?
Is 45p too high, too low?
What other factors should be considered when setting a minimum price?
What groups of people do you think will be affected by this?
Of course we are liaising with all the relevant associations who have to deal with the effects of alcohol misuse but I really would like to hear your opinions.
Over to you... You could comment below or email me on nadia.cenci@councillors.ipswich.gov.uk
Tuesday, 15 January 2013
Civic Engagement in Schools
I attended phase 3 of the Civic Engagement in Schools programme presentation last Friday where a group of year 10 Students from Suffolk New Academy, Stoke High and St Joseph’s College had been working together on a Civic Engagement activity.
There were several events where they learnt how democracy works and exploring how they can effect change in their local community, including a trip to Westminster with Ben Gummer MP. One of the lead up events was to help them speak in front of people and on that occasion I was there as a pro bono trainer to coach them on being confident..
But if we go back a couple of years, it was under my portfolio that I introduced Cheryl Phillips who is the leading officer on this project, to endeavour to form a youth council or at the very least encourage young participation. Young people are often consulted with but there is a huge difference between consultation and actually participating so I really looked forward to seeing the 3 presentations from the mixed school groups.
First up was a wonderful idea to create an amphitheatre at Gyppeswyk Park near the Red Rose Chain building in Birkfield drive. They envisaged that this could be 'the next best thing' and that the venue would be used for bands, comedians, plays and joint ventures with Red Rose, who have already shown their interest.
Last up was another good idea, regarding a space within Maidenhall Sports Centre for a Hang Out where young people could play games, eat food and participate in themed nights. A membership fee would be sought to cover costs etc.
But my favourite was the second presentation and one that could have fantastic potential, called Appswitch.
I had remembered these young boys on the training day as bright, enthusiastic, passionate and capable and they didn't let me down. What fantastic speakers and I laughed out loud when one Ben Lockwood said 'If this is what I can do in a day, imagine what I can do in a month'. Oh how my coaching mind loved that one!
The other team members were (and apologies if I've spelt your name wrong as I know you are waiting to read this blog!)
Tom Beardwood, Kieran and Charlie Heal, Adam Broadbear - between them they have created an app for Ipswich. I told them afterwards that they could do this all on their own and actually just needed some support from techie experts.
They will have at least one customer as soon as its launched, as I'm really looking forward to downloading it onto my Ipad.
Well done to all the pupils. They were a great example of bright young things that have a bright future. Their parents and teachers would've been proud.
There were several events where they learnt how democracy works and exploring how they can effect change in their local community, including a trip to Westminster with Ben Gummer MP. One of the lead up events was to help them speak in front of people and on that occasion I was there as a pro bono trainer to coach them on being confident..
But if we go back a couple of years, it was under my portfolio that I introduced Cheryl Phillips who is the leading officer on this project, to endeavour to form a youth council or at the very least encourage young participation. Young people are often consulted with but there is a huge difference between consultation and actually participating so I really looked forward to seeing the 3 presentations from the mixed school groups.
First up was a wonderful idea to create an amphitheatre at Gyppeswyk Park near the Red Rose Chain building in Birkfield drive. They envisaged that this could be 'the next best thing' and that the venue would be used for bands, comedians, plays and joint ventures with Red Rose, who have already shown their interest.
Last up was another good idea, regarding a space within Maidenhall Sports Centre for a Hang Out where young people could play games, eat food and participate in themed nights. A membership fee would be sought to cover costs etc.
But my favourite was the second presentation and one that could have fantastic potential, called Appswitch.
I had remembered these young boys on the training day as bright, enthusiastic, passionate and capable and they didn't let me down. What fantastic speakers and I laughed out loud when one Ben Lockwood said 'If this is what I can do in a day, imagine what I can do in a month'. Oh how my coaching mind loved that one!
The other team members were (and apologies if I've spelt your name wrong as I know you are waiting to read this blog!)
Tom Beardwood, Kieran and Charlie Heal, Adam Broadbear - between them they have created an app for Ipswich. I told them afterwards that they could do this all on their own and actually just needed some support from techie experts.
They will have at least one customer as soon as its launched, as I'm really looking forward to downloading it onto my Ipad.
Well done to all the pupils. They were a great example of bright young things that have a bright future. Their parents and teachers would've been proud.
Monday, 7 January 2013
Ben Gummer MP - Business in suffolk
Business is a priority for me. for this town. I know only too well how hard the last few years have been running a small business, as I have done exactly that for the last 8 years..
I have said before that until red tape is reduced and things made a bit easier for employers, I will never have any staff but choose to use 3rd party virtual assistants and experts if the need for extra resource arises. This means that others benefit from my business as I do from others. Its important that we remain optimistic for the future, as it's not all bad news for this area.
Ben's latest column shows that he is on the ball on this one and also sees it as a priority. I show it here in full:
phone: 0845 634 9197
email: ben@bengummer.com
I have said before that until red tape is reduced and things made a bit easier for employers, I will never have any staff but choose to use 3rd party virtual assistants and experts if the need for extra resource arises. This means that others benefit from my business as I do from others. Its important that we remain optimistic for the future, as it's not all bad news for this area.
Ben's latest column shows that he is on the ball on this one and also sees it as a priority. I show it here in full:
Business in Suffolk
Back in November I addressed the new Ipswich Chamber of Commerce, which I launched with the Exchequer Secretary David Gauke (a former pupil of Northgate, as it happens) back in 2011. It is clear that while business people are marginally more hopeful than a year or two ago, there is still much trepidation about the future - in UK but especially in Ipswich.
My impression then was that 2012 was a year of treading water for so many businesses, something borne out by a Barclays survey of their small business customers back in the late summer. They found that activity had dropped very slightly, although Suffolk had done less badly than Norfolk and - surprisingly - Cambridgeshire. A great deal of the decline was down to a significant reduction in agricultural revenues, a result of the poor weather and the pressure on food manufacturers at a time when most households are trimming their budgets.
The good news is that new companies in the east of England are achieving the fastest growth of any region other than the south-east, which is only just ahead; both are significantly in excess of the national average. So we are producing good companies that are growing quickly, which is an encouraging sign for the future.
The trick now is to get some of that dynamism into our town, which was the central concern of the business people I spoke to in November. As the Borough Council has identified, we have some of the lowest average weekly wages in the country here in Ipswich, a result not of benefit cuts or anything to do with the government but because we do not have enough better paid, high-skilled jobs in the town. That is something we must all work together to put right. It will take longer than a year but we must re-make a start in these first few days of the 2013.
Contact Information
phone: 0845 634 9197
email: ben@bengummer.com
Saturday, 5 January 2013
The Budget - Council Tax Needs to Freeze for years to come
I remember the days when water rates and council tax were just one bill and a tiny part of my monthly outgoings.
I can't remember when the two were split but the council tax debit sitting proudly on my bank statement focused my mind to think about how my money was being spent on public services.
I don't think any of us begrudged paying our fair share but
That was until Labour in Ipswich decided that several good hikes was just the ticket.
If I remember rightly it went up by about 18% altogether, in a very short time, and of course any percentage rise on top of this was compounded to a point I became rather resentful.
The monthly bill became a shocker and so big that it's irreversible now. Furthermore I believe much of it was wasted. In Cyprus and Italy where I travel to most for holidays and to see family, council tax is tiny in comparison to UK. Cyprus average is something like £ 18 per month and the bins are emptied a couple of times per week!
I found this shown below, on the Conservative Homes by local government minister Brandon Lewis and it sums up my feelings exactly. But more importantly than my opinion, is what the residents of Ipswich think so please I invite you to comment on this page on how you think, going forward, we should tackle council tax in the yearly budget. should we even consider reducing it by a 1 or 2 % & find further savings? Or are you happy for it to be raised every year. Would a freeze for a few years really help your own household budget?
Quote
Local Government Minister Brandon Lewis says councils will become less dependant on funding from the centre
I can't remember when the two were split but the council tax debit sitting proudly on my bank statement focused my mind to think about how my money was being spent on public services.
I don't think any of us begrudged paying our fair share but
That was until Labour in Ipswich decided that several good hikes was just the ticket.
If I remember rightly it went up by about 18% altogether, in a very short time, and of course any percentage rise on top of this was compounded to a point I became rather resentful.
The monthly bill became a shocker and so big that it's irreversible now. Furthermore I believe much of it was wasted. In Cyprus and Italy where I travel to most for holidays and to see family, council tax is tiny in comparison to UK. Cyprus average is something like £ 18 per month and the bins are emptied a couple of times per week!
I found this shown below, on the Conservative Homes by local government minister Brandon Lewis and it sums up my feelings exactly. But more importantly than my opinion, is what the residents of Ipswich think so please I invite you to comment on this page on how you think, going forward, we should tackle council tax in the yearly budget. should we even consider reducing it by a 1 or 2 % & find further savings? Or are you happy for it to be raised every year. Would a freeze for a few years really help your own household budget?
Quote
"No excuse for Council Tax rises
Local Government Minister Brandon Lewis says councils will become less dependant on funding from the centre
The priority for councillors and their officers, over the next few weeks, will be the preparation of their final draft budget for the next financial year. These decisions will determine whether residents face council tax increases when the new bills drop through the letterbox in late March.
With the Government providing funding for another council tax freeze, most people can look forward to no change in their bill. In real terms, under this government, council tax has been able to fall, following year-after-year of eye watering increases that saw the household liability double under the last Labour government.
Obviously, I hope that every Conservative Council across the country will deliver a council tax freeze – there is no excuse not to. Of course, with County Council elections only a few months away, there is an additional incentive for councillors to deliver this key Conservative election pledge. At the General Election, this policy was extremely popular on the doorstep. It continues to remain popular as people face other rising household bills. I know some Conservative administrations plan to go even further, having calculated they can do so, by pledging a freeze for four further years.
Obviously, I hope that every Conservative Council across the country will deliver a council tax freeze – there is no excuse not to. Of course, with County Council elections only a few months away, there is an additional incentive for councillors to deliver this key Conservative election pledge. At the General Election, this policy was extremely popular on the doorstep. It continues to remain popular as people face other rising household bills. I know some Conservative administrations plan to go even further, having calculated they can do so, by pledging a freeze for four further years.
Many councils were left a financial time bomb by the last Labour government. Eric Pickles, and the DCLG team, found additional funding to assist them in making changes to put them on a firmer financial footing. The government invested millions, to assist with a move to cut back office costs, share management and provide shared services. All aimed at providing a better long-term deal for the local taxpayer.
Many council leaders relished the challenge and drove forward massive reform in their councils; others dodged the responsibility preferring to blame central government for all their problems.
To be fair, some continue to suffer from Labour’s botched local government finance structure, that is why we are giving them an additional two years efficiency grant funding. My own council is one of these and I hope they will take advantage of almost £2 million to move away from a “silo management structure” that is unsustainable in a small local authority."
Monday, 12 November 2012
Vote for Tim Passmore - Here's his Manifesto
This is the last week in which to make up your mind over who to vote for in the PCC elections this Thursday. I have been walking the streets many times to deliver leaflets with Tim Passmore, our Tory candidate for Suffolk and have been impressed with his positivity, hard work, articulate replies to questions by residents and his knowledge about problems in both Suffolk and Ipswich.
Below is his manifesto, which you can also get from his website www.votetimpassmore.co.uk
Vote for Tim - He really will serve us all well in the new role and will have the respect of the police, residents, colleagues and all relevant partners.
In my view the position of Police and Crime Commissioner is all about cutting crime in Suffolk and making our county even safer. For the first time since the police service was formed by politician Robert Peel in 1829 there will be direct democratic accountability for an annual budget of £125 million of our money. The role is not about political interference with operational policing matters, it is about creating the best possible environment to support an effective and efficient police service to meet the needs of people in Suffolk.
Like other public services police are facing cuts in funding due to the parlous state of the nation’s finances. The country cannot continue living beyond its means. We will therefore have to find innovative and practical solutions in Suffolk to reduce crime and maintain Suffolk’s reputation of providing a good police service at low cost to taxpayers.
If elected to the role of Police and Crime Commissioner I will improve the efficacy and efficiency of Suffolk Police through:-
Greater Visibility of Policing
I will seek to reduce bureaucracy and ensure more time is made available for front-line officers to do the job they trained to do. Time currently spent supervising criminals and offenders in detention centres, hospitals
and behind desks can be carried out by other staff. I will do everything possible to maintain 1200 officers as
a minimum number.
I will support Special Constables and PCSO’s as an important component of policing.
Improve respect for Law and Order
I will work with appropriate organisations to improve parenting.
I will encourage youth to become positive advocates for law and order and will work with schools, youth
groups, youth parliament and other groups as appropriate.
Robust approach to repeat offenders
A disproportionate number of offences are committed by recidivist offenders. I will use a ‘carrot and stick’
approach. People deserve a second chance but not a third, fourth, fifth etc. Committed criminals who
steadfastly refuse to reform their lifestyles when able to need to face harsher sentences.
Each prison place costs the taxpayer £40,000 per year. Offenders with mental health problems, low levels of numeracy and literacy and few work skills need support. We must educate prisoners and use prisons with a purpose as well as community payback schemes.
I also support work with charity and private sector for placements – Sport, Princes Trust, Local authorities etc.
Victim Support
I support the use of restorative justice where victims feel it will assist them. I would like to see victims able
to track the progress of crime investigations effectively. I support and respect the work of the voluntary
sector which provides practical support to victims. I believe victims who feel their case is being well dealt
with will have improved confidence in policing.
I support a proactive approach to crime prevention and applaud the work of groups such as Neighbourhood Watch. Preventing a crime stops a victim being created and potentially saves many thousands of pounds
spent investigating crime, prosecuting and incarcerating an offender.
Drugs and Organised Crime
I support a continued focus on stamping out drug dealing and organised crime in Suffolk. As demonstrated
by the deaths of five young women in Suffolk in 2006 drug abuse leads to many other crimes and social
decay. Drug abuse and organised crime blight an area and make it less attractive for inward investment and
economic growth.
I would encourage more education for young people on the devastating personal consequences of drug
abuse.
Problem Families
The Home Office has estimated problem families can each cost up to £250,000 per year to manage. This is unacceptable. If elected I will use the Commissioners powers to support agency collaboration, early
intervention, joined up thinking and positive action to prevent and deal effectively with problem families.
Domestic Violence and Abuse
This is a serious problem in our communities and one which I will not ignore. I will ensure police work with local authorities, health service and charities to exchange data and information to keep the vulnerable safe.
Motoring and Cycling
I support positive action to stop speeding in our villages. I would like to see more young drivers taking
advanced driving courses. I strongly support the use of technology to purge drivers who avoid tax and
vehicle insurance and fuel duty. I will work other agencies to avoid major congestion on main roads and
improve engineering design.
We need more modern and safe truck stops on our major roads such as the A14 and A12 to improve security
and well- being for the haulage and logistics industry
By working with the Highways Agency and Local Authorities we need to improve Suffolk’s cycle network to help improve safety, encourage exercise and help the visitor economy
Business
In my view policing can support local business more effectively. If elected I will look carefully at where
supplies are sourced. Wherever possible I will support the use of locally sourced products.
I will ensure police are working effectively with business to reduce crime. Making Suffolk even safer will
improve the developing visitor economy.
I will continue to hold regular business forums to hear concerns and share solutions to business policing
issues.
If elected I would like to see the development of a proper apprenticeship scheme in the police service to
provide employment opportunities for our young people
Rural, Wildlife and Marine Crime
Ensuring more visible frontline policing, reducing bureaucracy and improving the use of technology should
improve police response times in remote areas. I support the use of target hardening by land owners,
farmers and boat owners and the use of Farm and Marine Watch to prevent and detect rural and marine
crime.
Taxation
If elected I will do everything possible to ensure there is no tax rise next year by accepting the government’s
precept freeze grant.
Saving Money and Increasing Income
We need to make better use of the resources available to us. If elected I will reduce costs by cutting
unnecessary duplication. Currently Suffolk spends more than £5 billion every year in the public sector. The
public service owns more than 2500 properties here. I would like to see deeper co-operation between Local
Authorities, CPS, Youth Offending, Health, Probation Service etc. to make more effective use of public assets.
I would like to see zero based budgeting to coincide with comprehensive spending review (CSR) settlements. I will listen to ideas from the workforce for saving money. I will ensure the best use is made of technology – reports, evidence, DNA, video, I-pads etc. I will need to see proper business plans for all commissioned contracts /areas of work.
If elected I will ensure the best possible use is made of the Community Infra-structure Levy (CIL) , Tax
Increment Financing (TIF), government and EU grants individually or through partnership working.
Fair share of national resources for Suffolk
I will ensure that Suffolk has the central government/private funding to meet the demands made on policing
by the national resources sited here. Strategic national assets such as Sizewell, Felixstowe Dock, Orbis
energy, Newmarket racecourse and Wattisham Airbase create policing pressures and it is only right that
Suffolk is properly subsidised for these costs.
Management and Morale
Suffolk Police have undergone significant change over the last ten years. To improve morale I want to create a stable environment for the members of Suffolk Constabulary.
Generally I believe in a balanced scorecard approach to management – less hierarchy but more autonomy,
responsibility and accountability to and by staff.
Engagement
The Police and Crime Commissioner will be directly accountable to the voters in Suffolk. If elected I intend to
remain accessible and accountable to members of the public who will be able to contact me direct.
More formally I will hold quarterly ‘Meet the Commissioner’ meetings in each constituency with
representatives of interested community groups. I will do the same for Police Federation and Police staff as
required.
I will host business forums on a quarterly basis. Businesses pay large sums of money through the Uniform
Business Rate and have no direct influence on how the money is spent. I am committed to ensuring the
business community has a prominent influence in fighting crime in Suffolk.
I will develop a communication strategy to make effective use of technology to deliver an effective channel
for hearing from, and communicating with, people in Suffolk.
Below is his manifesto, which you can also get from his website www.votetimpassmore.co.uk
Vote for Tim - He really will serve us all well in the new role and will have the respect of the police, residents, colleagues and all relevant partners.
Manifesto for Suffolk
Police and Crime
Commissioner
IntroductionIn my view the position of Police and Crime Commissioner is all about cutting crime in Suffolk and making our county even safer. For the first time since the police service was formed by politician Robert Peel in 1829 there will be direct democratic accountability for an annual budget of £125 million of our money. The role is not about political interference with operational policing matters, it is about creating the best possible environment to support an effective and efficient police service to meet the needs of people in Suffolk.
Like other public services police are facing cuts in funding due to the parlous state of the nation’s finances. The country cannot continue living beyond its means. We will therefore have to find innovative and practical solutions in Suffolk to reduce crime and maintain Suffolk’s reputation of providing a good police service at low cost to taxpayers.
If elected to the role of Police and Crime Commissioner I will improve the efficacy and efficiency of Suffolk Police through:-
Greater Visibility of Policing
I will seek to reduce bureaucracy and ensure more time is made available for front-line officers to do the job they trained to do. Time currently spent supervising criminals and offenders in detention centres, hospitals
and behind desks can be carried out by other staff. I will do everything possible to maintain 1200 officers as
a minimum number.
I will support Special Constables and PCSO’s as an important component of policing.
Improve respect for Law and Order
I will work with appropriate organisations to improve parenting.
I will encourage youth to become positive advocates for law and order and will work with schools, youth
groups, youth parliament and other groups as appropriate.
Robust approach to repeat offenders
A disproportionate number of offences are committed by recidivist offenders. I will use a ‘carrot and stick’
approach. People deserve a second chance but not a third, fourth, fifth etc. Committed criminals who
steadfastly refuse to reform their lifestyles when able to need to face harsher sentences.
Each prison place costs the taxpayer £40,000 per year. Offenders with mental health problems, low levels of numeracy and literacy and few work skills need support. We must educate prisoners and use prisons with a purpose as well as community payback schemes.
I also support work with charity and private sector for placements – Sport, Princes Trust, Local authorities etc.
Victim Support
I support the use of restorative justice where victims feel it will assist them. I would like to see victims able
to track the progress of crime investigations effectively. I support and respect the work of the voluntary
sector which provides practical support to victims. I believe victims who feel their case is being well dealt
with will have improved confidence in policing.
I support a proactive approach to crime prevention and applaud the work of groups such as Neighbourhood Watch. Preventing a crime stops a victim being created and potentially saves many thousands of pounds
spent investigating crime, prosecuting and incarcerating an offender.
Drugs and Organised Crime
I support a continued focus on stamping out drug dealing and organised crime in Suffolk. As demonstrated
by the deaths of five young women in Suffolk in 2006 drug abuse leads to many other crimes and social
decay. Drug abuse and organised crime blight an area and make it less attractive for inward investment and
economic growth.
I would encourage more education for young people on the devastating personal consequences of drug
abuse.
Problem Families
The Home Office has estimated problem families can each cost up to £250,000 per year to manage. This is unacceptable. If elected I will use the Commissioners powers to support agency collaboration, early
intervention, joined up thinking and positive action to prevent and deal effectively with problem families.
Domestic Violence and Abuse
This is a serious problem in our communities and one which I will not ignore. I will ensure police work with local authorities, health service and charities to exchange data and information to keep the vulnerable safe.
Motoring and Cycling
I support positive action to stop speeding in our villages. I would like to see more young drivers taking
advanced driving courses. I strongly support the use of technology to purge drivers who avoid tax and
vehicle insurance and fuel duty. I will work other agencies to avoid major congestion on main roads and
improve engineering design.
We need more modern and safe truck stops on our major roads such as the A14 and A12 to improve security
and well- being for the haulage and logistics industry
By working with the Highways Agency and Local Authorities we need to improve Suffolk’s cycle network to help improve safety, encourage exercise and help the visitor economy
Business
In my view policing can support local business more effectively. If elected I will look carefully at where
supplies are sourced. Wherever possible I will support the use of locally sourced products.
I will ensure police are working effectively with business to reduce crime. Making Suffolk even safer will
improve the developing visitor economy.
I will continue to hold regular business forums to hear concerns and share solutions to business policing
issues.
If elected I would like to see the development of a proper apprenticeship scheme in the police service to
provide employment opportunities for our young people
Rural, Wildlife and Marine Crime
Ensuring more visible frontline policing, reducing bureaucracy and improving the use of technology should
improve police response times in remote areas. I support the use of target hardening by land owners,
farmers and boat owners and the use of Farm and Marine Watch to prevent and detect rural and marine
crime.
Taxation
If elected I will do everything possible to ensure there is no tax rise next year by accepting the government’s
precept freeze grant.
Saving Money and Increasing Income
We need to make better use of the resources available to us. If elected I will reduce costs by cutting
unnecessary duplication. Currently Suffolk spends more than £5 billion every year in the public sector. The
public service owns more than 2500 properties here. I would like to see deeper co-operation between Local
Authorities, CPS, Youth Offending, Health, Probation Service etc. to make more effective use of public assets.
I would like to see zero based budgeting to coincide with comprehensive spending review (CSR) settlements. I will listen to ideas from the workforce for saving money. I will ensure the best use is made of technology – reports, evidence, DNA, video, I-pads etc. I will need to see proper business plans for all commissioned contracts /areas of work.
If elected I will ensure the best possible use is made of the Community Infra-structure Levy (CIL) , Tax
Increment Financing (TIF), government and EU grants individually or through partnership working.
Fair share of national resources for Suffolk
I will ensure that Suffolk has the central government/private funding to meet the demands made on policing
by the national resources sited here. Strategic national assets such as Sizewell, Felixstowe Dock, Orbis
energy, Newmarket racecourse and Wattisham Airbase create policing pressures and it is only right that
Suffolk is properly subsidised for these costs.
Management and Morale
Suffolk Police have undergone significant change over the last ten years. To improve morale I want to create a stable environment for the members of Suffolk Constabulary.
Generally I believe in a balanced scorecard approach to management – less hierarchy but more autonomy,
responsibility and accountability to and by staff.
Engagement
The Police and Crime Commissioner will be directly accountable to the voters in Suffolk. If elected I intend to
remain accessible and accountable to members of the public who will be able to contact me direct.
More formally I will hold quarterly ‘Meet the Commissioner’ meetings in each constituency with
representatives of interested community groups. I will do the same for Police Federation and Police staff as
required.
I will host business forums on a quarterly basis. Businesses pay large sums of money through the Uniform
Business Rate and have no direct influence on how the money is spent. I am committed to ensuring the
business community has a prominent influence in fighting crime in Suffolk.
I will develop a communication strategy to make effective use of technology to deliver an effective channel
for hearing from, and communicating with, people in Suffolk.
Thursday, 8 November 2012
Thorington Wind Turbine Latest and What we Must Do
The SW area committee met last night and top of the agenda was the Thorington Wind Farm debate and presentations from both Peter Evans, a founder of Stop Ipswich Turbines, and the developers PfR.
Ipswich Spy summarised nicely on their website as follows:
Ipswich Spy summarised nicely on their website as follows:
Peter Evans, the Co-Chairman of Action Group SIT, told the meeting of the damage wind turbines would do to the lives of those living within the affected area, which SIT estimates is up to 2km. He pointed out that many countries do not allow these turbines to be built within 2km of people’s homes, even in Scotland this is an advisory limit. He raised the spectre of “flicker” which has risks for those who suffer from epilepsy, migraines and even for the general public. And he explained why the noise issue was not one that should be ignored, detailing how the turbines will be more disturbing than the A14.
Susanna Miller, spokeswoman for PfR, responded, explaining to the meeting that PfR were developing their plans for a maximum of two wind turbines for the site. The design was being finalised and PfR hope to hold further consultation events before making an application to Babergh District Council. She told the meeting that the worst consequences of flicker can be mitigated during the design process and that the turbines could well be much quieter than residents expect during normal operation.
The exact location of the turbines within the site has not yet been determined, but PfR committed to informing those residents who were likely to be directly affected by the issue of flicker once they have determined which properties these will be, and advising which mitigating factors are likely to be introduced for them. PfR expect a planning application to be submitted to Babergh DC in the Spring of 2013, and an Environmental Impact Assessment will be published at the same time.
I also challenged PfR regarding the fact they stated that 'New turbines' do not make much noise, because if that's the case then are the wind turbines at Kessingland different from the ones they are planning for this site? When asked, the room filled with gasp noises when they confirmed that they did not need to submit the details of the turbines in their planning application to Babergh, just some general information that gives a good brief on maximum and minimum criteria. They also said that Kessingland had a unique problem with noise (sorry didn't they deny there was any noise here? Or have I remembered it wrong?) and that 'noise' was a 'complicated' subject. Not sure I understood why it should be so and how they would learn lessons in order for it not to happen here.
Oh, and apparently the Scottish windfarm blew up when it was very windy!!! That's a bit like saying 'it's Ok, my car blew up because I put too much petrol in it'!
Although i have established that lease will not be signed with PfR until the plans are passed, what IBC has signed is the option to do so within the next 3 years.
IBC as an authority is also not allowed to be seen to go against the proposals in a public way so that leaves us councillors to try to do something.
What we CAN do;
What the Labour administration could do is ask for an expert barrister's advice on exactly how much we would have to pay out in compensation, if we withdrew the options agreement. Perhaps 5 figures is worth paying the price, as we could find ourselves way down the line paying out more in compensation for negative affects to health etc. I think the Labour administration should look into this straight away and I hereby call on them to do so. I will also ask for this by way of e-mail to the leader of the council David Ellesmere.
Secondly we must now get going in readiness for Babergh planning committee. We need proper recorded measurement of the issues in Kessingland to take as proof and shore up the case for Babergh councillors to refuse PfR planning application.
We must go forward with solutions now, not look at how we came to this point, for it's fair to say that most of the people who were FOR windfarms in principal, are starting to feel a little duped and are finding the information and experiences of the Kessingland residents a real eye opener.
So everyone who will be affected by this must start building up petitions, momentum, facts, figures for the Babergh planning application
because leaving all that just to the developers is like trusting a spin doctor to give all sides of a story.
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