Derry City and Strabane District Council
Dear Member of Governance and Strategic Planning Committee
You are hereby summoned to attend the Monthly Meeting of the Governance and
Strategic Planning Committee to be held Remotely on Tuesday 5 January 2021 at 4.00
pm.
Yours faithfully
John Kelpie
Chief Executive
AGENDA
1 Notice and Summons of Meeting
2 Apologies
3 Statement for Remote Meetings
4 Declarations of Members' Interests
Open for Decision
5 Chairperson's Business
6 Matters Arising from Open Minutes of the Governance and Strategic
Planning Committee held on Tuesday 1 December 2020 (Pages 1 - 30)
7 Six Monthly Progress Report - Strategic Planning and Support Units Delivery
Plan (Pages 31 - 52)
8 Youth Focused Participatory Budget Pilot Update (Pages 53 - 56)
Open for Information
Meeting Pack
9 North West Regional Development Group and North West Strategic Growth
Partnership (Pages 57 - 66)
Confidential for Decision
10 Matters Arising from Confidential Minutes of the Governance and Strategic
Planning Committee held on Tuesday 1 December 2020 (Pages 67 - 68)
11 Car Parking Provision for Members (Pages 69 - 72)
12 Gasyard Development Trust (Pages 73 - 92)
Confidential for Information
13 Self Insurance Figures Update DCSDC Dec 20 (Pages 97 - 100)
22 December 2020
1
Derry City and Strabane District Council
Open Minutes of the Meeting of the Governance and Strategic Planning
Committee held Remotely on Tuesday 1 December 2020 at 4.00 pm
___________________
Present:- Alderman Hussey (in the Chair), Aldermen Bresland, McClintock and
McCready, Councillors J Boyle, M Boyle, Fleming, Cooper, Donnelly, Duffy,
Gallagher, McKeever, Mooney and Reilly.
Non-Members of Committee – Councillors Farrell, Ferguson, Harkin and
McCann.
In Attendance:- Chief Executive (Mr J Kelpie), Director of Business and Culture
(Mr S Gillespie), Director of Health and Community (Mrs K McFarland), Director
of Legacy (Mrs O McGillion), Lead Finance Officer (Mr A Dallas), Lead
Democratic Services and Improvement Officer (Ms E Cavanagh), Lead Human
Resources Officer (Mrs P Donnelly), Funding Manager (Mr R Osterhaus),
Strategic Business Manager (Mrs R Craig), and Committee Services Assistant
(Ms N Meehan).
_________________
GSP175/20 Notice and Summons for Meeting
The Chief Executive read the Notice and Summons for the Meeting.
GSP176/20 Member Attendance and Apologies
The Chief Executive took the roll call and no apologies were recorded.
GSP177/20 Broadcasting Statement
The Chairperson read the Broadcasting Statement for the Meeting.
GSP178/20 Declarations of Members’ Interests
Item 5 - To receive representatives from Londonderry port and
Harbour Commission to Deliver a Presentation on Freeports/Innovation
Zones – Alderman McCready and Councillor Ferguson.
Open for Decision
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Agenda Item 6
2
GSP179/20 To Receive Representatives from Londonderry Port and Harbour
Commission to deliver a presentation on Freeports/Innovation
Zones
The Committee received Mr B McGrath, Chief Executive and Mr G
Cuthbert, Londonderry Port and Harbour Commissioners who gave a
joint presentation with the Director of Business and Culture on
Freeports/Innovation Zones.
This item was considered in conjunction with item 8 of the Agenda
The Director of Business and Culture presented the above report, a
copy of which had previously been circulated. He advised that the
purpose of the report was to update Members regarding the UK
initiative regarding freeports, the implications for NI and the work that
has begun with Foyle Port and others to scope out the potential for our
region.
The Director of Business and Culture pointed out that whilst the
consultation period opened in February 2020, Foyle Port had led the
way in terms of shaping the proposition into something which could be
used for region’s economic advantage. He stated this work also
complemented the Enterprise Zone proposal being progressed.
The joint power-point presentation was then delivered and addressed
the following areas:-
Outline
Key Considerations
Port Economic Zone
Post Brexit Political Opportunities
City Deals – Analysis of Proposed Freeport Incentives
Next Steps
Members welcomed the presentation.
The Chief Executive advised that Foyle Port had been working on this
proposition for a considerable period of time. He referred to Council’s
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involvement in terms of looking at Enterprise Zones and Innovation
Zones, all of which were potentially coming together in a bespoke type
proposition. He said that it was now necessary to frame the question in
accordance with the answer. He said this was very much akin to the
early days of the City Deal process when it had been necessary to
identify a proposal which would benefit a particular economy and
prepare a proposition to be presented to government and negotiate an
outcome. Mr Kelpie added that, similarly in this instance there was no
manual to be followed to work through the process.
He stated that the process in respect of Northern Ireland was
completely dissimilar to that for England, Scotland and Wales where it
was a straightforward Freeport proposition. He stated that the
proposition would be completely and uniquely linked to proposals for
the City region. He said this was something which could build upon
the announcements which had been made in regards to the City Deal
and incorporate the ports, the university and businesses to bring
forward a unique proposition. He stated that it was not known whether
or not this would be acceptable, however, the strong indications which
were being received suggested that something bespoke to the region’s
economy or a proposition which could be moulded to the specific
needs of the area would be welcomed. He stated that bearing this in
mind, discussions had begun with Belfast which was positive as it would
enable a proposition to be moulded for both areas simultaneously.
Councillor Cooper acknowledged the preparatory work involved in the
presentation. He stated that from Sinn Fein’s perspective it was vital
that information regarding the EU protocol in regards to the North of
Ireland, in terms of pursuing this issue, was presented to Members
prior to agreeing any proposition. He enquired if there were
alternatives or options available if the EU did have issues with regards
to the development of a Freeport. He referred to innovation, financial
technology and financial services and the fact that the Atlantic Hub
Project was already being developed by the Port. He stated, however,
that from his Party’s perspective a considerable gap remained
particularly in regards to the lack of financial service positions in this
area and the subsequent lack of higher wage structures which was
most evident in Belfast particularly around the port area and the Titanic
Quarter.
He said he would welcome Foyle Port working with Ulster University to
ensure that there was no duplication of proposals being put forward in
regards to innovation projects through City Deal. This would also
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ensure that the proposals being put forward by both organisations
would be complimentary and assist in developing a synergy between
both organisations which would address any gaps which existed in
terms of the lack of financial service positions.
He expressed concern at the lack of clarity in regards to Council’s role
in terms of providing input. He also queried what powers were
available in regards to the development of ports in general, to allow an
innovative approach and what could be agreed upon in regards to
policy proposals. He said given that the North of Ireland did not have
any fiscal powers, this would essentially be a British government
decision. He expressed concern at the possible outcome if this was
progressed without consultation with the NI Executive.
Councillor Cooper sought clarity from the Department of Finance
regarding the benefits for this City from any proposals put forward and
the level of support required from Council. He referred to the fact that
Foyle Port was an autonomous entity that would be free to pursue
much of this on its own merits. However, his Party had still concerns
and questions which needed answers in regards to Council’s
involvement and input. He stated that the economic benefits of many
of the suggested Enterprise Zones/Innovation Zones was not clear and
he expressed concern at possible displacement. Whilst acknowledging
the need to fill the gaps which existed it was important that this was
not carried out in a manner which would cause economic damage to
other parts of the City and the work being carried out by other
organisations such as Ulster University. He awaited the forthcoming
report on the matter which he anticipated would provide greater clarity.
Mr McGrath stressed that the Port was not pursuing any sort of
questionable type proposition and was merely looking to rebrand this
proposal as an Innovation Enterprise Zone Policy. He said Foyle Port
had been trying to adapt the process taking place in England to deal
with the displacement aspects referred to by Councillor Cooper not
only in this City and region but across Northern Ireland. He stated that
although the Port was independent, it was not proposing to embark
upon something which was against the will of elected representatives
in the City and region. He said it was essential for the Port to be able
to answer the questions put forward to Members’ satisfaction and
subsequently gain Members’ approval. He said the Port was willing to
respond to all of the issues raised demonstrating the merits of this
without compromising any political position. He said it was hoped to
take advantage of these incentives in order to generate jobs for the
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area. He said Foyle Port was very keen to work with Council and the
other stakeholders in moving forward.
Councillor Gallagher expressed concern at the lack of reference within
the key considerations to carbon zero and climate resilient
infrastructure. This was of particular concern given that we were in a
climate emergency and it was necessary to consider how this could be
progressed whilst protecting the environment. He referred to public
perception a number of years previously that Dalradian Mining
Company were storing thousands of tonnes of materials at Lisahally
and shipping these from the Port. This was also considered to be an
area in respect of which the Port proposed moving forward. He
suggested that if this perception was inaccurate, it was necessary for
Foyle Port to challenge, deny and put an end to such rumours.
Mr McGrath assured that Councillor Gallagher’s comments in regards
to the shipment of materials from Foyle Port as a future progression
was factually incorrect. He explained that a number of years previously
Dalradian Mining Company had built a shed at Foyle Port to store
materials which were shipped to Canada for analysis to determine what,
if any, mineral content they contained. He referred to rumours at the
time suggesting that arsenic was being administered into these
materials and Foyle Port were allowing poisonous substances to enter
the River Foyle. He reiterated that Dalradian Mining activities at Foyle
Port had now ceased and they were no longer located there.
He said the Port’s core rationale currently was to decarbonise and he
apologised if the Port’s commitment in regards to zero carbon and the
climate emergency had not been made apparent. He referred to the
need to move towards green energy and renewables given the current
dependency on carbon based products. However, he said there was no
question of the Port doing something unlawful. He said he would be
happy to provide more robust public representations regarding the
Port’s position in regards to Dalradian Mining but pointed out that
there was a lot of misinformation printed at the time regarding the
associations and activities carried out by Foyle Port.
Alderman McCready expressed concern that the presentation had not
been provided to Members prior to the Meeting. In regards to the
timelines he referred to the fact that this had been ongoing for a
considerable period of time and had previously been discussed by
Council whenever the New Decade, New Approach document was
issued. As such he expressed concern that this was the first occasion
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on which Members had been presented with any information regarding
the matter. He referred to the scale, magnitude, opportunities and
considerations arising from this incentive and queried why it had taken
so long to arrive at this point.
Alderman McCready suggested that the presentation had provided
greater clarity in regards to Foyle Port’s position and he had expected
more in-depth outputs from Council to steer Members in terms of
moving forward. He also expressed concern at the recommendations
being put forward which he would be proposing to amend.
He pointed out that the Freeports concept was not new, pointing out
that there were approximately 3,500 ports worldwide albeit there would
be some nuances in regards to the Northern Ireland protocol and other
issues. He stated that the Shannon freezone was a good example of
what could be achieved referring to the progress which had been made
there since 1950 until the present day with the creation of 7,000 jobs.
He stated that clearly along the way there was a European Union
connection which would have had to have been slightly modified. He
referred to concerns expressed by a previous speaker regarding
acceptance by the European Union and pointed out that from January
1st Northern Ireland would not be part of the European Union. He
could not, however, comment on the impact of this in terms of the
protocol for Northern Ireland. If Council were to proceed along the
lines of a Freeports or Innovation Zone/Free Enterprise, he anticipated
that lessons would be learnt from the approach adopted in Shannon.
The Director of Business and Culture apologised that the presentation
had not been circulated to Members prior to the Meeting.
Councillor Reilly welcomed the advice given in regards to this issue. He
said the SDLP Leader and Foyle MP, Colum Eastwood had already
outlined his Party’s position in regards to this. As everyone was aware,
Brexit would come into effect at the beginning of January. A number of
questions remained unanswered in regard to this irrespective of the
issue of Freeports which was currently being drawn up. He said it was
recognised that this area would be hardest hit by Brexit which was why
it had been campaigned against and referred to the need to consider
alternative mechanisms through which to attract investment in terms of
high paid jobs for this region. He supported the recommendation put
forward by Officers in the report presented to Committee.
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Councillor Donnelly highlighted the concerns of the local community
regarding industrial zonings and potential plans for the future. He
stated that there were also concerns that the needs of the local
community in regards to social housing and community need had not
been factored in to any of the proposals. He referred to issues which
had arisen in the past between the local community and Foyle Port with
regard to infestations of rats, flies and fires in the area. He referred to
the importance of good community relations and queried if the needs
of the community would be addressed in terms of social housing
provision and community infrastructure. He said he understood that a
report had previously been commissioned by Council which had
identified a number of issues including the cumulative effect of the
existing industries being detrimental to the health and wellbeing of
local residents. He queried if it was the intention of the Port to consult
with local residents and stakeholders regarding these concerns.
Mr McGrath welcomed Members’ comments. He said it was essential
that the Port Authority respected the needs of the local community and
in this regard Foyle Port had made a fulsome report to the Local
Development Plan. This ensured that Council’s plans in terms of
industrial zoning and the need for housing, which presented something
of a challenge in terms of reconciling industry and local housing need
would be taken into account. He said the Port endeavoured to respect
the needs of the surrounding community. He described the earlier
report referred to by the previous speaker which had been
commissioned as a flawed piece of work, which did not serve either
Foyle Port or the local community well. He stated that Foyle Port had
submitted a strong response to this report which had alleged that there
were cumulative ill-effects on the community’s health. He stated that
the Port would be working closely with Council and elected
representatives to ensure a mutual understanding of what was being
sought.
In regards to the Port located at Lisahally, he stated that there was an
obligation to develop this business to generate employment and create
wealth for the local community. He said it was not in the interests of
Foyle Port to undermine the wellbeing of local residents. However, it
was important that the policies were sympathetic to each other to
ensure that housing developments were not being erected in the
middle of industrial zoned areas. He suggested that the demise of
industry in the City during the past forty years was one of the major
contributory factors in regards to the levels of deprivation prevalent in
this area. It was the Port’s intention to reinvigorate this industrially
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zoned area in order to generate employment but not at the expense of
the wellbeing of the local community. The Port would also strive to
carry out any development in a green and environmentally friendly
manner.
The Chairperson referred to a communication which had been
forwarded to Members from an organisation requesting that the
Committee would endorse Council’s submission on the consultation
response to UK government with regard to Freeports. He did not feel
any Members had an issue with regard to the correspondence received
which might address some of the issues raised by Councillor Donnelly.
Councillor Harkin suggested that the Dalradian issue had damaged
people’s confidence in Foyle Port, in that Dalradian had been permitted
to use the Port in respect of such a contentious issue which Council had
taken a decision to oppose.
Whilst acknowledging Mr McGrath’s comments he referred to tensions
which existed within the local community. He said he had attended
Court with two representatives from the Enagh Lough Youth Forum
who had been charged with issues relating to Foyle Port where the
Judge had ruled in favour of the defendants. He said the tensions
which existed with the local community could not be overlooked
reinforcing the need for a thorough consultation with residents.
He also expressed concern at associations with phrases such as
“Freeport” and “Enterprise Zones” and Conservative governments.
These had not proved successful to date in addressing inequality issues,
which existed in those areas where these had been introduced. He said
they had been used by employers to evade taxes, workers’ rights and
health and safety concerns. He was unconvinced that it would be
possible to ensure that such a policy would work for the vast majority
of people. He sought assurances that this would not be a repeat of the
type of Conservative inspired Enterprise Zones which had already been
developed in various areas. He referred to the Canary Islands as an
example, where there was a Freeport and a freezone which had 4%
taxes compared to Spain where taxes were 25%. He said it was a
matter of great concern that this concept hailed by the Conservative’s
as a means through which to turbo charge the economy, would in fact
lead to greater inequalities.
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Councillor Ferguson pointed out that as well as being a Council
representative on Londonderry Port and Harbour Commissioners she
was also a member of the local community with concerns which she
had raised with Mr McGrath. She assured that she and members of the
management team were in the process of developing a safety forum
with the local community. She referred to misconceptions regarding
the work carried out by Foyle Port and the people using the Port. She
referred specifically to the issue of coal. She referred to the fact that
Northern Ireland was to be granted at least one Freeport and that
innovation was key in terms of the City Deal and enquired if Members
would want to be in the position of losing out on such an incentive.
She referred to the need for Council to work with Foyle Port who were
very open to new ideas and concepts to ensure that no one was badly
impacted upon. She felt it was necessary for Council to make a
decision to work alongside Foyle Port in order to ensure that this City
and District did not lose out.
Alderman McClintock stated that this could prove extremely positive
for the City and District, referring to the possibility of job creation,
innovation, increased trade and economic benefit for the City and
region and indeed the entire North West. She said it was necessary to
find out more information regarding this issue. She said it was
important that this was kept on the agenda and referred to the need
for increased positivity in terms of bringing more innovation to the City
and District.
Councillor McCann referred to the need for fine judgements to be
made in terms of boosting the economy whilst removing or reducing
necessary restrictions. He referred to the numerous Enterprise Zones
throughout Europe, the main attraction of which was low tax rates, and
the lack or ease of restrictions and enforcements in regards to workers’
rights, trade unions and health and safety issues. Whilst not suggesting
that this would happen here, he referred to the possibility that it could,
given experiences elsewhere. However, any opposition to the
development of these free zones was criticised as it was seen to be
preventing job creation and economic growth and advancement.
He acknowledged the need to progress this and Council’s involvement
in this but suggested that in going forward reports were presented to
Committee on a stage-by-stage basis for consideration and
endorsement. He also referred to the concerns of local residents
regarding the increased industrial development in the area of land
between Maydown and Strathfoyle and the impact thereof on the
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surrounding area. He acknowledged that this was the very early stage
of the process.
Councillor Fleming referred to concerns among the local community
regarding industrial development in the area and the impact on their
livelihoods. He acknowledged Mr McGrath’s anticipation for a balance
between the Port’s plans and the Local Development Plan and the
general lack of social housing in the area. However, he referred to the
need for formal consultation between Foyle Port and the local
community regarding plans for the future development of the Port. He
referred to Council’s role in terms of supporting local development and
business whilst respecting the needs and wishes of this vibrant
community.
The Chief Executive thanked Members for their comments. He re-
emphasised that this could possibly be the last time when the report
going forward would refer to Freeports. Whilst it began as part of the
UK government’s consultation on Freeports, it had gradually become
clear that Freeports, in the traditional sense as seen elsewhere, and
which would come forward in Britain as part of the government’s
initiative, would not work in Northern Ireland. Therefore, a lot of the
negative elements associated with Freeports would not form part of the
proposal. He acknowledged that the process had been ongoing for
seven months but pointed out that the reason it had not previously
been brought to Council was because it was realised that the concept
of a Freeport would not work in Northern Ireland.
He said Council and the Port were endeavouring to determine how this
could become a more City owned proposition with the Port being the
key partner which was the approach which was being discussed with
Belfast. This was very much not a Freeport proposition but something
which would support the development of innovation in certain places
including Port lands, City centre lands or on lands adjacent to the
University in a number of various places across the City and District. He
referred to the need to build on the City Deal potential and address the
inequalities identified in the Strategic Growth Plan.
He also referred to the need to build sustainable investment to link the
various innovations including the growth of the University and
contemplate how companies could be incentivised to become involved
in this and perhaps set up in this region. Whilst this was the stance
which was currently being adopted, it may well not prove successful.
However, the process involved in terms of shaping and moulding this
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for presentation to government would be a lengthy one. He stressed
that at this stage the focus was on trying to develop sustainable well-
paid jobs in this Council area which were aligned to the growth of the
University, the innovation projects, the City Deal and, in so doing,
potentially deliver on the objectives of the City and the Port to move
away from its heavily industrialised past to more green sustainable
options. He continued that the partnership with Belfast would not
mean bringing forward a proposition which would produce a winner
and a loser with this area ending up on the losing end with
government. He stressed that there were many unanswered questions
and no clear direction other than a suggestion from government to
bring forward a workable and sustainable proposition in respect of this
area for their consideration. He pointed out that, as outlined in the
report, it was now the intention to continue to work with colleagues in
Belfast, in both Ports and the University in an effort to bring this to
fruition. He stated that there was no time limit or deadline but Officers
would present updates to Committee on a regular basis. However, it
may be somewhat ambitious to submit monthly updates as it was
unlikely that there would be much progress in the early stages.
Mr McGrath expressed his appreciation for being given the opportunity
to address Committee and respond to Members questions. He said he
understood the various perceptions held by Members. He said Foyle
Port were more than willing to accept the challenges presented by
Members and fully appreciated the need for the Port to integrate
within the community. He said the Port would work closely with
Council Officers in order to satisfy Members, as this was not achievable
without the support of elected Members.
Alderman McCready stated that the report presented by the Director of
Business and Culture and the consultation response to the government
was extensive and presented a number of opportunities and outlined
the considerations and key factors.
Subsequently Alderman McCready Proposed, Alderman McClintock
Seconded
That (a) that in going forward Officers continue
preparatory works via a joint up approach with key
stakeholders in the region; and
(b) that the issue of Freeports/Innovation Zones be
included as a standing item on the agenda in respect
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of the Governance and Strategic Planning Committee
for a period of no less than 6 months in order for
Members to track progress, ask questions and provide
guidance and make decisions.
Alderman McCready said that during the past six months, he had not
been assured of Council’s position in regard to the proposition.
Alderman McClintock welcomed the information provided and in
particular the acknowledgement that Freeports would not work in
Northern Ireland. She felt however, that this did present a major
opportunity which could prove tremendous for the City and Region.
She agreed that it was necessary to monitor progress and seek
guidance and receive regular updates in terms of going forward.
Councillor Cooper reiterated his earlier comments pointing out that
from a Sinn Fein perspective it was necessary to seek clarification that
the traditional-type Freeport would not be a consideration. In regards
to the other proposals and in particular tax, he had previously indicated
that the British government could work with the Ports in regards to this
issue. He said he was unclear in regards to the extent of devolved
powers through the Department for Finance. He said he would favour
the original recommendation that Officers continue to discuss the way
forward and a further report be presented to Committee. He opposed
the proposal put forward by Alderman McCready as he felt it was
necessary for Members to seek the clarity from the Department. He
said it was necessary to ensure that the Executive were satisfied with
any proposal which was being pursued. He did not envisage that this
would take a considerable period of time and if the Department for
Finance were satisfied with the proposal this could then be progressed.
He stressed that his earlier comments had in no way referred to a
suggested “dodgy tax deal”.
Councillor J Boyle referred to the fact that there was little difference
from the original recommendation and the amendment proposed by
Alderman McCready. However, the SDLP were of the opinion that it
may be somewhat premature to expect monthly updates on the matter
given that it was at such an early stage in the proceedings. He
suggested that this process would run in tandem with the Local
Development Plan which was also in the early stages.
The Chairperson suggested that reports be presented periodically to
Committee on the matter as opposed to monthly.
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Alderman McCready welcomed Members’ comments. He said he had
requested monthly updates not only to receive information on progress
but to ask questions and present ideas forthcoming from the electorate
to feed into this process, to get a better understanding of the process
and help shape and mould it. He suggested that, if after a three month
period there was no information forthcoming then the situation could
be reviewed. In regards to (a) above he said it was non-committal and
therefore the output was similar as Officers could continue with
preparatory works in line with what they had been doing, with the
added reassurance and direction and guidance from Committee in
terms of a joint approach. He stated that ultimately there would only
be one bid within Northern Ireland and if Council was not involved it
would not benefit, which could prove ultimately damaging to the City,
Region and District.
The Deputy-Chairperson took over the position as Chairperson.
Councillor Gallagher favoured the recommendation contained in the
report as he considered the amended proposal to contain an element
of pre-determination which he did not feel was appropriate at this
stage in the process.
The amended Proposal on being put to the vote was lost their voting
For – 4; Against – 10.
Subsequently the Committee
Recommended (a) that Members endorse the work to
date and allow Officers to continue to
discuss the way forward; and
(b) a further report be brought to
Members in the coming months before
any formal bid would be submitted.
The Chairperson returned to the Meeting at this stage.
Chairperson’s Business
GSP180/20 Congratulations
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The Chairperson congratulated St Cecilia’s College on being awarded
The National Teaching Award. He referred to a number of
engagements which he had at the school as Deputy Mayor in 2018 and
said this was a fantastic school and this was a tremendous
achievement.
GSP181/20 Confirmation of the Open Minutes of the Governance and
Strategic Planning Committee held on Tuesday 3 November 2020
The Open Minutes of the Governance and Strategic Planning
Committee held on 3 November 2020 (GSP154/20-GSP171/20) were
agreed and signed by the Chairperson.
GSP182/20 Update on Hardship Fund Resolution
The Director of Legacy presented the above report, a copy of which
had previously been circulated. She advised that the purpose of the
report was to provide Members with an update on the
recommendations from the Welfare Reform Working Group on the
Hardship Fund Resolution.
The Chief Executive thanked the Director of Legacy and the Welfare
Reform Working Group for the work carried out to date regarding this
matter. In terms of what had been alluded to by the Director of Legacy
he said obviously this was a changing situation and since the
submission of the report it was felt that, if Members agreed, Officers
would consider a potential financial contribution to Stage 1 of the
process. However consideration was still required in regards to
whether this was affordable and the potential figure involved and the
legalities surrounding this. He said it was intended that this exercise
would be concluded in the next few days. He referred to the fact that
there was an opportunity to take a definitive route, if Members choose
to pursue this, and for a decision to be made at the re-convened
November Council Meeting to be held on Friday 4 December.
Councillor Duffy welcomed the report and the Chief Executive’s
comments regarding a potential financial contribution from Council
which would be most welcome. She commended the work carried out
by the Working Group on such a worthwhile Motion but expressed
concern that it might be slightly late to produce the anticipated
benefits for Christmas 2020. She stated that from her work within the
homelessness sector, preparations were being made in respect of
Christmas since late summer/early autumn. She agreed with the
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recommendations set out in the report and referred to the numerous
organisations and, in particular, The Salvation Army and St Vincent de
Paul who would benefit. She referred to the fact that January was a very
bleak month for people in need and if a hardship fund could be
provided in the New Year, she felt this would be most welcome.
Alderman McClintock acknowledged the work carried out by the
Director of Legacy and the Welfare Reform Working Group. She
welcomed the fact that the Neighbourhood Partnership Boards had
access to a considerable number of food parcels and were working to
ensure that these were delivered to those in need during this pre-
Christmas period. She suggested that Council link in with them in
terms of progressing its proposals to ensure that there was no
duplication of the services being provided. She agreed that January
would prove an extremely bleak time for many people in need and
therefore referred to the need to look at the bigger picture. She
suggested that all Members of staff be encouraged to make a
contribution to the Salvation Army and St Vincent de Paul Appeals.
Councillor Harkin welcomed the report and the update provided. He
appreciated the work carried out by Officers in terms of how to
progress this proposal, particularly given the timing of the Motion. He
referred to the need for urgent action to address the serious levels of
deprivations which existed. Whilst acknowledging the concept behind
the two stage approach, he felt it veered away slightly from the
sentiments contained in the original Motion. In regards to a potential
financial contribution from Council, he felt this was of the utmost
importance and suggested that more in-depth discussion take place at
the reconvened Council Meeting on how Council should proceed. He
felt that the recommendations contained in the report would prove
successful if implemented as part of a wider approach. He urged that
any final decision on the matter be deferred to the reconvened Council
Meeting. He referred to the need for the involvement of the Stormont
Executive in terms of taking this forward given the level of hardship
which existed. Again whilst acknowledging the work carried out by
Officers he did not feel that the suggested approach addressed the
sentiments behind the original Motion.
Councillor Farrell said that whilst not a Member of Committee he was a
representative on the Working Group. In regards to the previous
speaker’s comments that the Hardship Fund was not as had been
originally intended, he stated that the reality was that Council did not
have the capacity, the expertise or indeed maybe even the power to
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deliver a hardship fund. Given the urgency and immediacy he had
made the proposal for action to be taken to help people those most in
need. He said the common sense solution was to support the appeal
from the Salvation Army and St Vincent De Paul. He welcomed the
suggestion from the Chief Executive regarding a possible financial
contribution from Council. Council could not approach other business
organisations seeking contributions to this appeal if it was not willing
to contribute. He commended all those involved in the process and
anticipated that it would be of benefit to those people across the City
and District who needed help in the coming weeks.
Councillor Gallagher referred to a number of meetings of the Working
Group which had taken place. He said that the main objective of the
Group was to provide help for those in need. He stipulated that any
potential funding from Council would be additional funding to those
major organisations at the forefront and was spent locally and within a
given timeframe. He referred to a number of organisations who had
accumulated large reserves and the purpose of this fund was not to
add to these reserves. He reiterated the importance of these monies
being additional and spent locally within a given timeframe.
Alderman Devenney, as a representative on the Hardship Fund Working
Group, commended officers on the content of the report presented to
Committee which he considered to be a true reflection of the
discussion which had taken place regarding what action would be
taken particularly in the lead-up to Christmas. He welcomed the
announcement by the Chief Executive regarding potential funding
being forthcoming from Council. He referred to lengthy discussion
which had taken place regarding the legalities involved as it was
important that any action which was taken was legitimate and
produced the greatest benefit to those most in need. He pointed out
that whilst all businesses were suffering from the effects of the
pandemic, within this Council area it was the smaller businesses who
were most affected. Within the current climate he encouraged people
to shop locally.
In response to a query from Councillor Doyle, the Chief Executive
explained that the report currently being considered by Committee
would not be ratified until the December Council Meeting on
December 18. Obviously this presented a major timing issue. It was
therefore being suggested, if the Committee approved the proposed
two-stage approach, that at the re-convened Council Meeting to be
held on Friday 4 December Members would be advised of the
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proposals put forward by Committee. From that point Council would
contact larger businesses who were not severely affected by the Covid
pandemic, requesting that they make financial donations to the
Christmas Campaign of the Salvation Army and St Vincent de Paul to
support local people in hardship. Officers would also present to
Members at the reconvened Council Meeting on the outcome of
deliberations on Council donating to this Christmas Campaign and
potentially how much.
He said he could not make a commitment at this stage as further
discussions were required in regards to whether Council could
contribute to the Campaign and, if so, how much. If Members were
comfortable to proceed on this basis following Friday’s reconvened
meeting, a promotion would be launched regarding this initiative and if
possible, Council would make a financial contribution. He pointed out
that the two-stage approach would be adhered to with an initial
potential boost of cash into stage one.
Councillor Doyle welcomed the clarity provided by the Chief Executive.
The Committee
Recommended that approval be granted to the two
stage process on the establishment of the
Hardship Fund as recommended by the
Welfare Reform Working Group and that
a further report should be prepared for
the Reconvended Council Meeting on
Friday 4 December 2020 if Officers
identify an opportunity to provide
financer’s to the joint campaign of the
Salvation Army and St Vincent De Paul.
GSP183/20 Additional NI Executive Funding for Food Support
The Director of Health and Community presented the above report, a
copy of which had previously been circulated. She advised that the
purpose of the report was to provide Members with details of the
potential for an additional food support allocation following recent
communication from the Department for Communities (DfC) in the
wake of the announcement by the Northern Ireland Executive to
allocate an additional £3.5m to DfC for Food support during
2020/2021.
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Councillor Gallagher referred to the immediacy in terms of having the
additional food support allocation rolled out.
Councillor M Boyle welcomed the report and the content contained
therein. She expressed her appreciation to the Minister on her efforts
to ensure that monies were available for those most in need and
vulnerable. She referred to the collective and collaborative working of
local community groups in regards to the previous hardship funding
which was forthcoming from DfC to ensure that those most in need
and vulnerable were in receipt of this funding. She noted the content
of the report and the wrap-around services which this would provide
for many. She commended officers on the work carried out to date
and in the future.
The Committee
Recommended that the funding allocation be agreed
and accepted, subject to receipt of letter
of offer from DfC and endorse the
development and delivery of a tailored
food support programme.
GSP184/20 6 Month Financial Outturn Update 2020/2021
The Lead Finance Officer presented the above report, a copy of which
had previously been circulated. He advised that the purpose of the
report was for Members to consider and approve Council’s 6 month
financial outturn and position at 30 September 2020.
The Lead Finance Officer advised that following preparation of the
report Council’s financial deficit had now been fully mitigated following
a further £1.8 million allocation from DfC for quarter two. He stated
that the report did not reflect any losses associated with loss of rates
income. It was expected that this may be impacted in the medium
term and was a major uncertainty but it was anticipated that this may
be mitigated by the significant reliefs available from government.
Councillor Cooper referred to the financial projections being made in
regards to Council at the outset of the pandemic. He welcomed the
response from the Minister for Finance to the current and previous
requests for financial assistance which meant that Council was in a
position to consider commitments towards capital projects and
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19
projections for major infrastructural projects in the coming years amidst
an unprecedented financial position globally resulting from the
pandemic. He commended the Minister on his efforts to ensure that
financial contributions were made available. He considered rates to be
a key point in regards to the coming year referring to the fact that the
rates process would begin in the near future. He felt assured that given
the Minister’s previous response, he would take on board the concerns
of all Councils regarding the rates process. This could not yet be
formalised because the financial assistance being sought in regards to
the rates process was as yet unknown given the uncertainties involved.
He referred to recent announcements regarding the closure of a
number of major retail outlets which he feared would also impact
negatively. He anticipated that the outcome of any future discussions
with the Minister in regards to the rates process would prove fruitful.
Alderman McClintock welcomed the report and particularly the fact
that Council’s financial deficit had been fully mitigated. She
acknowledged the impact of the substantial intervention from regional
and central government in arriving at this point. She understood the
future uncertainties regarding the rates base which would be addressed
as the situation progressed and anticipated that further government
intervention would be forthcoming as and when required. She
commended the Lead Finance Officer together with the Chief Executive
and the entire SOLACE team on their hard work and efforts in achieving
such a positive outcome for all Councils.
Councillor Reilly commended the Lead Finance Officer and his team on
the work carried out not just on behalf of this Council’s ratepayers but
in conjunction with the other Councils in bidding for the level of
finance which had been forthcoming from the Executive. He said it was
worth noting that government had offered financial assistance across a
range of Council services including City of Derry Airport and thanked
those responsible for their positive response to Council, which enabled
Council to be in such a good financial position at this stage amid the
Covid pandemic. He said that given the recent announcement
regarding the closure of major retailers, it was inevitable that there
would be evidence of other businesses struggling in the coming
months, many of whom were unable to trade at this time because of
current restrictions and the loss of profits that this would result in and
the impact of this on their business outlook.
The Chief Executive commended the Lead Finance Officer and his team
on their hard work and efforts during the previous six months. To be in
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such a position at this stage was a considerable achievement. He
referred, however, to the challenges facing Council in the coming
months in regards to the rates process and pointed out that the next
Council rates briefing was scheduled for Monday 14 December at 4 pm
in order to provide Members with information in regards to projections
for the coming year.
In response to a query from Councillor Gallagher, the Lead Finance
Officer pointed out that the timescale for the HMRC Appeal was 12
December and there had not been any developments regarding this to
date. It would be necessary to wait until after the deadline date to find
if there would be any Appeal.
The Committee
Recommended that approval be granted to the 6 month
financial position for the 2020/2021
financial year and note the significant
deficit incurred as a result of the
pandemic which has not been fully
mitigated due to Central Government
support.
GSP185/20 EU Successor Funding – Proposed UK Shared Prosperity Fund –
SOLACE NI Report
The Funding Manager presented the above report, a copy of which had
previously been circulated. He advised that the purpose of the report
was to update Members on the UK Government’s proposed EU
Successor funding (the UK Shared Prosperity Fund) and SOLACE’s
position paper – EU Successor Funding in Northern Ireland.
The Funding Manager explained that with the imminent exit from the
European Union all EU structural funding for Northern Ireland would
cease with no new funding being made available thereafter. This would
include the European Regional Development Fund, the European Social
Fund and the Rural Development Programme. The Peace and Interreg
funding would however, continue through the New Peace Plus
Programme and in respect of which an update had been received from
SEUPB. This related to the statutory consultation on the programme
which they had hoped to launch in November 2020 which,
unfortunately, had not been possible due to the fact that budgets had
not been signed off on individual EU programmes by the EU Member
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21
States. They were hoping that they would receive confirmation of the
programme budgets in the coming weeks and launch a statutory
consultation with the budget allocations across the various priorities in
the New Year.
The Funding Manager referred to the report commissioned by SOLACE
NI in partnership with NILGA (NILGA) in early 2020 to consider the UK
government’s proposals for new UK EU successor funding and what this
means for Northern Ireland.
The Funding Manager advised that the key points issued by the
government as part of the Spending Review had been announced. This
was that the fund be ramped up over time to at least match the EU
funding receipts across the UK averaging £1.5 billion per year. There
was no clarification as yet as to what this would mean for any of the
devolved regions. This would begin with funding in 2021 to help local
areas to prepare over the 2021/22 financial year for the introduction of
the UK SPF (Shared Prosperity Fund) which would suggest that they
were not anticipating a formal launch until 2022. They were
considering providing funding in the region of £200-£220 million to
provide support for communities in regards to pilot programmes and
new approaches across the UK. He stated that the focus would be on
the UK SPF to level-up the UK and help create opportunities across the
region and the UK for people and places. He stated that this would be
UK wide and would use the new financial assistance powers in the UK
Internal Market Bill.
He explained that the government would set out further details on the
UK wide SPF Investment Framework which was due to be published in
Spring 2021. He said they had outlined two portions of the proposed
new programme. The first would target places most in need across the
UK, such as ex-industrial areas, deprived towns, rural and coastal
communities and would support people and communities, open up
new opportunities spurring regeneration and innovation. The funding
profile in respect of this would be set in the next Spending Review in
Spring 2021 and would have three priority areas: investing in people
and skills tailored to local need such as workplace training and
supplementing tailored national programmes; investing in communities
and places including cultural and sporting facilities, and green and rural
infrastructure and investment for local businesses including support for
innovation and green-tech adaptation and tailored to local needs.
Those places receiving funding would be requested to prepare specific
outcomes to target within a UK-wide framework.
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22
He stated that the second portion announced would be a UK SPF which
would be targeted differently to people most in need through
employment programmes tailored to local need and would support
employment outcomes for those people in and out of work and specific
groups of people who were subject to labour market barriers. He
continued that in addition to the UK SPF a Levelling Up Fund had also
been announced which was in addition to the UK SPF. A £4 billion
package had been announced in respect of England with a £0.8 billion
package for Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland which would be
distributed through the normal processes. This fund would be jointly
administered by the Treasury, the Department for Transport and the
Ministry for Housing and Local Government. He stated that individual
areas could bid for local projects and a holistic approach would be
taken in terms of meeting the needs of local areas. He stated that the
monies must be spent within this Parliament and projects must deliver
real impact. Proposals must also have local support including that of
the local MP and they would fund infrastructure which would enhance
everyday life such as by-pass, libraries, museums, galleries and
upgrades to railway stations and high streets. Further details on how
this programme would work would be set out in the New Year.
Councillor Cooper welcomed the report and the verbal update
provided by the Funding Manager. He expressed concern at the level
of funding being proposed within the Prosperity Fund as a replacement
to the existing EU funding. He welcomed the update from the EU in
regards to the continuation of Peace Funding and Interreg Funding and
how this would roll out in the coming months. He stated that the
update from the EU and the fact that there had still only been outline
proposals from the British government, was indicative of their approach
to this.
He referred to the suggested ring-fencing referred to by the Funding
Manager and the promise to match existing EU funding which he
considered dubious. He expressed concern at the levels of uncertainty
regarding this particularly, given that this area would be impacted more
in terms of Brexit than England, Scotland and Wales because of the
land border. He said the information being provided had been
significantly delayed in terms of preparing for the impact of Brexit and
overall it was difficult to trust the assurances given by the British
government that they would match EU funding.
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He stated that the suggestion that this funding would go to those areas
most in need was questionable with the North of Ireland being
overlooked making it necessary for additional lobbies to ensure it
received what it deserved.
He referred to the EU’s pro-active approach in terms of supporting
projects in the North not only through peace but other structural
funding. He found any suggestion that this would be replicated by the
British government, even in ideological terms, to be highly unlikely and
it would be to the detriment to everyone living in the North in going
forward.
Alderman McClintock commended the UK government on proposing
this funding which she agreed was at an early stage. This was very
welcome in terms of addressing some of the issues which would arise
from Brexit. She acknowledged that it was somewhat late in the day
and the money had to be in addition to the normal block grant. She
referred to the Levelling-Up Fund and the need for those most
disadvantaged to benefit from this. She said local MP representatives
at Westminster would ensure that Northern Ireland benefited from this
fund. It was timely that this was coming forward prior to the formal
exit from Europe. She welcomed the areas outlined by the Funding
Manager which were set to benefit most from this funding and
reiterated that her Party’s MPs at Westminster would endeavour to
ensure the best deal for Northern Ireland given that this was such a
disadvantaged area.
Councillor Reilly welcomed the report which raised many questions
regarding how the British government would treat citizens in Northern
Ireland, the majority of whom voted against leaving the EU. The
majority of citizens who had realised the benefits of being in the EU
and wished to remain part of it were being taken out of it against their
wishes. He said it was alarming that the British government who had
given assurances in regards to Brexit with now only weeks away from
the Brexit date, were only now making announcements regarding
replacement funding with no real detail as to how this would impact
Northern Ireland.
He stated that during the recent Comprehensive Spending Review the
SDLP’s Foyle MP, Colum Eastwood raised these points at Westminster.
He had debated how the people of Derry, Edinburgh, Cardiff and across
all of these islands would be affected post-Brexit and had expressed
concern that any suggested funds would be retained in Whitehall for
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24
the Prime Minister and his Party to spend how they wish, as opposed to
allowing the people in the devolved nations to shape the funds. He
said his Party had major concerns regarding this matter and were aware
that the EU and bodies such as SEUPB were doing all they could to
continue providing funding. He stated that he would, however, be
reluctant and cautious about the intentions of the British government.
He said it was clear that the position was worse now than prior to the
Brexit vote. He said he felt this Council area with its high levels of
deprivation would suffer greatly without the guaranteed EU funding.
He reiterated that many important questions remained unanswered.
In regards to the issue of ring-fencing, the Funding Manager explained
that the report had been presented to all MP’s, relevant government
Ministers here and the key ones in Westminster for their consideration
as well as departmental officials. One of the key issues was to ensure
that this region receives a level of funding to match the receipts
currently received from the EU of structural funding. It was also
requested that when a decision had been made regarding allocation
that when these monies were made available to this region, that it is
ring-fenced for the purposes for which it was intended, which was to
provide a prosperity fund to be used across the region to balance the
regional disparities which currently existed. He said further discussion
was still required as well as lobbying in respect of Westminster and the
Executive in terms of how the programme would be rolled out. He also
pointed out that the Spending Review had also contained an
announcement regarding rural and agriculture with some form of
commitment having been made in regards to supplementing the
remaining EU funding for farmers and land managers across the UK, as
well the agricultural, environment and rural development projects. A
figure of £1.1 billion had been set aside to assist farmers in all three
developed regions in 2021/2022.
The Chairperson stated that European and Irish government
intransigence had resulted in such a situation in efforts to mitigate any
of the impact of leaving the European Union. He personally felt that
the Northern Ireland protocol was contrary to the aims of the Belfast
Agreement.
The Committee
Recommended that Members consider the SOLACE NI
report in relation to EU Successor
Funding in NI.
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GSP186/20 Establishment of a Rural Issues Group
The Director of Legacy presented the above report, a copy of which
had previously been circulated. She advised that the purpose of the
report was to provide information on the establishment and
governance arrangements of a rural focused group and seek Members’
approval of hosting the first meeting of the Rural Issues Group in
January 2021.
The Chairperson welcomed the potential for the establishment of a
Rural Issues Group. He said such a body could enable the rural
proofing of all issues and this was necessary in regards to all of the
issues dealt with by a local authority.
Councillor M Boyle welcomed the report and endorsed its content. She
said this was timely and she welcomed the decision to hold the first
Meeting of the group early in the New Year. She stated that obviously
Brexit would be a major defining factor for everyone and particularly
people in rural areas. There were many other issues such as mobile
home networks, rural businesses and communities being affected by
Brexit and a number of issues regarding planning. She also welcomed
the fact that the report responded to what Members had been asked
particularly in regards to setting out its own programme of work albeit
with the assistance of the Department and other relevant bodies.
Alderman McClintock welcomed the establishment of a Rural Issues
Working Group which she said was greatly needed to consider issues
pertaining to the rural area. She sought clarification in regards to
nominations onto the Group.
The Director of Legacy explained that initially an invitation would be
issued to all elected Members. An opportunity would also be provided
for any Member who wished to join the Group at a later stage.
Councillor Fleming acknowledged that the report set out the number of
bodies currently in existence who dealt with rural issues. However, he
felt this Group would provide an opportunity for people in the rural
area to be able to strategically address issues. He welcomed the fact
that the three rural DEAs as covered by the Community Planning
Partnership would come together and he also welcomed the idea of
the three symposiums during the coming year to allow engagement
with the public. He referred to the worthwhile engagement which had
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26
taken place in regards to the Community Planning process and having
this built into the work of the Group he felt would add to the direction
in addressing rural issues in going forward.
The Committee
Recommended that Members approve the establishment
and governance arrangements of the
Rural Issues Group with the first meeting
of the Group to take place in January
2021.
GSP187/20 NILGA Consultation on Transformation and Driving Practical
Change
The Strategic Business Manager presented the above report, a copy of
which had previously been circulated. She advised that the purpose of
the report was to brief Members on a consultation initiated by the
Northern Ireland Local Government Association (NILGA) on
Transformation and Driving Practical Change in Local Government.
The Committee
Recommended that approval be granted to the draft
consultation response prepared and
attached.
GSP188/20 UBI Lab
The Strategic Business Manager presented the above report, a copy of
which had previously been circulated. She advised that the purpose of
the report was to seek endorsement of participation and confirmation
of an Elected Member nominee to join a steering group working
towards the planning and delivery of Universal Basic Income trails in
Northern Ireland.
In response to a query from the Chairperson, the Chief Executive
clarified that this would be a Council nomination as opposed to a
Committee nomination.
In response to a nomination put forward, the Chairperson explained
that this might be a matter which required consideration at Full
Council.
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27
Councillor Reilly referred to Council’s policy in regards to nominations
to outside bodies being made through the rolling D’hondt method. He
sought clarification in regards to whether Council was deviating from
this position, which he said his Party would oppose. He said if it was
agreed not to use D’hondt, the position normally was that when there
was one person for one position the Mayor was nominated. However,
he acknowledged the fact that the Mayor changed annually and might
not fit with the requirements of the organisation concerned. If this was
not acceptable he said he would be proposing a Member of his Party
to attend the Trials Steering Group.
The Chief Executive stated that notwithstanding the comments made
by the organisation concerned in regards to the nominated person, he
said it was a matter for Council to decide its nomination process. He
agreed that in such situations the nomination usually went to the
Mayor, however, he acknowledged that the tenure of this body would
likely span beyond the current Mayor’s position. He said under such
circumstances it was generally a matter for Council to use the D’hondt
process.
Councillor Duffy welcomed the clarity provided by the Chief Executive
in regards to the use of the D’hondt method. She agreed with
Councillor Reilly’s suggestion that the rolling D’hondt method be used
to fill the position. It had been established that this was the Council
policy for filling such positions and if this was deviated from it would
lead to confusion in the future. She acknowledged the group’s
suggestion that the nominated person was supportive of Universal
Basic Income but it was a matter for Council to decide its nomination
process. She accepted that each of the groups would have a suitable
candidate but she reiterated that the D’hondt method be used in this
instance.
Councillor J Boyle enquired if in the event of the D’hondt method being
used in this instance, which individual or Party this would fall to.
The Chief Executive said he did not have access to the D’hondt table at
that time. However, following the Meeting he undertook to email to
Members the D’hondt position in respect of this particular item.
Councillor Gallagher referred to the fact that this issue had the
potential to make a huge impact across this Council area. He enquired
if there was a possibility for a number of Members to be nominated to
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28
attend the Meeting of the Steering Group given the pilot’s potential to
target areas of high deprivation. He referred to the fact that there were
a considerable number of areas of deprivation throughout the Council
area and it would be beneficial to have cross representation.
The Chief Executive undertook to ascertain if additional nominations to
attend the Meeting of the Steering Group would be permitted and, if
so, how many.
The Committee
Recommended that (i) Officers ascertain if the number
of nominations to attend the first
Meeting of the Steering Group could be
increased, and, if so, by how many; and
(ii) that the nomination to attend the
first Meeting of the Steering Group be
made using the rolling D’hondt method.
Open for Information
GSP189/20 Youth Focused Participatory Budget Pilot Update
The Strategic Business Manager presented the above report, a copy of
which had previously been circulated. She advised that the purpose of
the report was to provide Members of the Committee with an update
on the youth focused Participatory Budgeting (PB) pilot being carried
out as part of the Strategic Growth Partnership’s participation in the
Embedding Wellbeing in NI Project; particularly specific issues in
relation to implementation of PB in the Sperrin Local Growth Area and
the allocation of the £2,500 funding allocation to the Sperrin Local
Growth Partnership in a more traditional grant aid format.
Members noted the content of the report.
GSP190/20 Update on Poverty Task and Finish Group
The Director of Legacy presented the above report, a copy of which
had previously been circulated. She advised that the purpose of the
report was to provide Members with an update on the Emergency
Poverty Task and Finish Group which was being established to assist
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29
with the development of the Deprivation/Emergency Poverty Working
Group.
Members noted the content of the report.
GSP191/20 Northern Ireland Housing Council Update
The Lead Democratic Services and Improvement Officer presented the
above report, a copy of which had previously been circulated. She
advised that the purpose of the report was to provide Members with
the most recent Housing Bulletin.
Members noted the content of the report.
GSP192/20 Best Wishes
The Chairperson wished Members and Officers a Happy and Safe
Christmas and a Peaceful New Year.
The Meeting then went into Confidential Business.
Page 29
Title of Report:
Six Monthly Progress Report - Strategic
Planning & Support Units Delivery Plan
Officer Presenting: Lead Democratic
Services and Improvement Officer
Author: as above
1 Purpose of Report/Recommendations
1.1 To advise of and seek Members’ comments and endorsement in relation to progress
against the Strategic Planning & Support Units Delivery Plan for 2020/21.
2 Background
2.1 Within Council’s Planning, Improvement and Performance Review framework, the
planning and improvement elements of this framework which comprise of the
Strategic Community Plan (and Local Community Plans), Corporate Plan,
Performance Improvement Plan and Directorate Delivery Plans are supported by a
performance review framework which includes:
At a district wide level – a two-yearly Area Performance Report which measures the
district’s performance against the shared outcomes set out in the Inclusive Growth
Plan;
At a Council level, an Annual Performance Report which sets out what we have
achieved in the previous year and how we have met our performance
improvement duty;
At a directorate level, six monthly progress reports, and directorate delivery plans
which provide a review of performance as well as plans going forward.
2.2 The Strategic Planning & Support Units Delivery Plan for 2020/21 was endorsed at
the March meeting of this Committee (GSP57/20).
2.3 Subsequently, the Annual Performance Report 2019/20 was endorsed at the
September meeting of this Committee (GSP120/20).
3 Key Issues
Page 31
Agenda Item 7
3.1 The report presented at Appendix 1 provides an overview of progress against the
Strategic Planning & Support Units Delivery Plan for the first 6 months of 2020/21
i.e April – September 2020.
3.2 It indicates that at the end of September, despite the implications of Covid-19 ,
target progress was almost in line with expectations, with 43% overall delivery.
Work is ongoing in terms of the completion of the activities / objectives identified in
the plan for the 2020/21 year.
4 Financial, Equality, Legal, HR, Improvement, and other Implications
4.1 The implementation of a robust framework for monitoring progress is a key element
in delivering continuous improvement and thus meeting the Council’s statutory
duties under Part 12 of the Local Government (Northern Ireland) Act 2014.
5 Recommendations
5.1 That, subject to Members’ comments, the Six Monthly Progress Report - Strategic
Planning & Support Units Delivery Plan is endorsed.
Background Papers
GSP57/20
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1
2021 Strategic Planning & Support Delivery Plan Report Type: Actions Report Report Author: Ellen Cavanagh Generated on: 24 November 2020
2.0 Chief Executive
Code Title Description Due Date Progress Bar Latest Status Update Managed By Assigned To
C.EX2021 Chief Executive(SSU)
31-Mar-2021 Directorate Delivery Plan Progress John Kelpie John Kelpie
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2
2.1 Lead Assurance Officer
Code Title Description Due Date Progress Bar Latest Status Update Managed By Assigned To
C.AS2021 Assurance SSUService Plan 2020/21
31-Mar-2021 Service Progress Denise McDonnell John Kelpie
C.AS2021.01Highest Levels ofGood Governance –Audit
Establish & maintain the highest levels of good governance – Audit 31-Mar-2021 Objective Progress Denise McDonnell John Kelpie
C.AS2021.01.01
Delivery andCompletion ofPlanned andUnplanned AuditWork
Delivery of planned audit work based on approved audit plan and completion of unplanned audit work as required to allow completion of the Annual Governance Statement for Council. Target: Ratio 70:30 planned to unplanned audit work
31-Mar-2021 Denise McDonnell John Kelpie
C.AS2021.01.02Deliver AuditCommittee Trainingto Members
Deliver Audit Committee Training to Members 31-Dec-2020 Audit Committee Training delivered to
Members in September 2020. Denise McDonnell John Kelpie
C.AS2021.01.03AuditRecommendationsAccepted byManagement
Target of 90% of Audit Recommendations accepted by Management 31-Mar-2021 Audit work ongoing Denise McDonnell John Kelpie
C.AS2021.01.04 Complete and IssueFinal Audit Reports
Target of 90% to complete and issue Final Audit Reports within 2 weeks of receipt of management response
31-Mar-2021 Ongoing Denise McDonnell John Kelpie
C.AS2021.01.05Internal Audit Planfor CODA OperationsLtd
Delivery of Internal Audit Plan for CODA Operations Ltd 31-Mar-2021
CoDA Audit Plan agreed at CoDA Audit Committee meeting September 2020. Audit work to commence late 2020 / early 2021.
Denise McDonnell John Kelpie
C.AS2021.01.06 Fraud AwarenessTraining
Deliver further sessions of Fraud Awareness Training 31-Dec-2020 To be delivered as requested Denise McDonnell John Kelpie
C.AS2021.02Highest Levels ofGood Governance -Risk and Insurance
Establish & maintain the highest levels of good governance – Risk & Insurance 31-Mar-2021 Objective Progress Denise McDonnell John Kelpie
C.AS2021.02.01Review Council’sInsuranceProgramme &Brokerage Contract
Review Council’s insurance programme and brokerage contract 31-Mar-2021
Insurance Programme and Brokerage contract reviewed, and decision made to complete a Tender exercise in collaboration with 9 other NI Councils
Denise McDonnell John Kelpie
C.AS2021.02.02Complete a RegionalInsurance TenderExercise
Work in a collaborative basis with other NI Councils to complete a Regional Insurance Tender Exercise
31-Mar-2021
Agreement amongst 9 NI Councils to proceed with Insurance Tender on a collaborative basis. DCSDC working on a sub-regional basis with Causeway Coast & Glens, and Fermanagh & Omagh Councils. Tender issued with closing date of 9 November. Service Provider to be appointed by December 2020.
Denise McDonnell John Kelpie
C.AS2021.03Highest Levels ofGood Governance -Purchases andPayments
Establish & maintain the highest levels of good governance / Establish & maintain the highest level of purchase & payment systems and practices
31-Mar-2021 Objective Progress Denise McDonnell John Kelpie
C.AS2021.03.01Implement and RollOut New Purchase toPay System
Implementation and roll out of new purchase to pay system 31-Mar-2021 Ongoing Testing Denise McDonnell John Kelpie
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Code Title Description Due Date Progress Bar Latest Status Update Managed By Assigned To
C.AS2021.03.02Establish PurchasingStructures andDevelop Cross-Departmental Group
Establish purchasing structures and develop cross-departmental group to agree processes for online ordering and procurement
31-Mar-2021 Ongoing testing Denise McDonnell John Kelpie
C.AS2021.03.03Increase percentageof invoices to be paidwithin 30 days
Increase percentage of invoices to be paid within 30 days to 92% 31-Mar-2021 77.44% Denise McDonnell John Kelpie
C.AS2021.03.04Increase percentageof invoices to be paidwithin 10 days
Increase percentage of invoices to be paid within 10 days to 52% 31-Mar-2021 33.91% Denise McDonnell John Kelpie
C.AS2021.03.05 Implementation ofEtenders NI
Continue the implementation of Etenders NI across Council 31-Mar-2021 In place for all tenders Denise McDonnell John Kelpie
C.AS2021.03.06Pay Suppliers andEnsure StatutoryDeadlines are Met
Pay suppliers within agreed terms and ensure statutory deadlines are met 31-Mar-2021 Q1 78% payments within 30 days Denise McDonnell John Kelpie
C.AS2021.04Establish andMaintain EfficientService Delivery –Emergency Planning
Establish and maintain efficient service delivery – Emergency Planning 31-Mar-2021 Objective Progress Denise McDonnell John Kelpie
C.AS2021.04.01Review of Council’sIntegratedEmergency Plan
Review of Council’s Integrated Emergency Plan and agreed multi-agency protocols
31-Dec-2020 DCSDC IEMP under review and contact details being confirmed as current. Denise McDonnell John Kelpie
C.AS2021.04.02Deliver EmergencyPlanning Training toElected Members
Deliver Emergency Planning training to Elected Members through Adverse Weather Working Group
31-Dec-2020EPO and Assurance HoS met with AWWG to update Council on ER initiatives for the coming winter.
Denise McDonnell John Kelpie
C.AS2021.04.03Ensure that BusinessContinuity Plans areDeveloped andMaintained
Ensure that Business Continuity Plans are developed and maintained for Council's critical services
31-Mar-2021BCP’s will undergo extensive review for the coming year commencing with Assurance Section
Denise McDonnell John Kelpie
C.AS2021.04.04Work withCommunities toDevelop CommunityResilience
Continue to work with communities to develop community resilience particularly in rural areas
31-Mar-2021 CRP are undergoing review and contact updates have been requested. Denise McDonnell John Kelpie
C.AS2021.04.05EnhanceCommunications andJoint Working
Enhance communications and joint working with cross border departments and agencies
31-Dec-2020 The Cross Border EP group have meetings arranged and in diaries. Denise McDonnell John Kelpie
C.AS2021.04.06Northern EmergencyPlanning GroupWork Plan andRegional Initiatives
Implement initiatives and work streams in line with the Northern Emergency Planning Group work plan and Regional initiatives
31-Mar-2021 The NEPG has developed a Work Plan for all partner agencies. Denise McDonnell John Kelpie
C.AS2021.04.07Work with KeyPartners andAgencies inPreparation for Brexit
Work with key partners and agencies in relation to the planning and preparation for Brexit
31-Dec-2020 EU Exit Planning assumptions have been shared with DCSDC Denise McDonnell John Kelpie
C.AS2021.05Establish & MaintainHighest Systems andPractices - Health &Safety
Establish & maintain the highest levels of health & safety systems and practices – Health & Safety
31-Mar-2021 Objective Progress Denise McDonnell John Kelpie
C.AS2021.05.01Improve ISO45001System Procedures& Templates
Continue to improve upon the ISO45001 system procedures and templates for 2020/21
31-Mar-2021¾ of ISO 45001 documentation have been formally updated for COVID related information corporately
Denise McDonnell John Kelpie
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Code Title Description Due Date Progress Bar Latest Status Update Managed By Assigned To
C.AS2021.05.02Review and Reporton RIDDOR TrendsEach Quarter
Continue to review and report on RIDDOR trends on a quarterly basis 31-Mar-2021 2 reported last quarter Denise McDonnell John Kelpie
C.AS2021.05.03MaintainAccreditation toISO45001 Standardfor 2020/21
Maintain accreditation to ISO45001 standard for 2020/21 31-Mar-2021 100% complete – recertification to ISO
45001 standard obtained Denise McDonnell John Kelpie
C.AS2021.06Establish & MaintainEfficient ServiceDelivery – Payroll
Establish & maintain efficient service delivery – Payroll 31-Mar-2021 Objective Progress Denise McDonnell John Kelpie
C.AS2021.06.01
Increase % ofEmployeesReceiving ElectronicPayslips/P60s to100%
Further increase the percentage of employees receiving electronic payslips and P60s to 100%
31-Mar-2021
Currently 83% of Council employees paid during 2020/21 year (as at Nov’20). This is probably the limit we can now reach on a voluntary employee basis, unless it is decided Corporately that email payslips is being made mandatory.
Denise McDonnell John Kelpie
C.AS2021.06.02
Review PayrollProcesses inRelation to theSubmission ofTimesheets
Review payroll processes in relation to the submission of timesheets to increase efficiency
31-Mar-2021
I contacted Frontier (payroll Software Supplier) – Whilst they cannot replicate electronically our current version of timesheet layout, they have requested that a copy is sent to them to pass onto their Development team with a view to creating a version compatible to our needs – this will have a cost assessed for affordability. Status, ongoing. In addition, we can buy an additional HR module which has a platform which would be accessible to all employees to allow timesheet completion, change of employee details etc. – again, this has to be cost assessed for affordability & viability. Relationship Manager (Frontier) is also going to organise a video link to pitch the HR platform – to be arranged at a mutually agreed date – possibly early January 2021.
Denise McDonnell John Kelpie
C.AS2021.06.03Review and UpdateCouncil’sDiscretionary Policyand Banding Policy
Review and update Council’s Discretionary Policy and also the Banding Policy for submission to both Council & NILGOSC in line with current CARE practice
30-Sep-2020
PPMA group has finalised a generic version of Discretionary Policy – this now needs to be customised to DCSDC terms and finalised with updated banding policy. This will be completed by end of November 2020
Denise McDonnell John Kelpie
C.AS2021.06.04
Work with HR toHarmonise PayScales for allDepartments ExceptRefuse
Work with Human Resources in relation to harmonisation of pay scales for all departments except Refuse
31-Mar-2021
Harmonisation has been largely completed across Council with exceptions – Street Cleansing Drivers, Recycling, Grounds Maintenance. Some Leisure Staff (within Strabane Leisure) have yet to accept new terms & conditions which will harmonise then equally across leisure. Status – ongoing (In liaison with Personnel/Payroll).
Denise McDonnell John Kelpie
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2.1 Lead Democratic Services & Improvement Officer
Code Title Description Due Date Progress Bar Latest Status Update Managed By Assigned To
C.DI2021Democratic Servicesand ImprovementSSU Service Plan2020/21
31-Mar-2021 Service Progress Ellen Cavanagh John Kelpie
C.DI2021.01Recognised andValued as aCohesive and HighPerforming Team
Recognition as a cohesive and high performing team which is recognised and valued within Council as providing specialist support and guidance and where there is a proactive approach to learning and gaining new knowledge
31-Mar-2021 Objective Progress Ellen Cavanagh John Kelpie
C.DI2021.01.01Contribute to theDevelopment andReview of Policies asRequired
Contribute to the development and review of policies as required 31-Mar-2021 Ongoing Ellen Cavanagh John Kelpie
C.DI2021.01.02
InnovativeApproaches toEnhanceAccessibility toCorporate Policies
Explore a range of innovative approaches to enhance accessibility to corporate policies
31-Mar-2021 Work ongoing on corporate file system, policy database Ellen Cavanagh John Kelpie
C.DI2021.01.03Policy AwarenessSessions -Achievement ofCorporate Objectives
Deliver ongoing policy awareness sessions across the organisation to support the achievement of corporate objectives
31-Mar-2021
Training materials being reviewed to fit better with online training. Draft framework developed for Safeguarding e-learning module and Language Awareness Module
Ellen Cavanagh John Kelpie
C.DI2021.01.04Produce Summary“at a Glance”Versions of KeyPolicies
Produce summary “at a glance” versions of key policies for use throughout the Council
31-Mar-2021
Easy read versions of Equality Scheme and Disability Equality Scheme currently being prepared - will be uploaded onto web page in Q3. Summary ‘at a glance’ and/or easy-read versions of Linguistic Diversity Policy, Irish Language Policy, Ulster-Scots Policy, Safeguarding Guide for Staff, Safeguarding Guide for Service Users and Guide to Services During the Covid-19 period all complete and will be made available online in Q3.
Ellen Cavanagh John Kelpie
C.DI2021.01.05Organise Twice-Yearly Staff EventsInvolving all TeamMembers
Organise twice-yearly staff events involving all team members to promote cohesiveness and team identity
31-Mar-2021No face-to-face staff events have been scheduled due to Covid-19 restrictions. One Zoom meeting has been held for the wider DSIU Team.
Ellen Cavanagh John Kelpie
C.DI2021.02Ensure Safeguardingof Children andAdults isMainstreamed
Ensure that safeguarding of children and adults is mainstreamed throughout all Council services by providing advice, guidance and direction
31-Mar-2021 Objective Progress Ellen Cavanagh John Kelpie
C.DI2021.02.01ProvideSafeguarding PolicyTraining, Supportand Advice
Provide Safeguarding Policy training, support and advice to ensure the implementation of the Council’s Safeguarding Policy and Procedures throughout the organisation
31-Mar-2021
Training materials have now been updated to reflect the new measures contained within the reviewed policy – training to be rolled out in Q3 and Q4 and there are plans to create a new e-learning module for staff.
Ellen Cavanagh John Kelpie
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Code Title Description Due Date Progress Bar Latest Status Update Managed By Assigned To
C.DI2021.02.02
Represent theCouncil at the LocalGovernmentSafeguardingNetwork
Represent the Council at the Local Government Safeguarding Network 31-Mar-2021 Kay and Fionnuala attended a digital
meeting of the network on 8 October Ellen Cavanagh John Kelpie
C.DI2021.02.03
Maintain Records ofSafeguardingIncidents, LearningLog and GCPRReferrals
Maintain a confidential central record of safeguarding incidents, learning log and referrals to ensure compliance with the General Data Protection Regulation and promote safety
31-Mar-2021Designated Safeguarding Officers continue to maintain confidential log of incidents
Ellen Cavanagh John Kelpie
C.DI2021.02.04Hold at Least 3Meetings of theSafeguardingWorking Group
Hold at least 3 meetings of the Safeguarding Working Group 31-Mar-2021
Due to Covid19 restrictions staff were unable to hold a physical meeting of the SWG. A virtual meeting of the group is due to be held on 18 November.
Ellen Cavanagh John Kelpie
C.DI2021.02.05Produce Content fora Safeguarding Pageon the CouncilWebsite
Produce content for a Safeguarding page on the Council website, including a promotional animation and details of support services
31-Mar-2021
Dedicated webpage for Safeguarding now on Council website (https://www.derrystrabane.com/safeguarding) – this provides support and guidance for staff and service users.
Ellen Cavanagh John Kelpie
C.DI2021.02.06
Share Informationand Participate inRegional andNationalSafeguardingCampaigns
Share information about and participate in regional and national Safeguarding campaigns to raise staff awareness of safeguarding promotions
31-Mar-2021
Staff continue to participate in the regional safeguarding meetings and circulate information on key campaigns to relevant staff and departments. Information is shared with HR and Marketing.
Ellen Cavanagh John Kelpie
C.DI2021.02.07
Develop and/orProcure aSafeguarding E-learning Tool for useby all Staff
Develop and/or procure a Safeguarding e-learning tool for use by all staff hosted on the Learning Pool portal
31-Mar-2021Forthcoming meeting scheduled with HR to discuss using the Learning Pool e-learning platform for this. Preparatory work has been undertaken.
Ellen Cavanagh John Kelpie
C.DI2021.03Clean, SafeEnvironment for Staffand Visitors
Provision of a clean, safe, welcoming and comfortable environment for staff and visitors
31-Mar-2021 Objective Progress Ellen Cavanagh John Kelpie
C.DI2021.03.01
UndertakeInspections toEnsure Compliancewith Health andSafety Standards
Undertake regular inspections and corrective actions to ensure compliance with health and safety, cleaning and other premises management standards
31-Mar-2021
Enhanced cleaning regimes implemented in light of COVID-19 Pandemic. Quarterly inspections being carried out covering H&S, Compliance and housekeeping standards.
Ellen Cavanagh John Kelpie
C.DI2021.03.02Implementation ofEnhanced CarParking ManagementArrangements
Implementation of enhanced car parking management arrangements 31-Mar-2021 Staff car park has been relined following
DFI works on cycle path. Ellen Cavanagh John Kelpie
C.DI2021.04EffectiveHandling/Processingof Information
Effective handling and processing of information that meets our legal obligations, protects people and represents good practice
31-Mar-2021 Objective Progress Ellen Cavanagh John Kelpie
C.DI2021.04.01Continue to Promotethe MandatoryOnline GDPRTraining to Staff
Continue to promote the mandatory online GDPR training to staff in order to increase completion rate from current figure of 35%
31-Mar-2021 Ongoing process Ellen Cavanagh John Kelpie
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Code Title Description Due Date Progress Bar Latest Status Update Managed By Assigned To
C.DI2021.04.02Deliver AwarenessSessions to all Staffwith no Access toOnline Training
Deliver Awareness sessions to all staff with no access to online training or no need for full GDPR training due to role within Council
31-Mar-2021 No progress due to Covid-19 restrictions Ellen Cavanagh John Kelpie
C.DI2021.04.03
Continuation ofGDPR ComplianceChecks to EnsureCompliance withRegulation
Continuation of GDPR compliance checks to ensure compliance with Regulation. These will be carried out on an agreed regular basis within all work areas
31-Mar-2021No formal checks have taken place due to Covid restrictions but GDPR advice is being given on an ongoing and regular basis
Ellen Cavanagh John Kelpie
C.DI2021.04.04
Hold RegularMeetings with GDPRWorking Group toEnsure GDPRCompliance
Hold regular meetings with GDPR working group to review all work practices, policies and procedures to ensure GDPR compliance
31-Mar-2021No formal meetings have taken place due to Covid restrictions but GDPR issues are being dealt with regularly
Ellen Cavanagh John Kelpie
C.DI2021.04.05Liaise with IT toEnsure Systems areRegularly Updated
Liaise with IT to Ensure Systems are Regularly Updated so GDPR security is maintained
31-Mar-2021 No progress Ellen Cavanagh John Kelpie
C.DI2021.04.06Develop CouncilIntranet Site - DataProtectionInformation
Develop Council intranet site to ensure greater prominence for Data Protection information
31-Mar-2021 No progress in Q2 Ellen Cavanagh John Kelpie
C.DI2021.04.07Introduce CorporateFile Plan CouncilWide
Introduce Corporate File Plan Council wide (after initial pilot in DSIU) 31-Mar-2021 File plan has been agreed and test will
begin in DSIU from 2 November Ellen Cavanagh John Kelpie
C.DI2021.04.08Identify GoodPractice Proceduresand Develop EmailsPolicy
Identify good practice procedures and develop a policy that will manage the way that emails are stored and deleted
31-Mar-2021 No progress Ellen Cavanagh John Kelpie
C.DI2021.04.09
IntroduceProgramme ofChecks on how HardCopy Information isStored
Introduce programme of checks on how hard copy information is stored with a view to reducing the current levels and facilitate migration to electronic copies
31-Mar-2021 No progress Ellen Cavanagh John Kelpie
C.DI2021.04.10Develop Process forRecording/UpdatingAccess to Folders -GDPR
Develop and introduce a process for recording and updating access to folders (information) so that GDPR is adhered to
31-Mar-2021 System set up in DSIU for recording access to folders in new file plan Ellen Cavanagh John Kelpie
C.DI2021.05
Improve Outcomesfor Citizens -EffectiveManagement ofResources
Improve outcomes for citizens through ensuring effective management of resources and having arrangements in place to promote continuous improvement
31-Mar-2021 Objective Progress Ellen Cavanagh John Kelpie
C.DI2021.05.01Contribute to theAchievement of theCouncil’s StatutoryImprovement Duty
Contribute to the achievement of the Council’s statutory improvement duty through the implementation and monitoring of the performance management system, including the provision of service plan reports and improvement objective progress reports as required
31-Mar-2021Quarter 1 and 2reports updated. All directorates to present 6 mthly review reports to Committee by end of year
Ellen Cavanagh John Kelpie
C.DI2021.05.02Produce an AnnualPerformanceImprovement Plan
Produce an annual Performance Improvement Plan 30-Jun-2020
Preparation work undertaken but Plan not required by DfC due to Covid19 situation (regional guidance)
Ellen Cavanagh John Kelpie
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Code Title Description Due Date Progress Bar Latest Status Update Managed By Assigned To
C.DI2021.05.03 Produce an AnnualPerformance Report Produce an annual Performance Report 30-Sep-2020 Annual Performance Report completed
and submitted by deadline Ellen Cavanagh John Kelpie
C.DI2021.05.04
Achieve anUnqualified Audit inRespect of thePerformanceImprovement Duty
Achieve an unqualified audit in respect of the performance improvement duty 31-Dec-2020 NIAO template completed and forwarded
Audit not yet complete. Ellen Cavanagh John Kelpie
C.DI2021.05.05
Continue to Developthe Council’sPerformanceManagementFramework
Continue to develop the Council’s performance management framework by extending the use of Pentana software to directorates and providing the necessary training and ongoing guidance
31-Mar-2021Covalent and KPI refinement . All directorate plans for 2021 developed. 2019/20 progress report produced.
Ellen Cavanagh John Kelpie
C.DI2021.05.06
Co-ordinate theCollection andSubmission of APSEPerformanceBenchmarking Info
Co-ordinate the collection and submission of APSE performance benchmarking information on an annual basis or as required
31-Mar-2021 Economic Development template submitted to APSE Ellen Cavanagh John Kelpie
C.DI2021.05.07Complete theCorporate Plan2020-23
Complete the Corporate Plan 2020-23 31-Oct-2020 Ellen Cavanagh John Kelpie
C.DI2021.06Delivery of GoodDecision Making andEquality ofOpportunity
Proactive and innovative delivery of the Council’s aspirations for good decision making and equality of opportunity
31-Mar-2021 Objective Progress Ellen Cavanagh John Kelpie
C.DI2021.06.01Equality and RuralNeeds ImpactAssessment Process
Support Council Officers in the Equality and Rural Needs Impact Assessment process when developing or reviewing policies/service delivery - roll out at least 2 training sessions
31-Mar-2021Assisted staff with Leisure Pricing Screening and Maritime DNA Project Screening – no training delivered in this period
Ellen Cavanagh John Kelpie
C.DI2021.06.02New/ReviewedPolicies and Services- Equality Screening
100% of all new/reviewed policies and services will be subjected to the Equality Screening/Rural Impact Assessments and where necessary the Equality Impact Assessment processes
31-Mar-2021 Continue to screen policies as required Ellen Cavanagh John Kelpie
C.DI2021.06.03Carry out an Audit ofInequalities onCouncil Services
Carry out an audit of inequalities on Council services 31-Mar-2021 Collation of monitoring data is taking
place in leisure and museums services Ellen Cavanagh John Kelpie
C.DI2021.06.04Ensure that EqualityAwareness isIncluded in HRInduction Unit
Ensure that equality awareness is included as part of HR induction unit 31-Mar-2021 Q2 -No inductions have taken place as
there has been no/ limited recruitment Ellen Cavanagh John Kelpie
C.DI2021.06.05HR Policies -Considered EqualityIssues atDevelopment Stage
Work with HR policy working group to ensure that equality considerations are included at the earliest stage of policy development – 100% of HR policies will have considered equality issues at development stage
31-Mar-2021 Provided input into the Domestic Violence Policy and Protocols Ellen Cavanagh John Kelpie
C.DI2021.06.06Ensure HRCommitment toEmploying Peoplewith a Disability
Work with HR team to ensure commitment to employing people with a disability is fully implemented
31-Mar-2021 This process has been paused due to the Covid 19 pandemic Ellen Cavanagh John Kelpie
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Code Title Description Due Date Progress Bar Latest Status Update Managed By Assigned To
C.DI2021.06.07Ensure InformationEmanating fromCouncil is Accessible
Develop new approaches to ensuring all information emanating from Council is accessible
31-Mar-2021
During Covid much information has been going out online – Council has prepared and Easy Read version of this information. Preparations have been made to engage with the sign language community
Ellen Cavanagh John Kelpie
C.DI2021.06.08Awareness Training -Code of Practice forOrganisingAccessible Events
Roll out awareness training on Code of Practice for organising accessible events – hold at least 2 awareness sessions
31-Mar-2021
No training has been carried out in this period due to Covid 19 – however 4 no. key staff have been participating in access audit training which will ensure service provision for people with a disability is enhanced as far as is practicable
Ellen Cavanagh John Kelpie
C.DI2021.06.09Awareness Training -MonitoringParticipation inCouncil Services
Roll out awareness training on the importance of Monitoring participation in Council services - at least 2 awareness sessions
31-Mar-2021 No training has been carried out in this period due to Covid 19 Ellen Cavanagh John Kelpie
C.DI2021.06.10
Hold at Least 2Meetings of theEquality Assuranceand Oversight Group(EAOG)
Hold at least 2 meetings of the Equality Assurance and Oversight Group (EAOG) to provide updates and seek feedback on progress of equality measures within the Community Plan delivery
31-Mar-2021 No meetings have taken place in this period due to Covid 19 Ellen Cavanagh John Kelpie
C.DI2021.06.11
Improve Access toCouncil Services andEngagement -AssistiveTechnologies
Investigate scoping assistive technologies to improve access to Council services and engagement
31-Mar-2021
Preparations have been made to do a survey with the sign language community to find best way of engaging with then – quotations have been sought for purchase of Video Relay System
Ellen Cavanagh John Kelpie
C.DI2021.07Improved Access toCouncil Services andFacilities in OtherLanguages
Improved access to Council services and facilities in other languages and formats and promotion of indigenous languages
31-Mar-2021 Objective Progress Ellen Cavanagh John Kelpie
C.DI2021.07.01Access to CustomerServices andInformation in theIrish Language
Promote access to customer services and information in the Irish language in line with our policy commitments and action 100% of service requests
31-Mar-2021
100% service requests actioned in full. Service fully operational despite Covid-19 challenges. Service promoted across a range of channels including print, web, broadcast, social media and new models of engagement being piloted.
Ellen Cavanagh John Kelpie
C.DI2021.07.02Undertake AnnualCustomerSatisfaction Survey
Undertake annual customer satisfaction survey and implement all improvement actions arising from these to identify trends and areas for improvement
31-Mar-2021 Draft survey in progress and scheduled for issue mid-November 2020. Ellen Cavanagh John Kelpie
C.DI2021.07.03Increase Profile andAccessibility ofCouncil’s Irishlanguage Services
Increase the profile and accessibility of the Council’s Irish language services across a range of platforms (social media and web) by identifying innovative approaches to service promotion and customer-engagement
31-Mar-2021
Continued promotion of service across (a) Council website (b) Irish language newsgroup (c) dedicated social media channels - Facebook and Twitter, (d) web platforms inc. YouTube, Whats On and (e) web-access meetings and fora.
Ellen Cavanagh John Kelpie
C.DI2021.07.04
DevelopProjects/Initiatives toPromote IrishLanguage & UlsterScots
Develop and deliver projects and/or initiatives to promote the Irish language and Ulster Scots tradition – minimum 4 projects
31-Mar-2021
Currently progressing a range of projects to promote Irish/Ulster-Scots including: 1.Colmcille 1500; 2.My House of European History/A Day in the Life 3.GP Findlay Ulster-Scots archiving project 4. Irish/Ulster-Scots Language Awareness Resource in partnership with GR team
Ellen Cavanagh John Kelpie
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Code Title Description Due Date Progress Bar Latest Status Update Managed By Assigned To
C.DI2021.07.05Secure Grant Aid toPromote Irish/UlsterScots Culture
Secure grant aid from external funding organisations to deliver and develop events/initiatives to promote Irish/Ulster Scots culture and heritage with a range of partners
31-Mar-2021
Work progressing to identify and secure funding sources. Additional funding secured in Q2 from CRU/TBUC fund to jointly develop an arts-led Ulster-Scots activity in partnership with GR team.
Ellen Cavanagh John Kelpie
C.DI2021.07.06Deliver a Programmeof Events to PromoteIrish/Ulster Scots
Deliver a programme of events to promote Irish/Ulster Scots – minimum 4 events
31-Mar-2021
Programming activity currently underway on 4 x Irish/Ulster-Scots events: 1. Island Voices Lecture Series (50% complete); 2. Ulster-Scots Language Week and 3. Colmcille 1500 programme and 4. Irish Language Week 2021. Culture Night 2020 event complete.
Ellen Cavanagh John Kelpie
C.DI2021.07.07
Support andFacilitate the IrishLanguageCommunity NetworkForum
Continue to support and facilitate the Irish Language Community Network Forum – facilitate 3 meetings each year
31-Mar-2021Meeting of the Irish Language Community Network scheduled to take place 01.10.20. Further meetings scheduled for January and March 2021.
Ellen Cavanagh John Kelpie
C.DI2021.07.08
Provide GeneralLanguageAwareness Trainingto CouncilStaff/Members
Provide 4 general language awareness training initiatives to Council staff/members in order to build capacity and enhance mainstreaming and develop a Language Awareness e-learning tool for use by all staff
31-Mar-2021
Two video-based Language Awareness tools currently in development for (a) Ulster-Scots Language Week (Nov 20) and (b) Irish Language Week (Mar 21). Currently engaging with HR to discuss reformatting existing training course for e-learning.
Ellen Cavanagh John Kelpie
C.DI2021.07.09Provide WeeklySpecialised IrishLanguage TrainingCourse for Staff
Provide weekly specialised Irish language training course for staff across locations at Derry and Strabane
31-Mar-2021Weekly classes at Basic and Intermediate level delivered via web video platform by Irish Language Officer throughout Q2.
Ellen Cavanagh John Kelpie
C.DI2021.08
Deliver ImprovedCustomerSatisfaction -Customer SupportServices
Deliver improved customer satisfaction by improving customer support services and processes
31-Mar-2021 Objective Progress Ellen Cavanagh John Kelpie
C.DI2021.08.01Customer ServiceExcellence - DeliverCustomer CareTraining
Progress work against the Customer Service Excellence criteria by delivering Customer Care training to all appropriately identified staff
31-Mar-2021 No training possible due to Covid restrictions Ellen Cavanagh John Kelpie
C.DI2021.08.02Customer ServiceExcellence - DeliverTelephone Training
Progress work against the Customer Service Excellence criteria by delivering telephone training to all appropriately identified staff
31-Mar-2021 No training possible due to Covid restrictions Ellen Cavanagh John Kelpie
C.DI2021.08.03Carry out Surveys -Customer Care andTelephone Handling
Carry out surveys, within 1 month of training completion to assess if improvement has been achieved in Customer Care and Telephone Handling
31-Mar-2021 No training possible due to Covid restrictions Ellen Cavanagh John Kelpie
C.DI2021.08.04Develop CouncilIntranet Site -Customer CareInformation
Develop Council intranet site (in liaison with IT) to provide single source for all information for Customer Care
31-Mar-2021 Ongoing process Ellen Cavanagh John Kelpie
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Code Title Description Due Date Progress Bar Latest Status Update Managed By Assigned To
C.DI2021.08.05
Reduce FOI, EIR,SAR ResponseTimes -Awareness/TrainingSessions
Reduce response times for FOIs, EIRs, SARS by providing awareness/training sessions for all staff
31-Mar-2021 No training possible due to Covid restrictions Ellen Cavanagh John Kelpie
C.DI2021.08.06Reduce ComplaintResponse Times -Awareness/TrainingSessions
Reduce response times for complaints by providing awareness/training sessions for all staff
31-Mar-2021 No training possible due to Covid restrictions Ellen Cavanagh John Kelpie
C.DI2021.08.07 Provide 2 Briefings toReception Staff
Provide 2 briefings to reception staff on section functions and services 31-Mar-2021 Briefings provided by H&S officer and
Customer Services Officer Ellen Cavanagh John Kelpie
C.DI2021.09Provide SupportServices to ElectedMembers and theMayor
Provide comprehensive and progressive support services to Elected Members and the Mayor to assist them in fulfilling their roles effectively
31-Mar-2021 Objective Progress Ellen Cavanagh John Kelpie
C.DI2021.09.01
ProvideComprehensive andProgressive SupportServices to ElectedMembers and theMayor
Provide comprehensive and progressive support services to Elected Members and the Mayor to assist them in fulfilling their roles effectively
31-Mar-2021Ongoing support provided in physically and virtually during Covid 19. Virtual briefings/meetings/training arranged; ongoing communication.
Ellen Cavanagh John Kelpie
C.DI2021.09.02
SuccessfulReassessmentAgainst the NIElected MemberDevelopment CharterPlus Standard
Successful Reassessment against the NI Elected Member Development Charter Plus standard and action any identified areas of improvement
31-Mar-2021 Successful reassessment on 28 October 2020. Ellen Cavanagh John Kelpie
C.DI2021.09.03Assess MemberSatisfaction withMember SupportServices
Assess member satisfaction with member support services; develop and implement improvement actions as necessary
31-Mar-2021
Survey not completed until end of financial year. 2019/2020 98% Councillor Satisfaction Rating. Post Evaluations completed following every training session and reported on annually.
Ellen Cavanagh John Kelpie
C.DI2021.09.04Offer all Membersthe Opportunity toComplete a PersonalDevelopment Plan
Offer all Members the opportunity to complete a Personal Development Plan 31-Mar-2021
All Members offered the opportunity to complete a PDP following election. Members also offered a review of their PDP in July 2020.
Ellen Cavanagh John Kelpie
C.DI2021.09.05
Investigate Optionsto EnhanceAccessibility and orRecording of CouncilMeetings
Investigate options to enhance accessibility and or recording of Council Meetings
31-Mar-2021
During Covid new arrangements for delivery of meetings introduced. Virtual meetings held via webex; meetings broadcast via You Tube/Public I and facility to deliver hybrid meetings via physical presence and Webex. Continue to monitor and research other options of delivery.
Ellen Cavanagh John Kelpie
C.DI2021.09.06Hold at Least ThreeMeetings of theMemberDevelopment Group
Hold at least three meetings of the Member Development Group 31-Mar-2021 2 meetings held Ellen Cavanagh John Kelpie
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12
2.1 Lead Finance and Funding Officer
Code Title Description Due Date Progress Bar Latest Status Update Managed By Assigned To
C.FF2021Finance & FundingSSU Service Plan2020/21
31-Mar-2021 Service Progress Alfie Dallas John Kelpie
C.FF2021.01
Highest Levels ofGoodGovernance/ServiceDelivery - StrategicFinance
Establish & maintain the highest levels of good governance/ Establish & maintain efficient service delivery - Strategic Finance
31-Mar-2021 Objective Progress Alfie Dallas John Kelpie
C.FF2021.01.01Preparation of YearEnd Accounts andAgreement of Out-Turn for 2019/20
Preparation of year end accounts and agreement of out-turn for 2019/20 by statutory deadline
30-Jun-2020Completed and submitted to Department by revised statutory deadline of 31st August 2020.
Alfie Dallas John Kelpie
C.FF2021.01.02Work with NIAO toEnsure AuditedAccounts Signed offby 30/09/20
Work with NIAO to ensure that the audited accounts are signed off by the statutory deadline of 30th September 2020
30-Sep-2020Deadline extended to 31st December 2020. Audited accounts will be presented by NIAO to Audit Committee on 7th December 2020.
Alfie Dallas John Kelpie
C.FF2021.01.03Completion of RatesEstimates for2021/22 StatutoryDeadline
Completion of rates estimates for 2021/22 by statutory deadline of 15th February 2021
28-Feb-2021
Rates estimates process has commenced. Initial full Council briefing held with further briefing scheduled December 2020. Deadline may be extended until March 2021 due to COVID.
Alfie Dallas John Kelpie
C.FF2021.01.04
Issue MonthlyReports toDirectorates andQuarterly Reports toCommittee
Issue 10 monthly management information reports to Directorates and provide quarterly reports to Committee
31-Mar-2021Ongoing- Quarterly outturn report presented to August GSP Committee and Six monthly outturn being reported to December GSP Committee.
Alfie Dallas John Kelpie
C.FF2021.01.05Roll-Out of ElectronicOrdering andProcurement AcrossOrganisation
Roll-out of electronic ordering and procurement across organisation following upgrade of finance system
31-Mar-2021 Rollout delayed due to COVID 19 Alfie Dallas John Kelpie
C.FF2021.02Highest Levels ofGood Governance -Funding
Establish & maintain the highest levels of good governance - Funding 31-Mar-2021 Objective Progress Alfie Dallas John Kelpie
C.FF2021.02.01
Agreement of Headsof Terms and MatchFunding for City Dealand Inclusive FutureFund
Agreement of Heads of Terms and match funding for City Deal and Inclusive Future Fund and establishment of formal governance arrangements to progress Outline Business Cases
30-Sep-2020Ongoing engagement with UKG and NICS Departments. All strategic outline cases completed and hopeful that Heads of Terms will be agreed soon.
Alfie Dallas John Kelpie
C.FF2021.02.02Production of Bi-Annual SnapshotReport to ElectedMembers
Production of bi-annual snapshot report to Elected Members around key growth indicators and provision of statistical analysis to ratepayers on website
31-Mar-2021To date 1 annual update using Community Planning Indicators has been completed
Alfie Dallas John Kelpie
C.FF2021.02.036 Monthly ReportsMeasuring ProgressAgainst Achievementof OBA Targets
Provision of 6 monthly monitoring reports measuring progress against achievement of OBA targets within Inclusive Strategic Growth Plan
31-Mar-2021Due to Statistician Post not being filled this has not been completed although bespoke requests are dealt with as required by Senior Economist
Alfie Dallas John Kelpie
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13
Code Title Description Due Date Progress Bar Latest Status Update Managed By Assigned To
C.FF2021.02.04
Support theDevelopment of thePEACE Action Planand ProjectProposals
Support the development of the PEACE action plan and project proposals for PEACE, territorial co-operation funds under the PEACE PLUS Programme 2021-27 and work towards other new post BREXIT funds
31-Mar-2021
Response submitted to PEACE Plus consultation process and ongoing engagement with SEUPB. Council has contributed to development of a local government sector position paper lead by SOLACE and NILGA on behalf of the Northern Ireland local government sector in relation to post BREXIT funds. Continued engagement ongoing with all stakeholders
Alfie Dallas John Kelpie
C.FF2021.02.05Detailed Analysisand Benchmarking ofCouncil Rate-Base
Detailed analysis and benchmarking of Council rate-base/ one major Council service area to identify opportunities for cost/ efficiency savings/ additional income
28-Feb-2021 Will be completed in conjunction with rates process Alfie Dallas John Kelpie
C.FF2021.03Highest Levels ofGood Governance -CODA OperationsLtd
Establish & maintain the highest levels of good governance – CODA Operations Ltd
31-Mar-2021 Objective Progress Alfie Dallas; DeniseMcDonnell John Kelpie
C.FF2021.03.01
Work with DoT andDoE for PublicService Obligationfor City of DerryAirport
Continue to work with the Department of Transport and Department of Economy to ensure the successful delivery of and drawdown of funds for the Public Service Obligation for City of Derry Airport
31-Mar-2021Drawdown of funds ongoing- all funds received up until September 2020 including additional funding secured for PSO during pandemic
Alfie Dallas; DeniseMcDonnell John Kelpie
C.FF2021.03.02
Ensure that City ofDerry AirportRemains Compliantwith State AidRequirements
Continue to work with the Department of Economy and EU Officials to ensure that City of Derry Airport remains compliant with State Aid requirements
31-Mar-2021Aid to airport remains state aid compliant under GBER regulations and relevant returns have been completed
Alfie Dallas; PhilipKingston; DeniseMcDonnell
John Kelpie
C.FF2021.03.03
Submission toCentral Governmentto SecureSustainability ofAirport BeyondMarch 2021
Completion and submission of business case to Central Government to provide the financial assistance required to share the funding burden and secure the sustainability of the airport beyond 31st March 2021
30-Jun-2020 Business case almost complete and discussions with Government ongoing
Alfie Dallas; DeniseMcDonnell John Kelpie
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14
2.1 Lead Human Resources Officer
Code Title Description Due Date Progress Bar Latest Status Update Managed By Assigned To
C.HR2021Human ResourcesSSU Service Plan2020/21
31-Mar-2021 Service Progress Paula Donnelly John Kelpie
C.HR2021.01OrganisationalDesign and EffectiveResources
Organisational Design and Effective Resources 31-Mar-2021 Objective Progress Paula Donnelly John Kelpie
C.HR2021.01.01
Complete the FinalStages of theRestructuring andHarmonisationProcess
Complete the final stages of the restructuring and harmonisation process 31-May-2020 Environment Services almost complete
with the exception of recycling Paula Donnelly John Kelpie
C.HR2021.01.02Develop a Process toDeal with Employeesat Risk ofRedundancy
Develop a process to deal with employees who are at risk of redundancy
30-Jun-2020Currently trawling all posts internally to employees and discussing approach with trade unions
Paula Donnelly John Kelpie
C.HR2021.01.03Review RecruitmentProcesses in Linewith New Legislationand Good Practice
Continue to review recruitment processes in line with new legislation and good practice
31-Mar-2021 A process for virtual interviews developed Paula Donnelly John Kelpie
C.HR2021.01.04Continue to IdentifyOpportunities toReview and ReduceOvertime
Continue to identify opportunities to review and reduce overtime 31-Mar-2021 Paula Donnelly John Kelpie
C.HR2021.01.05
Disability Policy andInitiatives to AttractThose with aDisability into theWorkplace
Progress disability policy and continue to develop initiatives to attract and encourage those with a disability into the workplace
31-Mar-2021 Paused due to current pandemic Paula Donnelly John Kelpie
C.HR2021.01.06Options to Implement7 Day WorkingAcross Streetscapeand Cemeteries
Review and consider options to implement 7 day working across streetscape and cemeteries
30-Jun-2020 Paused due to current pandemic Paula Donnelly John Kelpie
C.HR2021.01.07Develop a Processfor Carrying out ExitInterviews forEmployees
Develop a process for carrying out exit interviews for employees 30-Sep-2020 Paula Donnelly John Kelpie
C.HR2021.02 Healthy Workplace Healthy Workplace 31-Mar-2021 Objective Progress Paula Donnelly John Kelpie
C.HR2021.02.01
Develop andPromote the Healthand Wellbeing Hubon the Council’sIntranet
Continue to develop and promote the health and wellbeing hub on the Council’s intranet
31-Mar-2021 Ellen Cavanagh John Kelpie
C.HR2021.02.02Healthy WorkEnvironment -BeWell Initiatives
Continue to promote a healthy work environment through a range of BeWell initiatives
31-Mar-2021 A range of initiatives communicated virtually Paula Donnelly John Kelpie
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15
Code Title Description Due Date Progress Bar Latest Status Update Managed By Assigned To
C.HR2021.02.03
Programme for LineManagers onPromotingAttendance andWellbeing
Develop and roll out a programme for line managers on promoting attendance and wellbeing
31-Mar-2021 Paula Donnelly John Kelpie
C.HR2021.02.04
Programme for LineManagers onPromotingAttendance andWellbeing
Develop and roll out a programme for line managers on promoting attendance and wellbeing
30-Jun-2020 Paula Donnelly John Kelpie
C.HR2021.02.05 Implement the newCohort OH system Implement the new Cohort OH system 30-Jun-2020 HR staff currently undergoing training Paula Donnelly John Kelpie
C.HR2021.02.06Roll out Training onthe New MenopausePolicy
Roll out training on the new Menopause Policy 30-Jun-2020 Paula Donnelly John Kelpie
C.HR2021.02.07Continue toImplement theMental HealthCharter
Continue to implement the Mental Health Charter 31-Mar-2021 Paula Donnelly John Kelpie
C.HR2021.02.08Promote the NewEmployeeAssistanceProgramme
Promote the new Employee Assistance Programme 30-Apr-2020 Paula Donnelly John Kelpie
C.HR2021.03Employee Relationsand StaffEngagement
Employee Relations and Staff Engagement 31-Mar-2021 Objective Progress Paula Donnelly John Kelpie
C.HR2021.03.01
Review and ProgressInitiatives in theEmployeeEngagementStrategy
Continue to review and progress initiatives and process in line with the 5 categories outlined in the Employee Engagement Strategy
31-Mar-2021 Paula Donnelly John Kelpie
C.HR2021.03.02
Plan and DeliverStaff EngagementEvent to IncludeDragons DenCompetition
Plan and deliver Staff Engagement Event to include Dragons Den competition 30-Jun-2020 Postponed due to current pandemic Paula Donnelly John Kelpie
C.HR2021.03.03Plan and DeliverStaff RecognitionEvent
Plan and deliver Staff Recognition Event 31-Dec-2020 Virtual staff recognition event planned for
December Paula Donnelly John Kelpie
C.HR2021.03.04Continue to PromoteBeSocial throughVarious Team-Building Events
Continue to promote BeSocial through various team-building events 31-Mar-2021 Virtual BeSocial activities currently being
progressed Paula Donnelly John Kelpie
C.HR2021.04 Employment Policyand Systems Employment Policy and Systems 31-Mar-2021 Objective Progress Paula Donnelly John Kelpie
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16
Code Title Description Due Date Progress Bar Latest Status Update Managed By Assigned To
C.HR2021.04.01Continue Programmeof Review andDevelopment of HRPolicies
Continue programme of review and development of HR policies to include: o Emblems Policy o Disciplinary Policy o Secondment Policy o Probation Policy o Maternity/Paternity Policy o Capability Policy o Domestic Violence Policy
31-Mar-2021 Policies currently being developed Paula Donnelly John Kelpie
C.HR2021.04.02
Continue to ReviewDocumentation andProcesses to EnsureCompliance withGDPR
Continue to review documentation and processes to ensure compliance with GDPR
31-Mar-2021 Paula Donnelly John Kelpie
C.HR2021.05 OrganisationalDevelopment Organisational Development 31-Mar-2021 Objective Progress Paula Donnelly John Kelpie
C.HR2021.05.01Continue to ReviewInduction Process forNew Employees
Continue to review induction process for new employees 31-Mar-2021 Paula Donnelly John Kelpie
C.HR2021.05.02Continue to EmbedPDP Process withinthe Organisation
Continue to embed PDP process within the organisation 31-Mar-2021 Paula Donnelly John Kelpie
C.HR2021.05.03Review LeadershipTraining Carried Outto Date
Review leadership training carried out to date and continue to promote relevant leadership development programmes for our senior managers
31-Mar-2021 Paula Donnelly John Kelpie
C.HR2021.05.04Continue to DevelopCapacity-BuildingProgrammes for LineManagers
Continue to develop capacity-building programmes for line managers 31-Mar-2021 Paula Donnelly John Kelpie
C.HR2021.05.05Develop a PilotCoaching/MentoringProgramme for LineManagers
Develop a pilot coaching/mentoring programme for line managers 30-Sep-2020 Paula Donnelly John Kelpie
C.HR2021.05.06 Continue to Roll OuteLearning Continue to roll out eLearning 31-Mar-2021 Paula Donnelly John Kelpie
C.HR2021.05.07Continue to ReviewCompliance TrainingProcesses andCourses
Continue to review compliance training processes and courses 31-Mar-2021 Paula Donnelly John Kelpie
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17
2.1 Lead Legal Services Officer
Code Title Description Due Date Progress Bar Latest Status Update Managed By Assigned To
C.LS2021 Legal Services SSUService Plan 2020/21
31-Mar-2021 Service Progress Philip Kingston John Kelpie
C.LS2021.01Establish andMaintain the HighestLevels of GoodGovernance
Establish and Maintain the Highest Levels of Good Governance - Legal Services 31-Mar-2021 Objective Progress Philip Kingston John Kelpie
C.LS2021.01.01 Maintain CouncilConstitution Maintain Council constitution 31-Mar-2021 Philip Kingston John Kelpie
C.LS2021.01.02Complete Review ofCouncil StandingOrders
Complete review of Council standing orders 31-Mar-2021 Meeting held with elected members and
officers meeting to discuss Philip Kingston John Kelpie
C.LS2021.01.03
ProgressImplementation ofLexcel Accreditationfor Legal Services inDerry and Strabane
Progress implementation of Lexcel accreditation for Legal Services in Derry and Strabane
31-Mar-2021 Philip Kingston John Kelpie
C.LS2021.01.04Maintain and UpdateDeeds Audit inRespect of CouncilProperty
Maintain and update deeds audit in respect of Council property 31-Mar-2021 Ongoing review Philip Kingston John Kelpie
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18
2.1 Strategic Business Manager
Code Title Description Due Date Progress Bar Latest Status Update Managed By Assigned To
C.SP2021Strategic ProjectsSSU Service Plan2020/21
31-Mar-2021 Service Progress Rachael Craig John Kelpie
C.SP2021.01Lead and Facilitatethe CommunityPlanning Process
Lead and facilitate the Community Planning process in the Derry City and Strabane District council region
31-Mar-2021 Objective Progress Rachael Craig John Kelpie
C.SP2021.01.01Convene and HostMeetings of theStrategic GrowthPartnership
Convene and host at least 3 meetings of the Strategic Growth Partnership 31-Mar-2021
Meeting held on 02 July 2020. Due to COVID-19 restrictions and in adherence to social distancing guidance this meeting was convened virtually via WebEx and live streamed via the council’s YouTube channel.
Rachael Craig John Kelpie
C.SP2021.01.02Co-ordinate, Monitorand SupportOutcome DeliveryPartnerships
Co-ordinate, monitor and support Outcome Delivery Partnerships in the ongoing implementation of Strategic Growth/Community Plan actions
31-Mar-2021ODPs meetings have been impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic. All ODP meetings are to be reconvened in September.
Rachael Craig John Kelpie
C.SP2021.02Commence a Reviewof the StrategicGrowth Plan
Undertake consultation an engagement with Community Planning stakeholders around key themes of governance/structures, actions and, use of data
31-Mar-2021Process amended following COVID -19 Impacts on meetings and workshops. Draft questionnaire prepared and due to be issued shortly.
Rachael Craig John Kelpie
C.SP2021.03
Carnegie UK TrustEmbeddingWellbeing inNorthern IrelandProject
Successful participation in the Carnegie UK Trust Embedding Wellbeing in Northern Ireland Project and delivery of the associated projects being taken forward as part of the programme
31-Mar-2021 Objective Progress Rachael Craig John Kelpie
C.SP2021.03.01
Develop andImplement aCommunityEngagementStrategy
Develop and implement a Community Engagement Strategy, action plan and associated communications and marketing activities directed towards the delivery of the Strategic Growth Plan
31-Dec-2020
Final draft being considered by stakeholders. Due to be presented at next SGP in October. Comms and Marketing ongoing in relation to SGP activity.
Rachael Craig John Kelpie
C.SP2021.03.02Develop and Delivera Youth FocusedParticipatoryBudgeting Pilot
Develop and deliver a Youth Focused Participatory Budgeting pilot in line with the children and young people’s actions identified within Local Area Growth Plans.
31-Dec-2020
Following initial delays due to the impact of COVID ‘Youth Making It Happen’ PB Pilot has now launched. First PB process in NI to be co-designed by young people. Currently calling for Phase 1 applications.
Rachael Craig John Kelpie
C.SP2021.03.03
Deliver a SharedLeadershipProgramme forMembers of theStrategic GrowthPartnership
Deliver a Shared Leadership Programme for members of the Strategic Growth Partnership to enhance the diffusion of power and collective decision-making abilities of community planning partners.
31-Dec-2020Programme delivery delayed due to impact of COVID. First virtual workshop held on 15.09.20
Rachael Craig John Kelpie
C.SP2021.03.04
Deliver a Co-ProductionProgramme to BuildCapacity WithinLocal GrowthPartnership Boards
Deliver a co-production programme to build capacity within Local Growth Partnership Boards
31-Mar-2021
Ongoing. Design and delivery of programme has been revised in light of COVID. A range of workshops, facilitated by Community Places (as part of the CUK Embedding Wellbeing in NI programme) completed over the Spring/Summer to engage with C&V sector.
Rachael Craig John Kelpie
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19
Code Title Description Due Date Progress Bar Latest Status Update Managed By Assigned To
C.SP2021.04Development of aDetailed SpendingPlan and WorkProgramme
Development of a detailed spending plan and work programme of activity across the three Regional Development Pillars for North West Strategic Partnership Working
31-Mar-2021 Objective Progress Rachael Craig John Kelpie
C.SP2021.04.01Host 2 Meetings ofthe NW StrategicGrowth Partnership
Host 2 meetings of the NW Strategic Growth Partnership 31-Mar-2021
Provisional date set for 2nd December 2020 for 1st meeting to be held VIA WebEx
Rachael Craig John Kelpie
C.SP2021.04.02Host 4 Meetings ofthe NW RegionalDevelopment Group
Host 4 meetings of the NW Regional Development Group 31-Mar-2021
2 meetings held on 19th June and 18th September 2020. Next meeting on 11th December 2020
Rachael Craig John Kelpie
C.SP2021.04.03Commitment ofRemaining NWDevelopment FundMonies
Commitment of remaining NW Development Fund monies 31-Mar-2021 £3885.268 Committed. £2411.271
expended. Rachael Craig John Kelpie
C.SP2021.04.04Agree ProjectExpenditure Profilesfor April 20-March 21period
Agree Project Expenditure Profiles for April 20-March 21 period 30-Apr-2020
Timescales extended on agreement with TEO to December 2021 due to COVID-19 lockdown.
Rachael Craig John Kelpie
C.SP2021.04.05 Quarterly Monitoringof Spend Profiles Quarterly monitoring of spend profiles 31-Mar-2021 Ongoing Rachael Craig John Kelpie
C.SP2021.04.06
Working withPartners to DeliverPlanned Activity forApril 20-March 21Period
Working with Partners to deliver planned activity for April 20-March 21 period 31-Mar-2021 Product activity ongoing Rachael Craig John Kelpie
C.SP2021.04.07 £900k of FundingDrawn Down £900k of funding drawn down 31-Mar-2021
Please Note: Amended LoO due to COVID 19. Funding to be drawn down £500k
Rachael Craig John Kelpie
C.SP2021.04.08Commitment ofRemaining NWDevelopment FundMonies
Commitment of remaining NW Development Fund monies 31-Mar-2021 £3885.268 Committed. £2411.271
expended. Rachael Craig John Kelpie
C.SP2021.05Provide EffectiveMedia Managementand CommunicationServices
Continue to provide effective media management and communication services within all Directorates and support services of Council
31-Mar-2021 Objective Progress Adele McCourt John Kelpie
C.SP2021.05.01Create Active MediaCoverage and SocialMedia Engagement
Create active media coverage and social media engagement that generates positive profile and coverage on all Council services, initiatives and events
31-Mar-2021 Ongoing Adele McCourt John Kelpie
C.SP2021.05.02Attend all CommitteeMeetings to EnsureCommunication ofCouncil Decisions
Attend all committee meetings to ensure communication of Council decisions is communicated, and meet on a regular basis with representatives of each directorates to ensure their communication and PR needs are met and planned in advance
31-Mar-2021 Ongoing Adele McCourt John Kelpie
C.SP2021.05.03Continue to Look atOpportunities to Linkin with Regional andNational Media
Continue to liaise regularly with all media contacts and look at opportunities to link in with regional and national media to extend awareness and recognition of Council activities, initiatives and events
31-Mar-2021 Ongoing Adele McCourt John Kelpie
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20
Code Title Description Due Date Progress Bar Latest Status Update Managed By Assigned To
C.SP2021.05.04Ensure all our MediaDatabases andConnections areUpdated
Ensure all our media databases and connections are updated and that we regularly engage with our contacts to build on relationships and further develop links
31-Mar-2021 Ongoing Adele McCourt John Kelpie
C.SP2021.05.05Continue with ourMedia Monitoringand EvaluationService
Continue with our media monitoring and evaluation service to analyse data so we can maximise our media reach and coverage
31-Mar-2021 Ongoing Adele McCourt John Kelpie
C.SP2021.05.06Continue to Developand Increase ourSocial MediaEngagement
Continue to develop and increase our engagement within our social media platforms and update our social media skills through a bespoke training programme
31-Mar-2021Social media engagement has increased due to Covid-19 and to a new monitoring system. Training on hold during the pandemic.
Adele McCourt John Kelpie
C.SP2021.05.07Continue to Developand Create ProactiveMedia Content
Continue to develop and create proactive media content to ensure positive placements, and continue with positive response times to all media queries
31-Mar-2021 Ongoing Adele McCourt John Kelpie
C.SP2021.05.08 Issue two StaffNewsletters Issue two staff newsletters 31-Mar-2021 One newsletter issued Adele McCourt John Kelpie
Page 52
Title of Report:-
Youth Focused Participatory Budget Pilot
Update
Officer Presenting:
Strategic Business Manager
Author: Strategic Projects Officer
1. Purpose of the report / key recommendations
1.1 The purpose of this report is to provide Members of the Governance and
Strategic Planning Committee with an update on the youth focused
Participatory Budgeting (PB) pilot being carried out as part of the Strategic
Growth Partnerships participation in the Embedding Wellbeing in NI Project.
1.2 It is recommended that Members endorse the content of this report and the
allocation of the £2.5k funding to the District Electoral Areas for where PB
cannot proceed.
2. Background.
2.1 As part of the Strategic Growth Partnership participation in the Carnegie UK
Trust Embedding Wellbeing in NI programme, the partnership have agreed to
deliver a youth focused Participatory Budgeting (PB) pilot across the Derry City
and Strabane District Council area on a Local Growth Area/DEA basis.
2.2 Participatory Budgeting involves citizens, in this case young people aged 12-
25, having a say on how public money is spent and the allocation of funding
by voting on projects within their own local areas.
2.3 “YOUth Making it Happen” will enable local young people to have a direct say
on how public resources are spent in their local areas. A budget of £20,000
has been made available by Council with support from Carnegie UK Trust, to
deliver a range of creative youth centred initiatives. £2,500 will be made
available in each of the 8 Local Growth Areas and young people aged 12-25
from each local area have been invited to put forward project proposals, with
a maximum of £1,000 available for individual projects.
Page 53
Agenda Item 8
3. Key Issues
3.1 YOUth Making it Happen was formally launched by the Mayor on 8
September 2020 with Phase one applications open for an initial period of one
month (to 8 November 2020). In total 18 applications were received from 6
out of the 8 Local Growth Areas across the council area by the original closing
date, however no applications had been submitted from a number of Local
Growth Partnership Areas. As a result, and in a bid to encourage a greater
number of applications the Phase 1 application deadline was extended
(initially for a period of 2 weeks) to 23 October, and then again by a further
week to the 30 October 2020. During this time targeted social media
promotion of the campaign was carried out encouraging applications. Council
officers also engaged directly with Local Growth Chairs and local
organisations/groups in the promotion of the process.
3.2 At the end of extended Phase 1 application period a total of 46 applications
had been received:
Local Growth Partnership Area No. of YMIH Applications
Ballyarnett 3
Derg 4
Faughan 4
Foyleside 14
Moor 9
Sperrin 1
Starbane 4
Waterside 7
3.3 Phase 2 of the application process involved applicants submitting a short 2
minute video outlining their project proposal and how they would use the
funding if successful.
3.4 A minimum number of projects or ideas must be received for any PB process
to be viable and to ensure that those participating have a genuine decision to
take. For YOUth Making it Happen it was agreed by the YOUth Making it
Happen Steering Group that a minimum of 3 projects or ideas must be
Page 54
received from each area so that young people can prioritise and vote for the
three projects or ideas they want to see delivered in their area.
3.5 At the last GSP Committee members were updated that the Sperrin DEA was
unable to progress to stage two as we didn’t receive enough applications and
members were content that the funding allocation of £2.5k was allocated to
the Sperrin Local Growth Partnership for youth projects via a more traditional
funding mechanism.
3.6 Members are not updated that only one of the projects (Grass Roots Gaming
– Greater Shantallow Community Arts) within the Ballyarnet Local Growth Area
submitted a video to be put forward for the online public vote in stage 2.
Therefore as the minimum number of projects (3) was not received in
Ballyarnett (Local Growth Area a Participatory Budgeting process cannot be
taken forward here.
3.6 The YOUth Making it Happen Steering Group and the young people involved
are keen to continue to support this application and to ensuring that the
funding allocation of £2,500 remain allocated to Ballyarnett. They have
recommended that the funding be made available to the Local Growth Area
Partnership to identify alternative methods on how this financial resource
could be used to deliver youth focused initiative(s) in Ballyarnett.
3.7 Officers have updated the Chair of the Ballyarnett Local Growth Partnership
Board and prepared and update paper to be tabled at the next meeting of the
Local Growth Partnership Board appraising members of same.
3.8 In total 31 video submissions were received to be put forward for the online
public vote. Following the public vote which took place from the 29
November – 06 December, the following 18 projects were successful in
receiving the most votes, and therefore funding ranging from £500-£1,000.
Derg Faughan Foyleside Moor Strabane Waterside
1st (£1,000)
Cast cic - 'Westend Masterclass'
Londonderry YMCA - 'Sparkling Clean'
Marco Louge/ DCSDC - 'Bull Park Basketball Court'
Creggan Enterprises - 'Lifehack Lockdown Live'
Strabane AYE - 'Strabane PYDP Group'
Foyle Down Syndrome Trust - “Recharge Me” Programme"
2nd (£1,000)
Intergenerational Baking w/ Social Media - 'KVC Creativity'
EDIT - 'Over The Rainbow Project'
VOYPIC - 'Our Green Space'
Matchbox Youth Club - 'Improving Health and Wellbeing'
Melmount Community Forum - 'Take Action - Make
Foyle College - 'Foyle Diggers - Excavation Project'
Page 55
Change'
3rd (£500)
Newtownstewart Highland Dancers - 'Outdoor Dance'
Ardmore Cricket Club - 'Young Peoples Fitness'
Tristar FC- 'Coach Education and Performance Tracking'
Bishop Street Youth Club - 'Give a Gift’- Social Action 2020'
Sigersons GAA - 'Leading Together'
Lotus Wellbeing Centre - 'EMPower Me'
4. Financial and other implications
4.1 £2.5K originally allocated to the Ballyarnett Local Growth Area via a
Participatory Budgeting process will now be administered via an alternative
funding mechanism by the Local Growth Partnership to implement youth
focused project/initiatives within the Ballyarnett Local Growth Area.
5. Key recommendations.
5.1 It is recommended that Members endorse the content of this report and the
need for an alternative funding mechanism (rather than PB) to facilitate the
delivery of youth focused projects in the Ballyarnett and the Sperrin area.
Page 56
Title of Report:- Officer Presenting:
North West Regional Development Group Author:
& North West Strategic Growth Partnership Strategic Business
Manager
1. Purpose of the report / key recommendations
1.1 The purpose of this report is to provide Members with an update on the
progress of the North West Strategic Growth Partnership and North
West Regional Development Group.
1.2 It is recommended that Members note the content of this report.
2. Background.
2.1 Following a process of cross-border, joint Council and government
engagement, Derry City and Strabane District Council endorsed and
adopted a new strategic model for regional development and growth in
the North West City Region with Donegal County Council in 2016.
2.2 The model is Council-led and founded on the principle of partnership
between local and central government with place-making at its core. It has a
number of key objectives - driving regional economic growth and
investment; physical and environmental development and improving
community cohesion and wellbeing across the North West Region.
2.3 Both the Irish Government and The Executive Office have committed
€2.5million each to support this regional development work as part of
the work programme of the North South Ministerial Council (A Fresh Start –
The Stormont Agreement and Implementation Plan, November 2015 –
Section E5 North West Development Fund).
2.4 At a strategic level, the model comprises the North West Strategic Growth
Partnership (NWSGP) which is jointly chaired by the Mayor/Cathaoirleach of
both Donegal County Council and Derry City and Strabane District Council,
and is attended by representatives from the key Government Departments,
North and South with a brief in social, economic and regional development.
2.5 This Strategic Partnership is responsible for delivering “The North West
Strategic Growth Plan - A Model for Regional Development and Growth of the
North West of the Island of Ireland” which was circulated to Members of this
Committee in July 2020. It also supports central government to deliver on
the North West Gateway Initiative and in tracking key central government
investments relevant to the growth of the North West Region. The inaugural
meeting was held on 7th December 2016 and there has been seven meetings
of this Partnership to date. The last meeting of the Partnership was held on
2nd December 2020.
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2.6 The work and discussions of the strategic partnership is informed and acted
upon by an all-Council group – The North West Regional Development
Group (NWRDG) – comprising six Elected Members and senior executive
officers from both Derry City and Strabane District Council (DCSDC) and
Donegal County Council (DCC). The North West Regional Development
Group’s focus is on advancing the three pillars of regional economic growth,
physical development and social-wellbeing through engagement with key
statutory and sectorial partners across both Council areas. The plans and
priorities are also aligned to the strategic objectives of each Council’s
Community and Strategic investment plans and priorities.
2.7 The last meeting of the NWRDG was held on 11th December 2020.
2.8 Governance arrangements are in place, which includes the delegation of
authority to the NWRDG to take decisions in relation to the development and
implementation of a work programme of activity across the three
development pillars, including expenditure on any one priority of investment
up to a £350k limit.
2.9 The work of the NWRDG is governed by a Partnership Agreement between
both Councils. Risk is shared equally between partners with Derry City and
Strabane District Council being the Lead Administrative Partner with
responsibility for preparation of Accounts etc.
2.10 There are currently 2 staff employed who are responsible for the day-to-day
administration of the fund and the provision of a secretariat service to both
NWRDG and NWSGP.
2.11 In order to keep Council updated and informed of the progress of these
partnerships – minutes from the North West Regional Development
Group and updates from the North West Strategic Growth Partnership
meetings are routinely presented to Council’s Governance and Strategic
Planning Committee.
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3. Key issues.
3.1 The minutes of the North West Regional Development Group meeting held on
the 18th September 2020 were approved at the last NWRDG meeting held
virtually on 11th December 2020 and are attached at Appendix 1.
3.2 At this meeting, Members received updates on financial monitoring of the
Group’s activities and considered proposed activity and initiatives under the
three pillars of economic growth and development, physical and
environmental development and social and community cohesion and
wellbeing.
3.3 Members were given an update on the NWSGP meeting of 2nd December
2020 and the Golden Bridges Conference which was held virtually in the
Guildhall in November 2020. They also received a virtual presentation from
Thrive, in relation to an update on the NW Audience Development Project.
3.4 The next meeting of the North West Regional Development Group will take
place on Friday 12th March 2021.
3.5 Members are also advised that at the NW Strategic Growth Partnership
meeting held on 2nd December 2020, delegates received an overview of
Development Collaboration in the NW City Region from the Chief Executives
of DCSDC and Donegal County Council. They were also provided with an
update in relation to Brexit and the NW City Region by both the NI Executive
Office and the Department of an Taoiseach.
3.6 The Joint Secretaries from the North South Ministerial Council delivered an
overview on the New Decade, New Approach Agreement and the North West
City Region. This was followed by an update on CoVid-19 North South
Co-operation by both Departments of Health
3.7 The meeting concluded with a round table discussion facilitated by ICLRD,
which heard about the investment in the Region’s Third Level Education
offering. ICLRD also provided delegates with an update on the Green
Transformation framework and the NW Planners Forum.
3.8 The next meeting of this Partnership is due to take place in June 2021.
4. Financial and other implications
4.1 As outlined in Section 2.3, the work of the NWRDG and NWSGP is funded
through the North West Development Fund. There are no direct financial
and/or other implications to Council arising from this report.
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Key recommendations.
4.2 It is recommended that Members note the content of this report and the
ongoing work of the North West Partnership arrangements.
Background Papers
Appendix 1 - Minutes of the North West Regional Development Group meeting held on
18th September 2020.
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North West Regional Development Group Meeting
Minutes of the North West Regional Development Group held on Friday 18th
September 2020 at 11.30am via Webex
PRESENT: Derry City & Strabane District Council Councillor Sandra Duffy (Chair)
Councillor Michaela Boyle Alderman Darren Guy
Councillor Rachael Ferguson Councillor Mary Durkan
Mr John Kelpie (Chief Executive) Ms Karen Phillips Ms Karen McFarland Mr Stephen Gillespie Ms Rachael Craig
Donegal County Council Councillor Ciaran Brogan (Vice Chair)
Councillor Bernard McGuinness Councillor Albert Doherty Councillor Paul Canning Councillor Gerry McMonagle Mr John McLaughlin (Chief Executive) Mr Garry Martin Mr Michael McGarvey Mr Liam Ward Mr Brendan O’Donnell In attendance:
NWRDG Secretariat Ms Maureen Doherty Harvard Graduate School of Design Professor Gareth Doherty 1. Welcome, Introduction and apologies
The Chairperson welcomed everyone to the meeting and noted that Mr. Seamus Neely had retired as Chief Executive of Donegal County Council. Members paid tribute to and expressed their gratitude to Mr Neely for his leadership of the North West Partnership Structures, and wished him well for the future. Mr John McLaughlin was also warmly welcomed and congratulated by the Chair as his appointment as interim Chief Executive of Donegal County Council.
Apologies were noted as follows:
APOLOGIES
Councillor Martin Farren Mr Richard Gibson Mr Alfie Dallas
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2. Minutes & Matters Arising
The minutes of the meeting of 9th June were agreed as an accurate reflection of the meeting.
Agreed PROPOSED: Councillor Boyle
SECONDED: Councillor McMonagle
2.1 Matters Arising Councillor McMonagle urged the Chief Executives and Partnership Members to continue to meet with the two Governments, to continue dialogue and see continued commitment and contribution to the North West City Region particularly in light of the recent progress of the City Deal.
AGREED: Letter to Tánaiste to be issued to reconnect with the Irish Government and also to the First and Deputy First Minister
Proposed: Councillor McMonagle
Seconded: Councillor Boyle
3. Strategic North West Partnership Governance Issues
(a) NW13/20 Financial Monitoring Report and Register of Decisions
The Financial Monitoring Report and Register of Decisions was presented by the
Senior Project Officer. Members noted that £3.89million had been committed from
the fund with £2.41million actual expenditure.
Approved PROPOSED: Councillor Boyle
SECONDED: Councillor Canning
(b) NW14/20 NW Strategic Growth Partnership Support Costs
A report was presented by the Strategic Business Manger seeking approval for the
ICLRD support costs of for The North West Strategic Growth Partnership. Members
approved £33,247 for the period 01st July 2020 to 30th June 2021.
Approved PROPOSED: Councillor Mc Guinness
SECONDED: Councillor Boyle
4. Physical and Environmental Development
(a) Presentation – A post Brexit landscape of the North West. Professor Gareth
Doherty, Harvard Graduate.
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Professor Doherty from the Graduate School of Design at Harvard University delivered a detailed presentation on the outcome of the commission on the “Atlas of a City Region – Imagining the post Brexit Landscapes of the North West”. Professor Doherty outlined some of the following key points as part of his presentation:
The scope and extent of the study visit and how the students undertook their field work focusing on land-use, landscape character assessments and anthropology.
How the region will develop over the next 200 years
The border as an enabler how it facilitates transactions
Rich landscape and dispersed settlement pattern
Significance of field patterns / field work (Seamus Heaney)
Potential in the future of another City forming in other areas in the region
Significance of the rich culture and dialect in the region
Relationship with areas such as Antrim and the North coast of Scotland
Foyle as the seam that runs through the region
Impact of climate change on the region, the landscape and biodiversity
How a new form of living will emerge
Borders are not a line but are a landscape Both Chief Executives and Members warmly thanked Mr Doherty and his colleagues for their fascinating input and innovative insight which they said would help shape the future of the region. Comments from the partnership were that it was a privilege to work with Harvard, the Atlas was exciting, imaginative and visionary. Others added that it was an inspirational piece of work which would help shape the region in generations to come. Members also noted that it was important that the work shaped the Local Development Plans and that it needed to become a live and actioned document. Mr Doherty in response thanked the Partnership for the opportunity of working in the North West City Region he said it was an honour to work in the region and expressed a wish to be continually involved.
Action It was agreed that a copy of the presentation would be forwarded to Members
A copy of the printed Atlas to be forwarded to Members on receipt
Ms Philips outlined that the project teams were now considering how to further engage with stakeholders on a local, national and international basis on the Atlas and also how the Atlas could be implemented over the short, medium and long term. She advised that an update on next steps would be provided at a future meeting.
5. Economic Growth and Development
(a) Presentation – City Deal/Strategic Growth Projects for the Derry~Londonderry
and Strabane City Regions
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The Chief Executive of Derry City and Strabane District Council delivered a detailed presentation on the City Deal outlining the bid process, progress, key issues, funding and projects prioritisation. He also demonstrated to Members the impact the funding would have on Strabane Town Centre regeneration, the Central Riverfront in Derry and also the University Masterplan. Mr Kelpie also outlined the next steps required in terms of governance and the implementation of the City Deal. The Chair and Members thanked the Chief Executive for the presentation and welcomed these exciting projects. Members sought more engagement with the Irish Government in relation to their contribution. Members outlined that the region had rarely witnessed investment on this scale and when delivered it will help the region become a net contributor to the Northern Ireland and Irish economies. In a discussion in relation to further commitment to match funding. It was agreed that engagement with the Irish Government would continue to seek match funding for the region and advocacy for wider strategic connectivity and infrastructure. As outlined at the start of the meeting, it was reiterated that that the Chair and Vice Chair of the group would seek meetings with the both Governments.
(b) NW15/20 Update Paper on NW Economic Development Projects Mr Garry Martin, Director of Economic Development, Emergency Services and
Information Systems, Donegal County Council provided an update of Regional
Development Activity.
Mr Martin outlined that the strands of activity which have been promoting economic
development are:
1. US FDI Lead Generation Programme
2. Ireland Northwest Trade and Investment Mission Programme
3. Gateway to Growth Export Development Programme.
He explained that due to the current coronavirus and international travel restrictions,
programme activity is currently being reviewed. Mr Martin added that the investment
teams continue to engage with networks and enhance plans in 2021. He added that
the Golden Bridges event was to take place digitally on the 20th November this year
and asked Members to note this date in their diary.
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6. Social and Community Cohesion and Wellbeing Matters Update
(a) NW/1620 NW Tourism Product Development Programme and Signage Project
Members approved a proposal to deliver a COVID-19 North West Tourism Product Development Programme and signage project to connect the Wild Atlantic Way, Causeway Coastal Route and the Walled City. Members were advised that the programme will support tourism businesses to adapt their product offering in response to the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic and to deliver high quality memorable experiences for visitors. Members approved £130,000 towards the delivery of a NW Tourism Product Development Programme.
Agreed: £130,000 NW Tourism Product Development Programme
PROPOSED: Councillor Doherty
SECONDED: Councillor Brogan
7. AOB
Members discussed the direct and indirect impacts of the increased tourism;
camping and caravanning witnessed in the region over the summer period and the
demands this placed on waste management and car parking. It was agreed that an
update would be provided to Members at a future meeting of the short and long term
plans for motorhome accommodation as part of the North West tourism proposition.
It was agreed that a presentation from Foyle River Gardens would be provided at a
future meeting.
Action Update to be provided to Members at a future meeting of the short and long term plans for motorhome accommodation as part of the North West tourism proposition.
Presentation from Foyle River Gardens to be provided at a future meeting.
8. CLOSING
The Chair noted that the next meeting of the NWRDG is scheduled to take place on
Friday 11th December 2020.
Thanking Members and presenters for their participation and engagement, the
Chairperson declared the meeting closed at 1.05pm
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