Issue - meetings

To consider a report of the Cheshire East Governance Lead Officer.

The Committee considered a report of the Cheshire East Governance Lead Officer regarding a framework for scrutiny arrangements, particularly in view of additional powers introduced by the Local Government and Public Involvement in Heath Act 2007 (LGPIH) and the requirements for Health Scrutiny. It was anticipated that such work would include the development of a scrutiny structure, relationship building and member development.

Over recent years, Scrutiny’s role had been strengthened through legislation and Government Guidance. The level of expectation regarding its activities and outputs had increased. In addition it is anticipated that the effectiveness of scrutiny arrangements would be an important factor in the Comprehensive Area Assessment.

Some of the key internal roles for scrutiny at a strategic level would include holding the Cabinet to account and providing an operational framework for the Councillor Call for Action and for Local Petitions arising from the LGPIH Act 2007.

External Scrutiny – of LAA Partners, Health Services etc – would underpin the Authority’s community leadership role. Acknowledging the Authority’s statutory role in relation to Health Scrutiny from April 2009 and the anticipated consequential work-load, the Committee unanimously resolved to recommend the establishment of a separate Health & Adult Social Care Scrutiny Committee.

In order to undertake its role the Committee would need to produce a work programme for the Civic Year.  Issues which would need to be addressed included an ongoing programme of training and development and resources available to the Scrutiny function. It was felt that the Scrutiny Committee should be supported by trained and experienced Scrutiny Officers.

RESOLVED: - a. That the report be received.

b. That Council be recommended to appoint a Health & Adult Social Care Scrutiny Committee at the earliest opportunity