Efforts to create a more robust scrutiny provision at the Isle of Anglesey County Council are underway.
The Authority has moved to meet one of the key recommendations published in last year’s critical corporate governance report.
The Wales Audit Office had recommended that a “more rigorous scrutiny based around Committees that are independent of the Executive” would support better governance and decision-making.
Councillor Hywel Eifion Jones, a member of the opposition (Menai Group) was recently appointed unopposed as new Chairman of the Principal Scrutiny Committee.
Cllr Jones said, “This is an important step forward for scrutiny provision within the Authority. I look forward to working pro-actively with fellow committee members to add value to Council business and ensure that key services are properly scrutinised.”
Welsh Assembly Minister for Local Government Carl Sargeant has already told the County Council that he expected “to see positive and radical reforms” to its scrutiny system.
Positive steps are being taken to develop more effective and detailed scrutiny to help improve corporate governance arrangements. Next month, the full Council will decide on changes to scrutiny committee structures and responsibilities. Steps are also being taken to create greater capacity across the Authority to support the scrutiny function, together with training for members to further enhance their skills in this area.
Council Leader, Cllr Clive McGregor, added, “Robust scrutiny should allow councillors to shape, question, evaluate and challenge policies, decisions and performance.”
“Used constructively, it will contribute to the delivery of efficient and effective services that meet the needs and aspirations of the local community and aid Anglesey’s long term goal of sustainable corporate recovery.”
