Election Address - Conservative Leader Ashley Dearnley

Date published: 01/05/2007

It’s time for a change in Rochdale
Last year the Lib Dems controlled the Council, during that period there have been missed opportunities that would have improved services and kept the Councils finances firmly under control.

Environment
We support recycling, but will listen to residents regarding fortnightly collections, and at improving the collection of paper /card which causes litter. We will use the £50K the Lib Dems spend on administration on better re-cycling. Re-introduce publicised rotas for sweeping and use the hand brush where necessary.

Health and social care
We are concerned about the changes to Home Care Service. Elderly and vulnerable deserve the best possible care meeting their individual needs. "Reablement’ is not appropriate for everyone. We will work with all concerned to protect our health services and welcome the decision of an independent review.

We will provide a free Care Alarm System for all elderly and vulnerable people and free parking for the disabled.

We welcome the extra £1.1 million from government for older people. The pensioners groups/organisations know best how this money should be spent. Unfortunately almost half of this money will be wasted on administrative bureaucracy and not reaching the elderly.

Voluntary sector
We would stop the budget cuts. We fully support the many voluntary organisations that provide invaluable services benefiting many people.

Police
We will continue to work with the police to help make our Borough a safer place. We will continue to press for more police and longer opening hours of Police Stations. A strong police presence is vital for safer communities.

Schools and young people
We welcome the investment to improve our schools and want to see choice and a high standard of educational achievement available for all.

We must listen and work with young people ensuring the right facilities are provided. High quality leisure facilities play a vital role, enabling young people to get involved and committed to healthier lifestyles free from boredom that may lead to the temptation of drugs and crime.

Townships
We want more decisions to be taken at the local level  free from interference from non-local Councillors, as we have sadly witnessed this last year. We believe local Councillors and local people know best what is needed in their area.

Council tax
The Lib Dems Council Tax rise is too high, at almost double the rate of inflation. We proposed a lower Council Tax than Labour or Lib Dems. We should consider a lower Council Tax for all pensioners, similar to the scheme in Bury.  Neighbouring Conservative Councils, such as Trafford, charge £166 less! This could be achieved by eliminating waste.

• "External Consultants’ costing over £1.1 million, Why? We already employ professional officers.
• £150K on an unnecessary "Complaints Team’. Why?  We have 60 Councillors dealing with complaints. 
• The "exclusively’ Lib Dem Cabinet has 10 posts. We would reduce the number, saving at least £25K in Councillors allowances.   

Conservatives remember it is your money we spend.  A Conservative vote will be for a better managed Council.  It can make a difference.
     
Councillor Ashley Dearnley