Minutes of meeting
Renfrewshire Council · 1 May 2025
Back to Council — 1 May 2025 and its agenda
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Minute of Meeting Council Date Time Venue Thursday, 01 May 2025 09:30 Council Chambers (Renfrewshire), Council Headquarters, Renfrewshire House, Cotton Street, Paisley, PA1 1AN Present: Councillor Jennifer Adam, Councillor Fiona Airlie-Nicolson, Councillor Alison Ann- Dowling, Councillor Stephen Burns, Councillor Jacqueline Cameron, Provost Lorraine Cameron, Councillor Michelle Campbell, Councillor Graeme Clark, Councillor Carolann Davidson, Councillor Eddie Devine, Councillor Andy Doig, Councillor Audrey Doig, Councillor Chris Gilmour, Councillor Edward Grady, Councillor Gillian Graham, Councillor Neill Graham, Councillor John Gray, Councillor Anne Hannigan, Councillor John Hood, Councillor Lisa- Marie Hughes, Councillor Robert Innes, Councillor Alec Leishman, Councillor Bruce MacFarlane, Councillor James MacLaren, Councillor Kenny MacLaren, Councillor Mags MacLaren, Councillor Colin McCulloch, Councillor Janis McDonald, Councillor Cathy McEwan, Councillor David McGonigle, Councillor Jamie McGuire, Councillor Marie McGurk, Councillor Iain McMillan, Councillor John McNaughtan, Councillor Kevin Montgomery, Councillor Sam Mullin, Councillor Will Mylet, Councillor Iain Nicolson, Councillor Jim Paterson, Councillor Emma Rodden, Councillor John Shaw, Councillor Ben Smith, Councillor Andy Steel Chair Provost L Cameron, Convener, presided. In Attendance A Russell, Chief Executive; J O’Neill, Director of Children’s Services; G McNeil, Director of Environment, Housing & Infrastructure; A MacArthur, Director of Finance & Resources; L McIntyre, Head of Policy & Partnerships, L Adamson, Interim Head of Marketing & Communications and A Walter, Connected Communities Manager (all Chief Executive’s); J Trainer, Head of Child Care & Criminal Justice (Children’s Services); G Hannah, Head of Climate, Public Protection & Roads and C Dalrymple, Head of Facilities & Property Services (both Environment, Housing & Infrastructure); M Conaghan, Head of Corporate Governance, R Cree, Head of People & Organisational Development, D Campbell, Managing Solicitor (Licensing), D Low, Democratic Services Manager and R Devine, Senior Committee Services Officer (all Finance & Resources); V Hollows, Chief Executive (OneRen); and F Burns, Head of Strategic Planning & Health Improvement, L Cameron, Head of Health & Social Care (Paisley) (Interim), J Deary, Service Assurance Manager and J Millar, Communications Business Lead (Transformation) (all Renfrewshire Health & Social Care Partnership).
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Also in Attendance V Cahill and J Pearson (both Alzheimer Scotland) and F Catterson (National Dementia Carers Action Network). Webcasting of Council Meeting Prior to the commencement of the meeting, Provost Cameron intimated that this meeting would be filmed for live or subsequent broadcast via the Council’s internet site. Declarations of Interest There were no declarations of interest intimated prior to the commencement of the meeting. Transparency Statements Councillor McMillan declared a connection to item 4 of the agenda by reason of his son’s employment with BAE Systems. However, he indicated that he had applied the objective test and did not consider he had an interest to declare. Councillor Davidson declared a connection to item 7 of the agenda by reason of having a grandchild who was entitled to 1140 provision and attended a partnership nursery. However, she indicated that she had applied the objective test and did not consider she had an interest to declare. Councillor Innes declared a connection to item 7 of the agenda by reason that he was married to the Scottish Government Minister for Children, Young People and the Promise. However, he indicated that he had applied the objective test and did not consider he had an interest to declare. Councillor Paterson declared a connection to item 7 of the agenda by reason of having a child who was entitled to 1140 provision and attended a partnership nursery. However, he indicated that he had applied the objective test and did not consider he had an interest to declare. Councillor McGonigle declared a connection to item 11 of the agenda by reason of a family members employment by a bus company. However, he indicated that he had applied the objective test and did not consider he had an interest to declare. Councillor Steel declared a connection to item 11 of the agenda by reason of a being a Council representative on SPT. However, he indicated that he had applied the objective test and did not consider he had an interest to declare. Councillor Andy Doig declared a connection to item 13 of the agenda by reason of the endorsement of his previous electoral campaign by For Women Scotland. However, he indicated that he had applied the objective test and did not consider he had an
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interest to declare. Councillor Leishman declared a connection to item 13 of the agenda by reason of his membership of the LGB alliance. However, he indicated that he had applied the objective test and did not consider he had an interest to declare. Order of Business In terms of Standing Order 16, the Provost intimated that she proposed to alter the order of business to facilitate the conduct of the meeting by considering item 3 of the agenda prior to item 1 of the agenda. 1 Alzheimer Scotland's Commission on the Future of Long Term Care in Scotland V Cahill, Alzheimer Scotland and F Catterson (National Dementia Carers Action Network) made a presentation to members relative to supporting people with dementia, their families and carers. DECIDED: That the information provided be noted. 2 Provost's Update The Provost advised that an update on the duties she had undertaken since the last meeting of the Council held on 27 February 2025 had been distributed to members. DECIDED: That the update be noted. 3 Minutes of Meetings of Council, Boards and Panels There were submitted the Minutes of the following meetings of the Council, Boards and Panels on the dates specified: Council, 27 February 2025 Communities & Housing Policy Board, 11 March 2025 Regulatory Functions Board, 12 March 2025 Education & Children's Services Policy Board, 13 March 2025 Audit, Risk & Scrutiny Board, 17 March 2025 Economy & Regeneration Policy Board, 18 March 2025 Planning & Climate Change Policy Board, 18 March 2025 Infrastructure, Land & Environment Policy Board, 19 March 2025 Personnel Appeals and Applied Conditions of Service Appeals Panel, 20 March 2025 Petitions Board, 24 March 2025 Regulatory Functions Board, 27 March 2025 Finance, Resources & Customer Services Policy Board, 3 April 2025 Special Audit, Risk & Scrutiny Board, 17 April 2025 Leadership Board, 23 April 2025 DECIDED: That the Minutes be approved.
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4 Revenue and Capital Budget Update 2025/26 There was submitted an update report by the Director of Finance & Resources relative to the Revenue and Capital Budgets 2025/26. The report intimated that following the setting of the Council’s revenue and capital budgets at the meeting of the Council held on 27 February 2025 the Scottish Government had passed the final stage of its 2025/26 budget, released the final Local Government Finance Circular and provided an update to the approved Revenue Budget 2025/26. An appendix to the report summarised the consequential in-year approved Revenue Budget 2025/26 allocation for each service and included total spending need, both recurring and non-recurring. DECIDED: (a) That the report, which reflected the impact of decisions taken at the meeting of the Council held on 27 February 2025 and changes to the final Scottish Budget, be noted; and (b) That the proposed changes to the Capital Plan, outlined in sections 6.1 and 6.4 of the report, be approved. 5 Mainstreaming Equality and Equality Outcomes 2025 There was submitted a report by the Chief Executive relative to the Progressing Equality Outcomes and Mainstreaming Equality Report which outlined progress in terms of mainstreaming equality through all functions of the Council. The report complied with the Council’s duties both corporately and as the Education authority, to report progress publicly and in accessible manner, and provided a range of information that the Council required to publish, by 30 April 2025, in terms of the Equality Act 2010. The report highlighted progress made with the Council’s continued focus on tackling inequality, but recognised that despite this, inequalities for local people persisted and for too many people, had worsened. The report provided a new draft set of equality outcomes for the period 2025/29 and advised that a consultation and engagement programme was planned for 2025 to develop the outcomes framework in conjunction with local communities. DECIDED: (a) That the progress made in mainstreaming equalities be noted; (b) That the draft Equality Outcomes 2025/29 and consultation approach for developing the outcomes framework throughout 2025 be approved; and (c) That the Progressing Equality Outcomes and Mainstreaming Equality Report be approved for final publication on the Council’s website.
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6 Governance Arrangements There was submitted a report by the Director of Finance & Resources relative to governance arrangements. The report advised of a number of Board nominations made by the Conservative Group to fill vacancies created following the resignation of Councillors Leishman and Gray from that political group and requested that consideration be given to filling the remaining vacancies where no nominations had been submitted. In addition, the report proposed amendment of the Council and Board meeting timetable through a reduction in the number of Police and Fire & Rescue Scrutiny Sub-committee meetings each year from five to four and advised of changes that had taken place relative to the style of Council, Policy Board and Sub-committee Minutes. The report intimated that two requests had been received, in accordance with the Scheme of Delegated Functions, for the Council to determine whether events were deserving of recognition by way of the lighting up of Council buildings and property. Provost Cameron, seconded by Councillor N Graham moved that : (a) That the following nominations by the Conservative Group, be approved; Councillor McGonigle to fill the vacancy on the Leadership Board Councillor J MacLaren to fill the vacancy on the Finance. Resources & Customer Services Policy Board Councillor J MacLaren to fill the vacancy on the Communities & Housing Policy Board Councillor N Graham to fill the vacancy on the Education & Children’s Services Policy Board Councillor N Graham to fill the vacancy on the Infrastructure, Land & Environment Policy Board Councillor N Graham to fill the vacancy on the Fairer Renfrewshire Sub-committee; (b) That the timetable of meetings of the Council, Policy Boards and Sub- committees be amended by the deletion of each March meeting of the Police and Fire & Rescue Scrutiny Sub-committee; (c) That the transition towards a more decision-focused Minute style be noted; (d) That the request to light up Council buildings and property green on 11 July 2025 to mark the Srebrenica Memorial Day 30th Anniversary be agreed; and (e) That the request to light up Council buildings and property blue on 11 June each year to mark World Prostate Cancer Day be agreed. Councillor Leishman, seconded by Councillor Gray, moved as a first amendment that Council agrees that “Councillors Leishman and Gray are appointed to fill the two vacancies on the Licensing Board”. Councillor Devine, seconded by Councillor Andy Doig, moved as a second amendment that clause 2.1 of the motion be amended by deleting “that Councillor N Graham will fill the vacancy on the Infrastructure, Land and Environment Board" and inserting "that Councillor Hood will fill the vacancy on the Infrastructure, Land and
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Environment Board" and that clause 2.2 be amended by inserting "that Councillor Mylet will fill the vacancy on the Audit, Risk, and Scrutiny Board”. Following discussion, the Head of Corporate Governance provided clarification regarding the implications of the amendments after which it was the consensus that Councillor McGonigle fill the vacancy on the Leadership Board Councillor J MacLaren fill the vacancy on the Finance. Resources & Customer Service Policy Board Councillor J MacLaren fill the vacancy on the Communities & Housing Policy Board Councillor N Graham fill the vacancy on the Education & Children’s Services Policy Board Councillor N Graham fill the vacancy on the Fairer Renfrewshire Sub-committee; That the timetable of meetings of the Council, Policy Boards and Sub- committees be amended by the deletion of each March meeting of the Police and Fire & Rescue Scrutiny Sub-committee; That the transition towards a more decision-focused Minute style be noted; That the request to light up Council buildings and property green on 11 July 2025 to mark the Srebrenica Memorial Day 30th Anniversary be agreed; and That the request to light up Council buildings and property blue on 11 June each year to mark World Prostate Cancer Day be agreed. That Councillors Leishman and Gray be appointed to fill the two vacancies on the Licensing Board and Councillor Mylet be appointed to the Audit, Risk & Scrutiny Board and that a vote be taken in respect of the appointment of one of the two nominations to the Infrastructure, Land & Environment Policy Board. For practical purposes it was clarified that the vote would be between the motion that Councillor N Graham be appointed to the Infrastructure, Land & Environment Policy Board and the amendment that Councillor Hood be appointed to the Infrastructure, Land & Environment Policy Board. On the roll being called, the following members voted for the amendment: Councillors Devine, Andy Doig, Gray, Hannigan, Hood, Leishman and Mylet. The following members voted for the motion: Provost L Cameron, N Graham, J MacLaren and McGonigle. The following members abstained: Councillors Adam, Airlie-Nicolson, Ann-Dowling, Burns, J Cameron, Campbell, Clark, Davidson, Audrey Doig, Gilmour, Grady, G Graham, Hughes, Innes, MacFarlane, K MacLaren, M MacLaren, McCulloch, McDonald, McEwan, McGuire, McGurk, McMillan, McNaughtan, Montgomery, Mullin, Nicolson, Paterson, Rodden, Shaw, Smith and Steel. 7 members having voted for the amendment, 4 members having voted for the motion and 32 members having abstained, the amendment was accordingly declared carried. DECIDED: (a) That Councillor McGonigle be appointed to the Leadership Board; Councillor J
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MacLaren be appointed to the Finance. Resources & Customer Service Policy Board and Communities & Housing Policy Board; and Councillor N Graham be appointed to the Education & Children’s Services Policy Board and the Fairer Renfrewshire Sub- committee; (b) That Councillor Mylet be appointed to the Audit, Risk & Scrutiny Board, Councillor J Hood be appointed to the Infrastructure, Land & Environment Policy Board and Councillors Gray and Leishman be appointed to the Licensing Board; (c) That the timetable of meetings of the Council, Policy Boards and Sub- committees be amended by the deletion of each March meeting of the Police and Fire & Rescue Scrutiny Sub-committee; (d) That the transition towards a more decision-focused Minute style be noted; (e) That the request to light up Council buildings and property green on 11 July 2025 to mark the Srebrenica Memorial Day 30th Anniversary be agreed; and (f) That the request to light up Council buildings and property blue on 11 June each year to mark World Prostate Cancer Day be agreed. 7 Notice of Motion 1 by Councillors G Graham and McMillan There was submitted a Notice of Motion by Councillors G Graham and McMillan in the following terms: "Delayed Access to Early Learning Provision Council recognises that early learning provision is a vital service which has improved outcomes for children between the ages of two and five and increases family wellbeing. Furthermore, it increases parents' and carers' opportunities to take up or sustain work, study or training supporting the local economy. Council believes that our children should be able to access early learning at the earliest opportunity. For years Renfrewshire used its discretionary powers to enable children to access their early years funding entitlement a month after their 3rd birthday. At the Education & Children’s Services Board on 14th March 2024, the decision was made change this and to delay access to early learning and childcare funding to the term following the respective child's 3rd birthday. Whilst some pupils are being prioritised, many children are being negatively impacted by this change with some children having to wait up to 4 months after their 3rd birthday to start nursery. The policy decision has had a particularly adverse impact upon hundreds of working parents who planned to return to work, and now find themselves having to pay thousands in unplanned childcare fees, because Renfrewshire Council has delayed access to their child’s funding. The policy change last year was made to secure a £125,000 saving. Reverting to the original policy will significantly help our working parents, and the cost may be found within existing budgets, for example Early Year Education which currently carries a £700,000 underspend. Further to an Equalities Impact Assessment (which has been requested of Education officers). Council will use its discretionary powers to reimplement the previous policy
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so that eligible children aged 3 years are able to access funded early learning and childcare from the month after the child’s third birthday." Councillor G Graham, seconded by Councillor McMillan, then moved the motion. Councillor Rodden, seconded by Councillor Paterson, moved as an amendment that the motion be replaced with “Council reaffirms its commitment to delivering high- quality early learning and childcare, recognising its role in improving outcomes for children and supporting working families. Council notes the decision taken at the Education and Children's Services Policy Board in March 2024 which aligned Renfrewshire with national eligibility legislation, with access provided from the term after a child's third birthday. Council acknowledges the impact this change may have on some working families, coupled with our long-standing commitment to support those most in need and our targeted approach to providing support through our Fairer Renfrewshire programme of tackling and minimising poverty and supporting those in work who are in need of support. Council therefore agrees to extend the current eligibility criteria for funded two-year- old placements and those in receipt of means-tested benefits from the month after their third birthday, rather than waiting until the following term and instructs officers to bring a report to the next Education and Children’s Services Policy Board which will revise the existing Early Learning & Childcare Admission policy.” On the roll being called, the following members voted for the amendment: Councillors Adam, Airlie-Nicolson, Burns, Provost L Cameron, Councillors J Cameron, Campbell, Andy Doig, Audrey Doig, Hughes, Innes, MacFarlane, K MacLaren, M MacLaren, McEwan, McGurk, McNaughtan, Nicolson, Paterson, Rodden, Shaw and Steel. The following members voted for the motion: Councillors Ann-Dowling, Clark, Davidson, Devine, Gilmour, Grady, G Graham, N Graham, Gray, Hannigan, Hood, Leishman, McCulloch, McDonald, McGuire, J MacLaren, McGonigle, McMillan, Montgomery, Mullin, Mylet and Smith. 21 members having voted for the amendment and 22 members having voted for the motion, the motion was accordingly declared carried. DECIDED: Delayed Access to Early Learning Provision Council recognises that early learning provision is a vital service which has improved outcomes for children between the ages of two and five and increases family wellbeing. Furthermore, it increases parents' and carers' opportunities to take up or sustain work, study or training supporting the local economy. Council believes that our children should be able to access early learning at the earliest opportunity. For years Renfrewshire used its discretionary powers to enable children to access their early years funding entitlement a month after their third birthday. At the Education & Children’s Services Board on 14th March 2024, the decision was made to change this and to delay access to early learning and childcare funding to the term following the respective child's third birthday. Whilst some pupils are being prioritised,
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many children are being negatively impacted by this change with some children having to wait up to four months after their third birthday to start nursery. The policy decision has had a particularly adverse impact upon hundreds of working parents who planned to return to work, and now find themselves having to pay thousands in unplanned childcare fees, because Renfrewshire Council has delayed access to their child’s funding. The policy change last year was made to secure a £125,000 saving. Reverting to the original policy will significantly help our working parents, and the cost may be found within existing budgets, for example Early Year Education which currently carries a £700,000 underspend. Further to an Equalities Impact Assessment (which has been requested of Education officers). Council will use its discretionary powers to reimplement the previous policy so that eligible children aged three years are able to access funded early learning and childcare from the month after the child’s third birthday. 8 Notice of Motion 2 by Councillors Hughes and Campbell There was submitted a Notice of Motion by Councillors Hughes and Campbell in the following terms: "UK Government’s Planned Changes to Personal Independence Payment Renfrewshire Council condemns the Labour UK Government's cruel planned changes to the process and criteria for the Personal Independence Payment This will force an estimated 400,000 disabled people across the UK into poverty. Renfrewshire Council is concerned by the fear and pressure being placed on people who already live with daily difficulties and notes a particular concern among those with mental health diagnoses who are being targeted by the current UK Labour Government. This Council rejects the attempts to reframe PIP as an inwork benefit rather than a recognition that it is more expensive to live as a disabled person. We also note that many people in receipt of PIP are in work and that removal of it will make remaining in work much more difficult. Renfrewshire Council commends the SNP Scottish Government’s approach to Adult Disability Payment, a process that treats people with respect and dignity. We further note our concern that the Chancellor has stated that there will be a cut to the block grant proportionate to the savings they hope to achieve with these inhumane cuts. Renfrewshire Council asks the Chief Executive to write to the Chancellor of the Exchequer to outline our concerns regarding these callous and dangerous cuts and ask that the planned changes are not implemented." Councillor Hughes, seconded by Councillor Campbell, then moved the motion. Councillor McMillan, seconded by Councillor Clark, moved as an amendment that; “Renfrewshire Council notes the Pathways to Work: Reforming Benefits and Support to Get Britain Working Green Paper and that its proposals are currently under
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consultation. Council further agrees that any reforms to social security policy must respect the dignity of work, while also being fair and protecting the most vulnerable who are unable to work. Renfrewshire Council instructs the Chief Executive to write to the Secretary of State for Work and Pensions requesting that any changes improve the way financial support is assessed and delivered, ensuring it reaches those who need it most and that people using the system have a better experience and are treated with dignity and respect”. On the roll being called, the following members voted for the amendment: Councillors Ann-Dowling, Clark, Davidson, Gilmour, Grady, G Graham, Gray, Leishman, McDonald, McGuire, McMillan, Montgomery and Mullin. The following members voted for the motion: Councillors Adam, Airlie-Nicolson, Burns, Provost L Cameron, Councillors J Cameron, Campbell, Devine, Andy Doig, Audrey Doig, Hannigan, Hood, Hughes, Innes, MacFarlane, K MacLaren, M MacLaren, McEwan, McGurk, McNaughtan, Mylet, Nicolson, Paterson, Rodden, Shaw and Steel. The following members abstained: Councillors N Graham, J MacLaren, McCulloch, McGonigle and Smith. 13 members having voted for the amendment, 25 members having voted for the motion and 5 members having abstained, the motion was accordingly declared carried. DECIDED: UK Government’s Planned Changes to Personal Independence Payment Renfrewshire Council condemns the Labour UK Government's cruel planned changes to the process and criteria for the Personal Independence Payment This will force an estimated 400,000 disabled people across the UK into poverty. Renfrewshire Council is concerned by the fear and pressure being placed on people who already live with daily difficulties and notes a particular concern among those with mental health diagnoses who are being targeted by the current UK Labour Government. This Council rejects the attempts to reframe PIP as an inwork benefit rather than a recognition that it is more expensive to live as a disabled person. We also note that many people in receipt of PIP are in work and that removal of it will make remaining in work much more difficult. Renfrewshire Council commends the SNP Scottish Government’s approach to Adult Disability Payment, a process that treats people with respect and dignity. We further note our concern that the Chancellor has stated that there will be a cut to the block grant proportionate to the savings they hope to achieve with these inhumane cuts. Renfrewshire Council asks the Chief Executive to write to the Chancellor of the Exchequer to outline our concerns regarding these callous and dangerous cuts and ask that the planned changes are not implemented.
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Adjournment The meeting adjourned at 12.18 am and reconvened at 12.29 am. 9 Notice of Motion 3 by Councillors Andy Doig and Hood There was submitted a Notice of Motion by Councillors Andy Doig and Hood in the following terms: "Reinstatement of the Johnstone Fire Engine Rally, Houstoun Square, Johnstone This Council recognizes the success and popularity of the Johnstone Fire Engine Rally, for both local retailers and the local community alike, and regrets that since the Covid period the event has not taken place. Council instructs the Council’s Events Team to liaise with the Fire Brigades Union and calls for the reinstatement of the Johnstone Fire Engine Rally as soon as possible." Councillor Andy Doig, seconded by Councillor Hood, then moved the motion which was agreed unanimously. DECIDED: Reinstatement of the Johnstone Fire Engine Rally, Houstoun Square, Johnstone This Council recognises the success and popularity of the Johnstone Fire Engine Rally, for both local retailers and the local community alike, and regrets that since the Covid period the event has not taken place. Council instructs the Council’s Events Team to liaise with the Fire Brigades Union and calls for the reinstatement of the Johnstone Fire Engine Rally as soon as possible. 10 Notice of Motion 4 by Councillors Andy Doig and Devine There was submitted a Notice of Motion by Councillors Andy Doig and Devine in the following terms: “Repeal of the Elections Act 2022 by the UK Government This Council raises concerns about the ongoing effect of the Elections Act 2022 at future Westminster elections, in Renfrewshire and elsewhere, and notes there is little evidence of serious voter fraud in the UK, with only two convictions between 2010 and 2018. Council therefore agrees to write to the UK Home Secretary calling on the UK Government to repeal this regressive piece of legislation”.
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Councillor Andy Doig, seconded by Councillor Devine, then moved the motion. Councillor Leishman, seconded by Councillor Gray, moved as a first amendment “That the motion is not agreed”. Councillor N Graham, seconded by Councillor McGonigle, moved as a second amendment “That the motion not be agreed”. In terms of Standing Order 27, the second amendment was withdrawn by Councillors N Graham and McGonigle. On the roll being called, the following members voted for the amendment: Councillors Leishman and Gray. The following members voted for the motion: Councillors Adam, Airlie-Nicolson, Ann- Dowling, Burns, Provost L Cameron, Councillors J Cameron, Campbell, Clark, Devine, Andy Doig, Audrey Doig, Gilmour, Grady, G Graham, Hannigan, Hood, Hughes, Innes, MacFarlane, K MacLaren, M MacLaren, McCulloch, McDonald, McEwan, McGuire, McGurk, McMillan, McNaughtan, Montgomery, Mullin, Mylet, Nicolson, Paterson, Rodden, Shaw, Smith and Steel. The following members abstained: Councillors N Graham, J MacLaren and McGonigle. 2 members having voted for the amendment, 37 members having voted for the motion and 3 members having abstained, the motion was accordingly declared carried. DECIDED: Repeal of the Elections Act 2022 by the UK Government This Council raises concerns about the ongoing effect of the Elections Act 2022 at future Westminster elections, in Renfrewshire and elsewhere, and notes there is little evidence of serious voter fraud in the UK, with only two convictions between 2010 and 2018. Council therefore agrees to write to the UK Home Secretary calling on the UK Government to repeal this regressive piece of legislation. 11 Notice of Motion 5 by Councillors Ann-Dowling and Gilmour There was submitted a Notice of Motion by Councillors Ann-Dowling and Gilmour in the following terms: "Better Buses Council calls on the Scottish Government, as quickly as possible, to improve the process for implementing the bus franchising powers contained in the Transport (Scotland) Act 2019 by: · Introducing the regulations and statutory guidance required to give bus franchising powers full effect
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· Amending the 2019 Act to remove the requirement for proposed franchising frameworks to be approved by a panel appointed by the Traffic Commissioner, instead empowering Regional Transport Partnerships (RTPs) to have the final say on approving proposals · Providing additional funding to help support Regional Transport Partnerships such as Strathclyde Regional Transport, in preparing franchising frameworks and assisting them with initial set-up costs once frameworks are approved." Councillor Ann-Dowling, seconded by Councillor Gilmour, then moved the motion. Councillor Andy Doig, seconded by Councillor Hood, moved as an amendment that “Council further recognises that the operation of bus franchising depends on stable and viable bus operators, and therefore calls on the UK Government to abolish its policy of increasing employers National Insurance contributions, which is an existential threat to small and medium bus operators in Renfrewshire.” On the roll being called, the following members voted for the amendment: Councillors Adam, Airlie-Nicolson, Burns, Provost L Cameron, Councillors J Cameron, Campbell, Devine, Andy Doig, Audrey Doig, N Graham, Hannigan, Hood, Hughes, Innes, MacFarlane, J MacLaren, K MacLaren, M MacLaren, McEwan, McGonigle, McGurk, McNaughtan, Mylet, Nicolson, Paterson, Rodden, Shaw and Steel. The following members voted for the motion: Councillors Ann-Dowling, Clark, Davidson, Gilmour, Grady, G Graham, Gray, Leishman, McCulloch, McDonald, McGuire, McMillan, Montgomery, Mullin and Smith. 28 members having voted for the amendment and 15 members having voted for the motion, the amendment was accordingly declared carried. DECIDED: Council further recognises that the operation of bus franchising depends on stable and viable bus operators, and therefore calls on the UK Government to abolish its policy of increasing employers National Insurance contributions, which is an existential threat to small and medium bus operators in Renfrewshire. 12 Notice of Motion 6 by Councillors McGurk and MacFarlane There was submitted a Notice of Motion by Councillors McGurk and MacFarlane in the following terms: "Lochfield Bowling Club is about to celebrate its ninetieth year Anniversary. This Council would like to congratulate all connected with the success of this facility during that time." Councillor McGurk, seconded by Councillor MacFarlane, then moved the motion which was agreed unanimously. DECIDED: Lochfield Bowling Club is about to celebrate its ninetieth year Anniversary. This Council would like to congratulate all connected with the success of this facility during that time.
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13 Notice of Motion 7 by Councillors Ann-Dowling and McMillan There was submitted a Notice of Motion by Councillors Ann-Dowling and McMillan in the following terms: "Supreme Court Judgement On Wednesday 16th April 2025 the judgement in the For Women Scotland v The Scottish Ministers (FWS2) case was handed down. It gave an unequivocal ruling that gives utmost clarity on women’s rights that are protected in law, as well as highlighting the continued protections for trans people under the Equality Act. The Supreme Court unanimously agreed that the terms ‘man’, ‘woman’ and ‘sex’ in the Equality Act 2010 (EA2010) refer to biological sex. Holding a Gender Recognition Certificate does not change sex for the purposes of the EA2010. The unanimous decision of the court is that the terms woman and sex in the Equality Act 2010 refer to a biological woman and biological sex. The court ruling makes clear: the law protects single-sex spaces and services. Therefore, Council congratulates For Women Scotland and the intervenors – Sex Matters, Scottish Lesbians, LGB Alliance, the Lesbian Project – who helped secure this important legal argument and clarified the law for the benefit of all. Council agrees that we must see an end to policies that ignore the needs, rights, dignity and safety of women and girls. Furthermore, the UK Government, the Welsh and Scottish Governments, regulators and public bodies must now review and clarify their policies and guidance. It is their responsibility to ensure the law is understood and implemented. Council agrees to instruct the Chief Executive Officer to review all of Renfrewshire Council’s policies, procedures and guidance and training materials to ensure compliance with the Supreme Court ruling. Council also agrees to review any services run or commissioned by the council for compliance with the Supreme Court ruling." Councillor Ann-Dowling, seconded by Councillor McMillan, then moved the motion. Councillor Hughes, seconded by Councillor Innes, moved as an amendment that; “Renfrewshire Council notes the Supreme Court Judgement of 16th April 2025, in which they handed down the judgement that a person’s sex in law is defined as their sex assigned at birth. Council also notes the Equality and Human Right’s Commission’s (EHRC) Interim Guidance on single sex spaces, which requires further detail and clarity. Council understands that this guidance is not statutory, and that a consultation with stakeholders is expected in May, with fuller guidance is expected in summer. Council agrees that this fuller detail is required before assessing our policies.
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Council also notes Dr Victoria McCloud’s current case at the European Court of Human Rights (EHCR) which is challenging the decision of the Supreme Court. Council agrees that we must ensure equality for ALL and reaffirms our position of support for transpeople in living their authentic lives, and recognises their right to live and use public spaces with dignity”. On the roll being called, the following members voted for the amendment: Councillors Adam, Airlie-Nicolson, Burns, Provost L Cameron, Councillors J Cameron, Campbell, Audrey Doig, Hannigan, Hughes, Innes, MacFarlane, K MacLaren, M MacLaren, McEwan, McGurk, McNaughtan, Nicolson, Paterson, Rodden, Shaw and Steel. The following members voted for the motion: Councillors Ann-Dowling, Clark, Davidson, Devine, Andy Doig, Gilmour, Grady, G Graham, N Graham, Gray, Hood, Leishman, J MacLaren, McCulloch, McDonald, McGonigle, McGuire, McMillan, Montgomery, Mullin, Mylet and Smith. 21 members having voted for the amendment and 22 members having voted for the motion, the motion was accordingly declared carried. DECIDED: Supreme Court Judgement On Wednesday 16th April 2025 the judgement in the For Women Scotland v The Scottish Ministers (FWS2) case was handed down. It gave an unequivocal ruling that gives utmost clarity on women’s rights that are protected in law, as well as highlighting the continued protections for trans people under the Equality Act. The Supreme Court unanimously agreed that the terms ‘man’, ‘woman’ and ‘sex’ in the Equality Act 2010 (EA2010) refer to biological sex. Holding a Gender Recognition Certificate does not change sex for the purposes of the EA2010. The unanimous decision of the court is that the terms woman and sex in the Equality Act 2010 refer to a biological woman and biological sex. The court ruling makes clear: the law protects single-sex spaces and services. Therefore, Council congratulates For Women Scotland and the intervenors – Sex Matters, Scottish Lesbians, LGB Alliance, the Lesbian Project – who helped secure this important legal argument and clarified the law for the benefit of all. Council agrees that we must see an end to policies that ignore the needs, rights, dignity and safety of women and girls. Furthermore, the UK Government, the Welsh and Scottish Governments, regulators and public bodies must now review and clarify their policies and guidance. It is their responsibility to ensure the law is understood and implemented. Council agrees to instruct the Chief Executive Officer to review all of Renfrewshire Council’s policies, procedures and guidance and training materials to ensure compliance with the Supreme Court ruling.
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Council also agrees to review any services run or commissioned by the council for compliance with the Supreme Court ruling. 14 Notice of Motion 8 by Councillors Andy Doig and Mylet There was submitted a Notice of Motion by Councillors Andy Doig and Mylet in the following terms: "Mandatory Dog Licensing and Amendments to Control of Dogs Act (Scotland) 2010 This Council recognises the overwhelming positive impact which responsible dog ownership brings to the benefit of the canine and human populations alike, but recognises continued public concern around the rise of aggressive canine behaviour associated with, but not exclusive to, particular breeds. Council regrets that bad ownership and lack of training are often the primary drivers for such dog behaviours, and therefore calls on the Scottish Government to amend the Control of Dogs Act (Scotland) 2010 to bring in mandatory dog licensing, complete with robust enforcement powers and administered at local authority level. Council believes that the purpose of new dog licensing is to promote better dog welfare, to prevent unethical dog-breeding, and to increase owner education and support. Council further calls on the Scottish Government to provide appropriate funding for the delivery of an effective licensing scheme." Councillor Andy Doig, seconded by Councillor Mylet, then moved the motion which was approved unanimously. DECIDED: Mandatory Dog Licensing and Amendments to Control of Dogs Act (Scotland) 2010 This Council recognises the overwhelming positive impact which responsible dog ownership brings to the benefit of the canine and human populations alike, but recognises continued public concern around the rise of aggressive canine behaviour associated with, but not exclusive to, particular breeds. Council regrets that bad ownership and lack of training are often the primary drivers for such dog behaviours, and therefore calls on the Scottish Government to amend the Control of Dogs Act (Scotland) 2010 to bring in mandatory dog licensing, complete with robust enforcement powers and administered at local authority level. Council believes that the purpose of new dog licensing is to promote better dog welfare, to prevent unethical dog-breeding, and to increase owner education and support. Council further calls on the Scottish Government to provide appropriate funding for the delivery of an effective licensing scheme.