Minutes of meeting
Renfrewshire Council · 15 December 2022
Back to Council — 15 December 2022 and its agenda
Text extracted from the council's PDF. Layout and reading order may differ from the original.
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Minute of Meeting Council Date Time Venue Thursday, 15 December 2022 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 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 Cameron, Convener, presided.
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In Attendance A Russell, Chief Executive; M Crearie, Director of Communities & Housing Services; G McNeil, Director of Environment & Infrastructure; A MacArthur, Director of Finance & Resources; L McIntyre, Head of Policy & Commissioning, L Mahon, Head of Marketing & Communications, A Morrison, Head of Economy & Development Services, B Walker, Programme Director (City Deal & Infrastructure), L Adamson, Communications & Public Affairs Manager and G Hunter, Chief Economic & Regeneration Officer (all Chief Executive’s); J Trainer, Head of Childcare & Criminal Justice (Children’s Services); M Conaghan, Head of Corporate Governance, M Boyd, Head of People & Organisational Development, C McCourt, Head of Finance & Business Services, P Murray, Head of Digital, Transformation & Customer Services, A Black, Managing Solicitor (DPO), L Belshaw and D Low, both Democratic Services Managers, G Dickie, Partnering & Commissioning Manager, A Roberts, End User Support Manager, D Pole, D Head and J Whitehead, all End User Technicians, E Currie, E Gray and P Shiach, all Senior Committee Services Officers and D Cunningham and J Barron, both Assistant Committee Services Officers (all Finance & Resources); C Laverty, Chief Officer (Renfrewshire Health & Social Care Partnership); and V Hollows, Chief Executive, F Naylor, Head of Finance & Corporate Services and J Doherty, Strategic Communications & Public Affairs Manager (all OneRen). 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. Apology Councillor G Graham. Declarations of Interest There were no declarations of interest intimated prior to the commencement of the meeting. Transparency Statements Councillor McMillan indicated that he had a connection to item 12 by reason of a family member being employed by BAE Systems. However, he indicated that he had applied the objective test and did not consider he had an interest to declare. Councillor Paterson indicated that he had a connection to item 12 by reason of a family member being employed by BAE Systems. However, he indicated that he had applied the objective test and did not consider he had an interest to declare.
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Additional Item Provost Cameron intimated that she had received notice of an emergency motion by Councillors Clark and Mullin which had not been included in the Notice calling the meeting. Provost Cameron ruled that in terms of Standing Order 14(b), the emergency motion be considered by the Council as a matter of urgency and be considered after item 20 of the agenda. Obituary The Provost referred to the recent death of Reverend Alan Birss who had served as minister at Paisley Abbey for more than 32 years. She asked those present to observe a minute's silence as a mark of respect. 1 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, 29 September 2022 Special Personnel Appeals and Applied Conditions of Service Appeals Panel, 6 October 2022 Communities and Housing Policy Board, 25 October 2022 Regulatory Functions Board, 26 October 2022 Special Personnel Appeals and Applied Conditions of Service Policy Board, 27 October 2022 Education and Children's Services Policy Board, 27 October 2022 Economy and Regeneration Policy Board, 1 November 2022 Planning and Climate Change Policy Board, 1 November 2022 Personnel Appeals and Applied Conditions of Service Appeals Panel, 3 November 2022 Special Education and Children's Services Policy Board, 7 November 2022 Petitions Board, 7 November 2022 Infrastructure, Land and Environment Policy Board, 9 November 2022 Regulatory Functions Board, 10 November 2022 Audit, Risk and Scrutiny Board, 14 November 2022 Local Review Body, 15 November 2022 Finance, Resources and Customer Services Policy Board, 17 November 2022 Special Council, 17 November 2022 Special Personnel Appeals and Applied Conditions of Service Appeals Panel, 22 November 2022 Special Personnel Appeals and Applied Conditions of Service Appeals Panel, 28 November 2022 Leadership Board, 30 November 2022 Special Regulatory Functions Board, 5 December 2022 Special Finance, Resources and Customer Services Policy Board, 13 December 202 Placing Requests and Exclusion Appeals Panel, 13 December 2022 DECIDED: That the Minutes be approved.
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2 Provost's Update The Provost provided an update in relation to the duties she had undertaken since the last meeting of the Council held on 29 September 2022. 3 Financial Sustainability and General Fund Financial Outlook Under reference to item 4 of the Minute of the meeting of the Council held on 29 September 2022, there was submitted a report by the Director of Finance & Resources providing an update on progress with workstreams and the current year financial position as cost pressures, largely driven by high levels of inflation and service demand, continued to build. The report outlined the scenario for the medium term financial position and the risks to this and highlighted the need for the Council to prioritise a range of measures to maintain financial sustainability in the short and medium term, and the use of financial flexibilities including the use of reserve balances to address a projected financial gap over the medium term including principles around of the use of reserve balances. DECIDED: (a) That the economic outlook provided the report be noted; (b) That the update provided in relation to the current financial year and the potential use of reserve balances - both in-year and over the medium term be noted; and (c) That the update provided in section 7 in relation to the net forecast financial position, and the importance of Council understanding that the use of reserve balances to support the Council’s financial position was a short term tool only be noted; and that the principles outlined in relation to the planned use of reserves be agreed. 4 A Prudential Framework for Capital Finance – Progress Report Under reference to item 3 of the Minute of the meeting of the Council held on 3 March 2022, there was submitted a progress report by the Director of Finance & Resources relative to the Council’s prudential indicators for 2022/23. The report outlined the key objectives of the Prudential Code, detailed the local position, as at 14 October 2022, and intimated that total capital expenditure was £36.639 million, of which £30.754 million related to non-housing and £5.876 million related to housing. It was noted that a review of the forecast capital spending for 2022/23 suggested that the indicators for the current year required to be revised and full details of the revisions required were detailed within the report. It was highlighted that indicators for 2023/24 and 2024/25 would be reviewed during March 2023, alongside the budget proposals. The report also detailed the decrease of £18.713 million in the planned non-housing capital expenditure during 2023/24 and the contributing factors; the factors considered in relation to the decrease of £8.488 million in the planned housing capital
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expenditure; outlined proposed revisions to the capital expenditure and capital financing requirement indicators; set out the position in relation to external debt indicators, loan fund advances, treasury management indicators, indicators for affordability and service concession flexibility. DECIDED: That the changes to the prudential indicators, as detailed in the report, be approved. 5 Right for Renfrewshire - Management Structures There was submitted a report by the Chief Executive seeking approval to implement a revised chief officer management arrangement for the Council which would, as part of the ongoing organisational recovery from the sustained period of the COVID-19 pandemic, support a renewed focus on the delivery of the Council’s strategic priorities as outlined in the recently approved Council Plan 2022/27. A copy of the proposed chief officer structures formed Appendix 1 to the report. The report advised that specifically, these changes would provide an improved focus on progressing the Council’s response to increasing challenges presented by the net zero agenda, as well as continuing plans to develop further the connected communities and tackling the inequality agenda across Renfrewshire; provide the right mix of skills and capacity at a senior management level; and represented a direct response to the ongoing financial challenges the Council would continue to face over the medium term by providing a further tranche of financial savings from the chief officer structure and would align with the management structure design principles developed as part of the Right for Renfrewshire programme. The revised structure would better support and complement a range of future service redesign and modernisation opportunities that had been identified as part of the ongoing Right for Renfrewshire programme. The report provided further detail in relation to the proposed chief officer structures; an overview of key strategic drivers; and an overview of the key changes. DECIDED: That the proposed chief officer structures, as detailed in Appendix 1 to the report, be approved and that authority be delegated to the Chief Executive to implement the new structures in consultation with the relevant conveners. 6 Governance Arrangements There was submitted a report by the Director of Finance & Resources setting out a number of Board nominations by the Labour Group to fill the vacancies created following the resignation of Councillor Hood from that group. The report also proposed additional terms of reference to the Finance, Resources & Customer Services Policy Board, as detailed in the report, in relation to the devolution from the Scottish Government to local authorities of empty property relief from 2023/24 onwards. It was noted that the terms of reference for all Boards had been agreed at the meeting of the Council held on 29 September 2022, however, the Provost was satisfied that the circumstances relevant to these additional terms of reference were not apparent at the time of that decision. DECIDED:
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(a) That the following Board nominations by the Labour Group be approved: Councillor McDonald would fill the vacancy on the Audit, Risk and Scrutiny Board; Councillor Davidson would fill the vacancy on the Communities and Housing Policy Board; Councillor McMillan would fill the vacancy on the Infrastructure, Land and Environment Policy Board; Councillor Ann-Dowling would fill the vacancy on the Planning and Climate Change Policy Board Councillor McDonald would fill the vacancy on the Regulatory Functions Board; and Councillor Montgomery would fill the vacancy on the Renfrewshire Valuation Joint Board; and (b) That the addition to the terms of reference of the Finance, Resources and Customer Services Policy Board as follows be approved: 35. To determine the operation and policies of any locally determined non-domestic rates scheme or reliefs in line with relevant legislation 36. To determine the operation and policies of any locally determined council tax schemes, discounts, or reductions in line with relevant legislation; and That the remaining paragraphs be renumbered accordingly. 7 2023 Review of UK Parliament Constituencies – Consultation on Revised Proposals There was submitted a report by the Chief Executive relative to consultation undertaken by the Boundary Commission for Scotland in respect of its Revised Proposals for the 2023 Review of UK Parliamentary constituencies. The report advised that the Boundary Commission for Scotland had published its Revised Proposals for the 2023 Review of UK Parliamentary constituencies and had invited comment on the proposals by 5 December 2022. The report intimated that Renfrewshire Council administered elections for two UK Parliament constituencies, Paisley and Renfrewshire North and Paisley and Renfrewshire South, and that in terms of the Commission’s Initial Proposals, Renfrewshire retained responsibility for two constituencies, however, both were different in several respects. A summary of the main changes proposed was provided. It was noted that an initial response had been issued by the Returning Officer and a copy of this response was appended to the report. The Commission had indicated that provided an initial response was submitted to them, they would be willing to accept a final response from the Council by 15 December 2022, once it had been considered at this Council meeting. After considering the responses to the consultation on the Revised Proposals, the Commission would develop its final recommendations and submit its report to Parliament by 1 July 2023.
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DECIDED: That the response issued by the Returning Officer be approved and adopted as a response on behalf of the Council to the Boundary Commission for Scotland’s 2023 Review of UK Parliament Constituencies – Publication of Revised Proposals, which formed the appendix to the report. Transparency Statement During consideration of the immediately following item of business Councillor M MacLaren indicated that she had a connection to item 8 by reason of her having been directly impacted by the changes to state pension laws. However, she indicated that she had applied the objective test and did not consider she had an interest to declare. 8 Notice of Motion 1 by Councillors Ann-Dowling and Davidson There was submitted a Notice of Motion by Councillors Ann-Dowling and Davidson in the following terms: “Women Against State Pension Injustice (WASPI) This council is disappointed in what it sees as the Conservative Government's inaction to end the injustice experienced by Renfrewshire women affected by the changes to state pension laws. Council notes the campaign of the Women Against State Pension Injustice (WASPI) group together with similar campaign groups, to achieve fair and fast compensation arrangements for all women who were born in the 1950s and were affected by these changes to the state pension age. Council calls for the UK Government to accept the reported findings of the Parliamentary and Health Service Ombudsman that 1950s-born women have been severely affected by Department for Work and Pensions maladministration, to take the swift action that many believe is needed to provide the recommended level of compensation to the women, and to compensate beneficiaries of the estates of those who are deceased and failed to receive a pension.” Councillor Ann-Dowling, seconded by Councillor Davidson, then moved the motion. Councillor Leishman, seconded by Councillor N Graham, moved as an amendment that this Council acknowledges that the UK Government cannot act upon recommendations by the Parliamentary and Health Service Ombudsman (PHSO) until those recommendations have actually been made. To date, the PHSO has only concluded Stages 1 and 2 of its investigation; the third and concluding stage of its investigation, in which it will announce its recommendations, is expected to be made within the first three months of 2023. The PHSO has not found against the 1995 Act of Parliament which harmonised state retirement age for men and women, nor does it have the power to do so. The PHSO identified that in 1995 the DWP communicated the implications of the Act correctly and promptly. The PHSO identified that the DWP’s maladministration occurred in 2005 and 2006. This Council notes that in 2005 and 2006 the UK was led by a Labour Government.
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That this Council concedes that the presumption that the UK Government will not acknowledge or act upon the recommendations of the PHSO is both premature and unfair. The current Conservative UK Government can only act upon recommendations when the PHSO publishes them. On the roll being called, the following members voted for the amendment: Councillors N Graham, Gray, Leishman, J MacLaren and McGonigle. The following members voted for the motion: Councillors Adam, Airlie-Nicolson, Ann- Dowling, Burns, J Cameron, Provost L Cameron, Councillors Campbell, Clark, Davidson, Devine, Andy Doig, Audrey Doig, Gilmour, Grady, 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. 5 members having voted for the amendment and 37 members having voted for the motion, the motion was accordingly declared carried. DECIDED: This council is disappointed in what it sees as the Conservative Government's inaction to end the injustice experienced by Renfrewshire women affected by the changes to state pension laws. Council notes the campaign of the Women Against State Pension Injustice (WASPI) group together with similar campaign groups, to achieve fair and fast compensation arrangements for all women who were born in the 1950s and were affected by these changes to the state pension age; and Council calls for the UK Government to accept the reported findings of the Parliamentary and Health Service Ombudsman that 1950s-born women have been severely affected by Department for Work and Pensions maladministration, to take the swift action that many believe is needed to provide the recommended level of compensation to the women, and to compensate beneficiaries of the estates of those who are deceased and failed to receive a pension. Adjournment The meeting adjourned at 11.15 am and reconvened at 11.30 am. 9 Notice of Motion 2 by Councillors Ann-Dowling and J Cameron There was submitted a Notice of Motion by Councillors Ann-Dowling and J Cameron in the following terms: “Women, Life, Freedom Council notes that women and girls in Iran are facing lethal levels of violence, perpetuated against them by Islamic Republic security forces. Council condemns the atrocities committed against women and girls in Iran and stands in solidarity with their legitimate desire for autonomy and freedom of expression.
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Council agrees to write to the UN Women's Rights Commission to request that Iran is removed from its membership, as a gesture of solidarity and to signal that the international community stands with Iranian women and girls defending their human rights against the Iranian regime.” Councillor Ann-Dowling, seconded by Councillor J Cameron, then moved the motion. Councillor McMillan, seconded by Councillor Hughes, moved as a first amendment: Remove the last paragraph and replace with: Council agrees to write to the UN Women’s Rights Commission to express support for the decision to remove Iran from its membership, as a gesture of solidarity and to signal that the international community stands with Iranian women and girls defending their human right against the Iranian regime. Councillor Leishman, seconded by Councillor N Graham, moved as a second amendment: That this Council supports passionately this motion and is outraged and horrified by the abuses perpetrated against women and girls by the Islamic Republic of Iran. That this Council agrees to write similarly to the United Nations Human Rights Council (UNHRC) to condemn in equally strong terms the Islamic Republic’s treatment of homosexual persons within its borders. Iran has arguably the worst record against women’s and gay rights of any nation in the world. Since the Iranian Revolution in 1979 it is estimated that over 200,00 homosexuals have been executed by the Islamic Republic – for being homosexual; and that tens of thousands more are compelled by the state to undergo sex-reassignment surgery. That this additional letter by this Council should state its confirmed belief that a modern nation with such practices against women and homosexuals should receive unequivocal condemnation from the United Nations Human Rights Council. Councillors Leishman and Graham confirmed that the first paragraph of their amendment should be deleted as it was repetition and further that the figure in their amendment should be 200,000 and not 200,00 as stated. In terms of Standing Order 27, Councillors Ann-Dowling and J Cameron, being the mover and seconder of the motion, accepted the first amendment and also accepted the second and third paragraphs of the second amendment as an addition to the motion. The motion, as amended by the two amendments, was agreed unanimously. DECIDED: Council notes that women and girls in Iran are facing lethal levels of violence, perpetuated against them by Islamic Republic security forces; Council condemns the atrocities committed against women and girls in Iran and stands in solidarity with their legitimate desire for autonomy and freedom of expression; Council agrees to write to the UN Women’s Rights Commission to express support for the decision to remove Iran from its membership, as a gesture of solidarity and to signal that the international community stands with Iranian women and girls defending their human right against the Iranian regime;
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That this Council agrees to write similarly to the United Nations Human Rights Council (UNHRC) to condemn in equally strong terms the Islamic Republic’s treatment of homosexual persons within its borders. Iran has arguably the worst record against women’s and gay rights of any nation in the world. Since the Iranian Revolution in 1979 it is estimated that over 200,000 homosexuals have been executed by the Islamic Republic – for being homosexual; and that tens of thousands more are compelled by the state to undergo sex-reassignment surgery; and That this additional letter by this Council should state its confirmed belief that a modern nation with such practices against women and homosexuals should receive unequivocal condemnation from the United Nations Human Rights Council. 10 Notice of Motion 3 by Councillors Smith and MacFarlane There was submitted a Notice of Motion by Councillors Smith and MacFarlane in the following terms: "St Charles’ RC Church- 125th Anniversary Renfrewshire Council congratulates St. Charles’ Roman Catholic Church, Paisley, on the 125th anniversary of the parish, founded on the 4th of November 1897. Now in its 13th decade, the parish continues to serve the wider community in Charleston and beyond. Under the leadership of the parish priest, Fr Jim Duggan, St. Charles’ continues to be a vibrant, multicultural community and the Council expresses its gratitude for the parish’s commitment to serving and supporting the people of Charleston and Paisley." Councillor Smith, seconded by Councillor MacFarlane, then moved the motion which was agreed unanimously. DECIDED: That Renfrewshire Council congratulates St. Charles’ Roman Catholic Church, Paisley, on the 125th anniversary of the parish, founded on the 4th of November 1897. Now in its 13th decade, the parish continues to serve the wider community in Charleston and beyond. Under the leadership of the parish priest, Father Jim Duggan, St. Charles’ continues to be a vibrant, multicultural community and the Council expresses its gratitude for the parish’s commitment to serving and supporting the people of Charleston and Paisley. 11 Notice of Motion 4 by Councillors McMillan and Davidson There was submitted a Notice of Motion by Councillors McMillan and Davidson in the following terms: "GP Practices Council understands the frustration being felt by local communities who are finding it difficult to access local G.P. services. Council therefore agrees to write to the Health Secretary to ask that more be done by the Scottish government to restore people’s confidence in their local practices."
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Councillor McMillan, seconded by Councillor Davidson, then moved the motion which was agreed unanimously. DECIDED: Council understands the frustration being felt by local communities who are finding it difficult to access local G.P. services; and Council therefore agrees to write to the Health Secretary to ask that more be done by the Scottish government to restore people’s confidence in their local practices. 12 Notice of Motion 5 by Councillors McMillan and Gilmour There was submitted a Notice of Motion by Councillors McMillan and Gilmour in the following terms: "Type 26 Frigates Renfrewshire Council welcomes the recent announcement that five more Type 26 frigates are to be built on the Clyde. This will support 1700 jobs across the Govan and Scotstoun shipyards over the next decade. Council recognises that many of these jobs are held by Renfrewshire residents. Council notes that these jobs are a result of Scotland being part of the United Kingdom." Councillor McMillan, seconded by Councillor Gilmour, then moved the motion. Councillor Andy Doig, seconded by Councillor Paterson, moved as an amendment: Delete all after “Renfrewshire residents”, and add “Council believes that Scotland needs suitable conventional defences, against the backdrop of growing international uncertainty, and that these should be commensurate with its geopolitical situation. Council further resolves that such forces should only be used for defensive purposes except within the context of UN multilateral action.” On the roll being called, the following members voted for the amendment: Councillors Adam, Airlie-Nicolson, Burns, J Cameron, Provost L Cameron, Councillors Campbell, Andy Doig, Audrey Doig, Hannigan, Hughes, Innes, MacFarlane, K MacLaren, M MacLaren, McEwan, McGurk, McNaughtan, Mylet, Nicolson, Paterson, Rodden, Shaw and Steel. The following members voted for the motion: Councillors Ann-Dowling, Clark, Davidson, Devine, Gilmour, Grady, N Graham, Gray, Hood, Leishman, J MacLaren, McCulloch, McDonald, McGonigle, McGuire, McMillan, Montgomery, Mullin and Smith. 23 members having voted for the amendment and 19 members having voted for the motion, the amendment was accordingly declared carried.
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DECIDED: Renfrewshire Council welcomes the recent announcement that five more Type 26 frigates are to be built on the Clyde; This will support 1700 jobs across the Govan and Scotstoun shipyards over the next decade. Council recognises that many of these jobs are held by Renfrewshire residents; and Council believes that Scotland needs suitable conventional defences, against the backdrop of growing international uncertainty, and that these should be commensurate with its geopolitical situation. Council further resolves that such forces should only be used for defensive purposes except within the context of UN multilateral action. Adjournment The meeting adjourned at 12.45 pm and reconvened at 12.55 pm. 13 Notice of Motion 6 by Councillors Leishman and N Graham There was submitted a Notice of Motion by Councillors Leishman and N Graham in the following terms: "Gender Recognition Reform (Scotland) Bill That Renfrewshire Council opposes the proposed new laws of the Gender Recognition Reform (Scotland) Bill currently supported by the Scottish Government. That this Council recognises that the Bill’s current proposals, while probably well- intentioned, will have ill consequences for the greater part of the broader population. That this Council is gravely concerned about the impact this Bill in its current form would have on the safety, well-being and welfare of other groups within society that already experience marginalisation and unique challenges, specifically: women and girls; homosexuals, particularly young homosexuals and gay women; children; young persons; adolescents with Autistic Spectrum Disorder, learning difficulties/ disabilities or mental health issues; and post-operative transsexuals. That this Council agrees that the protection of children, young persons and vulnerable persons is of paramount importance; and that they should be encouraged to consider long and carefully before committing to legal, pharmacological and surgical interventions that are life-altering, permanent and risk-prone; and that safeguards should be in place to discourage succumbing to socio-cultural contagions. That this Council agrees that the negation or diminishment of the hardwon sex-based rights of women and girls is both wrongful and alarming. That this Council agrees the rights of young persons and adolescents to experience healthy sexual and psychological development is selfevident and indisputable. That this Council agrees that young gay persons should be encouraged to embrace and feel comfortable with their sexual orientation without their gender-identity being questioned.
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That this Council agrees to communicate its concerns and opposition directly to the Scottish Government." Councillor Leishman, seconded by Councillor N Graham, then moved the motion. Councillor Hughes, seconded by Councillor Innes, moved as an amendment: Delete all and replace with: Renfrewshire Council supports the proposed new laws of the Gender Recognition Reform Bill which is supported by the Scottish government, a majority of MSPs in Scottish parliament including members of all parties, and by a majority of the Scottish population. The bill is currently at stage 3 in parliament and proposes to change the process by which people can apply for legal recognition in their acquired gender. Renfrewshire Council agrees that the change of process to a more dignified civil route of officially changing gender will reduce recurring trauma for transgender people and allow them to live in their own identity. On the roll being called, the following members voted for the amendment: Councillors Adams, Airlie-Nicolson, Burns, J Cameron, Provost L Cameron, Councillors 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, Davidson, Devine, Andy Doig, Gilmour, Grady, N Graham, Gray, Hood, Leishman, J MacLaren, McDonald, McGonigle, McMillan and Mullin. The following members abstained: Councillors Clark, McCulloch, McGuire, Montgomery and Smith. 21 members having voted for the amendment, 15 members having voted for the motion and 5 members having abstained, the amendment was accordingly declared carried. DECIDED: Renfrewshire Council supports the proposed new laws of the Gender Recognition Reform Bill which is supported by the Scottish government, a majority of MSPs in Scottish parliament including members of all parties, and by a majority of the Scottish population; and The bill is currently at stage 3 in parliament and proposes to change the process by which people can apply for legal recognition in their acquired gender. Renfrewshire Council agrees that the change of process to a more dignified civil route of officially changing gender will reduce recurring trauma for transgender people and allow them to live in their own identity. 14 Notice of Motion 7 by Councillors G Graham and Smith There was submitted a Notice of Motion by Councillors G Graham and Smith which Provost L Cameron ruled was not competent in terms of Standing Order 19(c).
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Order of Business At this point in the meeting, Provost Cameron intimated that the Emergency Motion submitted by Councillors Clark and Mullin would be considered prior to consideration of item 15 of the agenda. 15 Emergency Motion by Councillors Clark and Mullin Councillor Clark, seconded by Councillor Mullin, moved an emergency motion in the following terms: “M&Co – Administration Renfrewshire Council is concerned to hear that a major employer in Renfrewshire, M&Co, has had to call in the administrators and commits to do all that it can to assist the company and staff at this time and calls on the Scottish Government to do the same.” The motion was agreed unanimously. The Provost proposed that an update on the situation be provided to members. This was agreed unanimously. DECIDED: That Renfrewshire Council is concerned to hear that a major employer in Renfrewshire, M&Co, has had to call in the administrators and commits to do all that it can to assist the company and staff at this time and calls on the Scottish Government to do the same; and That it be noted that an update on the situation would be provided to members. Sederunt Councillor Montgomery left the meeting during consideration of the following item of business. 16 Notice of Motion 8 by Councillors Andy Doig and Hannigan There was submitted a Notice of Motion by Councillors Andy Doig and Hannigan in the following terms: "Accessibility of UK National Energy Companies to Renfrewshire Consumers "Council deplores the lack of accessibility of all UK national energy companies to the consumers of Renfrewshire, a dire situation which over recent years has got increasingly worse over the current cost of living crisis. The inability to contact energy suppliers easily and quickly is a source of considerable mental ill-health and stress to the most vulnerable service users, especially those with pay as you go meters”.
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“Council believes the status quo actively discriminates against the less digitally and IT proficient, and those financially excluded from IT networks, and therefore calls on all UK national energy companies to use their excessive profits to re-establish a network of shop front energy hubs where consumers can obtain face to face advice and support”." Councillor Andy Doig, seconded by Councillor Hannigan, then moved the motion which was agreed unanimously. DECIDED: Council deplores the lack of accessibility of all UK national energy companies to the consumers of Renfrewshire, a dire situation which over recent years has got increasingly worse over the current cost of living crisis. The inability to contact energy suppliers easily and quickly is a source of considerable mental ill-health and stress to the most vulnerable service users, especially those with pay as you go meters; and Council believes the status quo actively discriminates against the less digitally and IT proficient, and those financially excluded from IT networks, and therefore calls on all UK national energy companies to use their excessive profits to re-establish a network of shop front energy hubs where consumers can obtain face to face advice and support. Order of Business Prior to consideration of the following item of business, Provost Cameron intimated that she intended to consider items 16 and 19 of the agenda together, with item 16 being taken as the motion and item 19 being taken as the amendment to item 16. Sederunt Councillor Adam left the meeting during consideration of the following item of business. 17 Notice of Motion 9 by Councillors Innes and MacFarlane There was submitted a Notice of Motion by Councillors Innes and MacFarlane in the following terms: "The UK Supreme Court Decision and Defending Scottish Democracy Council upholds the right of the Scottish people to national self-determination, as recognised in Part 1, Article 1, of the United Nations International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights, an international treaty which the UK signed in 1976. Council further notes that pro-independence parties won a majority of seats at the 2021 Scottish elections. Council deeply regrets, therefore, the recent decision by the UK Supreme Court to deny the Scottish Government the right to hold an independence referendum and believes this means that the UK is no longer a voluntary union of nations.
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As a majority pro-independence council, Renfrewshire Council therefore supports the right of political parties to contest national parliamentary elections on an independence mandate platform in defence of Scottish democracy." Councillor Innes, seconded by Councillor MacFarlane, then moved the motion. Councillor Ann-Dowling, seconded by Councillor McMillan, moved as an amendment: "Supreme Court Referendum Ruling Council notes that the Supreme Court unanimously ruled that matters relating to holding an independence referendum are outwith the legal remit of Scottish Parliament and Scottish Government. Council therefore requests that £20 million set aside by Scottish Government for a 2023 referendum should be directed to local government general funding settlements to support councils in alleviating the cost of living crisis." On the roll being called, the following members voted for the amendment: Councillors Ann-Dowling, Clark, Davidson, Devine, Gilmour, Grady, N Graham, Gray, Hood, Leishman, J MacLaren, McCulloch, McDonald, McGonigle, McGuire, McMillan, Mullin and Smith. The following members voted for the motion: Councillors Airlie-Nicolson, Burns, J Cameron, Provost L Cameron, Councillors Campbell, Andy Doig, Audrey Doig, Hughes, Innes, MacFarlane, K MacLaren, M MacLaren, McEwan, McGurk, McNaughtan, Mylet, Nicolson, Paterson, Rodden, Shaw and Steel. The following member abstained: Councillor Hannigan. 18 members having voted for the amendment, 21 members having voted for the motion and 1 member having abstained, the motion was accordingly declared carried. DECIDED: The UK Supreme Court Decision and Defending Scottish Democracy Council upholds the right of the Scottish people to national self-determination, as recognised in Part 1, Article 1, of the United Nations International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights, an international treaty which the UK signed in 1976; Council further notes that pro-independence parties won a majority of seats at the 2021 Scottish elections; Council deeply regrets, therefore, the recent decision by the UK Supreme Court to deny the Scottish Government the right to hold an independence referendum and believes this means that the UK is no longer a voluntary union of nations; and As a majority pro-independence council, Renfrewshire Council therefore supports the right of political parties to contest national parliamentary elections on an independence mandate platform in defence of Scottish democracy. Adjournment The meeting adjourned at 3.05 pm and reconvened at 3.15 pm.
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Sederunt Councillors Devine and McGuire were not in attendance when the meeting reconvened. 18 Notice of Motion 10 by Councillors Innes and McGurk There was submitted a Notice of Motion by Councillors Innes and McGurk in the following terms: "“Green spaces and play parks” That council welcomes the continued investment in improving our green 09/12/2022 spaces and play parks around Renfrewshire. Further, it welcomes the inclusion of local members, communities and schools in shaping these plans going forward. Council recognises the positive impact that enhancing our play parks and green spaces has on Renfrewshire residents’ health and well-being. Council recognises the recent park improvements at Dunvegan Avenue, Elderslie; Campbell Street, Renfrew; Ardgryffe Park, Houston; Churchill Drive, Bishopton; Crags Park, Paisley and Elm Drive, Johnstone. It also recognises the completed improvements to equipment at Kilbarchan Park, Kilbarchan; Sandyflats, Johnstone; Tinto Square, Renfrew; Lochwinnoch Park, Lochwinnoch; Barwood Park, Erskine; Maxwellton Park, East End Park, Durrockstock Park, Morar Drive, Ben Lawers Park, Paisley. Further welcomes the planned refurbishments to Moss Road Park, Bridge of Weir; Inchinnan Playing Fields, Inchinnan; and Houston Public Park, Houston." Councillor Innes, seconded by Councillor McGurk, then moved the motion which was agreed unanimously. DECIDED: That council welcomes the continued investment in improving our green 09/12/2022 spaces and play parks around Renfrewshire. Further, it welcomes the inclusion of local members, communities and schools in shaping these plans going forward. Council recognises the positive impact that enhancing our play parks and green spaces has on Renfrewshire residents’ health and well-being; and Council recognises the recent park improvements at Dunvegan Avenue, Elderslie; Campbell Street, Renfrew; Ardgryffe Park, Houston; Churchill Drive, Bishopton; Crags Park, Paisley and Elm Drive, Johnstone. It also recognises the completed improvements to equipment at Kilbarchan Park, Kilbarchan; Sandyflats, Johnstone; Tinto Square, Renfrew; Lochwinnoch Park, Lochwinnoch; Barwood Park, Erskine; Maxwellton Park, East End Park, Durrockstock Park, Morar Drive, Ben Lawers Park, Paisley. Further welcomes the planned refurbishments to Moss Road Park, Bridge of Weir; Inchinnan Playing Fields, Inchinnan; and Houston Public Park, Houston. 19 Notice of Motion 11 by Councillors J MacLaren and Leishman There was submitted a Notice of Motion by Councillors J MacLaren and Leishman in the following terms:
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"Bishopton Football Pitch Council agrees that it is good to encourage sport including football in Renfrewshire and recognises the size of the growing community in Bishopton and Dargavel, which has 17 adult and youth teams and 460 registered players. As the existing grassed football pitch is rendered unplayable for much of the winter due to it being water logged, council agrees to make the provision of a 3g or 4g pitch a priority for Bishopton and Dargavel." Councillor J MacLaren, seconded by Councillor Leishman, then moved the motion which was agreed unanimously. DECIDED: Council agrees that it is good to encourage sport including football in Renfrewshire and recognises the size of the growing community in Bishopton and Dargavel, which has 17 adult and youth teams and 460 registered players; and As the existing grassed football pitch is rendered unplayable for much of the winter due to it being water logged, council agrees to make the provision of a 3g or 4g pitch a priority for Bishopton and Dargavel. 20 Notice of Motion 13 by Councillors J MacLaren and Gray There was submitted a Notice of Motion by Councillors J MacLaren and Gray in the following terms: "Cycle Paths Motion Council is pleased to promote cycling for a healthy lifestyle and recognises that cycle paths need to be kept clean if cyclists are going to use them without risk of punctures. Council agrees that council owned cycle paths be swept on a frequent and regular basis." Councillor J MacLaren, seconded by Councillor Gray, then moved the motion which was agreed unanimously. DECIDED: That Council is pleased to promote cycling for a healthy lifestyle and recognises that cycle paths need to be kept clean if cyclists are going to use them without risk of punctures. Council agrees that council owned cycle paths be swept on a frequent and regular basis.