Provost Cameron presided.

S Black, Chief Executive; P MacLeod, Director of Children’s Services; M Crearie, Director of Communities, Housing & Planning Services; G McNeil, Director of Environment & Infrastructure; A Russell, Director of Finance & Resources; L McIntyre, Head of Policy & Commissioning and L Mahon, Head of Marketing & Communications (both Chief Executive’s Service); S Quinn, Assistant Director–Schools and J Trainer, Head of Child Care and Criminal Justice (both Children’s Services); C Dalrymple, Regulatory & Enforcement Manager (Communities, Housing & Planning Services); C Hunter, Environmental Improvements Manager (Environment & Infrastructure); K Graham, Head of Corporate Governance, A MacArthur, Head of Finance, M Conaghan, Legal & Democratic Services Manager, L Belshaw, Democratic Services Manager, K Locke, Risk Manager and R Devine, Senior Committee Services Officer (all Finance & Resources); V Hollows, Chief Executive and F Naylor, Business Planning & Finance Manager (Renfrewshire Leisure Limited); and D Leese, Chief Officer and P McCulloch, Acting Head of Health and Social Care (Paisley) (both Renfrewshire Health & Social Care Partnership).

Councillor Mackay.

Councillors Devine and Hood intimated that they wished to table two emergency motions which had not been included in the notice calling the meeting and they requested that these be taken as additional items.

Provost Cameron ruled, in terms of Standing Order 14, that as there were no special circumstances which required the items to be considered at the meeting as a matter of urgency, the motions would not be taken up as additional items of business.

Councillor Mack entered the meeting during consideration of the following item of business.

The meeting adjourned at 10.05am and reconvened at 10.25am.

The meeting adjourned at 11.20am and reconvened at 11.30am.

When the meeting re-convened Councillors Binks, McCartin and Shaw were not present but entered the meeting during consideration of the following item.

Councillor Mack left the meeting during consideration of this item.

Councillor Mack re-entered the meeting prior to consideration of the following item of business.

K MacLaren left the meeting prior to consideration of the following item of business.

Councillor K MacLaren re-entered the meeting prior to consideration of the following item of business.

Councillors Audrey Doig and Andy Doig having previously declared a financial interest in the following item of business left the meeting and took no part in the discussion or voting thereon. 

Councillors Hughes, McCartin and Begg having previously declared an interest in the following item of business and having a general dispensation from the Standards Commission which allowed them to take part and to vote in relation to such matters, remained in the meeting.

Councillors Audrey Doig and Andy Doig re-entered the meeting prior to consideration of the following item of business.

Councillor McCartin left the meeting prior to consideration of the following item of business.

Councillor Audrey Doig declared a financial interest in respect of item 20 of the agenda (Notice of Motion 12) as she was an employee of Renfrewshire Leisure Limited. She indicated that it was her intention to leave the meeting during consideration of this item and not to take part in any discussion or voting thereon. 

Councillor Andy Doig declared a financial interest in respect of Item 20 of the agenda (Notice of Motion 12) as he was the husband of an employee of Renfrewshire Leisure Limited. He indicated that it was his intention to leave the meeting during consideration of this item and not to take part in any discussion or voting thereon. 

Councillor Hughes declared a non-financial interest in respect of Item 20 of the agenda (Notice of Motion 12) as she was Chair of the Board of Renfrewshire Leisure Limited. Councillor Hughes indicated that as she had a general dispensation from the Standards Commission which allowed her to take part and to vote in relation to such matters it was her intention to remain in the meeting during consideration of this item. 

Councillor McCartin declared a non-financial interest in respect of Item 20 of the agenda (Notice of Motion 12) as she was a member of the Board of Renfrewshire Leisure Limited. Councillor McCartin indicated that as she had a general dispensation from the Standards Commission which allowed her to take part and to vote in relation to such matters it was her intention to remain in the meeting during consideration of this item. 

Councillor Begg declared a non-financial interest in respect of Item 20 of the agenda (Notice of Motion 12) as he was a member of the Board of Renfrewshire Leisure Limited. Councillor Begg indicated that as he had a general dispensation from the Standards Commission which allowed him to take part and to vote in relation to such matters it was his intention to remain in the meeting during consideration of this item.

There were submitted the Minutes of the following meetings of the Council, Boards and Panels on the dates specified:

Council, 27 September 2018 
Council, special meeting, 27 September 2018 
Appointment Board, 4 October 2018 
Appointment Board, 23 October 2018 
Appointment Board, 25 October 2018 
Communities, Housing and Planning Policy Board, 30 October 2018 
Regulatory Functions Board, 31 October 2018 
Education and Children's Services Policy Board, 1 November 2018 
Audit, Risk and Scrutiny Board, 5 November 2018
Infrastructure, Land and Environment Policy Board, 7 November 2018
Placing Requests and Exclusions Appeals Panel, 8 November 2018 
Finance, Resources and Customer Services Policy Board, 14 November 2018
Regulatory Functions Board, 15 November 2018 
Local Review Body, 20 November 2018
Regulatory Functions Board, special meeting, 29 November 2018 
Leadership Board, 5 December 2018

DECIDED: That the Minutes be approved.

There was submitted a progress report by the Director of Finance & Resources relative to the Council’s prudential indicators for 2018/19. 

The report outlined the key objectives of the Prudential Code, detailed the Renfrewshire position as at 12 October 2018, relative to fulfilment of the objectives and intimated that total capital expenditure was £23.477 million, of which £18.812 million related to Non-Housing and £4.665 million related to Housing. A review of the updated capital spending plan for 2018/19 suggested that the indicators required to be revised for the current year, the details of which were contained within the report.  It was highlighted that indicators for 2019/20 and 2020/21 would be reviewed during February 2019, together with the budget proposals. 

The report set out the proposed net decrease of £1.459 million in the planned Non-Housing capital expenditure during 2016/17 and the factors which had contributed to this decrease; the factors considered in relation to the proposed increase of £0.288 million in the planned Housing capital expenditure; outlined proposed revisions to the capital expenditure and capital financing requirement indicators and the indicators for affordability and detailed considerations in relation to the future review of the external debt and treasury management indicators. 

DECIDED: That the changes to the prudential indicators, as detailed in the report, be approved and that the report be otherwise noted.

There was submitted a report by the Chief Executive relative to the appointment of the Council Director to Paisley Museum Reimagined Limited and seeking delegated authority for the Chief Executive, in consultation with the Leader of the Council, to take urgent decisions and actions relating to the oversight and control of the company by the Council as its sole member where, in the opinion of both the Chief Executive and the Leader of the Council, a decision or action required to be taken as a matter of urgency.

At the meeting of the Leadership Board held on 19 September 2018 authority was delegated to the Chief Executive to complete the necessary actions to facilitate the establishment of an independent company limited by guarantee to direct the fundraising strategy and Capital Appeal Campaign.  

The report advised that the company, Paisley Museum Reimagined Limited, was currently being incorporated and proposed that the Leadership Board had responsibility for oversight and determination of matters relating to the company. 

Councillor Paterson, seconded by Councillor McEwan, moved that Councillor Nicolson be appointed as the Council Director on the Board of Paisley Museum Reimagined Limited.  This was agreed.

DECIDED:

(a) That the appointment of Councillor Nicolson as the Council Director on the Board of Paisley Museum Reimagined Limited be approved;

(b) That it be agreed that the terms of reference of the Leadership Board include the provision of oversight of and determination of matters concerning the company;

(c) That the Chief Executive be authorised, in consultation with the Leader of the Council, to make decisions on the Council’s behalf in relation to the functions of the company where, in the opinion of both the Chief Executive and the Leader of the Council, a decision or action required to be taken as a matter of urgency; and

(d) That it be agreed that where the delegation referred to above was used a report be submitted to the next available meeting of the Leadership Board providing details of the decision taken and also providing an explanation as to why the use of delegated powers was considered necessary.

Under reference to item 14 of the Minute of the meeting of the Council held on 28 June 2018, there was submitted a report by the Director of Children’s Services relative to the provision of playscheme services to Additional Support Needs (ASN) children in Renfrewshire following the withdrawal of the Capability Scotland service and noting that progress had been made to maintain the service.  Council had agreed a continuance of the service and that a detailed report be submitted to the Council for consideration.   

The report summarised the background to the withdrawal of the Capability Scotland ‘day care’ service, the replacement service delivered by the Council, feedback from the parents of service users to the Council ASN Playscheme, challenges in continuing to deliver this service and how these were being addressed.  A copy of the inspection report, prepared following the visit during summer 2018 by the Care Inspectorate was appended to the report.  In addition the report highlighted how children with ASN who attended mainstream schools or Mary Russell school could access activities during school holiday periods.

DECIDED:

(a)  That the continued provision of the Renfrewshire ASN Playscheme for children who attended Riverbrae School and the bases at St. Anthony’s and St. Paul’s be noted; 

(b)  That the progress of the parent/Children’s Services working group be noted; and

(c)  That the opportunities available for children who attended Mary Russell School or mainstream schools be noted.

Under reference to item 33 of the Minute of the meeting of Council held on 27 September 2018, there was submitted a report by the Director of Children’s Services relative to the motion approved at the meeting of Renfrewshire Council held on 29 September 2016 that the Council would work closely with the Time for Inclusive Education campaign, the Scottish Government, and equalities organisations to ensure that homophobic bullying in Renfrewshire schools was effectively tackled and that Renfrewshire’s classrooms actively promoted equality and inclusivity for young people with LGBTI identities.

The report outlined the approaches taken within Renfrewshire’s schools to support those with Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Queer/Questioning, Intersex, Asexual (LGBTQIA) identities and to promote positive relationships and inclusivity.

The report intimated that, during November 2018, the Deputy First Minister had announced that all 33 recommendations of the LGBTI Inclusive Education Working Group would be implemented.  The Scottish Government would support all state schools to teach LGBTI inclusion and equality across different age groups and subjects.  The report stated that the Working Group would be re-established as an Implementation Group and Children’s Services would monitor guidance as it emerged.

DECIDED:  

(a) That the ongoing work in Renfrewshire schools to promote and celebrate inclusivity in relation to sexual orientation and gender identity be noted; and

(b) That the announcement by the Scottish Government with regard to LGBTQIA in education be noted.

There was submitted a report by the Chief Executive relative to the appointment of Councillor Jacqueline Cameron as the Chair to Renfrewshire Alcohol and Drugs Commission and an amendment to the list of public holidays for 2019 to reflect that the autumn 2019 public holidays fell on 27 and 30 September 2019.

The report advised that a number of concerns in relation to the impact of drug and alcohol misuse in Renfrewshire had been identified during the development of the Community Plan 2017 and it had been agreed to explore potential options for partnership working to improve associated life outcomes for local people. In this connection it was proposed to establish an Alcohol and Drugs Commission in Renfrewshire.  The aims and composition of the Commission were outlined.  Given her roles as Vice Chair of the Renfrewshire Health and Social Care Integration Joint Board and Convener of the Member Officer Group: Public Protection it was proposed that Councillor Jacqueline Cameron be appointed as Chair of the Commission.

The report also stated that the dates listed for autumn public holidays in 2019, approved at the meeting of the Finance, Resources & Customer Services Policy Board held on 5 September 2019 were not correct and proposed that the list be amended to show the correct dates of 27 and 30 September 2019.

DECIDED:  

(a) That the appointment of Councillor Jacqueline Cameron as the Chair of the Renfrewshire Alcohol and Drugs Commission, as set out in paragraph 3.3 of the report, be agreed; and

(b) That the list of public holidays for 2019 be amended to show that the autumn 2019 public holidays fell on Friday 27 and Monday 30 September 2019.

Under reference to item 7 of the Minute of the Meeting of the Audit, Risk & Scrutiny Board held on 25 September 2018, there was submitted a report by the Lead Officer relative to the review of fly-tipping in the countryside and at known fly-tipping spots. 

The report stated that the Audit, Risk & Scrutiny Board at its meeting held on 28 August 2017 as part of the annual programme of activity for 2017/18 had agreed to undertake a review into fly-tipping in the countryside and at known fly-tipping spots.  The aim and scope of the review were detailed.  At the meeting of the Audit, Risk & Scrutiny Board held on 25 September 2018, the Board had considered the final report which summarised the evidence, findings and recommendations of the review and agreed that it be submitted to a future meeting of the Council for consideration. 

DECIDED: That the findings of the final report on the review of fly-tipping in the countryside and at known fly-tipping spots, approved at the meeting of the Audit, Scrutiny and Petitions Board held on 25 September 2018, be noted and that the recommendations contained therein be approved.

(b) That the overall conclusion of the final report, that delivery of the repairs service within Renfrewshire Council by Building Services and its external contractors was operating satisfactorily, be noted; and

There was submitted a Notice of Motion by Councillors Sharkey and Brown in the following terms:

"The International Fair Trade Charter

This Council endorses and adopts the attached International Fair Trade Charter (see attached).”

Councillor Sharkey, seconded by Councillor Brown, then moved the motion.

Councillor Begg, seconded by Councillor J MacLaren, moved as an amendment: 

“This Council wishes to accept the International Fair Trade Charter but not before the Fair Trade Steering Group based in the Council has had the opportunity to review and discuss it.  Furthermore, the officers of this Council should be given the same courtesy and time to comment on the implications prior to such a motion being resubmitted.”

 

In terms of Standing Order 27, Councillors Sharkey and Brown, being the mover and seconder of the motion, agreed the amendment to the motion. The amendment was agreed unanimously.

DECIDED: That it be noted that Council wished to accept the International Fair Trade Charter but not before the Fair Trade Steering Group, based within the Council, had the opportunity to review and discuss it.  Furthermore, the officers of the Council should be given the same courtesy and time to comment on the implications prior to such a motion being re-submitted.

There was submitted a Notice of Motion by Councillors Audrey Doig and Paterson in the following terms:

"Renfrewshire Council is an active member of the Nuclear Free Local Authorities Scotland Forum, and a member of the Hiroshima-led Mayors for Peace; both of which have been working for over 3 decades to promote multilateral nuclear disarmament.

NFLA and Mayors for Peace work with the International Campaign to Abolish Nuclear Weapons (ICAN), which received the Nobel Peace Prize in 2017 for its work in encouraging over two thirds of United Nations members to agree to the International Treaty to Prohibit Nuclear Weapons (TPNW).  Council regrets that the Governments of the existing nuclear weapon states, including the UK, refuse to support the Treaty.  Council fully supports the TPNW as one of the most effective ways to bring about long-term and verifiable multilateral nuclear disarmament.

Council calls on the United Kingdom Government to lead a global effort to prevent nuclear war by:

Renouncing the option of using nuclear weapons first; 
Cancelling the plan to replace its entire Trident nuclear arsenal with enhanced weapons; 
Actively pursuing a verifiable agreement among nuclear-armed states to eliminate their nuclear arsenals by supporting the Treaty to Prohibit Nuclear Weapons and the 'Good Faith' Protocols within the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty.

The Council will ask the Chief Executive to write to the UK Government to inform them of this resolution and urge them to take account of it."

Councillor Audrey Doig, seconded by Councillor Paterson, then moved the motion.

Councillor Graham, seconded by Councillor McIntyre, moved as an amendment: 

“This Council is committed to the long term goal of a world without nuclear weapons.  This Council requests that the UK Government continues to work with partners across the international community to press for key steps towards multilateral disarmament, including the entry into force of the Comprehensive Nuclear Test Ban Treaty and successful negotiations on a Fissile Material Cut-Off Treaty in the conference on Disarmament.”

On the roll being called, the following members voted for the amendment: Councillors Begg, Binks, Graham, Kerr, J MacLaren, McIntyre and Strang.

The following members voted for the motion: Councillors Adam-McGregor, Bibby, Brown, Burns, J Cameron, Provost L Cameron, Councillors Campbell, Davidson, Devine, Andy Doig, Audrey Doig, Don, Grady, Harte, Hood, Hughes, Kennedy, Mack, K MacLaren, M MacLaren, McCartin, McCulloch, McEwan, McGurk, McNaughtan, Montgomery, Mylet, Nicolson, Paterson, Rodden, Sharkey, Shaw, Sheridan and Steel. 

The following member abstained: Councillor Dowling.

7 members having voted for the amendment, 34 members having voted for the motion and 1 member having abstained, the motion was accordingly declared carried.

DECIDED: 

(a)  That it be noted that Renfrewshire Council was an active member of the Nuclear Free Local Authorities Scotland Forum (NFLA) and a member of the Hiroshima-led Mayors for Peace; both of which had been working for over 3 decades to promote multilateral nuclear disarmament;

(b)  That it be noted that NFLA and Mayors for Peace worked with the International Campaign to Abolish Nuclear Weapons (ICAN), which had received the Nobel Peace Prize in 2017 for its work in encouraging over two thirds of United Nations members to agree to the International Treaty to Prohibit Nuclear Weapons (TPNW);

(c)  That Council regrets that the Governments of the existing nuclear weapon states, including the UK, refused to support the Treaty and fully supported the TPNW as one of the most effective ways to bring about long-term and verifiable multilateral nuclear disarmament;

(d)  That Council calls on the United Kingdom Government to lead a global effort to prevent nuclear war by:

Renouncing the option of using nuclear weapons first; 
Cancelling the plan to replace its entire Trident nuclear arsenal with enhanced weapons; 
Actively pursuing a verifiable agreement among nuclear-armed states to eliminate their nuclear arsenals by supporting the Treaty to Prohibit Nuclear Weapons and the 'Good Faith' Protocols within the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty; and

(e)  That the Chief Executive write to the UK Government to inform of this resolution and urge it to take account of the decision.

There was submitted a Notice of Motion by Councillors McCartin and Mack in the following terms:

"Brexit

Brexit is expected to have significant economic and demographic consequences for Renfrewshire depending on any terms agreed, there will be a loss of access to markets and labour predicted to negatively affect the economy.

Accordingly, Renfrewshire Council supports the holding of a further referendum to give the UK public the final say on any terms agreed for Brexit, that referendum to include the option of the UK remaining in the EU.

Council notes that the Scottish Parliament has agreed “to providing unequivocal support for a public vote on the final terms of the Brexit deal.”” 

In terms of Standing Order 27, Councillors McCartin and Mack, being the mover and seconder of the motion, agreed a proposal by Councillor Paterson, that the words “and COSLA” be inserted after Scottish Parliament in the final paragraph. Councillor McCartin, seconded by Councillor Mack, then moved the motion as amended.

Councillor Sharkey, seconded by Councillor Devine, moved as a first amendment:

“That this Council agrees with the premise of the Motion but seeks clarity of the current Scottish Government’s contradictory position of seeking separation from the largest economic market, i.e. the UK on the basis of self-determination, but seeks binding partnership within the EU.  This Council therefore supports the call for an early General Election in order that the electorate can make an informed decision.” 

Councillor J MacLaren, seconded by Councillor Graham, moved as a second amendment:

“The UK public voted to leave and the Government has done its best to bring this about.  It is for the elected politicians to argue the detail and not to go back to the public for another vote. You can’t go back and re-run elections or referenda just because you don’t like the result.

Renfrewshire Council does not support the holding of a further referendum on leaving Europe, nor does this council agree to a further referendum on the independence for Scotland.”

On the roll being called between the motion as amended and the first amendment, the following members voted for the first amendment: Councillors Bibby, Brown, Davidson, Devine, Andy Doig, Dowling, Grady, Harte, Hood, Kennedy, McCulloch, Montgomery, Sharkey and Sheridan.

The following members voted for the motion: Councillors Adam-McGregor, Burns, J Cameron, Provost L Cameron, Councillors Campbell, Audrey Doig, Don, Hughes, Mack, K MacLaren, M MacLaren, McCartin, McEwan, McGurk, McNaughtan, Mylet, Nicolson, Paterson, Rodden, Shaw and Steel. 

The following members abstained: Councillors Begg, Binks, Graham, Kerr, J MacLaren, McIntyre and Strang.

14 members having voted for the first amendment, 21 members having voted for the motion and 7 members having abstained, a vote was then taken between the motion and second amendment.

On the roll being called between the motion and the second amendment, the following members voted for the second amendment: Councillors Begg, Binks, Graham, Kerr, J MacLaren, McIntyre and Strang.
 
The following members voted for the motion: Councillors Adam-McGregor, Burns, J Cameron, Provost L Cameron, Councillors Campbell, Audrey Doig, Don, Hughes, Mack, K MacLaren, M MacLaren, McCartin, McEwan, McGurk, McNaughtan, Mylet, Nicolson, Paterson, Rodden, Shaw and Steel. 

The following members abstained: Councillors Bibby, Brown, Davidson, Devine, Andy Doig, Dowling, Grady, Harte, Hood, Kennedy, McCulloch, Montgomery, Sharkey and Sheridan.

7 members having voted for the second amendment, 21 members having voted for the motion and 14 members having abstained, the motion as amended was accordingly declared carried.

DECIDED: 

(a) That it be noted that Brexit was expected to have significant economic and demographic consequences for Renfrewshire, depending on any terms agreed, with a loss of access to markets and labour predicted to negatively affect the economy;

(b) That Renfrewshire Council support the holding of a further referendum to give the UK public the final-say on any terms agreed for Brexit, that referendum to include the option of the UK remaining in the EU; and

(c) That Council note that the Scottish Parliament and COSLA had agreed “to providing unequivocal support for a public vote on the final terms of the Brexit deal."

There was submitted a Notice of Motion by Councillors Sharkey and Devine in the following terms:

“Lang’s Tannery – Improved Terms and Conditions

This Council agrees to support the workers of Lang's Tannery in Paisley in their ongoing strike action for improved Terms & Conditions.

Council notes that Lang's are part of the wider Scottish Leather Group, and the workplace has been a constant fixture in the Paisley area for well over 100 years and this is the first time in its history that the workers have felt compelled to take any form of strike action, showing how far the workforce have been pushed by the Employer.

The Employer and Community Union, the Trade Union that are the recognised Union within the group to negotiate pay, terms and conditions for staff were involved in protracted annual pay discussions since 2018, that ultimately reached a ballot of all members who returned an overwhelming rejection of the offer, and as such the Union encouraged the Employer to re-open further dialogue and/or invite ACAS to convene concilliatory discussions in order to avoid any escalation of dispute.

However, the Employer ignored these requests and proceeded to impose the pay offer upon all staff, the very offer that had been unilaterally rejected across all of the Scottish sites.

Regrettably, this has now led the Lang's workforce to undergo this ongoing Strike Action, in the hope that the Employer will re-engage with the Union with a view to exploring a suitable resolution in this matter.

It is further noted that during the previous strike action, whilst the workers were stood out in the extreme weathers on the picket line, the Employer proceeded to have delivered pizzas for those who had attended and issued them a £25 gift voucher.  These actions showed blatant disregard by the Employer towards their long-serving Employees who fighting for a justifiable cause and see the responsibility for the breakdown in industrial relations lying entirely at the feet of the Employer.

Council pledges its entire support to ensure the strikers' current plight is acknowledged and responded to in good faith by the Employer."

Councillor Sharkey, seconded by Councillor Devine, then moved the motion.

Councillor McNaughtan, seconded by Councillor Burns, moved as a first amendment :

“This Council recognises the need for all sides in any industrial dispute to negotiate in good faith in order to reach a resolution.  Council expects all parties in trade disputes to treat each other with respect in order to avoid protracted disruption and adversely affect the economy of Renfrewshire.”

Councillor J MacLaren, seconded by Councillor Graham, moved as a second amendment:

“Renfrewshire Council believes that the ongoing industrial action at WJ and W Lang is not relevant Council business.  WJ and W Lang is not a Council run business, and what is more, the Council has no contracts with this business.  Council believes that the matter is for the employer and Community Union to resolve and urges the union to accept the offer of arbitration”

In terms of Standing Order 27 Councillors J MacLaren and Graham being the mover and seconder of the second amendment agreed to withdraw their amendment.

On the roll being called between the motion and the remaining amendment, the following members voted for the amendment: Councillors Adam-McGregor, Begg, Binks, Burns, J Cameron, Provost L Cameron, Councillors Campbell, Audrey Doig, Don, Graham, Hughes, Kerr, J MacLaren, K MacLaren, M MacLaren, McCartin, McEwan, McGurk, McIntyre, McNaughtan, Mylet, Nicolson, Paterson, Rodden, Shaw, Steel and Strang. 
 
The following members voted for the motion: Councillors Bibby, Brown, Davidson, Devine, Andy Doig, Dowling, Grady, Harte, Hood, Kennedy, Mack, McCulloch, Montgomery, Sharkey and Sheridan.  

27 members having voted for the first amendment and 15 members having voted for the motion, the amendment was accordingly declared carried.

DECIDED: That Council recognised the need for all sides in any industrial dispute to negotiate in good faith in order to reach a resolution and expected all parties in trade disputes to treat each other with respect in order to avoid protracted disruption and adversely affect the economy of Renfrewshire.

There was submitted a Notice of Motion by Councillors Kennedy and Brown in the following terms:

“Pedestrian Crossings in Renfrewshire

Council instructs the relevant departments to inspect every pedestrian crossing in Renfrewshire to ensure they are fit for purpose for our visually impaired residents.  Council will take appropriate action where needed to install or repair tactile paving and tactile rotating discs to enable those residents to cross with a degree of safety.  Council also agrees to undertake an assessment of the condition of Renfrewshire's footpaths with regard to their safety for disabled and visually impaired residents."

Councillor Kennedy, seconded by Councillor Brown, then moved the motion.

Councillor Adam-McGregor, seconded by Councillor McEwan, moved as an amendment:

“All signal controlled pedestrian crossings in Renfrewshire have an annual inspection programme to ensure they are functioning correctly for all users and in particular visually impaired residents.  All footways are also part of a cyclic inspection programme which includes safety for visually impaired users.  Council therefore agrees that any repairs reported regarding tactile paving, rotating cones and audible alarms should be rectified as a matter of priority.” 

On the roll being called, the following members voted for the amendment: Councillors Adam-McGregor, Begg, Binks, Burns, J Cameron, Provost L Cameron, Councillors Campbell, Andy Doig, Audrey Doig, Don, Graham, Hughes, Kerr, J MacLaren, K MacLaren, M MacLaren, McCartin, McEwan, McGurk, McIntyre, McNaughtan, Mylet, Nicolson, Paterson, Rodden, Shaw, Steel and Strang. 
 
The following members voted for the motion: Councillors Bibby, Brown, Davidson, Devine, Dowling, Grady, Harte, Hood, Kennedy, McCulloch, Montgomery, Sharkey and Sheridan.

28 members having voted for the amendment and 13 members having voted for the motion, the amendment was accordingly declared carried.

It was proposed that where appropriate lighting levels be included in pedestrian crossing inspections.  This was agreed.

DECIDED:

(a) That it be noted that all signal-controlled pedestrian crossings in Renfrewshire had an annual inspection programme to ensure they were functioning correctly for all users and, in particular, visually impaired residents; 

(b) That it be noted that all footways were also part of a cyclical-inspection programme which included safety for visually-impaired users;

(c) That any repairs reported regarding tactile paving, rotating cones and/or audible alarms be rectified as a matter of priority; and

(d) That where appropriate lighting levels be included in pedestrian crossing inspections.

There was submitted a Notice of Motion by Councillors Hood and Grady in the following terms:

"St Anthony's Primary School - United Kingdom's Literacy School of the Year

Council congratulates the staff, parents and pupils of St Anthony's Primary School on being awarded the United Kingdom's Literacy School of the Year.  This is a notable achievement as it is the first win by a Scottish school and is a testament to the hard work and dedication of all involved."

Councillor Hood, seconded by Councillor Grady, then moved the motion which was agreed unanimously.

DECIDED:  That the staff, parents and pupils of St Anthony's Primary School be congratulated on being awarded the United Kingdom's Literacy School of the Year, which was a notable achievement as it was the first win by a Scottish school and a testament to the hard work and dedication of all involved.

There was submitted a Notice of Motion by Councillors Sharkey and Kennedy in the following terms:

"Paisley Town Centre Parking

Council recognises that the current administration is unable to provide a consistent and credible parking policy for Paisley town centre and believes that the Free for Three offering free parking for three hours should be given a pilot scheme in order to find a way through the SNP's lack of clarity."

Councillor Sharkey, seconded by Councillor Kennedy, then moved the motion.

Councillor McEwan, proposed that Council agrees that parking arrangements in Paisley Town Centre be reviewed.  The request to consider three hours of free parking, the provision of electric charging points, disability parking spaces and improved signage should be considered as part of the review along with the financial implications.

In terms of Standing Order 27, Councillors Sharkey and Kennedy, being the mover and seconder of the motion, agreed that the motion be withdrawn and replaced by the proposal by Councillor McEwan, and this was agreed unanimously.

The Chief Executive highlighted the desirability of considering the findings of any proposed review of parking arrangements in Paisley Town Centre, which could potentially have financial implications for the Council, prior to setting the Council budget in February 2019.  Accordingly, it was agreed that the implications arising from the proposals to be considered as part of the review, be provided to members as soon as possible, together with an analysis of the recently announced proposed Scottish Budget.


DECIDED:

(a) That parking arrangements in Paisley Town Centre be reviewed;

(b) That the request to consider three hours of free parking, the provision of electric charging points, disability parking spaces and improved signage be considered as part of the review along with the financial implications; and

(c) That the implications arising from the proposals to be considered as part of the review be provided to members as soon as possible, together with an analysis of the recently announced proposed Scottish Budget.

There was submitted a Notice of Motion by Councillors McCartin and Andy Doig in the following terms:

"Commercial sexual exploitation

Council agrees to support the Nordic model of the management of this form of exploitation, which criminalises the purchase of sex, decriminalises the sale of sex, and provides services to help prostitutes leave this life.

 

Council will write to the Minister for Justice asking that the Scottish Government adopts this model."

Councillor McCartin, seconded by Councillor Andy Doig, then moved the motion.

Councillor Hughes, seconded by Councillor Campbell, moved as an amendment;

Replace ‘prostitutes’ with 'sex workers' and add ‘if they so choose’ after ‘to leave this life’. 

On the roll being called, the following members voted for the amendment: Councillors Adam-McGregor, Burns, J Cameron, Provost L Cameron, Councillors Campbell, Audrey Doig, Don, Graham, Hughes, Kerr, M MacLaren, McEwan, McGurk, McIntyre, McNaughtan, Mylet, Nicolson, Paterson, Rodden, Shaw and Steel. 
 
The following members voted for the motion: Councillors Bibby, Binks, Brown, Davidson, Devine, Andy Doig, Dowling, Grady, Harte, Hood, Kennedy, Mack, McCartin, McCulloch, Montgomery, Sharkey, Sheridan and Strang.

The following members abstained: Councillors Bibby and J MacLaren.

21 members having voted for the amendment, 18 members having voted for the motion and 2 members having abstained, the amendment was accordingly declared carried.

DECIDED:  

(a) That Council supports the Nordic model of the management of commercial sexual exploitation, which criminalised the purchase of sex, decriminalised the sale of sex and provided services to help sex workers leave this life if they so chose; and 

(b) That Council write to the Minister for Justice asking that the Scottish Government adopts this model.

There was submitted a Notice of Motion by Councillors Andy Doig and McCartin in the following terms:

"Repair of Kilbarchan Park Gates

Council notes that in the summer of 2017 the main gates of Kilbarchan Public Park were inadvertently struck by a council vehicle causing damage and rendering them unsafe for use.  Council regrets that nearly two years later they have still to be repaired and accordingly instructs the appropriate council officers ensure repairs are made within six months from today."

Councillor Andy Doig, seconded by Councillor McCartin, then moved the motion.

Councillor Sharkey, seconded by Councillor Hood, moved as an amendment:

Delete 'within 6 months’ and replace with ‘by 23 May 2019’ and that similar repairs to Shanks Park posts and Barshaw main gates are repaired by the same date.

In terms of Standing Order 27, Councillors Andy Doig and McCartin, being the mover and seconder of the motion, agreed the amendment to the motion. The amendment was agreed unanimously.

DECIDED: 

(a) That Council note that in the summer of 2017 the main gates of Kilbarchan Public Park were inadvertently struck by a Council vehicle causing damage and rendering them unsafe for use.  Council regretted that nearly two years later they had still to be repaired and accordingly instructed that the appropriate Council officers ensure repairs were made by 23 May 2019; and

(b) That similar repairs be undertaken, by the same date, to the posts at Shanks Park, Johnstone and the main gates at Barshaw Park, Paisley.

There was submitted a Notice of Motion by Councillors Andy Doig and Mack in the following terms:

"Scottish National Stage Race

Council acknowledges the growth of Scottish cycling in recent decades so that Scotland is now one of the top international competitive cycling nations, Council further notes with pride the outstanding success of Renfrewshire clubs such as the Johnstone Wheelers and Paisley Velo, who have contributed to this renaissance, and remembers with pride the role that Paisley and Renfrewshire played in initiating the former Scottish Milk Race in the 1970's.

Council laments the fact that Scotland alone, of all the British Isles countries, does not currently have a national stage race, and therefore resolves to approach the Scottish Government, Sports Scotland, and Scottish Cycling, to promote the revival of a Scottish national cycling stage race to continue to secure Scotland's place at the top of international cycling."

Councillor Andy Doig, seconded by Councillor Mack, then moved the motion which was agreed unanimously.

DECIDED:  

(a) That Council acknowledged the growth of Scottish cycling in recent decades so that Scotland was now one of the top international competitive cycling nations, Council further noted with pride the outstanding success of Renfrewshire clubs, such as the Johnstone Wheelers and Paisley Velo, who had contributed to this renaissance, and remembered with pride the role that Paisley and Renfrewshire played in initiating the former Scottish Milk Race in the 1970's; and

(b) That Council lamented the fact that Scotland alone, of all the British Isles countries, did not currently have a national stage race, and therefore resolved to approach the Scottish Government, Sports Scotland, and Scottish Cycling, to promote the revival of a Scottish national cycling stage race to continue to secure Scotland's place at the top of international cycling.

There was submitted a Notice of Motion by Councillors Andy Doig and Mack in the following terms:

"Renfrewshire Council Review of Community Events Charging

Council reaffirms its ambition to promote Renfrewshire Council as a leading tourism destination with strategic transport links, and one with a rich heritage and legacy of medieval, enlightenment, and industrial assets.

Council believes that the foundation for such an ambition lies in empowering local communities to showcase their own heritage and legacy and calls for a review of Renfrewshire Council's charging policy for community events, particularly in reference to that operated by local authorities such as Edinburgh City and Stirling which have established tourist footfall."

Councillor Andy Doig, seconded by Councillor Mack, then moved the motion which was agreed unanimously.

DECIDED:

(a) That Council reaffirmed its ambition to promote Renfrewshire Council as a leading tourism destination with strategic transport links, and one with a rich heritage and legacy of medieval, enlightenment, and industrial assets; and

(b) That Council believed that the foundation for such an ambition lay in empowering local communities to showcase their own heritage and legacy and called for a review of Renfrewshire Council's charging policy for community events, particularly in reference to that operated by local authorities such as Edinburgh City and Stirling which had established tourist footfall.

There was submitted a Notice of Motion by Councillors Harte and Grady in the following terms:

"Park Mains High School Gym

Council agrees that members of the public will not be allowed access to the gym at Park Mains High School, during school opening hours, until it has been agreed by parents, teachers, pupils and the wider community, following comprehensive consultation and engagement."

Councillor Harte, seconded by Councillor Grady, then moved the motion.

Councillor Nicolson, seconded by Councillor Campbell, moved as an amendment:

“Access arrangements

Council notes that a review of the access arrangements to the Community Sports Hub at Park Mains High School Erskine was agreed at the leadership board at its meeting on the 5/12/18.  This was agreed by all members.  This review is in response to public concerns raised and that a report indicating any works required and potential costs will be reported back for consideration.” 

On the roll being called, the following members voted for the amendment: Councillors Adam-McGregor, Burns, J Cameron, Provost L Cameron, Councillors Campbell, Don, Hughes, Mack, K MacLaren, M MacLaren, McCartin, McEwan, McGurk, McNaughtan, Mylet, Nicolson, Paterson, Rodden, Shaw and Steel.

The following members voted for the motion: Councillors Bibby, Binks, Brown, Davidson, Devine, Dowling, Grady, Graham, Harte, Hood, Kennedy, Kerr, J MacLaren, McCulloch, McIntyre, Montgomery, Sharkey, Sheridan and Strang.

The following member abstained: Councillor Begg.

20 members having voted for the amendment, 19 members having voted for the motion and 1 member having abstained, the amendment was accordingly declared carried.

DECIDED: That Council noted that a review of the access arrangements to the Community Sports Hub at Park Mains High School Erskine was agreed unanimously at the meeting of the Leadership Board held on 5 December 2018 and that a report identifying works required and potential costs would be submitted to a future meeting for consideration.

There was submitted a Notice of Motion by Councillors Sharkey and Hood in the following terms:

"Paisley Threads

This Council congratulates Paisley Threads on 20 years of their excellent contribution to helping the people of Renfrewshire and especially our young people."

Councillor Sharkey, seconded by Councillor Hood, then moved the motion which was agreed unanimously.

DECIDED:  That Paisley Threads be congratulated on their 20 years of excellent contribution to helping the people of Renfrewshire and especially young people.

There was submitted a Notice of Motion by Councillors Mack and Andy Doig in the following terms:

"Freedom of the Press

This Council joins journalists and press freedom campaigners all over the world in condemning anyone in a position of power who thinks it is 'in the interests of the state' to kill their critics as long as they call them 'enemies of the people.'

Moreover, in addition to affirming the above principle, the Independent Group would like to mark this time of year with the giving on an inexpensive gift to all fellow Councillors - the Locus Classicus and Everyman guide to local government, 'Caught in The Crossfire' by leading investigative journalist, Mr Russell Findlay."

Councillor Mack, seconded by Councillor Andy Doig, then moved the motion.

Councillor Devine, seconded by Councillor Hood, moved as an amendment:

“Accept paragraph 1.  Delete paragraph 2.”

On the roll being called, the following members voted for the amendment: Councillors Bibby, Brown, Davidson, Devine, Dowling, Grady, Harte, Hood, Kennedy, McCulloch, Montgomery, Sharkey and Sheridan.
 
The following members voted for the motion: Councillors Adam-McGregor, Begg, Binks, Burns, J Cameron, Provost L Cameron, Councillors Campbell, Andy Doig, Audrey Doig, Don, Graham, Hughes, Kerr, Mack, J MacLaren, K MacLaren, M MacLaren, McCartin, McEwan, McGurk, McIntyre, McNaughtan, Mylet, Nicolson, Paterson, Rodden, Shaw, Steel and Strang. 

13 members having voted for the amendment and 29 members having voted for the motion, the motion was accordingly declared carried.

DECIDED:  

(a) That this Council joined journalists and press freedom campaigners all over the world in condemning anyone in a position of power who thought it was 'in the interests of the state' to kill their critics as long as they called them 'enemies of the people;' and

(b) That moreover, in addition to affirming the above principle, this time of year be marked with the giving on an inexpensive gift from the Independent Group to all fellow Councillors - the Locus Classicus and Everyman guide to local government, 'Caught in The Crossfire' by leading investigative journalist, Mr Russell Findlay.

There was submitted a Notice of Motion by Councillors J MacLaren and Begg in the following terms:

"Fixed penalty notice for littering

The Council acknowledges the importance of discouraging people from dropping litter; supports increasing the fixed penalty notice for littering from £80 to £100; agrees that a letter from the local authority will be sent to the Scottish Government making clear Renfrewshire Council's support for increasing the default on-the-spot litter fine from £80 to £100 and to request that Ministers implement this change as quickly as possible."

Councillor J MacLaren, seconded by Councillor Begg, then moved the motion.

Councillor Mylet, seconded by Councillor Steel, moved as an amendment:

“To delete two instances of £100 and replace with £200.”

In terms of Standing Order 27 Councillors J MacLaren and Begg being the mover and seconder of the motion agreed the amendment to the motion. The motion as amended was agreed unanimously.

DECIDED: That the Council acknowledged the importance of discouraging people from dropping litter; supported increasing the fixed penalty notice for littering from £80 to £200; agreed that a letter be sent from the local authority to the Scottish Government making clear Renfrewshire Council's support for increasing the default on-the-spot litter fine from £80 to £200 and requesting that Ministers implement this change as quickly as possible.

There was submitted a Notice of Motion by Councillors McIntyre and Strang in the following terms:

"Increase to reimbursement rate for National Concessionary Travel Scheme

Renfrewshire Council notes the reduction in the reimbursement rate for the National Concessionary Travel Scheme from an initial rate of 76.3% in 2006/2007 to 56.8% in 2018/2019.

The Council calls on the Scottish Government to increase the reimbursement rate to support bus services across Renfrewshire and Scotland."

Councillor McIntyre, seconded by Councillor Strang, then moved the motion.

Councillor Don, seconded by Councillor Hughes, moved as an amendment; 

“The Council calls on the Scottish Government to increase the reimbursement rate to support bus services across Renfrewshire and Scotland.  Council also agrees that no uplift or increase be considered unless it is attached to a commitment by local bus companies to improve services to local communities.”

In terms of Standing Order 27 Councillors McIntyre and Strang being the mover and seconder of the motion agreed the amendment to the motion. The amendment was agreed unanimously.

DECIDED:  That Council calls on the Scottish Government to increase the reimbursement rate to support bus services across Renfrewshire and Scotland and agreed that no uplift or increase be considered unless it was attached to a commitment by local bus companies to improve services to local communities.