Issue - meetings

·        To select appropriate items from the Cabinet agenda for pre-decision scrutiny (cabinet reports enclosed for Scrutiny Members)

The Committee scrutinised the following cabinet items:

The Commitment to a Preferred I.T. System to Support Social Services Functions

Members were updated in relation to a preferred I.T. system to support Social Services functions.

Discussions took place in ensuring whether the proposed system would be compatible with the Health service to retain effective collaborative working. It was explained that the IT system itself would enhance team working as it is to improve the practical elements.

It was highlighted that updated version of Oracle Forms would be available within the next couple of years. It was asked how the Remodelling of adult services would fit in with the IT update timescales. It was noted that the updates would enhance the remodelling of Adult Services. It was noted that as the remodelling continues the council would update to the relevant IT System as required.

Members discussed the earliest date as to when the Council would realistically migrate on to the WCCIS platform. Officers confirmed that they wouldn’t consider changing their views within the next 5 years as they are currently investing in their own system. 

The risk elements were queried, such as the allocation of I.T. staffing resources and who would be funding the work. Officers ensured members that the Skill set to develop the system was within the team and a plan had been considered to ensure there were resources within the team. It was also noted that there would be a transfer of budget reserves from Social Services to the Central IT Team to cover the costs. 

It was asked whether we would be at a disadvantage for going with our own I.T system. Officers reassured that the council wouldn’t be at a disadvantage as the IT system would be tailored specifically for Neath Port Talbot.

Following scrutiny, the Committee was supportive of the proposal to be considered by the Cabinet Board.

Proposed Creation and Extinguishment Orders for the

footpath from Hodgsons Road to the river Tawe – Community of

Ystalyfera

(Cllr. Clement Williams re-affirmed her interest at this point and withdrew from the meeting)

Officers made an amendment to the report, changing Ward Affected from ‘Ystalyfera’ to ‘Godregraig’.  

Following scrutiny, the Committee was supportive of the proposal to be considered by the Cabinet Board.