Agenda item

Cabinet Board Reports

 

The Committee scrutinised the following items:

 

3.1 Welsh language Standards

 

Members considered a report that provided information on the outcome of meetings between officers and the Welsh Commissioner’s representatives in relation to the Council’s Challenge to a number of standards and to seek Members’ Authorisation to submit a response reflecting those discussions.

 

It was noted that two meetings took place between Neath Port Talbot Officer’s and the Commissioner’s representatives to try and agree a resolution.

 

Following that it was highlighted that 3 standards were withdrawn in July 2016, and a further 3 standards would not be imposed on the authority as detailed in letter from the Commissioner in appendix 1, which was circulated at the meeting.

 

Members queried what the potential cost would be on the council if the council’s challenge was unsuccessful and standards weren’t complied with. Officers highlighted that council’s aim is to try and get to a situation that would avoid the council being fined.

 

Members queried whether managers had a choice on receiving welsh language training or not. Officers highlighted that it’s optional and not mandatory.

 

Members highlighted that they agreed with the authority being unable to translate road signs where there is no appropriate translation or where a translation bears no resemblance to what the street is predominantly known as, however members did not agree that road signs should not be translated due to the welsh text delaying business and emergency services locating the address and therefore causing potential delay’s.

 

Members highlighted that the council had received a number of standards without being provided with any additional funding and therefore, queried whether the authority had an estimated cost of what those standards would cost. Officers explained that there wasn’t an exact estimate and could range from a minimum cost to a maximum cost, officers provided an example of the minute Book being translated.

 

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

 

3.2 Consultative Draft of the Violence Against Women, Domestic Abuse and Sexual Violence Strategy

 

Members considered a report to consult on the draft Violence against women, Domestic Abuse and Sexual Violence strategy for Neath Port Talbot County Borough Council.

 

Members received a verbal introduction of the draft Violence against women, Domestic Abuse and Sexual Violence strategy from Cllr.A.R.Lockyer who had chaired the Violence Against Women, Domestic Abuse & Sexual Violence Leadership Group, he commended the group involved for the work that had been achieved.

 

Members received a presentation which included information on the statutory requirements, research and objectives.

 

Members queried what had happened to the 32 helpline referrals that were turned away as refuges were full at the time. Officers confirmed that they would have been provided with support from other areas.

 

Members queried why Further education was not mentioned in the strategy. Officers confirmed that during the consultation period they would develop that.

 

Members commended the report, supported the strategy and thanked the officers.

 

Members highlighted that older persons in relationships may feel embarrassed to admit they are vulnerable or find themselves in a situation where they can’t leave due to financial reasons. Officers confirmed that the Older Persons Commissioner was aware of this and training would be provided to staff to signpost people in the right place to have the correct support.

 

Members queried what the timescale would be on the review. Officers highlighted that they would create a delivery plan at present at a future meeting.

 

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

 

3.3     Seaward Boundries

 

Members considered a report on the review of the seaward boundaries of the City and County of Swansea and the County Borough of Neath Port Talbot.

 

Members highlighted that the NPT Seaward Boundry – Construction Phase line, was not easily identifiable as it was similar to the NPT Seawards Boundry – Operational Line.

 

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