Agenda item

Members noted the Forward Work Programme.

Members requested an update on the task and finish groups that were held in relation to Harassment, Abuse and Intimidation and Diversity in Democracy.

The Head of Legal and Democratic Services confirmed that an action plan had been agreed by the committee, at a previous meeting, in relation to Handling Harassment, Abuse & Intimidation. Work is progressing and the action plan would be brought back to the committee to monitor compliance. Additionally, work is underway at Welsh Government / WLGA level, in relation to member intimidation and harassment. It is positive that this subject is receiving recognition at a national level, and different processes and protocols will come forward as a result of the Welsh Government work. An All Wales meeting is planned in March that will specifically look at these issues and how they can be addressed. Members were also advised that named representatives have come forward from Welsh Government through their contacts with South Wales Police, who are specifically looking at member issues and there are plans for an All Member Seminar for further discussion. An update will be brought to committee shortly.

In relation to the Task & Finish group on Diversity and Democracy, a meeting was held in November 2024 and a second meeting will be scheduled in the coming months. The committee had discussed exploring how information could be gathered to identify barriers and issues, in order to promote inclusivity and increased diversity within our democratic processes going forward. There may be links to work that Welsh Government is conducting in this area. Officers are aware of a number of meetings being held currently; officers are mindful not to overwhelm members with additional meetings, but assurance was given that work is progressing appropriately.

Members noted the Forward Work Programme.