Monday
In the afternoon I am chairing meetings of the Texas Instruments Task Force and the Members’ Budget Working Group.
Tuesday
In the morning I will be attending Kilmacolm Primary’s Christmas Service.
Wednesday
In the morning I have a meeting of the National Child Protection Leadership Group in Edinburgh. In the afternoon I have my weekly meeting with the Chief Executive, a Members’ budget briefing and a meeting of the Labour Group.
Thursday
In the morning I am in Edinburgh for the Year of Young People Ministerial Group. In the afternoon I have a special meeting of the Council and a meeting with Unite Inverclyde. In the evening I have a meeting of the Greenock Arts Guild Board.
Friday
No Council commitments at this time.
Sunday, 17 December 2017
Sunday, 10 December 2017
The week ahead...
Monday
In the morning I am meeting with the Quarriers organisation. In the afternoon I have a meeting with our Corporate Director Scott Allan, a meeting of the Inverclyde Alliance Board and a meeting of the Members' Budget Working Group.
Tuesday
In the morning I have a meeting of the Glasgow City Region Cabinet in Glasgow. In early afternoon I am attending the Kilmacolm Primary School Nativity. I then have a briefing on shared services and a meeting with the local Chamber of Commerce. In the evening I have a surgery in Kilmacolm Community Centre.
Wednesday
I am through in Edinburgh in the morning for a meeting of the National Child Protection Leadership Board. In the early afternoon I have a meeting at COSLA before returning to Inverclyde for a meeting of the Labour Group.
Thursday
In the morning I am through in Edinburgh for a meeting at COSLA then a protest rally at the Scottish Parliament. In the evening I will be attending the Slaemuir Tenants' and Residents' Association.
Friday
In the morning I am attending an event to mark the 25th anniversary of the local Samaritans Group. In the afternoon I am attending the St Francis' Primary School Christmas Concert and Nativity.
In the morning I am meeting with the Quarriers organisation. In the afternoon I have a meeting with our Corporate Director Scott Allan, a meeting of the Inverclyde Alliance Board and a meeting of the Members' Budget Working Group.
Tuesday
In the morning I have a meeting of the Glasgow City Region Cabinet in Glasgow. In early afternoon I am attending the Kilmacolm Primary School Nativity. I then have a briefing on shared services and a meeting with the local Chamber of Commerce. In the evening I have a surgery in Kilmacolm Community Centre.
Wednesday
I am through in Edinburgh in the morning for a meeting of the National Child Protection Leadership Board. In the early afternoon I have a meeting at COSLA before returning to Inverclyde for a meeting of the Labour Group.
Thursday
In the morning I am through in Edinburgh for a meeting at COSLA then a protest rally at the Scottish Parliament. In the evening I will be attending the Slaemuir Tenants' and Residents' Association.
Friday
In the morning I am attending an event to mark the 25th anniversary of the local Samaritans Group. In the afternoon I am attending the St Francis' Primary School Christmas Concert and Nativity.
Sunday, 3 December 2017
The week ahead...
Monday
In early afternoon I have a have meeting with businessman Lord Willie Haughey to discuss the Council's City Deal projects. Later in the afternoon I will be attending a meeting of the Port Glasgow Regeneration Forum then chairing a meeting of the Members' Budget Working Group. In the evening I have a meeting of the Kilmacolm New Community Centre Company Board.
Tuesday
In the afternoon I have a meeting in Edinburgh with the Cabinet Secretary for Justice, Michael Matheson MSP, in my COSLA role.
Wednesday
In the afternoon I have meetings with the local Fire and Rescue Service, the Council's Chief Executive and the Labour Group. I will then be attending the switch on of the Port Glasgow Christmas lights and a meeting of the Newark Primary School Parent Council.
Thursday
I will be at the Beacon Arts Centre most of the day interviewing for a new Chief Executive.
Friday
In Edinburgh in the morning for a meeting at COSLA. Later in the day I hope to attend the switch on of the Christmas lights in Quarrier's Village and Kilmacolm.
In early afternoon I have a have meeting with businessman Lord Willie Haughey to discuss the Council's City Deal projects. Later in the afternoon I will be attending a meeting of the Port Glasgow Regeneration Forum then chairing a meeting of the Members' Budget Working Group. In the evening I have a meeting of the Kilmacolm New Community Centre Company Board.
Tuesday
In the afternoon I have a meeting in Edinburgh with the Cabinet Secretary for Justice, Michael Matheson MSP, in my COSLA role.
Wednesday
In the afternoon I have meetings with the local Fire and Rescue Service, the Council's Chief Executive and the Labour Group. I will then be attending the switch on of the Port Glasgow Christmas lights and a meeting of the Newark Primary School Parent Council.
Thursday
I will be at the Beacon Arts Centre most of the day interviewing for a new Chief Executive.
Friday
In Edinburgh in the morning for a meeting at COSLA. Later in the day I hope to attend the switch on of the Christmas lights in Quarrier's Village and Kilmacolm.
Sunday, 26 November 2017
The week ahead...
Monday
In late afternoon I will be chairing a meeting of the Council's Members' Budget Working Group. In the evening I will be attending a meeting of Port Glasgow West Community Council.
Tuesday
In the afternoon I have a meeting of the Environment and Regeneration Committee followed by an All Members' briefing on the Council's financial strategy. In the evening I hope to attend a meeting of Kilmacolm Community Council.
Wednesday
In the afternoon I have my weekly meeting with the Chief Executive and a meeting of the Labour Group.
Thursday
In the morning I am due through in Edinburgh for a meeting between COSLA and the EIS teachers' union. In the late afternoon I have a meeting of the full Council.
Friday
In the morning I have a meeting with the Scottish Childminding Association and in the evening I am attending a Link Housing Association meeting in Port Glasgow with local residents.
In late afternoon I will be chairing a meeting of the Council's Members' Budget Working Group. In the evening I will be attending a meeting of Port Glasgow West Community Council.
Tuesday
In the afternoon I have a meeting of the Environment and Regeneration Committee followed by an All Members' briefing on the Council's financial strategy. In the evening I hope to attend a meeting of Kilmacolm Community Council.
Wednesday
In the afternoon I have my weekly meeting with the Chief Executive and a meeting of the Labour Group.
Thursday
In the morning I am due through in Edinburgh for a meeting between COSLA and the EIS teachers' union. In the late afternoon I have a meeting of the full Council.
Friday
In the morning I have a meeting with the Scottish Childminding Association and in the evening I am attending a Link Housing Association meeting in Port Glasgow with local residents.
Sunday, 19 November 2017
The week ahead...
Monday
In the afternoon I have meetings with SNP Councillor Elizabeth Robertson, housing developers, the Council pre-agenda and a meeting of the Members' Budget Working Group. In the evening I have a meeting of the Greenock Arts Guild Board.
Tuesday
In the afternoon I am attending a launch at Ferguson Marine of Port Glasgow. In the evening I am attending the annual general meeting of Park Farm Tenants' and Residents' Association.
Wednesday
In the afternoon I have my weekly meeting with the Chief Executive, a Members' briefing on shared services, the Inverclyde Alliance Board pre-agenda and a meeting of the Labour Group.
Thursday
No Council commitments at this time.
Friday
Through in Edinburgh for meetings at COSLA in the morning. In the afternoon I am attending the inaugural meeting of the new Scottish Education Council. I hope to be home in time to attend a special Mass at St Colm's Church in Kilmacolm to celebrate 25 years since the opening of the rebuilt church.
Saturday
In the morning I am attending a River Clyde Homes Board business planning event.
In the afternoon I have meetings with SNP Councillor Elizabeth Robertson, housing developers, the Council pre-agenda and a meeting of the Members' Budget Working Group. In the evening I have a meeting of the Greenock Arts Guild Board.
Tuesday
In the afternoon I am attending a launch at Ferguson Marine of Port Glasgow. In the evening I am attending the annual general meeting of Park Farm Tenants' and Residents' Association.
Wednesday
In the afternoon I have my weekly meeting with the Chief Executive, a Members' briefing on shared services, the Inverclyde Alliance Board pre-agenda and a meeting of the Labour Group.
Thursday
No Council commitments at this time.
Friday
Through in Edinburgh for meetings at COSLA in the morning. In the afternoon I am attending the inaugural meeting of the new Scottish Education Council. I hope to be home in time to attend a special Mass at St Colm's Church in Kilmacolm to celebrate 25 years since the opening of the rebuilt church.
Saturday
In the morning I am attending a River Clyde Homes Board business planning event.
Sunday, 12 November 2017
The week ahead...
Monday
In early evening I have a meeting of the Greenock Arts Guild Finance and Staffing Committee. This is followed by a meeting of St Franics' Primary School Parent Council.
Tuesday
In the afternoon I am chairing a meeting of the Council's Policy and Resources Committee.
Wednesday
In the morning I have a meeting with the Director of the Scottish Local Government Information Unit. In the afternoon I have my weekly meeting with the Chief Executive and a meeting of the Labour Group. In the evening I am attending the Duke of Edinburgh Awards Ceremony in Greenock Town Hall.
Thursday
In the evening I will be attending a meeting of Slaemuir Tenants' and Residents' Association.
Friday
No Council commitments at this time.
In early evening I have a meeting of the Greenock Arts Guild Finance and Staffing Committee. This is followed by a meeting of St Franics' Primary School Parent Council.
Tuesday
In the afternoon I am chairing a meeting of the Council's Policy and Resources Committee.
Wednesday
In the morning I have a meeting with the Director of the Scottish Local Government Information Unit. In the afternoon I have my weekly meeting with the Chief Executive and a meeting of the Labour Group. In the evening I am attending the Duke of Edinburgh Awards Ceremony in Greenock Town Hall.
Thursday
In the evening I will be attending a meeting of Slaemuir Tenants' and Residents' Association.
Friday
No Council commitments at this time.
Sunday, 5 November 2017
The week ahead...
Monday
In the morning I am meeting with the Cabinet Secretary for Finance, Derek Mackay MSP, in Glasgow to discuss the budget challenges facing the Council. In late afternoon I will be chairing a meeting of the Council's Members' Budget Working Group. In the evening I will be attending a meeting of the Woodhall Task Group in Port Glasgow.
Tuesday
In the morning and into early afternoon I have meetings in Edinburgh in my role as COSLA's Spokesperson for Children and Young People issues. In the evening I have a surgery in Boglestone Community Centre and a meeting of Kilmacolm Primary School Parent Partnership.
Wednesday
In the afternoon I have a Members' briefing, my weekly meeting with the Chief Executive and a meeting of the Labour Group.
Thursday
In the morning I have a meeting with the Leaders and Chief Executives of West Dunbartonshire and East Dunbartonshire Councils. In the evening I am attending the annual dinner of the Federation of Small Businesses in Glasgow.
Friday
In the morning I am attending a meeting at COSLA in Edinburgh.
In the morning I am meeting with the Cabinet Secretary for Finance, Derek Mackay MSP, in Glasgow to discuss the budget challenges facing the Council. In late afternoon I will be chairing a meeting of the Council's Members' Budget Working Group. In the evening I will be attending a meeting of the Woodhall Task Group in Port Glasgow.
Tuesday
In the morning and into early afternoon I have meetings in Edinburgh in my role as COSLA's Spokesperson for Children and Young People issues. In the evening I have a surgery in Boglestone Community Centre and a meeting of Kilmacolm Primary School Parent Partnership.
Wednesday
In the afternoon I have a Members' briefing, my weekly meeting with the Chief Executive and a meeting of the Labour Group.
Thursday
In the morning I have a meeting with the Leaders and Chief Executives of West Dunbartonshire and East Dunbartonshire Councils. In the evening I am attending the annual dinner of the Federation of Small Businesses in Glasgow.
Friday
In the morning I am attending a meeting at COSLA in Edinburgh.
Sunday, 29 October 2017
The week ahead...
Monday
In the afternoon I am attending a local budget briefing for MSPs and the MP. In the evening I am attending a meeting of Port Glasgow West Community Council.
Tuesday
In the early afternoon I have the Policy & Resources Committee pre-agenda followed by a Members' briefing on the local Social Housing Investment Plan (SHIP). I then have a meeting of the Education and Communities Committee.
Wednesday
In the morning I have a telephone interview with an education journalist. In the afternoon I have a meeting with the local Sea Cadets; a meeting of the Policy & Resources Executive Sub-Committee; a meeting of the Strategic Leadership Forum; my weekly meeting with the Chief Executive; and a meeting of the Labour Group.
Thursday
No Council commitments at this time.
Friday
In the afternoon I am attending the official opening of the refurbished Greenock Customs House.
Saturday
In the morning I am attending a service to mark the opening of the Garden of Remembrance on Clyde Square, Greenock.
In the afternoon I am attending a local budget briefing for MSPs and the MP. In the evening I am attending a meeting of Port Glasgow West Community Council.
Tuesday
In the early afternoon I have the Policy & Resources Committee pre-agenda followed by a Members' briefing on the local Social Housing Investment Plan (SHIP). I then have a meeting of the Education and Communities Committee.
Wednesday
In the morning I have a telephone interview with an education journalist. In the afternoon I have a meeting with the local Sea Cadets; a meeting of the Policy & Resources Executive Sub-Committee; a meeting of the Strategic Leadership Forum; my weekly meeting with the Chief Executive; and a meeting of the Labour Group.
Thursday
No Council commitments at this time.
Friday
In the afternoon I am attending the official opening of the refurbished Greenock Customs House.
Saturday
In the morning I am attending a service to mark the opening of the Garden of Remembrance on Clyde Square, Greenock.
Sunday, 22 October 2017
The week ahead...
Monday
In the afternoon I have a briefing on cycling in Inverclyde and a meeting of the cross-party Members' Budget Working Group.
Tuesday
I am through in Edinburgh most of the day for meetings at COSLA and with Government Ministers.
Wednesday
In the morning I have a meeting of the Women's Forum. In the afternoon I am attending an exhibition on mental health and the arts at the Beacon Arts Centre. I then have a briefing on tourism, my weekly meeting with the Chief Executive and the weekly meeting of the Labour Group.
Thursday
In the afternoon I have two meetings of the Environment and Regeneration Committee. In the evening I am attending the Slaemuir Tenants' and Residents' Association monthly meeting.
Friday
I am through in Edinburgh again for much of day, this time for the COSLA Leaders' Meeting.
In the afternoon I have a briefing on cycling in Inverclyde and a meeting of the cross-party Members' Budget Working Group.
Tuesday
I am through in Edinburgh most of the day for meetings at COSLA and with Government Ministers.
Wednesday
In the morning I have a meeting of the Women's Forum. In the afternoon I am attending an exhibition on mental health and the arts at the Beacon Arts Centre. I then have a briefing on tourism, my weekly meeting with the Chief Executive and the weekly meeting of the Labour Group.
Thursday
In the afternoon I have two meetings of the Environment and Regeneration Committee. In the evening I am attending the Slaemuir Tenants' and Residents' Association monthly meeting.
Friday
I am through in Edinburgh again for much of day, this time for the COSLA Leaders' Meeting.
Sunday, 8 October 2017
The week ahead...
Monday
In the early evening I will be attending a meeting of the River Clyde Homes Audit and Finance Committee.
Tuesday
In the early evening I have a surgery in Kilmacolm Community Centre.
Wednesday
In the morning I am attending the CVS Inverclyde Third Sector Conference. In the afternoon I have my weekly meeting with the Chief Executive followed by the weekly meeting of the Labour Group. In the evening I am attending 'Gardenfest' at the Cardwell Garden Centre.
Thursday
In the morning I am attending a 'sod cutting' event to mark the start of work on the River Clyde Homes new build housing development in Slaemuir. In the afternoon I have a special meeting of the Education and Communities Committee and a meeting of the Members' Budget Working Group.
Friday
No Council commitments at this time.
In the early evening I will be attending a meeting of the River Clyde Homes Audit and Finance Committee.
Tuesday
In the early evening I have a surgery in Kilmacolm Community Centre.
Wednesday
In the morning I am attending the CVS Inverclyde Third Sector Conference. In the afternoon I have my weekly meeting with the Chief Executive followed by the weekly meeting of the Labour Group. In the evening I am attending 'Gardenfest' at the Cardwell Garden Centre.
Thursday
In the morning I am attending a 'sod cutting' event to mark the start of work on the River Clyde Homes new build housing development in Slaemuir. In the afternoon I have a special meeting of the Education and Communities Committee and a meeting of the Members' Budget Working Group.
Friday
No Council commitments at this time.
Sunday, 1 October 2017
The week ahead...
Monday
In the afternoon I will be chairing a meeting of the Inverclyde Alliance Board. In the evening I am attending the St Stephen's High School Awards Ceremony.
Tuesday
In the afternoon I have a meeting with Larry Flanagan, General Secretary of the teachers' union EIS.
Wednesday
In the morning I am in Edinburgh for a meeting with Annabelle Ewing MSP, Minister for Community Safety and Legal Affairs in the Scottish Government. In the afternoon I have my weekly meeting with the Chief Executive and a meeting of the Labour Group.
Thursday
At the COSLA Conference.
Friday
At the COSLA Convention.
In the afternoon I will be chairing a meeting of the Inverclyde Alliance Board. In the evening I am attending the St Stephen's High School Awards Ceremony.
Tuesday
In the afternoon I have a meeting with Larry Flanagan, General Secretary of the teachers' union EIS.
Wednesday
In the morning I am in Edinburgh for a meeting with Annabelle Ewing MSP, Minister for Community Safety and Legal Affairs in the Scottish Government. In the afternoon I have my weekly meeting with the Chief Executive and a meeting of the Labour Group.
Thursday
At the COSLA Conference.
Friday
At the COSLA Convention.
Sunday, 24 September 2017
The week ahead...
Monday
In the evening I am attending the AGM of St Francis' Primary School Parent Council followed by a meeting of Port Glasgow West Community Council.
Tuesday
In the early afternoon I have a meeting at the Scottish Parliament with Mark McDonald MSP, the for Childcare and Early Years. In the evening I will be attending the AGM of River Clyde Homes followed by a Board meeting. Time permitting I will be attending one of two community meetings in my ward later in the evening.
Wednesday
In the late afternoon I have a meeting of the Labour Group.
Thursday
In the early afternoon I am visiting Kilmacolm Primary School. Later in the afternoon I have a meeting of the Police and Fire Scrutiny Committee and a meeting of the full Council.
Friday
Most of the day I will be through in Edinburgh for the COSLA Leaders Meeting. In the evening I am due to go on patrol with the local community police team.
In the evening I am attending the AGM of St Francis' Primary School Parent Council followed by a meeting of Port Glasgow West Community Council.
Tuesday
In the early afternoon I have a meeting at the Scottish Parliament with Mark McDonald MSP, the for Childcare and Early Years. In the evening I will be attending the AGM of River Clyde Homes followed by a Board meeting. Time permitting I will be attending one of two community meetings in my ward later in the evening.
Wednesday
In the late afternoon I have a meeting of the Labour Group.
Thursday
In the early afternoon I am visiting Kilmacolm Primary School. Later in the afternoon I have a meeting of the Police and Fire Scrutiny Committee and a meeting of the full Council.
Friday
Most of the day I will be through in Edinburgh for the COSLA Leaders Meeting. In the evening I am due to go on patrol with the local community police team.
Sunday, 17 September 2017
The week ahead...
Monday
In the afternoon I have a meeting of the Port Glasgow Regeneration Forum and the Council pre-agenda. In the early evening I have a meeting of the Council's Members' Budget Working Group.
Wednesday
In the afternoon I have a Members' briefing on procurement followed by a meeting of the Policy & Resources Committee. In the evening I have a meeting of the Members' Budget Working Group and then a meeting of the Kilmacolm Primary School Parent Partnership.
Wednesday
In the morning I have a meeting of the Council's Women's Forum. In the afternoon I have a Members' budget briefing, my weekly meeting with the Chief Executive and a meeting of the Labour Group.
Thursday
I am in Edinburgh during the day for meetings in connection with my role as COSLA's spokesperson on Children and Young People. In the evening I am attending the Port Glasgow High School Awards Ceremony.
Friday
I am at conference in Glasgow on education improvement as a guest of the Scottish Government.
In the afternoon I have a meeting of the Port Glasgow Regeneration Forum and the Council pre-agenda. In the early evening I have a meeting of the Council's Members' Budget Working Group.
Wednesday
In the afternoon I have a Members' briefing on procurement followed by a meeting of the Policy & Resources Committee. In the evening I have a meeting of the Members' Budget Working Group and then a meeting of the Kilmacolm Primary School Parent Partnership.
Wednesday
In the morning I have a meeting of the Council's Women's Forum. In the afternoon I have a Members' budget briefing, my weekly meeting with the Chief Executive and a meeting of the Labour Group.
Thursday
I am in Edinburgh during the day for meetings in connection with my role as COSLA's spokesperson on Children and Young People. In the evening I am attending the Port Glasgow High School Awards Ceremony.
Friday
I am at conference in Glasgow on education improvement as a guest of the Scottish Government.
Sunday, 10 September 2017
The week ahead...
Monday
In early evening I have a meeting of the Council's Members' Budget Working Group and then a meeting of the Woodhall Task group.
Tuesday
Attending an 'Autism Friendly Schools' conference at the Beacon Arts Centre during the day. In the early evening I have a surgery in St Francis' Primary School.
Wednesday
In the afternoon I have a couple of Inverclyde Alliance meetings followed by my weekly meeting with the Chief Executive and a meeting of the Labour Group.
Thursday
In the afternoon I am attending the launch of the 'MUGA Mile Challenge' at Kilmacolm Primary School and then chairing a meeting of the Members' Budget Working Group.
Friday
Through in Edinburgh at COSLA most of the day for meetings.
In early evening I have a meeting of the Council's Members' Budget Working Group and then a meeting of the Woodhall Task group.
Tuesday
Attending an 'Autism Friendly Schools' conference at the Beacon Arts Centre during the day. In the early evening I have a surgery in St Francis' Primary School.
Wednesday
In the afternoon I have a couple of Inverclyde Alliance meetings followed by my weekly meeting with the Chief Executive and a meeting of the Labour Group.
Thursday
In the afternoon I am attending the launch of the 'MUGA Mile Challenge' at Kilmacolm Primary School and then chairing a meeting of the Members' Budget Working Group.
Friday
Through in Edinburgh at COSLA most of the day for meetings.
Sunday, 3 September 2017
The week ahead...
Monday
In the late afternoon I am attending a meeting with Inverclyde Chamber of Commerce and in the evening a meeting of the Kilmacolm New Community Centre Company Board.
Tuesday
In the early afternoon I have the Policy & Resources Committee pre-agenda followed by a meeting of the Education and Communities Committee.
Wednesday
In the afternoon I have a meeting with the Chief Executive of Youthlink Scotland, my weekly meeting with the Chief Executive and a meeting of the Labour Group.
Thursday
In the morning I have a meeting with local trades unions to discuss the Council's budget process. In the afternoon I will be attending the launch of the MUGA Mile Challenge at Kilmacolm Primary School and then chairing a meeting of the Council's Members' Budget Working Group.
Friday
No Council commitments at this time.
In the late afternoon I am attending a meeting with Inverclyde Chamber of Commerce and in the evening a meeting of the Kilmacolm New Community Centre Company Board.
Tuesday
In the early afternoon I have the Policy & Resources Committee pre-agenda followed by a meeting of the Education and Communities Committee.
Wednesday
In the afternoon I have a meeting with the Chief Executive of Youthlink Scotland, my weekly meeting with the Chief Executive and a meeting of the Labour Group.
Thursday
In the morning I have a meeting with local trades unions to discuss the Council's budget process. In the afternoon I will be attending the launch of the MUGA Mile Challenge at Kilmacolm Primary School and then chairing a meeting of the Council's Members' Budget Working Group.
Friday
No Council commitments at this time.
Sunday, 27 August 2017
The week ahead...
Monday
At work until mid afternoon before heading to Greenock for a meeting of the Council's Members' Budget Working Group. Depending on when it finishes I will attend one of three community meetings in Port Glasgow in the evening.
Tuesday
At work most of the day. In the early evening I have a meeting of the River Clyde Homes Board. This is unlikely to finish in time for me to attend one of two community meetings in my Ward.
Wednesday
In the afternoon I will be attending a meeting of the national advisory board for developing Scotland's young workforce in Glasgow in my capacity as the local government body COSLA's spokesperson on Children and Young People. I will then be going to Greenock for the weekly meeting of the Labour Group.
Thursday
At work in the morning. In the afternoon I have a meeting of the Environment and Regeneration Committee followed by my weekly meeting with the Chief Executive. In the evening I have a meeting of the Greenock Arts Guild Board.
Friday
In the morning I will be chairing a meeting of the Texas Instruments Task Force and then attending the Merchant Navy flag raising ceremony. In the afternoon I will be attending an information session on town centre regeneration by Scotland's Towns Partnership.
At work until mid afternoon before heading to Greenock for a meeting of the Council's Members' Budget Working Group. Depending on when it finishes I will attend one of three community meetings in Port Glasgow in the evening.
Tuesday
At work most of the day. In the early evening I have a meeting of the River Clyde Homes Board. This is unlikely to finish in time for me to attend one of two community meetings in my Ward.
Wednesday
In the afternoon I will be attending a meeting of the national advisory board for developing Scotland's young workforce in Glasgow in my capacity as the local government body COSLA's spokesperson on Children and Young People. I will then be going to Greenock for the weekly meeting of the Labour Group.
Thursday
At work in the morning. In the afternoon I have a meeting of the Environment and Regeneration Committee followed by my weekly meeting with the Chief Executive. In the evening I have a meeting of the Greenock Arts Guild Board.
Friday
In the morning I will be chairing a meeting of the Texas Instruments Task Force and then attending the Merchant Navy flag raising ceremony. In the afternoon I will be attending an information session on town centre regeneration by Scotland's Towns Partnership.
Sunday, 20 August 2017
The week ahead...
Monday
At work until mid afternoon then down to Greenock for a meeting of the Arts Guild Finance and Staffing Committee at the Beacon Arts Centre.
Tuesday
At work until early afternoon then down to Greenock for meetings of the Women's Forum, Audit Committee and Members' Budget Working Group.
Wednesday
At working in the morning then heading to Edinburgh for a meeting with the Deputy First Minister in my capacity as COSLA's Spokesperson for Children and Young People.
Thursday
At work in the morning. In the afternoon I have a meeting of the Health and Social Care Committee before chairing the second Members' Budget Working Group meeting of the week.
Friday
Through in Edinburgh for the COSLA Leaders Meeting.
At work until mid afternoon then down to Greenock for a meeting of the Arts Guild Finance and Staffing Committee at the Beacon Arts Centre.
Tuesday
At work until early afternoon then down to Greenock for meetings of the Women's Forum, Audit Committee and Members' Budget Working Group.
Wednesday
At working in the morning then heading to Edinburgh for a meeting with the Deputy First Minister in my capacity as COSLA's Spokesperson for Children and Young People.
Thursday
At work in the morning. In the afternoon I have a meeting of the Health and Social Care Committee before chairing the second Members' Budget Working Group meeting of the week.
Friday
Through in Edinburgh for the COSLA Leaders Meeting.
Sunday, 13 August 2017
The week ahead...
Monday
At work all day. No evening commitments.
Tuesday
Attending a meeting of the Glasgow City Region Cabinet in the morning in Glasgow. At work in the afternoon.
Wednesday
At work in the morning. In the afternoon I have an Inverclyde Alliance workshop followed by a meeting of the Labour Group.
Thursday
Through in Edinburgh at COSLA for most of the day. In the evening I have a meeting of Slaemuir Tenants' and Residents' Association.
Friday
At work during the day. In the evening I will be attending the Recruit Dinner and Awards.
At work all day. No evening commitments.
Tuesday
Attending a meeting of the Glasgow City Region Cabinet in the morning in Glasgow. At work in the afternoon.
Wednesday
At work in the morning. In the afternoon I have an Inverclyde Alliance workshop followed by a meeting of the Labour Group.
Thursday
Through in Edinburgh at COSLA for most of the day. In the evening I have a meeting of Slaemuir Tenants' and Residents' Association.
Friday
At work during the day. In the evening I will be attending the Recruit Dinner and Awards.
Sunday, 6 August 2017
The week ahead...
Monday
At work all day. No Council commitments at this time.
Tuesday
At work in the morning. In the afternoon I will be chairing a meeting of the Council's Policy & Resources Committee. In the evening I have a surgery in Kilmacolm Community Centre at 6.00.
Wednesday
At work in the morning. In the afternoon I will be chairing a meeting of the Council's Strategic Leadership Forum before meeting with the Chief Executive and then the Labour Group.
Thursday
At work most of the day. In the early evening I have an information session at River Clyde Homes.
Friday
Through in Edinburgh at COSLA most of the day. In the evening I have a meeting of the Greenock Arts Guild Nominations Committee.
Saturday
Attending the Comet Festival Day in Port Glasgow's Coronation Park.
At work all day. No Council commitments at this time.
Tuesday
At work in the morning. In the afternoon I will be chairing a meeting of the Council's Policy & Resources Committee. In the evening I have a surgery in Kilmacolm Community Centre at 6.00.
Wednesday
At work in the morning. In the afternoon I will be chairing a meeting of the Council's Strategic Leadership Forum before meeting with the Chief Executive and then the Labour Group.
Thursday
At work most of the day. In the early evening I have an information session at River Clyde Homes.
Friday
Through in Edinburgh at COSLA most of the day. In the evening I have a meeting of the Greenock Arts Guild Nominations Committee.
Saturday
Attending the Comet Festival Day in Port Glasgow's Coronation Park.
Sunday, 25 June 2017
The week ahead...
Monday
At work in the morning. In the afternoon I have meetings of the Port Glasgow Regeneration Forum and Members' Budget Working Group. In the evening I have a meeting of the Woodhall Task Group and a meeting with some residents in Kilmacolm regarding a planning matter.
Tuesday
At work in the morning. In the afternoon I have a briefing and in the evening a meeting of Kilmacolm Community Council.
Wednesday
At work in the morning. In the afternoon I have my weekly meeting with the Chief Executive and a meeting of the Labour Group.
Thursday
At work in the morning. In the afternoon I have a members' workshop, a meeting of the Police and Fire Scrutiny Committee and a meeting of the full Council.
Friday
Through in Edinburgh at COSLA much of the day. In the evening I will be attending the ordination in St Andrew's Church in Greenock of Rev. Jonathan Whitworth.
At work in the morning. In the afternoon I have meetings of the Port Glasgow Regeneration Forum and Members' Budget Working Group. In the evening I have a meeting of the Woodhall Task Group and a meeting with some residents in Kilmacolm regarding a planning matter.
Tuesday
At work in the morning. In the afternoon I have a briefing and in the evening a meeting of Kilmacolm Community Council.
Wednesday
At work in the morning. In the afternoon I have my weekly meeting with the Chief Executive and a meeting of the Labour Group.
Thursday
At work in the morning. In the afternoon I have a members' workshop, a meeting of the Police and Fire Scrutiny Committee and a meeting of the full Council.
Friday
Through in Edinburgh at COSLA much of the day. In the evening I will be attending the ordination in St Andrew's Church in Greenock of Rev. Jonathan Whitworth.
Sunday, 18 June 2017
The week ahead...
Monday
At work in the morning. In the afternoon I have a Council pre-agenda meeting and a meeting of the Inverclyde Alliance Board. In the evening I hope to attend a meeting of Kilmacolm New Community Centre CompanyBoard.
Tuesday
At work in the morning. In the afternoon I have a meeting with the Accounts Commission and a meeting of the Policy & Resources Committee. In the evening I will be attending a meeting of the River Clyde Homes Board.
Wednesday
At work in the morning. In the afternoon I have my weekly meetings with the Chief Executive and the Labour Group.
Thursday
At work all day. No Council commitments.
Friday
At work all day. No Council commitments.
At work in the morning. In the afternoon I have a Council pre-agenda meeting and a meeting of the Inverclyde Alliance Board. In the evening I hope to attend a meeting of Kilmacolm New Community Centre CompanyBoard.
Tuesday
At work in the morning. In the afternoon I have a meeting with the Accounts Commission and a meeting of the Policy & Resources Committee. In the evening I will be attending a meeting of the River Clyde Homes Board.
Wednesday
At work in the morning. In the afternoon I have my weekly meetings with the Chief Executive and the Labour Group.
Thursday
At work all day. No Council commitments.
Friday
At work all day. No Council commitments.
Sunday, 11 June 2017
The week ahead...
Monday
At work during the day. In the evening I hope to attend a meeting of the St Francis' Primary School Parent Council.
Tuesday
Attending a meeting of the new Glasgow City Region Cabinet in Glasgow in the morning. In the afternoon I have a meeting of the Education & Communities Committee. In the evening I hope to attend a meeting of St Michael's Primary School Parent Council.
Wednesday
Through in Edinburgh most of the day in my capacity as acting Leader of the COSLA Labour Group, attending meetings at COSLA and with the Deputy First Minister John Swinney.
Thursday
At work in the morning. In the afternoon I have a meeting at River Clyde Homes followed by a meeting of the Environment & Regeneration Committee. In the evening I will be attending the Port Glasgow High School show.
Friday
At work during the day. In the evening I will be attending the Notre Dame High School show.
Saturday
In the morning I will be attending the Armed Forces Day Service at Paisley Abbey and in the evening the Riverside Youth band Summer Concert.
At work during the day. In the evening I hope to attend a meeting of the St Francis' Primary School Parent Council.
Tuesday
Attending a meeting of the new Glasgow City Region Cabinet in Glasgow in the morning. In the afternoon I have a meeting of the Education & Communities Committee. In the evening I hope to attend a meeting of St Michael's Primary School Parent Council.
Wednesday
Through in Edinburgh most of the day in my capacity as acting Leader of the COSLA Labour Group, attending meetings at COSLA and with the Deputy First Minister John Swinney.
Thursday
At work in the morning. In the afternoon I have a meeting at River Clyde Homes followed by a meeting of the Environment & Regeneration Committee. In the evening I will be attending the Port Glasgow High School show.
Friday
At work during the day. In the evening I will be attending the Notre Dame High School show.
Saturday
In the morning I will be attending the Armed Forces Day Service at Paisley Abbey and in the evening the Riverside Youth band Summer Concert.
Sunday, 9 April 2017
The week ahead...
Monday
At work during the day. No Council commitments in the evening. I will be out campaigning for re-election.
Tuesday
Attending a meeting of the Glasgow City Region Cabinet in the morning and at work in the afternoon. Out campaigning in the evening.
Wednesday
At work in the morning. In the afternoon I have a special meeting of the Health & Social Care Committee, my weekly meeting with the Chief Executive and a meeting with the Care Inspectorate. In the evening I will be out campaigning.
Thursday
At work during the day. In the evening I will be out campaigning.
Friday
A day of campaigning and religious observance.
At work during the day. No Council commitments in the evening. I will be out campaigning for re-election.
Tuesday
Attending a meeting of the Glasgow City Region Cabinet in the morning and at work in the afternoon. Out campaigning in the evening.
Wednesday
At work in the morning. In the afternoon I have a special meeting of the Health & Social Care Committee, my weekly meeting with the Chief Executive and a meeting with the Care Inspectorate. In the evening I will be out campaigning.
Thursday
At work during the day. In the evening I will be out campaigning.
Friday
A day of campaigning and religious observance.
Monday, 3 April 2017
Port Glasgow Regeneration Update...
I attended a meeting of the Port Glasgow Regeneration Forum this afternoon and was heartened to hear a lot of positive news.
The Forum was shown plans for the new Burger King drive-through restaurant on the site of the former filling station off the A8. Subject to ongoing discussion with Scottish Water, the developer hopes to be on site by late April. This development should greatly improve the site, which is currently an eyesore detracting from the amenity of the town centre.
Forum members were also pleased to hear about the proposed Greggs' restaurant on Princes Street, which will bring a major empty retail unit back into use.
The Council's Corporate Director for Environment and Regeneration, Scott Allan, informed Forum members of the recent allocation of a further £250,000 for Port Glasgow Town Centre in the Council's recent budget. Officers will draw up a list of projects for consideration by the Forum at a future meeting. Members of the Forum warmly welcomed this additional funding.
Mr Allan also briefed the Forum on the feasibility study to be carried out on improved disabled access to Port Glasgow Railway Station. This will be funded by SPT. It is hoped to that the consultants' report will be ready by October 2017.
Alan McClintock of the Council's Technical Services provided a briefing to the Forum on the proposed new £15,000 Toll Boys' Memorial at Caledonia Street to replace the existing memorial in Robert Street. The Forum is very supportive of this project.
Mr McClintock also updated the Forum on the planned £1m works to the King George VI building in King Street, which is the oldest building in Port Glasgow apart form Newark Castle. The Forum agreed to support a request from Port Glasgow Community Association for £15,000 for a feasibility study into the future use of this building.
Neil Lochiel of Riverside Inverclyde provided an update on the lower town centre project, which will see a new spur road off the 'Tesco' roundabout into Princes Street and public realm improvements in front of the town hall. The contract has been awarded to RJ McLeod, who were the contractors on the Gourock town centre redevelopment. It is hoped work will start shortly with the contract period being 26 weeks.
Finally Gary Wilson, Property Director of River Clyde Homes, provided an update on his association's new build development at Bay Street and future investment plans.
As I said, a really positive meeting with lots of good things happening in Port Glasgow.
The Forum was shown plans for the new Burger King drive-through restaurant on the site of the former filling station off the A8. Subject to ongoing discussion with Scottish Water, the developer hopes to be on site by late April. This development should greatly improve the site, which is currently an eyesore detracting from the amenity of the town centre.
Forum members were also pleased to hear about the proposed Greggs' restaurant on Princes Street, which will bring a major empty retail unit back into use.
The Council's Corporate Director for Environment and Regeneration, Scott Allan, informed Forum members of the recent allocation of a further £250,000 for Port Glasgow Town Centre in the Council's recent budget. Officers will draw up a list of projects for consideration by the Forum at a future meeting. Members of the Forum warmly welcomed this additional funding.
Mr Allan also briefed the Forum on the feasibility study to be carried out on improved disabled access to Port Glasgow Railway Station. This will be funded by SPT. It is hoped to that the consultants' report will be ready by October 2017.
Alan McClintock of the Council's Technical Services provided a briefing to the Forum on the proposed new £15,000 Toll Boys' Memorial at Caledonia Street to replace the existing memorial in Robert Street. The Forum is very supportive of this project.
Mr McClintock also updated the Forum on the planned £1m works to the King George VI building in King Street, which is the oldest building in Port Glasgow apart form Newark Castle. The Forum agreed to support a request from Port Glasgow Community Association for £15,000 for a feasibility study into the future use of this building.
Neil Lochiel of Riverside Inverclyde provided an update on the lower town centre project, which will see a new spur road off the 'Tesco' roundabout into Princes Street and public realm improvements in front of the town hall. The contract has been awarded to RJ McLeod, who were the contractors on the Gourock town centre redevelopment. It is hoped work will start shortly with the contract period being 26 weeks.
Finally Gary Wilson, Property Director of River Clyde Homes, provided an update on his association's new build development at Bay Street and future investment plans.
As I said, a really positive meeting with lots of good things happening in Port Glasgow.
The week ahead...
Monday
In the afternoon I have a meeting of the Port Glasgow Regeneration Forum before paying a home visit to a constituent.
Tuesday
No Council commitments at this time.
Wednesday
In the afternoon I have my weekly meeting with the Chief Executive and a meeting of the Labour Group.
Thursday
In the afternoon I have meetings of the Police and Fire Scrutiny Committee and the full Council.
Friday
No Council commitments at this time.
Sunday, 26 March 2017
The week ahead...
Monday
At work in the morning. In the afternoon I have a meeting of the Peter Stanton Memorial Trust followed by a pre-agenda meeting for the final Council meeting of this term on 6 April. In the evening I will be campaigning for the Council election.
Tuesday
At work until mid afternoon. In the evening I have a surgery in Kilmacolm Community Centre followed by a meeting of Park Farm Tenants' and Residents' Association.
Wednesday
At work in the morning. In the afternoon I have a Members' briefing followed by my weekly meeting with the Chief Executive and the weekly meeting of the Labour Group. In the evening I will be campaigning for the Council election.
Thursday
At work in the morning. In the evening I will be campaigning for the Council election.
Friday
Through in Edinburgh much of the day for the COSLA Convention followed by my final COSLA Leaders' meeting.
At work in the morning. In the afternoon I have a meeting of the Peter Stanton Memorial Trust followed by a pre-agenda meeting for the final Council meeting of this term on 6 April. In the evening I will be campaigning for the Council election.
Tuesday
At work until mid afternoon. In the evening I have a surgery in Kilmacolm Community Centre followed by a meeting of Park Farm Tenants' and Residents' Association.
Wednesday
At work in the morning. In the afternoon I have a Members' briefing followed by my weekly meeting with the Chief Executive and the weekly meeting of the Labour Group. In the evening I will be campaigning for the Council election.
Thursday
At work in the morning. In the evening I will be campaigning for the Council election.
Friday
Through in Edinburgh much of the day for the COSLA Convention followed by my final COSLA Leaders' meeting.
Sunday, 19 March 2017
The week ahead...
Monday
At work until mid-day. In the early afternoon I will be chairing my final meeting of the Inverclyde Alliance Board. In the late afternoon I will be attending a meeting of the Greenock Arts Guild Finance Committee.
Tuesday
At work in the morning. In the afternoon I have a Members' briefing followed by my final meeting as Convener of the Policy & Resources Committee. In the evening I have a meeting of the River Clyde Homes' Board.
Wednesday
At work until early afternoon before heading to Greenock for my weekly meeting with the Chief Executive and the weekly meeting of the Labour Group.
Thursday
At work until lunch-time. In the afternoon I have a meeting of the Riverside Inverclyde Board. In the evening I will be attending a meeting of the St Michael's Primary School Parent Council.
Friday
In the morning I will be chairing a meeting of the Texas Instruments' Task Force.
At work until mid-day. In the early afternoon I will be chairing my final meeting of the Inverclyde Alliance Board. In the late afternoon I will be attending a meeting of the Greenock Arts Guild Finance Committee.
Tuesday
At work in the morning. In the afternoon I have a Members' briefing followed by my final meeting as Convener of the Policy & Resources Committee. In the evening I have a meeting of the River Clyde Homes' Board.
Wednesday
At work until early afternoon before heading to Greenock for my weekly meeting with the Chief Executive and the weekly meeting of the Labour Group.
Thursday
At work until lunch-time. In the afternoon I have a meeting of the Riverside Inverclyde Board. In the evening I will be attending a meeting of the St Michael's Primary School Parent Council.
Friday
In the morning I will be chairing a meeting of the Texas Instruments' Task Force.
Sunday, 12 March 2017
The week ahead…
Monday
At work until mid afternoon. In the evening I will be attending a meeting of St Francis' Primary School Parent Council.
Tuesday
At work until mid afternoon. In the evening I have a surgery in St Francis' Primary School from 5.30 to 6.30.
Wednesday
At work until early afternoon before heading to Greenock for my weekly meeting with the Chief Executive and the weekly Labour Group meeting.
Thursday
At work until mid afternoon. In the evening I will be attending a meeting of Slaemuir Tenants' and Residents' Association in St Francis' Primary School.
Friday
At work until early afternoon before heading to Greenock for a River Clyde Homes Board training event.
At work until mid afternoon. In the evening I will be attending a meeting of St Francis' Primary School Parent Council.
Tuesday
At work until mid afternoon. In the evening I have a surgery in St Francis' Primary School from 5.30 to 6.30.
Wednesday
At work until early afternoon before heading to Greenock for my weekly meeting with the Chief Executive and the weekly Labour Group meeting.
Thursday
At work until mid afternoon. In the evening I will be attending a meeting of Slaemuir Tenants' and Residents' Association in St Francis' Primary School.
Friday
At work until early afternoon before heading to Greenock for a River Clyde Homes Board training event.
Sunday, 5 March 2017
The week ahead...
Monday
At work until early afternoon. In the evening I have meetings of the Woodhall Task Group and Port Glasgow High School Parent Council.
Tuesday
In the morning I have a meeting of the Local Negotiating Committee for Teachers. At lunch-time I have the Policy & Resources Committee pre-agenda and in the afternoon the Education & Communities Committee. In the evening I hope to attend a meeting of Kilmacolm Primary School Parent Partnership.
Wednesday
At work unit early afternoon. Later in the afternoon I have my weekly meeting with the Chief Executive followed by a meeting of the Labour Group. In the evening I hope to visit a new youth club that has been started by parents in Port Glasgow for children with autism.
Thursday
At work until early afternoon before heading to the Beacon Arts Centre for the Council's 'Pride of Inverclyde' staff awards. In early evening I am meeting with the Chief Executive of River Clyde Homes.
Friday
No work or Council commitments at this time. I hope to spend the day leafleting for the forthcoming Council elections.
Saturday
In the afternoon I will be attending the Port Glasgow Spring Bulb Show.
At work until early afternoon. In the evening I have meetings of the Woodhall Task Group and Port Glasgow High School Parent Council.
Tuesday
In the morning I have a meeting of the Local Negotiating Committee for Teachers. At lunch-time I have the Policy & Resources Committee pre-agenda and in the afternoon the Education & Communities Committee. In the evening I hope to attend a meeting of Kilmacolm Primary School Parent Partnership.
Wednesday
At work unit early afternoon. Later in the afternoon I have my weekly meeting with the Chief Executive followed by a meeting of the Labour Group. In the evening I hope to visit a new youth club that has been started by parents in Port Glasgow for children with autism.
Thursday
At work until early afternoon before heading to the Beacon Arts Centre for the Council's 'Pride of Inverclyde' staff awards. In early evening I am meeting with the Chief Executive of River Clyde Homes.
Friday
No work or Council commitments at this time. I hope to spend the day leafleting for the forthcoming Council elections.
Saturday
In the afternoon I will be attending the Port Glasgow Spring Bulb Show.
Sunday, 26 February 2017
The week ahead...
Monday
At work during the day. In the evening I hope to attend a meeting of the newly established Port Glasgow West Community Council.
Tuesday
At work during the day. In the evening I have a surgery in Kilmacolm Community Centre followed by a meeting of Kilmacolm Community Council.
Wednesday
At work in the morning. In the afternoon I have meetings regarding the forthcoming Inspection of Children's Services, the Inverclyde Alliance Board Pre-agenda and a meeting of the Labour Group. In the early evening I am meeting with Inverclyde Youth Council.
Thursday
At work in the morning. In the afternoon I have a meeting of the Environment & Regeneration Committee.
Friday
No work or Council commitments at this time.
At work during the day. In the evening I hope to attend a meeting of the newly established Port Glasgow West Community Council.
Tuesday
At work during the day. In the evening I have a surgery in Kilmacolm Community Centre followed by a meeting of Kilmacolm Community Council.
Wednesday
At work in the morning. In the afternoon I have meetings regarding the forthcoming Inspection of Children's Services, the Inverclyde Alliance Board Pre-agenda and a meeting of the Labour Group. In the early evening I am meeting with Inverclyde Youth Council.
Thursday
At work in the morning. In the afternoon I have a meeting of the Environment & Regeneration Committee.
Friday
No work or Council commitments at this time.
Sunday, 19 February 2017
The week ahead...
Monday
At work during the day. In the evening I will be attending Greenock Sea Cadets' Royal Naval Parade.
Tuesday
At work during the day. In the evening I have a meeting of River Clyde Homes Audit & Finance Committee.
Wednesday
At work in the morning. In the afternoon I have my weekly meeting with the Chief Executive and a meeting of the Labour Group.
Thursday
At work in the morning. In the afternoon I have a meeting of the Health & Social Care Committee.
Friday
Through at COSLA in Edinburgh for the monthly Leaders' meeting.
Saturday
Attending the official opening of the new Inverkip Community Centre in the morning.
At work during the day. In the evening I will be attending Greenock Sea Cadets' Royal Naval Parade.
Tuesday
At work during the day. In the evening I have a meeting of River Clyde Homes Audit & Finance Committee.
Wednesday
At work in the morning. In the afternoon I have my weekly meeting with the Chief Executive and a meeting of the Labour Group.
Thursday
At work in the morning. In the afternoon I have a meeting of the Health & Social Care Committee.
Friday
Through at COSLA in Edinburgh for the monthly Leaders' meeting.
Saturday
Attending the official opening of the new Inverkip Community Centre in the morning.
Sunday, 12 February 2017
The week ahead...
Monday
At work until mid afternoon. No Council commitments.
Tuesday
In Glasgow for a meeting of the City Region Cabinet and the launch of the Regional Economic Strategy in the morning. In the evening I have a surgery in Boglestone Community Centre.
Wednesday
At work in the morning. In the late afternoon I have a meeting of the Labour Group.
Thursday
At work in the morning. In the afternoon I have a meeting of the local Police and Fire Scrutiny Sub-Committee followed by a meeting of the full Council. In the evening I will be attending a meeting of Slaemuir Tenants' and Residents' Association.
Friday
At work in the morning. I have a Labour Party campaign meeting in the evening.
At work until mid afternoon. No Council commitments.
Tuesday
In Glasgow for a meeting of the City Region Cabinet and the launch of the Regional Economic Strategy in the morning. In the evening I have a surgery in Boglestone Community Centre.
Wednesday
At work in the morning. In the late afternoon I have a meeting of the Labour Group.
Thursday
At work in the morning. In the afternoon I have a meeting of the local Police and Fire Scrutiny Sub-Committee followed by a meeting of the full Council. In the evening I will be attending a meeting of Slaemuir Tenants' and Residents' Association.
Friday
At work in the morning. I have a Labour Party campaign meeting in the evening.
Thursday, 9 February 2017
Council set to approve £86m capital investment programme...
Next Thursday at the full Council I will be moving a three-year capital programme covering the period 2017-2020.
The total proposed investment over this period is just over £86m, with £37m to be invested in our schools alone on a range of projects including:
£5.0m on the refurbishment of Moorfoot Primary
£3.6m on the refurbishment of Lady Alice Primary School
£9.1m on a new St Ninian's Primary School
£1.7m on an extension to Gourock Primary School
£5.2m on the refurbishment and extension of St Mary's Primary School
£1.1m on the refurbishment of Bluebird Family Centre
£3.0m on a new early years facility for Greenock's west end
£1.0m on providing a new home for Glenbrae Children's Centre
£1.0m on the refurbishment of Hillend Children's Centre
£0.35m on the upgrade of Larkfield Children's Centre.
Investing in our schools was my number one priority when I first became Council Leader in 2007. Ten years on it remains my number one priority.
This further investment over the next three years will see us achieve our goal of having all pre-five facilities, primary schools, secondary schools and additional support needs schools fully refurbished or re-built by 2020. This is a legacy that I and my colleagues can be extremely proud of.
Other major projects in the capital programme include:
£12.9m on upgrading roads, footways, street lighting and other roads assets
£2.5m on flood prevention works
£2.2m on two new Children's Homes
£1.7m on the refurbishment of the Watt Library and McLean Museum
£3.2m on private sector housing support including funding for aids and adaptations
£1.4m on Broomhill regeneration works including the realignment of Bakers Brae.
The total proposed investment over this period is just over £86m, with £37m to be invested in our schools alone on a range of projects including:
£5.0m on the refurbishment of Moorfoot Primary
£3.6m on the refurbishment of Lady Alice Primary School
£9.1m on a new St Ninian's Primary School
£1.7m on an extension to Gourock Primary School
£5.2m on the refurbishment and extension of St Mary's Primary School
£1.1m on the refurbishment of Bluebird Family Centre
£3.0m on a new early years facility for Greenock's west end
£1.0m on providing a new home for Glenbrae Children's Centre
£1.0m on the refurbishment of Hillend Children's Centre
£0.35m on the upgrade of Larkfield Children's Centre.
Investing in our schools was my number one priority when I first became Council Leader in 2007. Ten years on it remains my number one priority.
This further investment over the next three years will see us achieve our goal of having all pre-five facilities, primary schools, secondary schools and additional support needs schools fully refurbished or re-built by 2020. This is a legacy that I and my colleagues can be extremely proud of.
Other major projects in the capital programme include:
£12.9m on upgrading roads, footways, street lighting and other roads assets
£2.5m on flood prevention works
£2.2m on two new Children's Homes
£1.7m on the refurbishment of the Watt Library and McLean Museum
£3.2m on private sector housing support including funding for aids and adaptations
£1.4m on Broomhill regeneration works including the realignment of Bakers Brae.
Wednesday, 8 February 2017
Further details of budget proposals...
"In addition to the proposals I announced last night the cross-party Members' Budget Working Group will be making the following recommendations to the full Council meeting on 16 February.
Town Centre Regeneration
£2.5m to support the regeneration of our three town centres - Greenock, Gourock and Port Glasgow - with the lion's share of the money to be targeted at Greenock Town Centre reflecting the relative sizes and needs of each town centre. Priority projects will be drawn up in consultation with the three town centre regeneration forums.
Employability
£500,000 to support a range of employability initiatives, including the creation of apprenticeship opportunities, building on the Council's existing successful employability programmes.
Anti-Poverty Fund
£1m to fund a range of initiatives to support individuals and families living in poverty.
Grants to Voluntary Organisations
£150,000 to support local voluntary groups, supplementing the existing Grants to Voluntary Organisations fund.
'Autism Friendly Community'
£150,000 to support a new initiative to make Inverclyde an 'Autism Friendly Community' building on the existing local autism strategy and the good work of local voluntary groups like 'Reach for Autism'.
Indoor Sports Facility
£350,000 matching funding for a bid to the Scottish Government for a new indoor sports facility suitable for tennis, building on the longstanding local interest in tennis and the renewed interest in the sport generated by the success of the Murray brothers.
I'm sure these proposals will be welcomed across the community."
Town Centre Regeneration
£2.5m to support the regeneration of our three town centres - Greenock, Gourock and Port Glasgow - with the lion's share of the money to be targeted at Greenock Town Centre reflecting the relative sizes and needs of each town centre. Priority projects will be drawn up in consultation with the three town centre regeneration forums.
Employability
£500,000 to support a range of employability initiatives, including the creation of apprenticeship opportunities, building on the Council's existing successful employability programmes.
Anti-Poverty Fund
£1m to fund a range of initiatives to support individuals and families living in poverty.
Grants to Voluntary Organisations
£150,000 to support local voluntary groups, supplementing the existing Grants to Voluntary Organisations fund.
'Autism Friendly Community'
£150,000 to support a new initiative to make Inverclyde an 'Autism Friendly Community' building on the existing local autism strategy and the good work of local voluntary groups like 'Reach for Autism'.
Indoor Sports Facility
£350,000 matching funding for a bid to the Scottish Government for a new indoor sports facility suitable for tennis, building on the longstanding local interest in tennis and the renewed interest in the sport generated by the success of the Murray brothers.
I'm sure these proposals will be welcomed across the community."
Tuesday, 7 February 2017
Cross-Party Budget Proposals Agreed...
Following a two-hour meeting earlier
tonight the Council’s cross-party
Members’ Budget Working Group reached agreement on a package of budget
proposals to be recommended to a meeting of the full Council on 16 February 2017.
Despite a reduction in the Council’s grant of
nearly £5m from the Scottish Government the cross-party group has honoured the
commitment given previously to balance the 2017/18 budget without further
service reductions over and above those previously agreed as part of the
2016/18 two-year budget set in March 2016. This will be achieved through the
use of reserves.
The Group had considered closing some of the
budget gap with a 3% Council Tax rise for all Council Taxpayers as recommended
by the Scottish Government. However, on balance, members of the Group decided
against this. They are conscious that 7,000 households in Inverclyde already
face potential rises of between 7.5% and 22.5% and did not wish to add to the
burden on these families.
Members of the Group recognise that
if the Scottish Government continues to cut the Council’s funding year on year
a rise in the basic level of Council Tax is inevitable next year and every year
thereafter.
The Council’s Chief Financial Officer is
estimating that the potential funding gap in 2018/19 is of the order of £10.5m,
assuming a further £4.7m cut in Scottish Government funding. A savings target
of this magnitude will be hugely challenging for the new Council elected in May
and will require a fundamental review of the services the Council delivers.
The members of the Council’s cross-party Members’
Budget Working Group are: Councillor Ronnie Ahlfeld (Independent); Councillor
Jim Clocherty (Labour); Councillor Vaughan Jones (Independent); Chair,
Councillor Stephen McCabe (Labour); Councillor Ciano Rebecchi (Liberal
Democrat) and Councillor David Wilson (Conservative). The SNP Group Leader
Councillor Christopher McEleny withdrew his Group from the working group in
December 2016.
The cross-party group represents 14 of the
Council’s 20 members with the remaining 6 being SNP Councillors.
Sunday, 5 February 2017
The week ahead...
Monday
At work in the morning. In the early afternoon I will be attending the launch of the regional economic strategy in Glasgow. In the late afternoon I have the Council pre-agenda followed by a meeting with the Principal of Newlands College in Glasgow, Iain White, to hear about the work of the college, which was set up by Scottish entrepreneur Jim McColl, and what lessons its success might have for Inverclyde.
Tuesday
At work until mid afternoon. In the late afternoon I am meeting with the Deputy Leader of the Scottish Labour Party, Alex Rowley MSP. This will be followed by a meeting of the cross-party Members' Budget Working Group, where we hope to agree the final budget proposals to be made to the Council on 16 February. It is likely the SNP Group will submit their own separate proposals.
Wednesday
At work in the morning. In the afternoon I have my weekly meeting with the Chief Executive followed by a meeting of the Labour Group.
Thursday
At work until mid afternoon. No Council commitments at this time.
Friday
At work in the morning. No Council commitments at this time.
At work in the morning. In the early afternoon I will be attending the launch of the regional economic strategy in Glasgow. In the late afternoon I have the Council pre-agenda followed by a meeting with the Principal of Newlands College in Glasgow, Iain White, to hear about the work of the college, which was set up by Scottish entrepreneur Jim McColl, and what lessons its success might have for Inverclyde.
Tuesday
At work until mid afternoon. In the late afternoon I am meeting with the Deputy Leader of the Scottish Labour Party, Alex Rowley MSP. This will be followed by a meeting of the cross-party Members' Budget Working Group, where we hope to agree the final budget proposals to be made to the Council on 16 February. It is likely the SNP Group will submit their own separate proposals.
Wednesday
At work in the morning. In the afternoon I have my weekly meeting with the Chief Executive followed by a meeting of the Labour Group.
Thursday
At work until mid afternoon. No Council commitments at this time.
Friday
At work in the morning. No Council commitments at this time.
Sunday, 29 January 2017
The week ahead...
Monday
At work during the day. In the evening I hope to attend a meeting of Port Glasgow Community Association.
Tuesday
In the morning I am chairing a meeting of the Texas Instruments Task Force. At lunch-time I am meeting with the owners of a local business. In the afternoon I will be chairing a meeting of the Policy & Resources Committee then meeting with an officer for a briefing. In the evening I have a surgery in Kilmacolm Community Centre followed by a meeting of Kilmacolm Community Council.
Wednesday
At work in the morning. In the afternoon I have an all Members' briefing on the Council's budget consultation; a Members' focus group with Audit Scotland; and a meeting of the Labour Group. In the early evening I have a meeting with Inverclyde Youth Council.
Thursday
At work during the day. In the evening I have a meeting of the Kilmacolm New Community Centre Company Board.
Friday
At work in the morning. No Council commitments at this time.
At work during the day. In the evening I hope to attend a meeting of Port Glasgow Community Association.
Tuesday
In the morning I am chairing a meeting of the Texas Instruments Task Force. At lunch-time I am meeting with the owners of a local business. In the afternoon I will be chairing a meeting of the Policy & Resources Committee then meeting with an officer for a briefing. In the evening I have a surgery in Kilmacolm Community Centre followed by a meeting of Kilmacolm Community Council.
Wednesday
At work in the morning. In the afternoon I have an all Members' briefing on the Council's budget consultation; a Members' focus group with Audit Scotland; and a meeting of the Labour Group. In the early evening I have a meeting with Inverclyde Youth Council.
Thursday
At work during the day. In the evening I have a meeting of the Kilmacolm New Community Centre Company Board.
Friday
At work in the morning. No Council commitments at this time.
Sunday, 22 January 2017
The week ahead...
Monday
In the afternoon I have a briefing on the review of the school transport policy followed by a special meeting of the Education & Communities Committee to consider the outcome of this review. I then have a meeting of the Greenock Arts Guild Finance Committee.
Tuesday
At work all day. In the evening I hope to attend a meeting of the St Michael's Primary School Parent Council.
Wednesday
At work in the morning. In the afternoon I have a meeting of the cross-party Members' Budget Working Group, my weekly meeting with the Chief Executive and a meeting of the Labour Group.
Thursday
At work all day. In the evening I have a meeting of the Greenock Arts Guild Board.
Friday
Through in Edinburgh for the COSLA Leaders' meeting. In the evening I will be attending a Labour Party meeting.
In the afternoon I have a briefing on the review of the school transport policy followed by a special meeting of the Education & Communities Committee to consider the outcome of this review. I then have a meeting of the Greenock Arts Guild Finance Committee.
Tuesday
At work all day. In the evening I hope to attend a meeting of the St Michael's Primary School Parent Council.
Wednesday
At work in the morning. In the afternoon I have a meeting of the cross-party Members' Budget Working Group, my weekly meeting with the Chief Executive and a meeting of the Labour Group.
Thursday
At work all day. In the evening I have a meeting of the Greenock Arts Guild Board.
Friday
Through in Edinburgh for the COSLA Leaders' meeting. In the evening I will be attending a Labour Party meeting.
Sunday, 15 January 2017
The week ahead...
Monday
At work during the day. In the evening I hope to attend a meeting of the St Francis' Primary School Parent Council.
Tuesday
In the afternoon I have the Policy & Resources Committee pre-agenda followed by a meeting of the Education & Communities Committee. In the early evening I have a meeting of the River Clyde Homes' Board.
Wednesday
At work in the morning. In the late afternoon I have a meeting of the Labour Group.
Thursday
At work during the day. In the evening I hope to attend a performance at the Beacon Arts Centre by 'Reach for Autism'.
Friday
At work in the morning. I have a Labour Party meeting in the evening to discuss local campaigning.
Saturday
At a Labour candidates' event in Stirling.
At work during the day. In the evening I hope to attend a meeting of the St Francis' Primary School Parent Council.
Tuesday
In the afternoon I have the Policy & Resources Committee pre-agenda followed by a meeting of the Education & Communities Committee. In the early evening I have a meeting of the River Clyde Homes' Board.
Wednesday
At work in the morning. In the late afternoon I have a meeting of the Labour Group.
Thursday
At work during the day. In the evening I hope to attend a performance at the Beacon Arts Centre by 'Reach for Autism'.
Friday
At work in the morning. I have a Labour Party meeting in the evening to discuss local campaigning.
Saturday
At a Labour candidates' event in Stirling.
Sunday, 8 January 2017
The week ahead...
Monday
No Council commitments. At my work all day.
Tuesday
At my work all day. In the evening I hope to attend a meeting of Kilmacolm Primary School Parent Partnership.
Wednesday
At work until lunch-time. In the afternoon I have a Members' briefing on our roads' asset management strategy, my weekly meeting with the Chief Executive and a meeting of the Labour Group.
Thursday
Working until lunch-time. In the afternoon I will be attending a meeting of the Environment & Regeneration Committee.
Friday
Not working. In the afternoon I will be officially opening the newly refurbished Kilmacolm Primary School.
No Council commitments. At my work all day.
Tuesday
At my work all day. In the evening I hope to attend a meeting of Kilmacolm Primary School Parent Partnership.
Wednesday
At work until lunch-time. In the afternoon I have a Members' briefing on our roads' asset management strategy, my weekly meeting with the Chief Executive and a meeting of the Labour Group.
Thursday
Working until lunch-time. In the afternoon I will be attending a meeting of the Environment & Regeneration Committee.
Friday
Not working. In the afternoon I will be officially opening the newly refurbished Kilmacolm Primary School.
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