Issue - meetings

[To approve the Parental Leave Policy for Councillors.]

That the Parental Leave Policy for Councillors be approved.

Councillor Sandra Samuels OBE presented the report on Parental Leave Policy for approval. She advised the policy would ensure that councillors with children and other caring responsibilities were supported as appropriate. At present there was no legal right to parental leave of any kind for people elected in public office.

She added the policy detailed leave periods, cover arrangements and the impact on basic and special responsibility allowances. The policy would also assist with retaining experienced councillors, particularly women by making public office more accessible.

Councillor Sandra Samuels OBE proposed the recommendation and the Leader of the Council, Councillor Ian Brookfield seconded the recommendation.

Resolved:

That the Parental Leave Policy for Councillors be approved.