Transcript

You You You You You You You You So can I welcome you all to Mayor making to the annual council meeting Wednesday the 15th of May 2024 and Hilary Barber is going to get us in the right frame of mind for this meeting. Thank you Mr Mayor. Good afternoon everyone. Have the courage to stand for public office. To prepare to serve their local communities through the ballot box and whose every desire is to make the world a better place for every town, village and street. Today we give particular gratitude to all those members who have stood down this year. Many of whom have served for a distinguished period of time and in the cabinet. We give thanks for the past year of those who served as mayor and mayor and their deputies for Ashley and Rosie for Sue and Michael. For all they've personally given in support of all the communities that make up this borough and for their charitable work throughout the year. We celebrate that today we can welcome a newly elected mayor and consort and their deputies alongside them for Anne and Diana. That they will be truly blessed throughout their year in office. We also give thanks for the work of this Metropolitan Borough Council and for all its offices. For all that has been achieved. For all the things that are yet to be delivered. And for meeting the many challenges along the way. For those who've given so much over the past 50 years in service to the council and the local community. We particularly remember those whose jobs are not sexy or in the public eye. Yet remain the bedrock of this administration. Some of whom are found working the streets throughout the night and during extreme weather. For all who regularly go the extra mile for the common good. Almighty and eternal God to whom we must all give account. Guide with your spirit the elected members and officers of this borough council. That they may be faithful and honest in all their endeavors. And seek in all their purposes to enrich our common life. In the name of our creator Redeemer and Sustainer. On this day we recognize that we live in a global village. And that despite the resilience and topography of the landscape in Cordesdale. We are connected across the world through social media business and education. We give thanks for the places with which we are twin today. And for the opportunities to share our civic religious and military experiences. Sadly we recognize the vulnerable world suffering from war and the climate emergency. For the many places where there remains immense suffering and oppression. For the Middle East and especially the conflict between Israel and the Palestinian community in Gaza. For the war in Europe between Russia and Ukraine. But also those in Sudan and South Sudan. Eritrea and Syria, Afghanistan and Iran, the Yemen and many other hidden places. For all suffering from extreme heat and significant increase in flooding. Reckon homes and businesses and destroying crops. Leaving millions of people migrating from hunger and in need of shelter. As well as fear and persecution. Almighty God from whom all thoughts of truth and peace proceed. Kindle we pray in the hearts of all. The true love of peace. And guide with your pure and peaceable wisdom. Those who take counsel for the nations of the earth. But in tranquility your kingdom may go forward till the earth is filled with the knowledge of your love. On this day we reflect on the year ahead that it may be spared from disaster. And be full of good courage. For the health of this borough. For all who work in the private public and third sectors. Sustaining our economy and supporting the vulnerable. For all who live here and have their being. For those who care for the environment. And for our leisure. For those who keep us safe during the day. And when we sleep at night. For those who support health and education. And those who are there at the beginning and end of life. For all the faith communities who contribute when reaching our lives and communities. For this chamber. For the decisions that need to be made. For bold visions. And for good opposition. For the ongoing work towards vision 2034. And for the celebrations of culture. Finally as a council. We remember all looked after children. And those in adult social care. For all who we have a statutory responsibility to care for. God grant to the living grace. To the departed rest. To the church the king the commonwealth and all people unity peace and concord. To us and all God servants life everlasting. The blessing of God almighty the father the son and the Holy Spirit. Be with you all and remain with you always. Thank you Hillary. Item one on this morning's this afternoon's agenda. Is to elect a mayor for the borough of Coloredale for 2024 25. Can I call upon Councillor Barnes please to propose the new mayor. For those of you who are wondering and this doesn't work well in the breakout room. About the jacket. Tap us to council car park ice rings. Mayor. Deputy Mayor. Mayor elect. Deputy Mayor elect. Which is the worst hung in poker I think I've ever been dealt. And now in no particular order. Honour guests. And it's 36 down. 36. Okay. It's a good solid number 36. And it is for the nerds to make you a perfect square as well. I need to remember that number for later on. There is a quiz. Councillors. New Councillors. And those that are slightly used. And council staff who have been made to attend today. At this stage it's customary, traditional. In fact somebody told me yesterday obligatory to give a detailed history of Anne or Janet Anne's life. And for anybody who knows Lou, knows that is a tradition I am going to completely ignore. However, there are a couple of things worthy of comment. First, Anne is a renamed knitwear designer. And published author. Not just published, people have actually bought her books. And her bestseller, Born and Bread, has sold all of 31 copies. And for those of you who can do the maths, remember I said to remember that number earlier. Like me you're wondering which five people here are the lucky ones. Born and Bread, or to give it its full title, Born and Bread, is not my favourite. My favourite goes to a classic, I'm in a real classic, a holding up. Top knits. Because I still don't know how she got that top to knit. Bit of a Yorkshire joke and a hard audience. It's also a present to see Dave here. Dave is a respective heating engineer. So you can imagine knitting and heating, those long winter nights just fly by in the Kingston household. I asked Dave, and Anne has been really worried about this to be honest with you. And I'm going to admit I've been leading her on for about the last week when her panic started to set in from last Wednesday. But I did ask Dave for some fun stories about Anne and knitting. And Dave looked me straight in the arm and said, Mike, this is knitting, there aren't no fun to stop. But time to be so slightly serious, I've known Anne for a number of years and she's become a true and trusted friend. Anne is a warm, generous soul with an infectious and enthusiastic love of life. But also a laugh that can strip furniture off. She's going to throw a heart and soul, a bobby heart and soul into being man. But word of warning to council is here. And I mean any councillor stepping out of line. Sorry, I'm going to just delete, explain to you. Okay, we'll be in for a rough ride. So, like further ado, this is the really boring legal bit. If you thought that bit was boring, wait for this one. I hear my composer, councillor Anne Kingston shall be elected mayor of Colgate, who shall. Unless she resigns or becomes disqualified, continue in office until her successor becomes entitled to actors mayor after election at the annual meeting of the council in 2025. Thank you. [Applause] Thank you councillor Barnes. As informative as ever. Thank you very much. councillor Hudson, I believe you wish to second the proposal. Thank you Mr. Mayor. What are we looking for when we propose one of our elected members to represent the borough of Colgate for a year? We're looking for somebody who's able to bring together and celebrate the individuals and various communities up and down this very distinctive borough with its mix of rural, urban and suburbs. It's juxtaposition of distinctive landscapes and buildings with areas and pockets of intense and often grim hardship so well represented in Sally Wainwright's work. The many strong and humane individuals and community groups working to bring people together and build the lives of their families and neighbours. And the strong theme of creativity and culture that is being celebrated particularly this year in the cultural program of events. We're looking for somebody who will emphasise to people that their individual contributions are recognised and valued and will be supported in whatever way we are able to continue to make a difference. Having campaigned and worked alongside my fellow member of Skirko, not the centre of the universe like some places and does live in the centre of the universe so you'll be relieved to hear. For nearly four years, Councillor Mrs. Anne Kingston was an obvious choice for the role of Mayor of Coludale. She has a deep and perceptive interest in people as individuals and an enthusiasm for what they're able to achieve individually and particularly together. Her excitement at the prospect of a year of becoming absorbed in the richness of Coludale life and the people that are shaping it has been clear to all of us and nobody does excitement in quite the way that Councillor Mrs. Kingston does. As anyone who's at the count after polling day or even within half a mile of the count must have heard. I'm certain she will bring that sense of enthusiasm to the events and meetings that lie before her and will be able supported by Dave and his husband in doing so. As you've heard Anne runs her own knitting business with a strong interest in traditional techniques and design and is keenly aware of the history of knitting in the north of England while interpreting it in new and eye-catching ways and I'm sure will be treated to that in the coming 12 months. Her ability to appreciate and relate to the flourishing art and craft scene in Coludale will be a strength. Coludale's very own Madame Defarge. At the same time we look for our mayor to be an effective chair of full council meetings which can throw out their own particular challenges as you will have noticed yourself. It takes skill and sensitivity to ensure that these meetings can take place in an orderly, even-handed and dignified manner that allows all members to contribute constructively to the discussions that the council's decisions can be strengthened by having access to the huge range of experience present in this chamber. This will demand careful and detailed preparation. And we've seen Councillor Mrs. Anne Kingston's work and scrutiny committees. I know she doesn't skimp on such preparatory work. It also requires agility and flexibility to cope with the unexpected. I'm certain she will be able to arise to this challenge. I would warmly like to second Councillor Barnes's proposal that Councillor Anne Kingston be elected mayor of Coludale who shall, unless she resigns or becomes disqualified, continue in office until her successor becomes entitled to act as mayor after election at the annual meeting of the council in 2025. [Applause] Thank you, Councillor Hutchinson. Well, after those two proposals, I don't think we really need to put this to the vote. But formally, I put the motion to you that the mayor will be Councillor Anne Kingston this year. Would all those in favour please show? [Applause] I guess I have to ask if there's anybody against that guard yourself if you do. [Laughter] I declare the motion carried and that Anne Kingston is the mayor of Coludale. [Applause] We will now. 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[Applause] [Applause] Distinguished guests, esteemed colleagues, and cherished officers of the council. As I sit here before you today, assuming the role of Mayor of Colderdale, I am filled with a sense of profound gratitude and purpose. This moment marks not just the beginning of my tenure, but a celebration of our shared history, our collective achievements, and the limitless potential that lies ahead. In this hallowed council chamber adorned above us with the timeless image of St. John the Baptist, letters draw inspiration from his qualities of courage, integrity, and unwavering commitment to his principles. Like St. John, may we be beacons of light and hope, guiding our communities through the challenges and triumphs that are to come. The glass roof above us also serves as a poignant reminder of the enduring values and virtues that have shaped Colderdale throughout its rich history. It is a testament to our resilience, our compassion, and our unwavering spirit of service to others. As a knitting author and designer, I am deeply connected to the historic knitting wool trade that once thrived in our region. The intricate patterns and vibrant colours of our textiles tell the story of generations past, of skilled artisans and hardworking families who shaped the fabric of our community with their hands and their hearts. In honouring this legacy, may we also embrace the spirit of creativity, innovation, and resilience that defines our proud heritage. Moreover, I am mindful of my own ancestors who were weavers, as were many folk in West Yorkshire. Their dedication to their craft, their commitment to their families, and their resilience in the face of adversity inspire me to carry forward their legacy with humility and pride. As we celebrate the 50th anniversary of Colderdale, commemorating five decades since the formation of the borough, let us reflect on the progress we have made. The challenges we have overcome and the opportunities that lie ahead. Let us honour the visionaries and trailblazers who laid the foundation for our community and let us rededicate ourselves to building a Colderdale that is inclusive, vibrant, and thriving for all. I am grateful for all those who are working to do this through culturedale projects. I look forward with joyful anticipation to celebrating our year of culture with them as mayor. In addition, I am proud to announce that my chosen mayoral charity for this term is the Saint Augustine Centre, a beacon of hope and provider of support for refugees and asylum seekers in our community. The work they do is invaluable and I am very pleased to have this opportunity to support their mission as we work together to build a more compassionate and inclusive Colderdale. And now for the sake of my integrity, I must confess that I did not craft this speech alone. No, I am embracing the future and so I employed the invaluable assistance of CHAT's GPT, whose insights and guidance helped shape these words into the heartfelt message you hear today in closing. I am filled with a profound sense of optimism and excitement for the journey that lies ahead. Together, letters rise to the occasion, united in our commitment to serving our communities, honouring our heritage and shaping a brighter future for generations to come. Thank you and may God continue to bless Colderdale. Item two on today's agenda is the appointment of the Deputy Mayor who is to be proposed by Councillor Courtney. Thank you Madam Mayor and welcome and thank you to everyone here. I am not going to try and copy Mike and thanking everyone for being here. Thank you for everyone for being here and I would like to nominate Councillor Tremaine as Deputy Mayor. So I first got to know Diana, also I am not going to try and update you with my speech, I don't worry, nor my jacket. I first got to know Diana in about 2001 when her and her partner Rachel ran the community play café in Salem Mill in Hebden Bridge. It was a warm and welcoming, if rather noisy space, offering delicious food and lots of toys for babies and small children. It was a really great way for me to meet other people with young families, having just moved back to the Colder Valley from London myself. Diana and Rachel were very calm and helped the space really well, providing amazing cakes and lots of tea for frazzled mums and dads and often quite a lot of support and hand holding when things maybe weren't always going that well. One of my children often used to like to wander around underneath the tables, taking phones and purses out of people's bags and it was lovely to have understanding and calm people around. So Diana grew up in Shropshire where her dad run Liles Hall which is one of the UK's national sports centres, a pretty amazing case to grow up I think for someone who really enjoyed sports and the outdoors. Diana speaks several languages, having studied German and Russian at Bradford uni, followed by a PGCE in modern languages at Sheffield and she's taught in secondary for the entire education and has helped so many people locally in Colddale. She used to teach English as an additional language at Colddale College and I think it really says a lot about her humbleness that she says it's been a privilege to work with so many students from different cultures and countries over the years and also to see the warm welcome that they receive in Colddale. She loves living in the colder valley and getting involved in things, this includes exploring the countryside. She previously served as a councillor on top town council and she's also a regular competitor at Todd Folk Festival. She's on the fostering panel here in Colddale and took over for me as deputy chair of the children young people scrutiny board when I joined cabinet. And that deputy chair role is a role that she has handled with her usual hard-working diligence and diploma. She's been our chair in the labour group and again has shown herself to be very steady and safe pair of hands and able to navigate the challenges that may sometimes come with that role. She's also a member of the General Synod which for those who don't know is the governing body of the Church of England. She has many strings to her bow. Diana is just one of the nicest people you could care to meet. She's fair, even handed and seems completely unruffable and I'm sure that you'll agree or excellent qualities that we would like to see that we will see in our deputy mayor. So now for the formal bit. So I would like to propose councillor Diana Tremaine be appointed deputy mayor of Colddale who shall unless she resigns or become disqualified hold office until immediately after the election of a deputy mayor at the annual meeting of council in 2025. Thank you. Thank you Madam Mayor. I'm delighted to be able to second this motion, partly because I, as councillor Courtney said, councillor Tremaine will make an excellent deputy mayor, partly because I know that she's anxious about what just what I might say. Besides into the mischievous I would quite like to make her squirm. What I think is noteworthy is that many of the things that I would draw attention to are exactly the things that you've already heard from Sarah. And I suppose I could sum it up in saying that I think Diana will make an excellent deputy mayor because she is everything that I am not. So, as you've heard, she's calm. She listens well. She is diligent. She is sure of her own ability and her own worth, but she does not seek to put herself forward. She will be an excellent deputy because when required, she will be there, but she will not be thinking, well, why aren't I the mayor? And, as I say, I could go through the things that Sarah has highlighted, but rather than repeat that, I think I'd go back to when I was thinking about this and thinking about what is Diana that I'm not. The first thing that sprang to mind was that she's tall and I'm small. I couldn't immediately think what relevance this had to be in a deputy mayor, but then, of course, I thought about the one civic-like event that I could recall having attended, and that was the planting of the Jubilee tree in the minster churchyard. And we have to remember that nothing happens nowadays unless it is recorded on film or whatever the modern idiom would be. And there's a lesson here for the mayor. There will never be an occasion at which Diana will represent the borough when she will be photographed, but will succeed in being entirely obliterated by Councillor Pillai in front of her. As I was on that memorable occasion. So, as I say, a lesson there for the mayor. So, without further ado, I would second Councillor Kortner's motion that Councillor Diana Tremaine be appointed deputy mayor of Colegdale, who shall, unless she resigns or becomes disqualified, hold office until immediately after the election of a deputy mayor at the annual meeting of the council in 2025. So, the motion is that Councillor Diana Tremaine becomes deputy mayor of Colegdale. Please, all those in favour show. That looks unanimous. However, I'll check any against. Of course not. Deputy Mayor Diana Tremaine. [Applause] [Applause] [Applause] [Applause] [Applause] [Applause] [Applause] [Applause] [Applause] [Applause] [Applause] [Applause] [Applause] [Applause] [Applause] [Applause] Deputy Mayor, I invite you to make your declaration of acceptance of office. I, Diana Tremaine, having been appointed to the office of Deputy Mayor of the Borough Council of Colegdale, declare that I take that office upon myself and will duly and faithfully fulfill the duties of it according to the best of my judgement and ability. [Applause] [Applause] [Applause] So I am pleased to announce that my consort will be Rachel Terry. [Applause] So now I get to do my speech, which I have not used chat GBT for, but I am regretting it a bit now. I might have to do another one afterwards. Madam Mayor, guests, fellow Councillors and officers of the Council. When I became a Colegdale Councillor, taking on this role probably was not on my list of things that I anticipated doing, but as Anne spoke about before, I have a genuine sense of pride and gratitude to be in this position. And it is wonderful to have so many guests, including family and friends here today, and to welcome them to this very special place, not just the town hall itself, which as Anne spoke about it clearly is very special, but for those who are from further afield to Colegdale. And like some of us today, I feel I have to apologize, but I am not going to. I was not born and raised in Colegdale. I am not even sure that I had much idea when I was younger, exactly where it was, even when I used to travel through it regularly on the train when I went to University in Bradford. However, I do remember then being impressed by the countryside and the views, particularly passing over the viaduct in Tobodin. So perhaps it's fitting that that's where we've lived for over 25 years now. I grew up in Shopshire, as Sarah mentioned, in a very nice semi-rural part of the county, but my parents always used to love visiting us here. And my mum, especially, would always comment on what a vibrant community it was. She loved the market in Tobodin, and a sense of community spirit that she could tell was present in the town. And even though our borough and communities face many different challenges, I genuinely feel that we are incredibly fortunate to live in a place where those challenges can be faced head on, but where we can also celebrate so many individual and collective achievements. And one of the things that I'm really looking forward to this year is the chance to visit parts of the borough and organizations that I'm less familiar with. And so many of the committed voluntary organizations supporting people. And the opportunity to see more of what's going on right across Hockolterdale is a huge privilege. And even this weekend, Anne's chosen not to be here, so I'm deputizing quite a lot this weekend, so it's going to be quite busy. And finally, it seems important to reflect on the role that we all play in serving our local communities. Occasions like today are often quite removed from the normal debate at full council, but I was thinking back to our last full council meeting where the tone was remarkably harmonious. Strangely, I don't imagine this will be the case every meeting over the coming year, but I do hope sincerely that we will continue to conduct our debates robustly, but with consideration and good humour and kindness. Otherwise, I imagine that Anne may have to use her very stern teacher voice, and I will be practicing my stern look, which my daughter tells me is still a little bit terrifying, perhaps not as good as it used to be. And actually, I do feel I should probably say that all the really lovely comments about my calmness and unruffledness, I'm not entirely sure that Scarlet will agree completely with Anne, but here I'll do my best. Anyway, I am a firm believer in speech is not being too long, so I would like to take the chance to say thank you for the opportunity to serve the borough in this way, and I hope that when it comes, you will all enjoy the lunch. Thank you. Item three on the agenda is a vote of thanks to the retiring mayor, which is to be proposed by Councillor Parcel's horse. Thank you, Madam Mayor, and I'd just like to extend my congratulations to you both. Madam Mayor, Deputy Mayor and members all, it gives me great pleasure to date with the vote of thanks to Councillor Ashley Evans and Rose Mitachal, who have worked diligently in their roles, Mayor and Mayor Esse Colter there over the last year. To be the Mayor of Colterdale is a great honour and privilege, and both Ashley and Rose have dedicated themselves wholeheartedly to this role. I was done doing some research on Ashley and Rose's time in office, and there was definitely a sense of, well, in rugby terms, what happens on tour stays on tour. So, yeah, I didn't know what to make of that really, but I thought, yeah, okay, however, I did manage to pass a few snippets from people. It's been an eventful year, and when I asked Ashley, what did you enjoy most about being mayor? He said, well, meeting so many people who did stuff for so many people for very little or no pay, and so much of what we do for people is dependent on these volunteers. His most exciting invitation, he said, was meeting Elvis in Ellen, who knew. I'm glad he did point out that Elvis wasn't impersonator, though, he could have got very tricky. One of the least enjoyable moments was having to adjourn the meeting, one of our Council meetings, and I'm sure you members will remember. The tensions have been high in our communities since the Gaza War began, and it is sad to see that we are still waiting for the ceasefire. Out of our hands as local councillors, but very much in the hands of our global politicians, and I'm sure you'll join me that we pray for those people right now to make good decisions. I would like to thank Mr. Mayor and all the staff who responded that night to restore order in our chamber. Yes, this is a place where we can air our views in an open debate. However, it's also a place of decorum and respect for different opinion and peace. Thank you, Mr. Mayor, for holding those boundaries and reminding those of those virtues. I also asked Ashley about the most moving moment, and he said without any reservation, attending the Ukrainian Day at the Halifax Centre, with some Ukrainian refugees and hearing of very moving stories. We, as a group, would like to thank the Ukrainian grandmother, Eira, who has made these beautiful paper flower roses this year. We're grateful for the skills that she's sharing in our community. And we will cherish these flowers as a symbol of hope in these difficult times. Mr. Mayor, I understand that you have been using some of your England's rugby skills whilst you've been there. There was a little incident at the National Stone Carving event in the Minster Grounds when it was raining. You tripped over a tent peg at the food tent whilst judging the National Stone Carving event. And I heard that your rugby training took over and you managed to do a good judo role, which brought you back on your feet smiling like an idiot. You said that's your word, it's not mine. But with mud all the way down one side of your suit, I'm glad to see that those rugby skills are still being used and demonstrated in public. I've also heard that you consistently managed to tangle up your mayoral chains at every opportunity. And you've kept both Mandy and Mark very busy tidying you up. These chains were presented to the county borough of Halifax by the town's women of Halifax in June 1897. For Queen Victoria's Diamond Jubilee, they're so beautiful. If you get a chance to have a closer look, I do recommend to go and have a peep. They're amazing. But it did make me think, I did wonder, what would we be making, had we had the task of making them for the modern day mayor? What would we be making them from? I have a funny feeling, Madam Mayor, that you might be thinking about a design with local wool, or maybe somebody crocheting. I also understand, you're not Mr Mayor now, Councillor Evans, that you have been doing some dancing with the chains on, which has proved quite tricky at times. I can only imagine that you've been inspired by our 21st rappers, such as Jay-Z and Kanye West. So, I was very fortunate to be invited to a fundraising event at the newly located race in Unity. And I had the chance of meeting Ashley and Rosie's sons band that Ashley managed many years ago, that some of you might mention it, remember I mentioned last year, Ashley managed. It was a great night, it was good fun. Bono Chico, really good, and they still sell records to the fans, real vinyl walls, and you raised, I think it's £250 that night for your charities. I particularly like the song about the earwax not being able to get an appointment for your ears to be syringed on the NHS, it was very topical. A great way to get your message across as well. And I understand that you're very grateful to your Mayor's Council, your wife Rosie, who's admin skills and PA support have kept you in the right place at the right time this year. Rosie, we would like to invite you to come and join Wally Ward, and maybe you could come and help us to organise ourselves. We're not very good at hurting ourselves. So, I'd like the best of thanks for this Council to be extended to Councillor Ashley Evans for his services as Mayor during 2023 and 2024, which he has carried out conscientiously and with dignity, and to Rosie Tatchill for the way she has carried out her duties as Mayor S. Thank you for all you've done for this borough. [Applause] And the motion is to be seconded by Councillor KA. Thank you. This is Mayor, Admiral. My colleague Amanda has listed lots of the wonderful things that Ashley and Rosie have done over the last year, and they have been worked hard, it's fair to say they need a break. So I won't go into any more of that because there is a buffet waiting downstairs, but I would like to share with you my personal favourite moment of Ashley's. Well, maybe you should, I don't know. So at the very, very beginning of Ashley being there before the little AI bots had understood his new role, they would frequently exchange, the spell check would exchange the word mayoral. Unfortunately, that meant that for quite a few weeks we would get texts and emails from Ashley was otherwise engaged in marital events or marital duties. So we can feel it realising. I have to say I'm assuming that was a typo and not that that's unexpected perk of being there, but if so, it explains why all the portraits are so cheery outside, doesn't it? So in whatever capacity Ashley and Rosie have been carrying out their duties of whatever nature, they have been a fantastic representative of our council in Colderdale, and further than that of Colderdale in our wider West Yorkshire community. And more than that, and particularly for us, they've been a brilliant advocate for Warley Ward. In our ward, not everyone feels very represented, and often we have residents that feel ignored. But seeing Ashley, who is a store of Warley, not because he's been there probably since the inception of Warley, has given them a huge sense of pride and we hear that all the time on the doorsteps. So thank you, and for that former Mr Mayor, because those ripples have had a real effect, and our community is galvanised by your presence. I do know that Ashley has missed his ward work, so I am absolutely delighted to second the proposal for you to kick him out of that chair. And send him back to Amanda and I, in what we term is the very much self-styled A team of Warley. So the best of thanks to the council to be extended to Councillor Ashley Evans for his services as mayor during 2023-24, which is carried out conscientiously and with dignity, and to Rosie Tachil for the way she has carried out her duties as mayor. Thank you very much Ashley. [applause] So the motion is that we give a vote of thanks to the retiring mayor. So all those in favour, please show. And the motion is carried. This is a badge that outgoing mayors receive from Calderdale and keep with them. You'll see several people in chamber today wearing this badge. [applause] My consort, Dave Kingstone, is to present the, how is it on it? Oh, I didn't see that. I'm sorry I didn't see that. Great, thank you. So, Councillor Evans, would you please address the council? Thank you Madam Mayor. It's been an amazing year for both myself and Rosie, but I'd like to start by thanking Rosie herself for all her support. I think the impressive thing is we're actually still married in terms of the discussions we've had shall we say over the last year in relation to what we should do and what we shouldn't do and so on. But also to thank particularly Sue as Deputy and Michael for all the work they've done in terms of picking things up. Sorry? I'm being asked while I'm standing up or sitting down. You sat down when you spoke. But I should stand. As we are supposed to do in the chamber. Is that better? Thank you very much. I'm renowned for being too casual about things. But on the formal front, what I'd like to do is to say something about the numbers, the numbers we've done. Apparently we have had, so Mandy tells me, 169 appointments. Which is not bad. It seems to be quite a few. Although when I mentioned this to an old colleague, Conrad Winterburn, who was mayor about a thousand years ago, he repeats to me regularly that they did over 400 appointments in their barrel. So I feel very small in relation to that. But there we go. We enjoyed it. When it comes to the charities, our charities, as you probably remember, are the Children's Heart Surgery Fund and Forget Me Not Children's Hospice. At a time of national hardship and pressure on incomes, we set ourselves what we thought was a testing target to make 10,000 pounds for those charities. As previous mayors will probably agree, the initial two or three months of your year are very much a steep learning curve. Particularly in relation to getting charitable events off the ground. However, after panicking for the first few months, then we did seem to get some sort of headway and things got up and moving. And things started to seem to come together pre-Christmas with, for example, our Christmas fair, which is spelled F-A-Y-R-E, by the way. It makes it sound old and traditional and things like that. You obviously don't seem very impressed by that. Things carried on the pace from then, almost up to the last days of our office, where we had a four ball golf event at the end of April, which was in a fortnight of things and was still chasing to get the money in for that as well. By the way, talking of money, this meant by the end that we're pleased and proud to report that we didn't get the 10,000 pounds. There's actually just over 12,000 pounds in the Merrill Bank account. So we're quite pleased with that. Thank you. Thinking about the Merrill year, where do we begin? We could be here until this time tomorrow and only skim the surface. Don't worry, I'm not going to keep you here away from your lunch that long, a little while longer. But if I do miss anybody out or anything out of this speech, then we give our sincere apologies for doing so because there is so much that we could talk about. We had the honour of meeting and working with a number of dignitaries, like the Lord Lieutenant of the County, the High Sheriff of West Yorkshire, as well as Bishop Smitha. We went to her inauguration event at York Minster for Hillary's benefit. Of course, York Minster, nothing in relation to Halifax Minster. But it was an enjoyable event, all the same. The fascinating and enjoyable part of that as well was because not only was Bishop Smitha a lady but she was of South Asian descent to actually have a bishop who's a lady and of a different ethnic grouping. It was absolutely fantastic to see and she's a wonderful lady as her family. We first struck, we were first struck when we started being there, but how pleased people were for us to attend their events into metres. We thought, Yes, this is good. However, we quickly realised that it wasn't just Ashley and Rosie that it wanted to meet. It was the Mayor and Mayor S, which was a bit sort of damning on that. But we got used to the idea and really began to enjoy our once-in-a-lifetime experience. Looking back, a number of words encapsulate the experience. Words like, these may sound strange, but words like help, volunteers, culture, fun, amusing, compassionate, civic, warning, uplifting. By those I mean, if you think about the help side, it was essential for us in terms of doing a good job that we had a fantastic team in our support. Tilly, I can't see her woolly head around. Where are you, Tilly? Tilly, you're hiding, you're hiding in the corner. So, Tilly, a mark, we call mark, mark the minder. Because he's a big fella, and he makes sure nobody nicks out or things. Stand up, Mark. I said, stand up. And Mandy, of course, as well, who just keeps us well and truly organised. I think, Diana, you were talking about frightening people by your stare or your family. Mandy is a different person when it comes to that. We know if we've done something wrong, but they kept us on the straight and narrow. The word volunteers is something that should, I think, already be mentioned by a number of people. One of the great things about the job was the huge number of wonderful people and organisations we met, but the one thing which really stood out was the ratio of staff to volunteers in these organisations. Just one example, Santa Gustans, 18 paid staff, 150 volunteers. That really puts a measure of what people put into the community and we were made aware of. Where would we be without these people? Where would those people in need be without them? Volunteers, thank you very much. There is creativity and culture in Colddale in terms of music, theatre, arts and in general. Rosie and I pride ourselves on being interested in these things and doing a reasonable amount of culture. But what did we know? We were truly, we are truly, culturedale. It's good that we've now been branded as that because we have a fantastic range of culture in this society. Orchestra, brass bands, rock band stamps, art, all kinds of theatre, choral opera, as well as commercial creativity as well. So we made every effort to commend and support those organisations and intend to continue to do so when we are no longer mayor, as we are no longer mayor and mayor else. This culture crops up right across the spectrum, just a couple of examples. We went to an event at Acroid and junior school, a production of Matilda. Absolutely fantastic. It had us rolling in the aisles. In particular, the dad, I don't know how many of you know the story of Matilda, but Matilda is a bit of a bratty lady and wants to get things done and whatever. And she has a Harris father who tries to keep her in line. The father was a year two student. Matilda was a year six tall young lady. So they were like this. And there's a sequence when dad comes back in and his hair has gone pink as a result of the things that Matilda's doing. And this little lad wandered on stage with his long pink wig and his daughter at sort of two foot taller than him. So those sorts of things, absolutely wonderful. The kids just loved doing it. We saw Handel's Messiah at Todd. We saw the school of rock, the Trinity, frozen at the YMCA and so on. And particularly sticks in mind is a play by the playwright Alan Stockdale who's a local playwright, which was actually called Scanlon Redemption, which was played at the Viaduct Theatre. Again, local talent. We went to the Victoria Theatre where 800 kids perform songs and choral events. 800. All across Cold Hill. Absolutely fantastic and uplifting. We went to seven Carol concerts. We don't need him sheets anymore for Carol concerts. We know them all very well. There's a fun side of it as well. We were on stage with Shirley Bassey at the Halifax Pride event in the Peaceful. What a person. Is that the right word? I'm not very good at these things, but she was about six foot eight, a war of power dress with spiky shoulders that stuck out that far. And there's a wonderful picture of Rosie and I stood next to an on stage there with this amazing person in this power dress. Absolutely fantastic. So lots of fun. Amanda mentioned dancing in the Victoria Hall when the chain's getting tangled up. Those sorts of events as our June event. We were invited to take part in a radio interview with DJ Diamond of Cold Valley Radio. The Upper Valley members must know DJ Diamond. We were allowed to play 12 of our favorite tracks and have an interview with us with her. For some strange reason we were asked back and given the full program to play 24 tracks this time, although we put 435 that she bought that in the end. But where there is talk of a post-Meryl slot on CVR, so wait for it. There are even more songs coming out. Compassion, it was one of the words. Many organizations who visited existed, exhibited this compassion, compassion for the less well off and those in need and help and support. Just a couple. Valley of Sanctuary dedicated to fostering a culture of hospitality and support to our communities for those escaping war and persecution. What a wonderful organization. Alpha House helping people with addictions and release those who were released from prison back into the community and helping and supporting them do that. Just two examples of many others. We were amusing times as Amanda Stole and my thunder on this one, but the changed one is just a standing joke amongst our supporters. There is a photograph which is done on Facebook of me doing a very meaningful speech on stage at Victoria Theatre with chains sort of looking like spaghetti around my neck. These two, particularly Mandy and Rosie, were an absolute fit of laughter as I came off stage feeling. I did quite a good job there and all they could do was laugh at me because the chains were all tangled up. And of course it was the example of doing the diving forward role. So it was amusing, amusing times as well. We also discovered things civic. We discovered the Halifax Civil Trust and I can share two AGMs in my one year. Sorry about that Stole and the AGR of it because it came just at the end of our event. They are a fantastic organization who will help maintain the quality of our built environment as opposed to the sort of things that tend to happen. In thirdly, for example, we're hold a field of attendance and knock things down and build new things whereas we have repurposed things and used our skills and knowledge to maintain our effective buildings. There was a warning given to me at the beginning, you may get this one as well. We were warned that we would spend much time in the minster and we did. It's a lovely uplifting and interesting place to visit and it's led by, as we know, Cam and Hilary Barber. To new visitors, he tells them how this 900 year old building used to be Halifax's market and meeting place in its early years. But Hilary has guided it back in that direction with a huge range of events and happenings which we had the pleasure to attend encouraging more and more people to visit that premises, help our tourism and that is all an addition to the all important religious services. And he serves real hell at these events, excellent stuff, much to be commended. It goes on and on, but I shan't, I promise. We also could talk about the town cryo competition. Going to a 103 year old lady's birthday party, an unofficially dangling the diamonds that Rosie usually wears around her neck at her birthday party and having a photograph. Absolutely wonderful. She was made up by it and I think we're probably more made up by it even than she was. We arranged a four ball golf charity, which went very well. We visited Overgate and forget me not, what fantastic places. We arranged a weekend of music as an under alluded to for young people, but the Greyston, which is a wonderful venue. We helped present numerous King's Awards for voluntary service. Again, what a wonderful thing to do, all these people. One of them was the fifty first talent scout group. If you haven't heard of them, you need to know about them. They are fantastic. What a wonderful organization they helped us generate all sorts of money. And talking about help with generating money. Councillor Angie. What a wonderful lady, sorry to point you out here, but doing the community side of things at Tesco's in King Cross. She's been an absolute wonder at helping us generate money through her famed bookstores. Get into bookstores, they're very valuable in terms of generating income if you didn't already know. We arranged a gin event down here in the hall run by the award winning Spates Distillery, a local business who are internationally known as an organization. I could go on and on, but I see I'm losing you now, so I'll shut up. You can see there were so many things and what a wonderful experience it was and if your experience is anything like ours, it will be fantastic. Someone will shut up, give the mayor back the airtime and thank you all for supporting us as mayor and mayor. Item 4, excuse me. Item 4 on the agenda is a vote of thanks to the retiring deputy mayor. This is to be proposed by Councillor Prasad. I'd just like to say a few words about Sue's term as deputy mayor. I know first hand that she was overjoyed to be selected as deputy mayor and she instantly coined the phrase, I am now the deputy dog. Deputy dog was a Terrytoons cartoon program which was aired during the 1950s until the early 1970s. So only the more elderly assembled here today will remember it. As the title suggests, deputy dog was a sheriff's deputy and his catchphrase was, It's Tossy Bull. I believe that it's Tossy Bull or Sue's mindset during her term of office and she has regaled us with lots of different events attended, all memorable but some more memorable than others. One of the first engagements for Sue was to judge the hairdressing apprenticeships and although Sue enjoyed this, her comments to me, although rather self-deprecating, were, what do I know about herself? Another event which stuck in her memory was the intergenerational schools project where primary school children were able to talk to pensioners about their childhoods and how they differed from today. Sue also attended the Great Yorkshire Show and I know she really enjoyed this due to her great love of all animals and she was also able to appreciate the great work that our farmers carry out here in Yorkshire. I also remember that Sue was involved in the takeover day where children looked after were invited to spend the day with counsellors and officers of Colderdale. The young lady who shadowed Sue as deputy mayor was over the moon to be able to drive around in the mayoral car and even had the opportunity to wear the chains of office if only for a little while. Which reminds me to jog your memory counsellors, make sure you put your name down and take over day 2024, I guarantee you will enjoy it immensely. It was apparent when talking with Sue that the events she attended brought her to the forefront of numerous community groups, both groups and charities that is the rich tapestry of Colderdale. To conclude, I have a couple of quotes, but whilst there are hundreds of quotes about politicians, there are very few about mayors. But after much investigation, I did find one from the very eminent Lyndon B. Johnson. His quote is, When the burdens of presidency seem unusually heavy, I always remind myself, it could be worse, I could be mayor. I've got a quote here for Sue, which is from Henry David Thoreau, What is once well done is done forever. And therefore, the best of thanks of the council be extended to Councillor Sue Holsworth for her services as deputy mayor during 2023-24, which he has carried out conscientiously and with dignity. And to Michael Holsworth with the way he has carried out his duties as deputy mayor's consort. Thank you, Madam Mayor. [Applause] Councillor Bellinger will second the motion. Thank you, Madam Mayor. Sue. Sue. Not to say that for about 12 months. Due to a gallivanting off around Colderdale and beyond. To be honest, we have caught up and listened to the many adventures Sue and Michael have both had over the past year, but also how honored and privileged they have both felt at times due to the people they have met and to see the amazing things that people have done. One of Sue's memorable moments was to see the send-off of the Gareth Thore's memorial bench, a hundred kilogram bench which was carried by his former comrades all the way from Halifax to Skipton to the place that is graveside. Sue has privileged to present the long service awards to a number of our staff members for serving 25 years within Colderdale Council. Our very own political assistant, Graham being one of them. She has visited many parts of Colderdale, but she never knew existed, what stripped the musical, attended many concerts and recitals. The last one being Vivaldi's Gloria. I did wonder if Sue and Michael were taking this cultural thing a little bit too far when they invited me along to see Northern Opera for this field town hall. However, I was actually amazed and pleased that Sue and Michael's attempt to culture kit which is a new word by the way, actually worked. Sue gave me a list of her most memorable moments and most of them consisted of standing out in the freezing cold weather, especially watching all the Christmas concerts, Christmas tree festivals, carol singing. Obviously, it's not all glamour and glitz being mayor or deputy mayor, however, Sue did eventually discover that the mayor's card had heated reasserts. This was sort of like when winter was coming to an end. Sue has made an excellent deputy mayor, sorry, deputy dog, and loved every minute of the roll, due to having the opportunity to meet so many amazing people who have done so much for charities and Colderdale. Her words were, This year, they have had a blast. So without further ado, the best thanks of the council to be extended to council Sue Holsworth for her services and deputy mayor during 2023-24, which she has carried out conscientiously with dignity and to Michael Holsworth with the way he has carried out his duties as deputy mayor's consort. Thank you. So the motion is a vote of thanks to the retiring deputy mayor. All those in favour, please show. Thank you. Any against? The motion is carried. [APPLAUSE] Councillor Halswiff, please address the council. Thank you, madam Mayor. You would be pleased to know this is not, I hope, going to take too long because I'm conscious of the time. Well, there have been so many wonderful set piece events I could talk about. Our first engagement judging the floats at Shelf Gala, being the guests of Major General Zach Stenning, Colonel of the Yorkshire Regiment at the Great Yorkshire Show, the beating retreat with the super cocktail party last July, which was great fun. But the event stays in my mind was a very low key one. On Saturday, the 26th of November, we attended the 90th anniversary of the Ukrainian Holdemore tragedy. Now, I want a bit of audience participation here. How many people know what the Holdemore was? Well done. Most people don't, and I'm ashamed to say I didn't either. But I did look into it, which I'll come on to. Because the mayoral limo was transporting the mayor and mayor rest, and unusually there was no other mayor attendant available, Tilly explained that if we were prepared to attend, we had to go under our own steam with no chains. The chains are not allowed out without supervision. They're like really expensive cats. It isn't us that Mandy and Mark are protecting, it's the chains. It had originally been intended to hold the anniversary of the minster, but the minster was booked up for the afternoon, so it was outside of the senator. We went, of course, but we did do some research into what it was. The literal translation of Holdemore is death by hunger. The Holdemore was a man-made famine in the Ukraine between 1932 and 2003. The forced collectivization of the Kuulaks were peasant farmers in the Ukraine by Stalin, which was a systemic set of policies designed to exterminate the Ukrainians. The Russian population had been hit by severe fallen food yields, partly due to collectivism, combined with bad weather, which was causing unrest in the urban areas of Russia where food was running short. Darling's response was to take the harvest from Ukraine and distribute it to the Russians. The result was between 4 to 7 million Ukrainian people dying within one year. The actual accurate count is not known because so many people were died buried and they have to say eaten as corpses by their starving peers. Such was the cruelty of the man-made famine, peasants were forbidden by law, even to glean the leftover grains of wheat from the fields. They died in the fields in the streets, emaciated any rags. When we arrived at the senator, we were welcomed by the Ukrainians who didn't seem bothered by the change's absence. The service was led by a Ukrainian Orthodox priest, two poor men, had to put his clerical clothing on outside and have to say over his normal suit. He let prayers and hymns were sung, but the most moving sight for us was the presentation of three stalks of wheat, tied together by the Lou and Yellow ribbons, laid at foot at the senator by the Ukrainians present. This symbolized what the average family had to eat to live on for one week during 1932 and 1933. The most poignant thing for me is that six months after this 19th anniversary of the hold of our, we see again Stalin's heir, Putin, effectively trying the same trick again. There are always two sites for every story though. Don't believe that everybody in Europe is against Russia. I was at a conference at the Technical University of Cheminets in the old GDR, formerly Karl Marxstard in 2014, when Putin took Crimea. The Western academics were horrified, but the academics from the former East Germany were not. They said the crim was always Russia's, it is theirs. And we can see how Putin plays this card over and over again. Anyway, I don't want to end on a sad note. The event was poignant, but we were treated some beautiful singing by Ukrainian women and girls, beautifully made up and in national costumes. And it was very, very cold. We comforted ourselves by ordering it was not raining. After the service, we went to the ring of elves for a drink with the organizers, which warmed everybody up and cheered them up too. It's been an amazing year. Mike and I are so proud to have represented call development events, the mayor and mayor asked for unable to attend. I want to thank Tilly, Mandy, Mark and Mike, the standard mayoral attendant, for their dedication to making sure everything went smoothly for us. And more importantly, to those organizations that invited us to attend their events. I hope the incoming mayoral team have as much fun as we have. Good luck and enjoy yourselves. Thank you. Item five on the agenda is to make an allowance to the mayor and to the deputy mayor, and this will be moved by the leader of the council, Councillor James Scullion. Thank you, Madam Mayor, and welcome to yourself and the deputy mayor. Congratulations. I move that the allowance be made to the mayor and to the deputy mayor and set out on the papers. Please be seconded by the mayor. Thank you. So all those in favour, please show. Any against. Thank you. Item six on the agenda is to receive the official returns as to Councillors elected on the 3rd of May 2024, which our chief executive, Mr. Robin Tudynum, will announce. Madam Mayor, I can confirm that the list of Councillors elected on the 3rd of May 2024 has been circulated. And also I can confirm all Councillors have taken and signed a declaration of acceptance of office. Thank you. Item seven is a vote of thanks to retiring Councillors, which I shall move. The best thanks of the council be extended to former Councillors Benton, Beech, Catherine, Ford, Lynn, Negan Swift, Thornborough and Whittaker for their devoted hard work and service to local government. And particularly this council and the people of Cold Ale. And I would like to second that. Councillor Blackbrough. Thank you, Madam Mayor. First of all, congratulations on your new post. I'm sure you will thoroughly enjoy as we as previous mayors have thoroughly enjoyed the occasion. Always expect the unexpected. That's all I would say. Always expect the unexpected. So I'm standing here because most of the Councillors that sit down were recognised at the last full council meeting. Apart from Mr. Thornborough, previous Councillor, who served 14 years, very passionate about his community. So I would like to pay a special thanks to Robert, who is known on a personal basis. He's always based on the opportunity to have the thanks in person. I recognised in 2012 when I lost my seat in 2012. So it is something to be recognised that hard work and dedication of all previous Councillors. They've either stood down or lost their seat. So my special thanks and tribute to Mr. Thornborough, who we will continue to recognise. So thank you, Madam Mayor, and good luck for the future. Thank you. Thank you, Councillor Blackbrough. So we're going to break the lunch in a moment before that, I wish to say, that this is a special day for the Council, and particularly our children and young people's directorates. With the publication earlier today of Offstead's inspection report of this Council's children's services, with a judgement of good in all areas. To celebrate that and demonstrating our continued corporate commitment to our looked after children, I'm delighted to say that five care leavers, Leanne, Blake, Kate, Ian and Brooke, will be joining us for lunch and I'd encourage members to take some time to speak with them and benefit from hearing their experiences. And that's it. Thank you very much, everybody. Please join us downstairs. [Applause] Item 8 on the agenda. I beg to move that the minutes of the Council held on the 20th of March 2024 be approved as a correct record. Any against? That is carried. Thank you. Item 9 to receive the, well, the mayors and I have no announcements. The chief executive's announcements. Thank you, Madam Mayor. Yes, building on what you said before the break, I do want to make the announcement formally of the wonderful news that we can now release, have now got the release results of the full offset inspection of children's social care that was undertaken February this year and it's now in the public domain. It's the full inspection, the first one since 2018, and I just want to commend all officers and colleagues and our young people that played a part in that. Achieving good in every area is incredibly impressive given the challenges that we face in service delivery. So the report has many wonderful lines. I hope you'll get the chance to read it. It highlights our corporate parenting role, which is effective and strong and ambitious for our young people. But children in Coledale feel safe, if not safer, than the last time the Offstead team visited us in 2018. A particular thing that's wonderful, I think, is that in a time where early intervention and prevention is really challenging, the early help provides excellent support and children positively benefit from the support of the earliest opportunity. We know how important prevention is. And finally, that social workers and other staff love working for the council in a family environment. So that's very special. There's still much to do, but I hope you can join me and celebrate this moment and particularly pass on my thanks to Julie Jenkins, our outstanding director and all the team. Thank you. Item 10 is election of leader. So this is to be moved by the deputy leader, Councillor Scott Patience. No, oops, Councillor Swift. I might have revealed something that used to call my applause. It's a great pleasure to propose that Council Jane Scalia is elected leader of the council for the next meeting. Thank you. And is this to be seconded? No, I'll second that, Madam Mayor. Thank you very much. So all those in favour please show. Any against? That is carried. Item 11, announcement of cabinet members and deputy leader. And these will be announced by the leader. Thank you, Madam Mayor. I want to announce the cabinet members for 24/25 and also the deputy leader as you gave us a trailer for there. Councillor Scott Patience, there will be no musical swapping of chairs. Both Councillor Swift and I want to thank Councillor Swift for the work that he's done in the last year as deputy leader. And I want to also, if I may, with you, your assistance, Mayor, your indulgence, just say some of you will know I've had a period of ill health recently of some months. And do you know I've missed you? Even the opposition I've missed you and it's really nice to be back. So move. Announce the cabinet members and the deputy leader as laid out on your papers. Thank you. Thank you very much. So. Item 12 is to determine the scrutiny boards, panels and council committees to be established for the 2024-2025 municipal year to decide their size in terms of reference and to agree the scheme of delegation. And this again is to be moved by the leader of the council. Thank you, Madam Mayor, and particularly for the benefit of new members, this particular paper is about the size and proportion allocation of committees and the terms of reference only. So move that as set out in the papers that have been circulated in the Chamber. Thank you, Madam Mayor. Thank you very much. So all those in favour please show. Any against? That is carried. Item 13 is to agree the allocation of seats to political groups in accordance with the political balance rules. And this again is to be moved by the leader of the council. Thank you, Madam Mayor. This is the proportional allocation of seats, having already seen the total number of seats on the terms of reference. So this is the allocation of seats to the different political groups as set out in the papers which have been circulated in the Chamber. Thank you, Madam Mayor, seconded. Thank you very much. So all those in favour please show. Any against? That is carried. Item 14 to appoint members and substitutes to committees on scrutiny boards. Okay. So this is to be moved by the leader, Councillor James Scullion. Thank you, Madam Mayor. And I want to move the membership overall as set out in the papers which have been circulated in the Chamber. Thank you, Madam Mayor, seconded. Okay. All those in favour please show. Any against? That is carried. Item 14 to appoint members. Yes, there's one contested vote which is the Chair of the Order which is to be put to a separate vote. Right. We're not going to get to move that. Right. So the Chair of Order is to be put to a separate vote and I'm going to ask Councillor James Scullion to move that. I'd like to move that Councillor Martin Hay chairs the Audit Committee for the forthcoming municipal year. Thank you, Madam Mayor. I'd like to second that. Thank you. Thank you. Does anybody want to speak on item 14? Madam Mayor, sorry. No. Thank you. So the motion is put forward by the Leader. All those in favour please show. All those against? Thank you. That is carried. Item 16. No. Oops. I was still in 15. This one else? No. To appoint chairs and deputy chairs. And again this is to be moved by the Leader of the Council. Thank you, Madam Mayor. This is the Department of Chair and Deputy Chair to scrutiny committees. And I move and set out in the paper circulated in this chamber. Thank you. Thank you, Madam Mayor. I second that. So this will be put to the vote. All those in favour please show. All those against? That is carried. Item 16 is the appointment of members to join to authorities. That Councillors be appointed to serve as members of the West Yorkshire Fire and Rescue Authority and the West Yorkshire Combined Authority for the 2024 to 2025. And it is full year as moved by the Leader Jane Scolian. Thank you, Madam Mayor. Move as set out in the paper circulated in the chamber. Thank you. Thank you, Madam Mayor. I seconded. Thank you. So all those in favour of the nominations please show. Against please show. That is carried. Item 17, the appointment of members to join committees. This is to be moved by the Leader. Thank you, Madam Mayor. Councils be appointed to serve on the joint committees for the forthcoming municipal year as set out in the paper circulated in the chamber. Thank you. Thank you, Madam Mayor. I have to second that. Thank you. So all in favour of the nominations please show. Against please show. That is carried. Item 18 is the appointment to outside bodies. This again is to be moved by the Leader. Thank you, Madam Mayor. I'm sure the Councillors gathered here would love to go through these one by one. But I move them as appointments as a block for the outside bodies for 24-25. Thank you, Madam Mayor. Happy to second that. Thank you very much. So I understand that there are some contested positions. Are you looking to withdraw Councillor Dickinson? Yes, Madam Mayor. Yes. Having spoken with Councillor Carrow today, I would like to withdraw my nomination for reserve forces and cadets association from Yorkshire and Humberside so that she's the candidate. Thank you. Thank you very much. So I understand that Councillor Blackbrough and Councillor Parshad both wish to be trustees of the Peace Holises. Yes. And that we therefore need to take a vote between them. Sorry, Madam Mayor. I just want clarification because it's my understanding that I was on a fixed term, not contracts, but a fixed term. A fixed term period. A term of office for three years. That's my understanding that equally with the Councillor to swift as well. Thank you, Madam Mayor. Apparently, Council officers have checked that and cannot find any reference to that fixed term. So I believe we have to take a vote between yourself and Councillor Parshad. Thank you, Madam Mayor. Thank you. Thank you. Right. So those in favour of Councillor Blackbrough taking the position of Trustee at Peace Hall, please show. Those in favour of Councillor Parshad taking the position of the Peace Trust, please show. So Councillor Blackbrough is appointed. Thank you. And now we'll take the vote on the rest of the nominations to outside bodies. So you've seen them in the papers, I believe. All those in favour, please show. Any against, please show. That is carried. So item 19 is recommendations of the Governance and Business Committee. So Councillor Foster, over to you. Thank you, Madam Mayor. I've tried to desperately get my agenda to move. I needed to be. I move the review of the Constitution as noted in the minutes. Thank you. Thank you very much. Does anybody wish to speak on this item? No. So all those in favour, please show. Any against, please show. That's carried. Apparently, that's it.

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