Agenda item

To approve the Gwynedd Council Performance Report 2020/21 and recommend the Full Council adopt it at its meeting on 8 July 2021

The report was submitted by Cllr Dyfrig Siencyn.  

DECISION

To approve the Gwynedd Council Performance Report 2020/21 and recommend the Full Council adopt it at its meeting on 8 July 2021.

DISCUSSION

The report was submitted, noting that it was a pleasure to present it. It was emphasised that the document was clear and easy to read and provided a clear picture of the entire Council’s work. It was explained that one section at the start of the report provided a description of the work that had been done at the start of lockdown when the Council's work had been restricted due to Covid regulations. It was explained that the Council's staff had responded with ease and flexibility to address the situation and had worked to create a new way of working. All staff were thanked for their willingness to adapt and to respond very quickly and efficiently during lockdown.

It was noted that the report highlighted the Council's priorities by emphasising the need to continue to discuss the field of sustainable tourism. It was noted that the Education Department would continue to improve education provision within the county, noting that work had been done at Ysgol Godre'r Berwyn and Ysgol y Garnedd and there was a new school on its way in Cricieth.

It was expressed that in light of the housing crisis that the Housing Action Plan was in place. It was noted that this plan was ambitious and innovative and there was a commitment of £77 million for the plan term.

It was explained that some departments were not visible to the county's residents and had been affected by cuts over the years. Attention was drawn to the Public Protection Department which had dealt with a number of changes due to the Covid-19 emergency. Staff were thanked for committing to the Test, Trace and Protect procedure which had highlighted Local Government's ability to do the work without wasting money on external companies.

It was expressed that this was the last Annual Report for this term and there would be a new procedure in future. It was added that the Council's internal performance challenging system would recommence to ensure that the Council was looking at its weaknesses and improving continuously.

Observations arising from the discussion

¾    The staff of the Children and Supporting Families Department were thanked for their willingness and flexibility during the time. All the foster parents who had been more than willing to step in were thanked. It was added that the department was aware of its challenges in moving forward and that the autism plan would be a priority for this year.

¾    The staff of the Adults, Health and Well-being Department were thanked for their perseverance during a difficult year. It was noted that this year had highlighted the strength of the staff.

¾    Attention was drawn to one small correction, there were now eight improvement priorities, and not seven.

¾    The outstanding work at the schools in response to the challenge of remote learning was acknowledged.

¾    The staff of the finance and information technology department were thanked for their work in supporting other departments.

¾    The Economy Department staff were thanked for speaking with businesses throughout the entire period and for allocating covid grants.