Councillor E
A 58-year old male councillor in the south of Scotland.
1. How long have you served as a councillor?
Three and a half years.
2. What initially attracted you to local government?
Being involved in my local community council as chairperson, it was a natural progression to be asked to stand for local government. The pressure came from the local community. I was quite happy at community council level.
3. What has been your greatest achievement so far as a councillor?
In three and a half years, one cannot achieve much in politics. It is a learning curve full of potential pitfalls. However, I think my contribution to discussions in committees has contributed to a better environment for my council.
4. What do you feel is the biggest challenge for councillors?
Balancing party politics and local needs. This is why I resigned as a Labour Councillor. There are many local issues which do not meet the national political agenda. It can create a conflict between local authourities and the central government. I think it is better if central government acknowledged that local councillors are also democratically elected to be accountable to their communities and should be allowed to run a program based on local need rather than on national political agenda.
5. In your role as a councillor, what gives you the most satisfaction?
Representing my community and its needs.
6. What advice would you give to anyone wanting to stand as a councillor?
It is a very worthwhile task, certainly worth going for. Unfortunately the financial carrot has now made it a career option, which I am not so sure is for the better, although it may encourage younger people into the role, which would be welcome.