People Power
Well friends and readers it is time for a Community Council update. There did not seem much to report until Alan one of our associates showed us a copy of the NEN. And there on the front page was Royston/Wardieburns campaign to keep the existing 32 bus service. This kind of activity is to be applauded and shows that Royston/Wardieburn Community Council is setting a good pace.
We managed to speak to one of their members who told us that there was a good feeling about the council and that she was encouraged with the progress they where making. We had expressed doubts about the very survival of this Community Council,but since Fred Marinello has been chairperson we have been,and we are happy to say made to eat our words. We contacted Mr.Marinello and he was happy to tell us that it is very much a team effort with every member playing an active role.
He also said to us that while the campaign for the retention of the 32 bus service was an important one he pointed out that the rentention of all the buses that served the community was equally important and that point should not be lost while the campaign on the number 32 continues.Â
We firmly are of the view that Community councils can play a vital role for the community and more of the services that play a part in this community should be devolved to the Community Councils. As communities evolve in the 21st century we feel that the people should play a far more prominent role,and a community agenda be put forward and acted on. This is something not to be afraid of but to be embraced with enthusiasim,for the people know best what is required in their community.
All the Community Councils have a crucial role to play in this and would be wise to set aside any personal differences and meet the challenges to come with a united front. This coming election may throw up a few suprises and the Councils must be fit and ready to adjust to what changes may come. It does not however change the remit of Community Councils,arguing for the best possible deal for their community. Community councils must at all times be free to push for what they think is best for their community and never be mouth pieces for politicians or spring boards for their ideas.
As the Community councils find their feet and begin to formulate ideas and policies we may yet see truer democracy spreading throughout this community. Â