It’s been a busy week so far. Monday was a special meeting of the Council at which two issues were debated – Radcliffe Civic Hall and the conduct of the Cabinet Member for HR  in his dealings with Trades Unions.

I went over the arguments the other day so won’t again here, but Lib Dems abstained on both motions after having put forward our views in both debates. To be honest neither of the Labour or Tory arguments were compelling enough to support, so we didn’t.

It was nice to see some of the newer members of Council speak in the debates though, whether that be formally in nicely delivered speeches (as demonstrated on the Labour benches) or through jumping up like manic jack-in-the-boxes and hurling unwarranted screams at the other side (as was, sadly, seen once or twice from the Tory side).

Since Monday there been progress on the fridge issue I raised the other day. Residents had complained to me about a new second hand fridge shop in Prestwich Village which had confused the pavement for one of its shelves. I had a word with the Council who have now told the shop owners that their shop ends at the front door. The pavement is clear.

Today sees protests across the country about education cuts, and particularly student fees. There’s one such protest in Bury, and the protesters have my good wishes. Peaceful political activism is brilliant and the more I see of it the more I like. I would echo Nick Clegg’s message yesterday that people should read the government’s proposals before protesting, but if like me they read them and think they’re still not right, then protest away.

The week stays busy, with meetings planned with residents, Councillors and officers about various things. I will keep you updated.

Rick