Ten point plan agreed by those opposed to culture cuts

Jan 20 2009 By Matt Hurst

A TEN point action plan has been agreed by those opposed to Wirral Council's proposals to close libraries and leisure centres across the peninsula.

Last night (January 19) around 24 people met at the Mersey Advice Centre in Birkenhead to voice their continuing disapproval with the aims of the strategic asset review, despite the concessions made at Wallasey Town Hall last Thursday.

The meeting was chaired by president of Merseyside TUC, Alec McFadden and resulted in a unanimous decision to reject cabinet's four page and its decision.

A ten point action plan was then decided on:

- That the consultation period be extended so that decisions can be made based on public need.

- All planned job cuts, privatisations and closures be stopped.

- That the council books be opened so that individuals can be held to account for mismanagement.

- That all elected councillors' surgeries be lobbied and councillors informed that those who vote for cuts on Strategic Asset Review will not receive support in future elections and the community may decide to field candidates.

- That a further mass lobby takes place on Monday February 9 2009.

- That a special meeting takes place in Eastham, to consult people as no notice was given by the council on any possible cuts.

- That the Wirral Metropolitan Borough Council requests central government find the £3.4 million to balance the budget.

- That the committee produce an alternative budget.

- That the committee involves the district auditor for advice and guidance.

- That the committee establishes a quality communication system using a website, e-mail, phone lines and social networking sites such as Facebook, but not as a substitute to public meeting and mass lobby’s.

Alec McFadden added: "The councillors need to know that if they go for these cuts they will be contacted because we will stand candidates against them."