Talking Politics by Councillor Barbara Todd:

12.00.00am GMT Tue 14th Nov 2006

Talking the talk - Councillor Barbara Todd.

Firstly, can I say what a pleasure it is to represent the Spotland and Falinge Ward in Rochdale alongside my colleagues Peter Clegg and the infamous Rodney Stott. Spotland and Falinge is an area that has a huge Liberal Tradition - It has been a Liberal Ward for about 130 years. Why? Because we never take it for granted - How could you with great figures like Norman Smith MBE and of course his older brother Cyril both of whom you may know!

The main part of the job is to stand up for resident's concerns, to listen to their views and make sure that each and every resident gets value for money. That brings me nicely to Spotland Library on Ings Lane - a service that is greatly appreciated by local residents not just in Spotland but across the Town. Spotland Library has received top grading for book lending - official figures show that last year there was an astonishing 47,000 books leant to residents. To my mind, that's nearly 50,000 reasons to keep it open - but if that's not enough let me give you some more. This Council talk about a Mobile Library, to be effective and to continue to provide some sort of service in Spotland. The Council would have to spend £180,000 on a brand new one and £24,000 on staff for this.

Now, I once knew a man who was knocked over by a Mobile Library unfortunately he couldn't say anything - but when it comes to protecting services in Spotland I will be outspoken. Paul Rowen MP, stopped this nonsense and reversed Labour's plans 2 years ago as Council Leader. I am delighted that he is on board and has pledged his support this time again and we will say no to the consultation.

Another of my jobs is being your representative on the Greater Manchester Police Authority. One of my main complaints is that the Police Force is under resourced. I am glad to report that the GMP underspent last year to the tune of nearly £10,000,000 - that money will be reinvested in policing in Greater Manchester. The effect of this is your contribution through your Council Tax Bill will be kept to a minimum. I will continue to lead the campaign to reintroduce an 01706 number when contacting the Police and continue to lobby for a higher investment in frontline policing.

Following in the footsteps of Councillor Peter Clegg, I have not been too well lately. Unfortunately, I was unable to attend the Eid Lunch at Spotland Community Centre for the first time in many years. The event is excellent and it is great to see all members of the diverse Spotland and Falinge Community come together. I would like to thank Greg Couzens for attending on my behalf and I believe he got a wonderful reception from those present.

Finally, I noted with interest the comments of Government Minister Beverley Hughes MP. She has recommended that parents could be forced to go to special classes to learn to sing their children nursery rhymes. It's ridiculous and it's probably a good job that wasn't introduced when I was bringing up my 2 children in Greave - they would have moved out before they reached 5 years old!

Councillor Barbara Todd - SPOTLAND AND FALINGE