Issue - meetings

1        That the draft Equalities, Diversity and Inclusion Strategy and Action Plan (as set out in the report) be approved

RESOLVED TO RECOMMEND:

2        That the International Holocaust Remembrance Alliance definition of antisemitism be adopted as set out in the report and the illustrative examples that are presented alongside.

That the new post for a Diversity and Community Inclusion Officer be included as part of the 2021/22 budget as set out in section 5 of this report.

Decision

1        That the draft Equalities, Diversity and Inclusion Strategy and Action Plan (as set out in the report) be approved

RESOLVED TO RECOMMEND:

2        That the International Holocaust Remembrance Alliance definition of antisemitism be adopted as set out in the report and the illustrative examples that are presented alongside.

3.     That the new post for a Diversity and Community Inclusion Officer be included as   part of the 2021/22 budget as set out in section 5 of this report.

Councillor Williams introduced the report and said that approval of a strategy does not normally need to be approved by Full Council but he felt it was important to be recommended to Council due to the adoption of the International Holocaust Remembrance Alliance definition of anti-Semitism. He felt the weight of the full Council’s endorsement would send the right messages.

M Gaynor added that the new strategy takes into account legislative changes and the additional responsibilities and expectations from government. The strategy also takes into account the rapidly changing demographics of the borough and get a better understanding of the entire community. The report also includes staff resources to deliver the strategy.

Councillor Griffiths said she thought it was important that this went to Full Council and get the endorsements of all councillors. She welcomed the fact that this strategy would bring the council into line with legislation and have someone to implement it.

Councillor Tindall thanked the Cabinet for how this matter has been dealt with and said it will receive full endorsement from his group at council.

Councillor Williams asked for clarification on recommendation three as there was nothing that contradicts the budget process.

N Howcutt said this will be approved as part of the budget process in 2021/22.

Recommendations agreed.