By Press Release
I used to argue that we should remove national party politics from local government. I still think that would be good, but many years’ experience has made me realise that the best we can hope for is to minimise its impact, as it often a cloak for activity driven by ego and personal ambition.
I mention this as we have seen a lot of this behaviour recently. It has been disruptive and wasted time that could be much better employed elsewhere. Fortunately, we seem to have got over this particular bump in the road with no meaningful harm done. But it has increased the determination to get on with the job we have been entrusted to do and not get side-tracked.
I have continued to work on developing the way the council operates to ensure it is tackling the problems of climate change and to preserve and enhance the reasons we have the coveted status of UNESCO Biosphere. Most people now appreciate that our climate has changed, and this will have long-term impacts on our world. As with other organisations, large and small, the council must play its part in addressing this change, taking account of it in how it operates and think about the climate implications of decisions or courses of action it takes.
I know many people do not understand our Biosphere status. The main thing to appreciate is that it is not a ‘thing’ in itself, but it is ‘everything’. It is recognition of all that we have in terms of environment, community and so on. It is a badge that the United Nations sees fit to put on all that goes to make up our little part of the planet and a recognition that we have a good balance between people, local industry and business and our environment. I could go on but space here is limited, why not look it up on Wikipedia!
While it may not be appreciated by the man on the street, it is recognised by many important organisations and agencies, including those who may give us money and support. Our Biosphere status is one of the main reasons we are a priority area for the Arts Council, and we have received significant funding as a result.
I am pleased our Biosphere status is now supported by the new Biosphere Steering Committee created recently. This important body will direct work to both enhance and use our status. It will work with other local organisations to guide and support our response to climate change and support our communities and environment.
As I said before, when you take the party politics out, you can get on with important work that will benefit our Island, Islanders and future generations.