LIBERAL DEMOCRAT GROUP OPPOSE CONSERVATIVE BUDGET PLANS IN DERBYSHIRE DALES

7.27.00pm GMT Mon 10th Mar 2008

Councillor David Fearn

Conservative plans to introduce compulsory job losses have been opposed by Liberal Democrat councillors on Derbyshire Dales District Council.

"Last November we agreed to savings of £515,000 mainly through voluntary redundancies and the restructuring of departments," says Liberal Democrat leader, Councillor Fearn. "These new compulsory job cuts are a step too far and will only save £50,000 this year."

David Fearn recalled that in 2005 the Conservative controlled council awarded some senior officers increases of up to 18.2%

"We opposed these extraordinary rises at the time and if they hadn't been awarded there would be no need for compulsory job cuts now," claimed Councillor Fearn.

At its budget meeting on Monday the Council agreed to charge Dales residents an above inflation increase of 4.9 percent in council tax. In addition, Derbyshire Dales has to save £500,000 each year for the next three years. Liberal Democrats voted against the budget proposals.

Related Link:

Dales set for top level tax rise - Matlock Mercury.